Siem Reap Weather in December

December weather

December is warm and mostly dry in Siem Reap. Daytime highs reach 32°C, but evenings feel more comfortable. Rain falls on just 2 days on average, so showers are unlikely to disrupt your plans.

It's a good month for Angkor's temples, including Ta Prohm and Bayon, and for a boat trip on Tonlé Sap. The midday heat can still feel tiring among the temple stones. Save indoor stops, such as the Angkor National Museum, for the hottest part of the day.

December events and crowds

The Angkor Wat International Half Marathon usually takes place in December, drawing runners to the temple grounds. Christmas is marked mainly by hotels and restaurants; it isn't a major local holiday. The festive season brings plenty of visitors, too.

If you hate crowds, visit the smaller temples around Angkor Thom rather than spending all day at Angkor Wat. December is high season, so rooms and tours generally cost more than in the rainy months. It's popular for good reason, but you'll find fewer quiet moments at famous sights.

Local tips for Siem Reap

For a practical temple-day tip, ask your tuk-tuk driver to take you to Banteay Kdei after the main Angkor Wat crowds have moved on. It's a quieter temple near the Srah Srang reservoir, and it makes a calmer stop before returning to town.

Travelling with kids? Keep the temple visits short and break them up with a shaded rest near Srah Srang. The dry weather makes exploring easier, but long stretches in the sun can wear anyone down. Siem Reap's Old Market area is handy for an evening meal; try fish amok, a mild coconut curry that's a local favourite.