Phnom Baset

Hill
Phnom Baset Siem ReapAngkorPhnom PenhBattambangKampotSihanoukvilleKoh RongPhnom Baset
In this guide

Phnom Baset essentials

Country: Cambodia
Driest months: Dec-Feb
Pay in: Riels (៛)
Language: Khmer
Emergency: 117

Phnom Baset at a Glance

When to Go

Best Time to Visit Phnom Baset

The cool, dry months from November to February are the best time to visit for comfortable conditions and clearer views.

Cool, dry season
Nov-Feb · 20-30°C
Milder temperatures and low rainfall - the most comfortable time for hiking and visiting hilltop landmarks.
Hot season
Mar-May · 28-38°C
Very hot conditions that make daytime climbs strenuous; plan activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Rainy season
May-Oct · 24-32°C
Frequent heavy showers and muddy trails; visibility can be reduced during prolonged rain.

History & Culture of Phnom Baset

Phnom Baset comprises two small hills, each crowned with temples, roughly 10 km from Oudong. The smaller hill carries two: Neang Kong Seem, a modern temple of moderate interest, and Baksei Chaim Krong, whose stupa is said to have been raised from ancient ruins. The taller hill is topped by Wat Trai Trang, a contemporary Buddhist temple reached by a steep paved road flanked by naga sculptures.

The most intriguing shrine sits near the foot of that hill: Prasat Neang Krub Leakh, the Temple of the Sheltered Girl. Apparently pre-Angkorian in design and perhaps dating from the Chenla or Funan era, it stands in a shaded grotto, its ruinous state only adding to the allure. Local legend tells of a secret “magic” tunnel running from the temple to nearby Phnom Oudong, once used by the kings of Oudong. Filled with small statues of women and countless candles devoted to virgin spirits, the shrine is also known as the naga spirit temple, or Prasat Rung Roong.

Weather & Climate near Phnom Baset

Climate

Phnom Baset's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 22°C to 35°C. Abundant rainfall (1280 mm/year), wettest in October with a pronounced dry season.

Air Quality: AQI 94 Moderate
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryFebruaryDecember
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
43°
Warmest Month
16°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January Ideal 22° - 32° 27° 8 mm partly cloudy 61% 1.8 m/s 2.1 extreme 11.4h
February Ideal 23° - 33° 28° 11 mm partly cloudy 53% 2.2 m/s 2.2 extreme 11.7h
March Very Good 25° - 34° 31° 33 mm partly cloudy 54% 1.5 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.0h
April Very Good 26° - 35° 33° 69 mm partly cloudy 60% 1.7 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.3h
May Acceptable 26° - 34° 35° 150 mm overcast 74% 1.7 m/s 2.4 extreme 12.5h
June Acceptable 25° - 33° 35° 131 mm overcast 82% 1.8 m/s 2.4 extreme 12.7h
July Acceptable 25° - 32° 34° 129 mm overcast 84% 1.5 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.6h
August Acceptable 25° - 32° 34° 141 mm overcast 85% 1.5 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.4h
September Acceptable 25° - 31° 33° 214 mm overcast 86% 1.3 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.1h
October Acceptable 24° - 31° 32° 242 mm overcast 86% 1.3 m/s 2.2 extreme 11.8h
November Very Good 24° - 30° 27° 121 mm partly cloudy 82% 1.6 m/s 2.2 extreme 11.5h
December Excellent 22° - 30° 26° 31 mm partly cloudy 71% 2.0 m/s 2.1 extreme 11.3h