Monsoon eases during the month and rain frequency diminishes toward month end. Conditions improve for travel as rivers drop and roads become more reliable; temple sites get greener after the rains.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Cambodia in October.
Angkor, Battambang
By November, the cool, dry season has returned to the northwest: mornings are comfortably cool (low 20s) and afternoons pleasant (mid-20s to low 30s), making long temple days enjoyable. Tonle Sap recedes from its peak and floating villages begin to contract, changing boat itineraries; this is also the start of high season so book Angkor passes and hotels. Expect fewer mosquitoes and clearer skies - ideal for photography and hiking at Phnom Kulen.
Phnom Penh, Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Thom
October is a transitional month: rains start to taper though the Tonle Sap is still swollen and dramatic; water levels begin to recede later in the month. Phnom Penh becomes busier as cooler, drier weather is anticipated and the city readies for the Water Festival; boat races and ceremonies often draw large crowds. This is a good time to witness both the tail end of the flood season and preparations for major cultural events.
Sihanoukville, Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem, Kep
October is a transition month when downpours gradually lessen and the sea calms later in the month; the south coast is still green and lush from the monsoon. Boat services steadily resume and beaches start to see returning weekenders from Phnom Penh. Travelers should watch the forecasts but can begin to plan island stays toward late October as conditions improve.
Koh Kong, Cardamom range, Bokor, Botum Sakor
October sees rains begin to taper, but the landscape remains saturated and some roads take weeks to dry; waterfalls keep flowing impressively and birdlife is active. Coastal drives reopen gradually and boat services return, though some remote ecolodges only resume full operations later in the month. Pack waterproof hiking gear and expect muddy trails to persist in shaded forest sections.
Ratanakiri, Mondulkiri - highlands, waterfalls, ethnic villages
October begins the transition to drier weather and trails gradually firm up by the end of the month; waterfalls are still impressive but receding. Local markets buzz with harvest activity and cultural preparations for festivals become visible. This is a good month to plan adventurous treks as conditions improve, though early rains can still occur in the first weeks.
Pchum Ben (ancestor festival) occurs around Sept-Oct and involves visits to pagodas and family rituals; exact dates vary each year.
See how October compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.