If you’re planning a trip to Phnom Penh around Christmas, get ready for warm, dry, and sunny days instead of the chilly holiday weather you might expect elsewhere. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 30–33°C (mid-80s to low 90s °F), with nights cooling down to about 23°C (low 70s °F). Rainfall is low, and sunshine is plentiful. December feels like one of the nicest months to explore Cambodia’s capital.
Most days, clear skies stretch out overhead. You might catch a brief shower here or there, but it rarely sticks around. The air feels less sticky than during the wet season, and light breezes sweep through, making the heat easier to handle.
You’ll notice a mix of festive buzz and relaxed weather in Phnom Penh at Christmas. The dry season lets you roam the city’s lively streets or check out nearby spots without worrying about the rain. If you’re after a holiday with good weather and a splash of culture, this is a great time to visit.
Typical Christmas Weather in Phnom Penh
Christmas in Phnom Penh means warm days, mild nights, almost no rain, and manageable humidity. The climate stays steady, so you can plan outdoor activities without too many surprises.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
December brings some of the most comfortable temperatures of the year. Highs reach 30–33°C (86–91°F), and nights drop to about 22–23°C (72–73°F).
The afternoons can get pretty hot, so you’ll want to wear lightweight clothes and slap on some sunscreen. Mornings and evenings feel a lot nicer, making them perfect for walking tours or riverside strolls.
December doesn’t usually bring the intense heat of April or May. Cooler nights mean you might sleep better, even if you don’t crank up the air conditioning.
Rainfall Patterns in December
December sits firmly in Cambodia’s dry season, so rain barely makes an appearance in Phnom Penh. You might see 3–5 short rain days all month, with just 25–30 mm of rain in total.
When showers do pop up, they’re quick and clear out fast. You probably won’t need heavy rain gear, though tossing a small umbrella or light jacket in your bag isn’t a bad idea.
With so little rain, roads stay dry, and getting around the city is a breeze. December is honestly one of the most reliable months for sightseeing and outdoor plans.
Humidity Levels During the Holidays
Phnom Penh’s humidity in December averages about 70–75%. It’s definitely lower than in the wet season but still noticeable. You’ll feel some warmth in the air, but it’s not that heavy, sticky feeling you get in the monsoon months.
Moderate humidity and steady breezes around 3 m/s help keep things comfortable. You might want to slow down during the hottest part of the day, especially if you’re not used to tropical weather.
To stay cool, wear breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, drink water regularly, and duck indoors for breaks when you need them. The humidity’s manageable, but a bit of planning goes a long way.
Sunshine and Cloud Cover
Late December delivers dry season weather with lots of sunshine and hardly any rain. Skies usually stay clear, though you might spot a bit of haze now and then from humidity or air quality.
Average Hours of Sunshine
You’ll get long days and steady sunshine for Christmas in Phnom Penh. The city averages about 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day in December, which is a lot compared to, say, September’s 4 hours.
The sun can feel stronger in the afternoons, making it seem hotter than the thermometer says. Mornings and evenings are better bets for being outside.
The sun rises around 6:15 AM and sets close to 5:45 PM, so you get nearly 12 hours of daylight. Sunlight’s most intense between 10 AM and 3 PM, so if you’re planning to walk or sightsee, try for mid-morning or late afternoon.
Cloudiness and Sky Conditions
December skies in Phnom Penh are usually partly cloudy to mostly clear. The dry season keeps heavy clouds away, so you probably won’t see long stretches of gray.
You might spot a few scattered cumulus clouds drifting by. Rainfall stays minimal, with just a few millimeters for the whole month.
With humidity lower, usually 70–75%, skies tend to look brighter. Still, some mornings might bring a light haze, especially with the city’s dust and air pollution.
Most days, you’ll get bright, open skies with only quick bursts of cloud cover—nothing that’ll ruin your plans.
Winds and Air Quality
December brings light winds and fairly steady air conditions to Phnom Penh. These factors affect how comfortable it feels outside and how air quality might impact your plans.
Typical Windspeed in December
Winds average about 3 meters per second (m/s) in Phnom Penh during December. That’s just a light breeze—enough to rustle leaves and offer a bit of cooling, but not enough to mess up your day.
The wind usually comes from the northeast because of the dry season monsoon. This helps drop the humidity compared to rainy months, so the air feels lighter.
You’ll notice some calm days with barely any wind at all. On those days, the heat feels a bit more intense, especially if you’re in direct sun.
The breeze tends to pick up in the late afternoon. Mornings and evenings often feel still, which can make the warmth linger.
Air Quality Considerations
Air quality in Phnom Penh during December can be hit or miss. The lack of rain means dust and pollution hang around longer, mostly from traffic and construction.
Some days, you’ll spot haze, especially in busier city areas. If you’re sensitive or have asthma, it’s smart to limit outdoor activity when pollution spikes.
December’s dry weather allows pollutants to build up, since there’s no rain to wash them away. It’s not always bad, but keep an eye on local air quality reports if you’re planning to be outside for hours.
Carrying a light mask or scarf helps on hazy days. Indoors, air conditioning can make things more comfortable by filtering some of the fine dust.
How Phnom Penh’s Christmas Weather Compares to the Rest of Cambodia
Phnom Penh stays warm and mostly dry at Christmas, but Cambodia’s regions each bring their own twist on the weather. Coastal areas, highlands, and the north all feel a little different.
Regional Weather Differences
Phnom Penh sees daytime highs near 33°C (91°F) in December, with lows around 23°C (73°F). Rain is light—usually about 29 mm for the month—and humidity is moderate.
Head to the coast, like Sihanoukville or Kep, and you’ll find slightly cooler sea breezes and steady sunshine. These spots often feel less humid, so beach days are pretty ideal.
In the north—think Siem Reap—temperatures dip a bit, running between 20–30°C (68–86°F). Nights can feel cooler than in Phnom Penh, especially out in the countryside.
Up in the eastern highlands (Mondulkiri or Ratanakiri), things cool off even more. Daytime highs hover around 24–27°C (75–81°F), and evenings can be crisp. If you love milder weather, you’ll probably enjoy these regions.
Best Destinations in Cambodia for December
If you’re into city life, Phnom Penh offers warm days, little rain, and lots of sunshine for exploring. Markets, riverside walks, and cultural sites all feel more comfortable without the muggy humidity.
For the beach crowd, Sihanoukville, Koh Rong, and Kep shine in December. Calm seas, gentle winds, and dry skies make it a top month for swimming and boat trips.
History buffs usually head to Siem Reap for Angkor Wat. December’s cooler evenings make it easier to wander the ruins without overheating.
The highlands—Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri—offer something different. Cooler air, forests, and waterfalls make them perfect if you want a break from the heat and a bit of adventure.
Travel Tips for Visiting Phnom Penh at Christmas
December gives Phnom Penh dry skies, warm afternoons, and cooler mornings. You’ll want to pack for sunshine, changing temperatures, and the holiday crowds.
What to Pack for the Weather
Daytime temps often hit 28–30°C (82–86°F), while mornings and nights settle near 22°C (72°F). Light, breathable clothes work best for walking around, shopping, or riverside strolls.
Bring cotton or linen shirts, shorts, and dresses to stay cool. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen are essentials—UV levels stay high, even in December.
Toss in a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings or chilly air-conditioned places. Comfortable shoes are a must, since you’ll probably do a lot of walking.
A small daypack makes it easy to carry water, snacks, and a camera. Reusable bottles come in handy because you’ll need to stay hydrated. Rain gear isn’t really needed, but a compact umbrella can double as sun protection.
Health and Comfort Advice
The dry season cuts down the humidity, but afternoons still get warm. Drink plenty of bottled or filtered water to avoid dehydration. If you’re prone to heat fatigue, carrying oral rehydration salts isn’t a bad idea.
Mosquitoes aren’t as active in December, but using repellent with DEET or picaridin is still smart, especially near the river at dusk.
Phnom Penh’s air quality sometimes dips due to traffic. If you have breathing issues, a light mask could help.
Stick to freshly cooked street food, and skip raw ice unless you’re sure it’s made from filtered water.
Take breaks during the hottest part of the day. Indoor spots like the National Museum or Central Market offer a cool escape from the sun and keep your day interesting.
Seasonal Events and Activities
Warm, dry weather in Phnom Penh during December makes it easy to enjoy both festive events and outdoor adventures. The city gets into the holiday spirit, and you’ll find comfortable conditions for temple visits, market trips, and riverside walks.
Christmas Celebrations in Phnom Penh
Cambodia is mostly Buddhist, but Phnom Penh has picked up on Christmas, especially in areas with lots of expats. Shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants put up lights, trees, and holiday displays.
You’ll spot Christmas dinners and buffets at international hotels, mixing Western and Asian dishes. Some places even have live music or themed parties. Local bakeries make holiday pastries, which are great if you want something more low-key.
Markets and fairs sometimes pop up, selling crafts, gifts, and festive treats. They’re not huge, but they give you a taste of local holiday cheer.
If you’d like to attend a religious service, a few Christian churches in Phnom Penh hold Christmas Eve and Christmas Day masses. Locals and visitors are usually welcome.
Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing
Daytime highs usually hit 30–33°C (86–91°F) in December. Rainfall stays low, so it’s honestly one of the best times to get out and see Phnom Penh.
You’ll notice the humidity drops compared to the wet season, so walking tours and outdoor visits feel a lot more doable.
People flock to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda this time of year, and the dry weather means you can actually stop and appreciate the architecture.
The National Museum of Cambodia has these shaded courtyards that make it a surprisingly nice spot, even when the sun’s out in full force.
If you head down to the riverside along the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers, you’ll find it’s perfect for an evening walk. Sunset boat cruises are a thing too, and honestly, the view when the skyline lights up is worth it.
Markets like Central Market (Phsar Thmei) and Russian Market (Phsar Tuol Tom Poung) get pretty lively in December. Cooler air makes wandering around for souvenirs or street food way less exhausting.
If you’re up for a short trip, you can visit the Choeung Ek Memorial or explore the countryside nearby. The lack of heavy rain means rural roads are actually passable now.