Cambodia is a mesmerizing destination known for its ancient temples, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. While most travelers visit during the dry season (November to March), the green season (May to October) offers a unique and rewarding experience. With fewer crowds, lush scenery, and lower prices, this is the perfect time to explore Cambodia in a more authentic and immersive way.
Here’s why you should consider traveling to Cambodia during the green season:
Lush, Vibrant Landscapes
The green season transforms Cambodia into a paradise of rich foliage, blooming flowers, and flourishing rice paddies. The countryside becomes a sea of emerald green, creating breathtaking views—especially around Angkor Wat and the rural provinces.
- Angkor Wat in the Rain: The temples look even more mystical with reflective pools and dramatic skies.
- Rice Fields: The countryside, particularly around Siem Reap, Battambang and Kampong Cham, turns into a picturesque green expanse.
- Waterfalls & National Parks: Places like Koh Ker, Kulen Mountain, and Cardamom Mountains are at their most spectacular, with full-flowing waterfalls and dense forests.
Fewer Crowds & A More Authentic Experience
The dry season brings massive crowds to Cambodia’s top attractions, but the green season offers a more peaceful and intimate experience.
- Angkor Archaeological Park: You can explore temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm without the usual crowds.
- Siem Reap & Phnom Penh: Hotels, restaurants, and attractions are less busy, allowing for a more relaxed trip.
- Local Interactions: With fewer tourists, you’ll have more meaningful encounters with locals, whether in floating villages or rural markets.
Lower Prices & Better Deals
Traveling in the green season means significant savings on flights, accommodations, and tours.
- Hotels & Resorts: Luxury hotels in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh often offer discounts of 30-50%.
- Flights & Tours: Airlines and tour operators reduce prices to attract visitors.
- Less Competition: You’ll have more flexibility in booking the best spots without rushing.
- Tour Packages: Tour ativities are drop down from the original price, it means you will get a very suitable price on your tour package.
Unique Seasonal Activities
The green season brings experiences you won’t find at other times of the year.
A. Floating Villages & Tonlé Sap Lake
- The Tonlé Sap Lake expands dramatically, making the floating villages (Kampong Phluk, Chong Kneas) even more fascinating.
- Boat tours reveal daily life on the water, with schools, markets, and houses floating atop the lake.
B. Rice Planting & Farming Experiences
- Participate in rice planting activities in rural areas like Preah Dak Village, Banteay Chhmar or Preah Vihear.
- Learn traditional farming techniques from local communities.
C. Waterfall Adventures
- Waterfalls like Popokvil (Bokor Mountain) and Phnom Kulen are at their most powerful.
- Ideal for trekking, swimming, and photography.
Cultural Festivals & Events
The green season hosts some of Cambodia’s most vibrant festivals:
- Pchum Ben (Ancestors’ Festival, September/October): A spiritual time when Cambodians honor their ancestors with temple offerings.
- Bon Om Touk (Water Festival, November): Celebrates the reversing flow of the Tonlé Sap River with boat races and fireworks (early green season).
- King’s Birthday (May): Parades and celebrations in Phnom Penh.
Ideal for Photography & Nature Lovers
- Dramatic Skies: Stormy clouds and golden sunsets create perfect photography conditions.
- Wildlife Spotting: The Cardamom Mountains and Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary are teeming with life, including rare birds and wildlife.
- Reflective Temple Shots: Angkor’s moats and ponds mirror the temples beautifully after rainfall.
Comfortable Travel with Short Rain Showers
Many travelers avoid the green season fearing constant rain, but the reality is much more pleasant:
- Short, Refreshing Showers: Rain usually lasts 1-2 hours per day, often in the afternoon or evening.
- Cooler Temperatures: The heat is less intense than in the dry season.
- Easy Planning: Mornings are typically sunny, so you can explore early and relax during brief rains.
Supporting Sustainable Tourism
Visiting in the green season helps local communities by:
- Providing year-round income for guides, drivers, and small businesses in Cambodia.
- Reducing overtourism in popular areas.
- Promoting eco-tourism in lesser-visited regions like Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri.
Best Places to Visit in Cambodia’s Green Season
- Siem Reap & Angkor Wat – Mystical temples with fewer crowds.
- Phnom Penh – Cultural sites like the Royal Palace and vibrant markets.
- Battambang – Scenic countryside and bamboo train rides.
- Kampot & Kep – Lush pepper farms, riverside relaxation, and crab markets.
- Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri – Waterfalls, elephant sanctuaries, and indigenous culture.
- Koh Ker & Preah Vihear – Remote temple ruins surrounded by jungle.
Tips for Traveling in the Green Season
- Pack Smart: Bring a lightweight rain jacket, waterproof bag, and quick-dry clothing.
- Plan Early Mornings: Temples and outdoor sites are best visited before afternoon showers.
- Use Tuk-Tuks & Private Drivers: More comfortable than motorbikes in the rain.
- Check Road Conditions: Some rural areas may have muddy roads; choose boats or 4x4s where needed.
Final Thoughts: Why in the Green Season
While the dry season is popular, the green season offers a richer, more affordable, and crowd-free experience. From the magical temples of Angkor to the vibrant countryside, Cambodia is even more enchanting when the rains bring life to its landscapes.
If you’re looking for authentic adventures, stunning scenery, and incredible deals, don’t overlook Cambodia’s green season, it might just be the best time to visit!
FAQs About Green Season
What is the Green Season in Cambodia?
he Green Season refers to Cambodia’s rainy season (May–October), when the countryside becomes lush and vibrant due to frequent rainfall. Despite occasional showers, it’s a great time to visit for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Is the Green Season a good time to visit Cambodia?
Yes! While there are occasional downpours, the rain usually lasts only a short time, leaving the landscapes lush and the temples less crowded. It’s also a more budget-friendly time to travel.
How often does it rain during the Green Season?
Rain typically falls in short, heavy bursts (often in the afternoon or evening), leaving plenty of dry hours for exploring. Some days may be completely rain-free.
Are Cambodia’s major attractions (like Angkor Wat) accessible in the Green Season?
Absolutely! Temples like Angkor Wat remain open, and the rain enhances their beauty with reflective pools and fewer tourists. Some remote areas may be harder to reach, but major sites are unaffected.
Is it cheaper to travel to Cambodia during the Green Season?
Yes! Hotels, flights, and tours often offer discounts (up to 30–50% lower than peak season). You’ll also find better deals on luxury accommodations.
What should I pack for Cambodia’s Green Season?
Bring lightweight, quick-dry clothing, a waterproof jacket or umbrella, sturdy sandals, insect repellent, and waterproof bags for electronics. A rain poncho is handy for temple visits.
Are there any unique experiences in Cambodia during the Green Season?
Yes! You’ll see:
Lush rice paddies and vibrant countryside
Waterfalls (like those in Mondulkiri) at their most spectacular
Fewer crowds at Angkor Wat and other major sites
Floating villages (like Tonlé Sap Lake) expanding with rising water levels.
Does the Green Season affect transportation in Cambodia?
Most major roads and airports operate normally, but some rural areas may have muddy or flooded paths. Boat travel (e.g., between Siem Reap and Battambang) can be more scenic due to higher water levels.
Are there any festivals during the Green Season?
Yes! Key events include:
– Pchum Ben (Ancestors’ Day, Sept/Oct) – A spiritual festival where Cambodians honor their ancestors.
– Bon Om Touk (Water Festival, Nov, sometimes late Oct) – Celebrates the reversal of the Tonlé Sap River with boat races (timing varies).
Is it safe to travel to Cambodia during the Green Season?
Yes, it’s generally safe. Just be cautious of slippery surfaces at temples, potential mosquito-borne illnesses (use repellent), and occasional road delays in rural areas. Travel insurance is recommended.
