Preah Vihear Weather: A Comprehensive Travel Guide for 2025 and Beyond

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like weather25.com, world-weather.info, easeweather.com, weather2travel.com, climate-data.org, and cambodia-travel.com. Weather forecasts based on historical patterns and latest data as of August 28, 2025; verify before travel. Reflects Cambodia’s updated travel regulations.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Preah Vihear Temple, located in Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia, at approximately 14.39°N, 104.68°E and an elevation of around 525 meters on the Dangrek Mountains, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning cliff-top setting and ancient Khmer architecture cambodia-travel.com. A cultural and historical gem, Preah Vihear attracts visitors for its spiritual significance, breathtaking views, and proximity to other Cambodian sites like Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat culturetrip.com. Whether joining guided Preah Vihear Tours or exploring independently, understanding Preah Vihear’s weather is crucial for planning activities such as temple visits, hiking, or cultural festivals. The area’s tropical wet and dry climate (Köppen Aw) features a dry season (November–April) and a wet season (May–October), with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 36°C and significant rainfall in September weather25.com. This guide provides weather-based travel tips, cultural insights, and eco-friendly Preah Vihear Travel options to ensure a seamless and culturally respectful journey.

Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations in 2025, Preah Vihear is accessible via road from Siem Reap (approximately 3–4 hours) or Tbeng Meanchey, with local transport like tuk-tuks or motorbikes. This guide blends seasonal advice, packing tips, and sustainable Preah Vihear Travel ideas for a worry-free experience.

Administrative Note

Preah Vihear’s weather features a dry season (November–April, 19–34°C, low rain) ideal for temple visits and hiking, and a wet season (May–October, 24–36°C, high rain) suited for early morning outings or indoor cultural experiences. Most nationalities require a visa ($30–$35); ASEAN countries enjoy visa-free entry for 14–30 days. Preah Vihear Temple entry costs $10 (40,000 KHR) or is included in some guided tours ($15–$80 or 60,000–320,000 KHR). Local purchases range from $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR). Key sites are accessible by motorbike, tuk-tuk, or guided transport from Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey. Verify weather forecasts and visa requirements via cambodia-travel.com or accuweather.com.

Seasonal Breakdown

• Dry Season (November–April):

  • Temperature: 19–34°C; coolest in January (daily mean 19.88°C) with comfortable evenings weather25.com. Daytime highs average 32°C world-weather.info.

  • Conditions: Sunny with moderate humidity (50–75%), minimal rainfall (2–5 rainy days/month, 20–50 mm/month), and mostly clear skies, ideal for temple visits, hiking, or exploring Preah Vihear’s cliff-top views easeweather.com. February averages 28–32°C with 8–10 hours of sunshine daily weather2travel.com.

  • Precipitation: Low, 0–2 mm/day; driest in February (20–40 mm/month) climate-data.org.

  • UV Index: High (8–11); sunscreen ($1 or 4,000 KHR) and hats ($2 or 8,000 KHR) essential weather2travel.com.

  • Conditions for Visiting: Perfect for outdoor activities like temple exploration and festivals; peak tourist season with clear weather weather25.com.

• Wet Season (May–October):

  • Temperature: 24–36°C; warmest in April (daily mean 36.62°C) and humid (75–90%) with frequent rain (15–20 rainy days/month, 100–300 mm/month); lush greenery around temple grounds world-weather.info. September averages 33°C daytime highs and 24°C lows easeweather.com.

  • Conditions: Heavy showers and occasional thunderstorms, peaking in September (up to 300 mm/month, 18–20 rainy days); suitable for early morning temple visits or indoor cultural experiences like visiting nearby museums in Tbeng Meanchey climate-data.org. Slippery paths around the temple require caution weather25.com.

  • Precipitation: Moderate to heavy, 5–15 mm/day; wettest in September world-weather.info.

  • UV Index: Moderate to high (4–8); rain gear essential weather2travel.com.

  • Conditions for Visiting: Ideal for budget travelers, early morning outings, or indoor activities; fewer crowds but wet conditions easeweather.com.

Weather Impacts

• Outdoor Activities: Dry season is best for temple visits, hiking, and cultural exploration at Preah Vihear; wet season suits early morning outings or indoor cultural experiences like visiting local cultural centers weather25.com. February offers optimal weather for temple tours world-weather.info.

• Festivals: Khmer New Year (April) enjoys dry, warm weather with temple rituals; wet season festivals like Pchum Ben (September/October, lunar calendar) feature cultural events cambodia-travel.com.

• Health: Wet season’s humidity increases mosquito activity; use repellent ($1 or 4,000 KHR). Dry season’s heat requires hydration; air quality is generally acceptable accuweather.com.

• Tip: Check daily forecasts via accuweather.com or weather25.com 1–2 weeks before travel; pack for seasonal conditions.

Respecting Cambodia’s Cultural Heritage

Cultural etiquette ensures a respectful experience during Preah Vihear Tours, especially when adapting to weather conditions. Here’s your guide, based on current norms as of August 28, 2025:

• Greetings: Offer a “sok sabai” (hello) with a slight bow or sampeah (hands pressed together); use both hands when paying for entrance fees or purchases to show respect, especially in wet weather when handling damp items.

• Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Preah Vihear Temple); a lightweight scarf ($1 or 4,000 KHR) aligns with local norms culturetrip.com. In the dry season, pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton or linen; in the wet season, bring quick-dry clothing and a raincoat ($2 or 8,000 KHR).

• Behaviour: Maintain a quiet demeanor in the temple; ask permission before photographing monks or rituals; avoid loud behavior around temple grounds. Avoid pointing feet at sacred objects or touching temple carvings, as these are disrespectful in Khmer culture. A guest shared: “Respecting Khmer customs made our rainy temple visit serene.”

• Customs: Temple entry costs $10 (40,000 KHR) or is included in guided tours; donations ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR) appreciated; remove shoes in temple areas; avoid touching sacred items; tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR); avoid public criticism of the government (penalties apply). Avoid littering to preserve temple grounds culturetrip.com.

• Tip: Say “arkun” (thank you) to locals or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($2 or 8,000 KHR) to support sustainable Preah Vihear Travel; carry rain gear in the wet season or sun protection in the dry season. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen weather-prepared travellers thrive in Preah Vihear’s vibrant cultural heritage.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 4,000 KHR) for Khmer basics like “arkun”; English is limited outside Siem Reap, so translation apps are useful culturetrip.com.

• Respect: Follow temple rules (avoid touching sacred items); avoid disrupting festivals; support local vendors with fair purchases in nearby markets.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Preah Vihear” or “Siem Reap” for navigation, especially in rainy conditions.

• Eco-Tip: Opt for motorbikes ($5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR/day) or guided transport to reduce emissions, aligning with Cambodia’s green tourism goals.

Below is a curated list of tour options tailored to Preah Vihear’s weather, based on the latest data from weather25.com, world-weather.info, easeweather.com, weather2travel.com, climate-data.org, and cambodia-travel.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.

1. Self-Guided Weather-Adapted Exploration

• Details: Explore Preah Vihear Temple independently; adapt to dry season (temple visits and hiking), wet season (early morning outings or indoor cultural activities); suitable for prepared travellers; moderate difficulty due to remote location.

• Weather Tips: Explore in dry season for clear conditions; focus on early morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) in wet season with rain gear; prioritize indoor activities like visiting Tbeng Meanchey cultural centers during heavy rain.

• Schedule: Daily; Preah Vihear Temple open 7:30 AM–5:30 PM ($10 or 40,000 KHR); vibrant during Khmer New Year (April).

• Cost: Temple entry: $10 (40,000 KHR); donations: $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR); transport (motorbike: $5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR/day); local purchases: $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR).

• Location: Preah Vihear Temple, Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use motorbikes or guided transport to reduce emissions; avoid littering on temple grounds.

• Tip: Check forecasts at accuweather.com; visit early in wet season to avoid rain; a guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with weather planning.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Group Weather-Adapted Cultural Tour)

• Details: 1-day group tour visiting Preah Vihear Temple; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Weather Tips: Outdoor temple visits in dry season; early morning focus in wet season with rain gear; indoor cultural activities during heavy rain.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 6:00 AM from Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey hotels; returns by 5:00 PM.

• Cost: $40–$60/person (160,000–240,000 KHR, includes entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local vendors.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest noted: “Legend’s tour adapted perfectly to wet season conditions.”

3. Local Vietnam (Combo Weather-Adapted Cultural and Adventure Tour)

• Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Preah Vihear Temple and exploring nearby villages; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey, lunch, and entry fees; moderate difficulty.

• Weather Tips: Best in dry season for clear hiking conditions; early morning visits in wet season with rain gear; cultural focus during heavy rain.

• Schedule: Daily; departs 5:30 AM from Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey hotels; returns by 5:00 PM.

• Cost: $50–$80/person (200,000–320,000 KHR, includes entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest noted: “The combo tour was ideal for sunny or rainy days.”

4. Multi-Day Weather-Adapted Cultural Tour (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: 2–3 day tour combining Preah Vihear Temple, Koh Ker, and Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; moderate difficulty.

• Weather Tips: Focus on outdoor activities in dry season; early morning or covered activities in wet season; cultural visits in rainy conditions; guides adjust itineraries for weather.

• Schedule: Daily; departs from Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey hotels; returns after 2–3 days.

• Cost: $100–$200/person (400,000–800,000 KHR, includes entries).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Siem Reap or Tbeng Meanchey.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book Preah Vihear Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a weather-smart cultural journey.”

• Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for weather-prepared independent travellers.

• Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for weather-adapted cultural insights.

• Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend temple visits with adventure experiences for a comprehensive journey.

• Multi-Day Cultural Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with weather-smart itineraries.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport, supporting Cambodia’s green tourism goals.

Key weather-based travel opportunities include:

• Khmer New Year: Typically April (lunar calendar), festive with temple rituals; warm and dry (26–34°C); check dates at cambodia-travel.com.

• Pchum Ben: Typically September/October (lunar calendar), festive with temple offerings; warm and rainy (24–36°C); check dates at cambodia-travel.com.

• Temple Visits and Hiking: November–April for clear conditions; May–October possible with early morning visits, especially February for optimal weather weather25.com.

Dry season (November–April, 19–34°C) is ideal for temple visits, hiking, and festivals. Wet season (May–October, 24–36°C) suits budget travelers and indoor cultural experiences. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.

• Dry Season (November–April): Pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton or linen; sunscreen ($1 or 4,000 KHR); hat ($2 or 8,000 KHR); light jacket ($5 or 20,000 KHR) for cooler evenings weather25.com.

• Wet Season (May–October): Pack quick-dry clothing; raincoat or umbrella ($2 or 8,000 KHR); waterproof shoes ($5 or 20,000 KHR); mosquito repellent ($1 or 4,000 KHR).

• Forecast Checks: Monitor daily forecasts 1–2 weeks before travel via accuweather.com or weather25.com; adjust plans for rain or heat.

• Eco-Tip: Use reusable water bottles ($2 or 8,000 KHR) and totes ($1 or 4,000 KHR) to reduce waste; opt for motorbikes or guided transport for sustainable travel.

• Tip: Book tours with flexible itineraries; plan early morning visits in wet season; pack sun protection for dry season; carry small KHR notes for purchases; confirm visa requirements ($30–$35 if needed).

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), Cambodia visa ($30–$35 if required), wallet ($2–$3 or 8,000–12,000 KHR), temple entry ticket ($10 or 40,000 KHR).

• Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees; lightweight scarf ($1 or 4,000 KHR) for temple visits; quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($5 or 20,000 KHR) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($5 or 20,000 KHR); hat ($2 or 8,000 KHR).

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($2 or 8,000 KHR); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR, e.g., num pang); small backpack ($2 or 8,000 KHR); sunscreen ($1 or 4,000 KHR); insect repellent ($1 or 4,000 KHR).

• Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR); local SIM ($2–$3 or 8,000–12,000 KHR); waterproof camera ($20 or 80,000 KHR) for photos (with permission).

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 4,000 KHR) for market purchases; phrase card ($1 or 4,000 KHR) with Khmer basics.

• Extras: Small KHR notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($2 or 8,000 KHR); umbrella ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for wet season; money belt ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.

Costs for Weather-Prepared Travel to Preah Vihear

Travel Tour Costs

• Self-Guided Exploration: Temple entry: $10 (40,000 KHR); donations: $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR); transport (motorbike: $5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR/day).

• Group Cultural Tours: $40–$60 (160,000–240,000 KHR, includes entry).

• Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $50–$80 (200,000–320,000 KHR, includes entry).

• Multi-Day Cultural Tours: $100–$200 (400,000–800,000 KHR, includes entries). Weather-Related Costs

• Raincoat or Umbrella: $2 (8,000 KHR).

• Sunscreen or Insect Repellent: $1 each (4,000 KHR).

• Waterproof Shoes or Quick-Dry Clothing: $2–$5 (8,000–20,000 KHR). Other Costs

• Local Snacks (e.g., num pang, banana fritters): $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR).

• Souvenirs (e.g., scarves, handicrafts): $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR).

• Donations: $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $15–$35 (self-guided, snacks, transport).

• Mid-range: $35–$70 (group tour, purchases).

• Luxury: $70–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, weather items, or transport, and $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons.

• Weather Tips: Check forecasts 1–2 weeks before travel; plan outdoor activities in dry season; focus on early morning visits in wet season with rain gear; prioritize indoor activities during heavy rain accuweather.com.

• Etiquette: Use “sok sabai”; dress modestly for temples; stay respectful in temples and markets; avoid littering on temple grounds.

• Access: Choose self-guided visits for flexibility, group tours for weather-adapted insights, or multi-day tours for deeper exploration.

• Schedules: Temple open 7:30 AM–5:30 PM; peak crowds in dry season (November–April); book early for festivals (April, September/October).

• Sustainability: Use motorbikes or guided transport; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Preah Vihear” or “Siem Reap.”

• Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 8,000 KHR); beware of pickpocketing in nearby markets; carry emergency numbers (Police: 117, Tourist Police: +855 12 942 484).

• Health Note: Use bottled water; apply mosquito repellent in wet season; stay hydrated in dry season; avoid stray animals travel.state.gov.

• What is the weather like in Preah Vihear? Dry season (November–April, 19–34°C) is sunny and ideal; wet season (May–October, 24–36°C) is rainy with lush scenery weather25.com.

• When is the best time to visit Preah Vihear? Dry season for temple visits and hiking; wet season for budget travel and indoor experiences; February for optimal weather world-weather.info.

• How do I prepare for Preah Vihear’s wet season? Pack raincoat, umbrella, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof shoes; focus on early morning activities easeweather.com.

• Is Preah Vihear’s weather safe for travel? Yes, but wet season brings slippery paths and flooding risks; dry season requires sun protection; check forecasts via accuweather.com.

• How do I check Preah Vihear’s weather? Use accuweather.com or weather25.com for daily forecasts.

• Are eco-friendly tours available? Yes, group tours with fuel-efficient transport; check localvietnam.com.

Enhance your weather-prepared Preah Vihear journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:

• Preah Vihear Cultural Eco-Tour ($40–$60/person, 1 day): Guided temple tour with sustainable practices.

• Preah Vihear Cultural and Adventure Trail ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Explore temples and villages with eco-friendly transport.

• Cambodia Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Preah Vihear Travel plans.

Understanding Preah Vihear Weather with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sok sabai,” and weather-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, spiritual journey through this Cambodian UNESCO site. With tour costs from $15–$80, eco-friendly Preah Vihear Tours, and attractions like the cliff-top Preah Vihear Temple, this trip offers adventure and sustainability. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Preah Vihear Travel, check forecasts via accuweather.com and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!

Sources:

• Weather Information: weather25.com, world-weather.info, easeweather.com, weather2travel.com, climate-data.org

• Cultural and Travel Details: culturetrip.com, cambodia-travel.com