29 December
Peace Day
Official public holiday, observed nationwide.
Month by month
Cambodia in December
December works well for a first trip combining temples, cities and the coast. Book popular stays early around Christmas and New Year.
- Siem Reap highs
- ~30°C
- Rainy days (SR)
- 5
- Crowds
- Peak season
- Public holidays
- 1
The short answer
What December is really like
Dry-season conditions make outdoor visits easier. Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and a few beach nights combine well if you leave proper time for the journeys.
Early December often offers more choice of accommodation than the holiday period. For Christmas and New Year, choose your stays and transfers before filling the itinerary with activities.
Photo credit
Photo: Norbert Braun
The numbers
December weather, destination by destination
Ten-year averages, not brochure promises: computed from the same ERA5 climate dataset that powers our weather tool.
| Destination | Avg. daily high | Rainfall | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siem Reap | 30°C | 27 mm | 5 |
| Phnom Penh | 31°C | 40 mm | 8 |
| Battambang | 30°C | 27 mm | 5 |
| Kampot | 30°C | 59 mm | 11 |
| Kep | 30°C | 69 mm | 12 |
| Koh Rong (islands) | 29°C | 63 mm | 12 |
| Mondulkiri | 26°C | 30 mm | 5 |
International crowds this month
Peak season, December ranks level 4 of 4 for international arrivals in the Siem Reap region (quartiles on Ministry of Tourism monthly data).
Dates that shape the month
Holidays & festivals in December
Sea Festival 2026 in Preah Sihanouk.
Announced dates: 18–20 December 2026. The 12th Sea Festival is scheduled to take place in Preah Sihanouk province, according to the Ministry of Tourism announcement reported by AKP. Whether you live in Cambodia or are planning a visit, check the latest announcements before arranging your outing. The announcement cited here does not specify venues, times or entry arrangements.
Source: AKP, announcement of 11 May 2026. Verified on 10 October 2026.
Our picks
Where to go in December
Siem Reap
Visit temples early, then leave time for restaurants, workshops and the city.
Explore Siem ReapKoh Rong
Generally a good period for a beach stay. Check sea conditions before travelling and book early for the holidays.
Choose your beachMondulkiri
An alternative to the coast for countryside and cooler mornings. Allow for the longer journey from Phnom Penh.
Explore Mondulkiri
Plan your stay
One way to spend two weeks
A suggested 14-day, 13-night trip, arriving in Siem Reap and leaving from Phnom Penh. Transfer days are part of the trip.
| Stop | Nights |
|---|---|
| Siem Reap | 4 |
| Phnom Penh | 3 |
| Kampot | 2 |
| Koh Rong | 3 |
| Phnom Penh before departure | 1 |
In December, three nights on Koh Rong leave two full days on the island. Choose your beach before the ferry. For a more rural trip, replace Kampot and Koh Rong with a Mondulkiri stay, allowing for the journeys.
With ten days, choose fewer stops. Siem Reap, Battambang and Phnom Penh already combine temples, countryside and city life. If the beach is your priority, keep Siem Reap and one island, with time for the transfers.
Bookings and budget
What we would book first
- Small hotels and island stays for Christmas and New Year.
- The ferry serving your hotel’s beach.
- Your final transfer and the night before the flight home.
Compare the total room price, included meals and transfers. Adding stops can cost more than staying another night in the same place. Use the budget guide to price your own pace.
Practical
Tips for December
- Reserve popular accommodation early for Christmas and New Year.
- Compare early December if your dates are flexible.
- Pack a light layer for the highlands.
- Keep a buffer between a ferry crossing and your flight.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good month for Cambodia?
Generally yes, for outdoor visits and the islands. Sunshine is not guaranteed, and popular holiday dates can cost more.
How early should I book?
As soon as your holiday dates are fixed if you want a particular small hotel or island bungalow. Compare cancellation terms; there is no single deadline for every property.
Can I combine Angkor and the islands?
Yes. Two weeks gives you more room for transfers and several nights by the sea; ten days calls for fewer stops.
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