Northwestern Cambodia, Cambodia
November to February (Dry Season): This period brings the coolest and driest weather. Temperatures typically range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). Humidity stays low, making outdoor activities comfortable. Skies are generally clear and sunny, offering excellent conditions for sightseeing and photography. This stands as a popular time for travelers seeking pleasant weather.
March to May (Hot Season): Temperatures ascend significantly during these months, often reaching 35°C (95°F) to 40°C (104°F) or even higher. Humidity starts to ascend, specifically towards May as the wet season approaches. This period can feel intensely hot, requiring careful planning to avoid the midday sun.
High Season (November to February): This period holds the most tourists and the most pleasant weather.
Shoulder Season (March, May, June, October): This period holds a mix of conditions and fewer crowds. March and April are very hot. June and October bring increasing rainfall.
June to October
Heavy rains cause localized urban flooding. Rural dirt roads become muddy or impassable.
Plan for flexibility in your itinerary. Certain activities, like the river boat, rely on water levels.
March and April
Hottest time of year, with risk of heat-related illness.
Stay hydrated. Seek shade during midday (10 AM - 4 PM). Plan indoor activities.
Seasonal considerations
Cambodia usually avoids direct hits. Tropical depressions bring heavy rain and strong winds during wet season.
Monitor weather forecasts if traveling during the wet season.
The Bamboo Train, Bat Caves, and temple visits (Wat Banan, Phnom Sampeau, Wat Ek Phnom) are best in the dry season (November to February). Comfortable temperatures and dry conditions make activities much more pleasant.
The Siem Reap-Battambang river boat trip is seasonal. It runs when water levels are sufficient, typically during the wet season (June to October). This journey offers intimate views of rural life along waterways.
Usually in mid-April (hot season), with country-wide celebrations.
Typically in November, during the pleasant dry season.
A significant religious festival, usually in September or October (wet season).
Usually in May (hot season), marking the start of the rice-planting season.
January 7th, a national holiday.
Foreign nationals entering Cambodia, including through airports and land border crossings, must meet visa rules. Plan your visa application in advance to avoid potential delays or issues upon arrival.
Citizens of ASEAN countries (Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Myanmar) and Seychelles are generally visa-exempt for 14 to 30 days. Check specific agreements for your nationality.
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Obtain a tourist visa at Phnom Penh (PNH) and Siem Reap (REP) International Airports, and major land border crossings (e.g., Poipet from Thailand).
Cambodia mainly uses two currencies. Battambang offers good value, making it an affordable destination for many travelers.
This section outlines health recommendations, common safety concerns, and emergency procedures for your journey.
Traveler's Diarrhea: A common travel-related illness. Prevention includes drinking only Bottled water, boiled water, or water purified with a reliable filter. Avoid ice unless purified. Eat hot, freshly cooked food. Frequent hand washing or using Hand sanitizer also helps.
Mosquito-borne Illnesses (Dengue): Dengue fever is present year-round. Risk exists in some rural border areas. Prevention involves using Insect repellent containing DEET (25-50%), picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin. Wear Long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially at dawn and dusk. Sleep under a Mosquito net if needed.
Consult a travel doctor 4-6 weeks before your trip. Yellow Fever certificate only if arriving from a risk country. Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTP), Polio. Others for long stays or specific activities: Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies.
Stay current on routine vaccinations.
Immediate medical advice needed for any animal bite, even if vaccinated for Rabies.
Battambang has a provincial hospital and private clinics. For serious medical emergencies, medical evacuation to Phnom Penh, Bangkok, or Ho Chi Minh City might become necessary due to limited advanced facilities in Battambang.
Pharmacies are available for basic needs.
Quality and authenticity of medications can vary; bring specific needs from home.
Local Emergency Numbers: Police: 117, Fire: 118, Ambulance: 119. Tourist Police: 012 942 484. Keep contact details for your country's embassy or consulate in Phnom Penh. They offer assistance in emergencies.
Travel insurance emergency numbers must be readily accessible.
Carry a card with name, blood type, allergies, and in-country emergency contact.
| Category | Concern | Precaution |
|---|---|---|
| Drinking Water | Unsafe tap water. | Use Bottled water, purified refills, or a reliable Purification system. |
| Food Hygiene | Contaminated food. | Eat hot, freshly cooked food from busy establishments. Be wary of raw vegetables. |
| Crime | Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching). | Be aware of surroundings, secure valuables, avoid flashing cash. Bargain for fares. |
Battambang provides good value, making it an affordable destination.
Dorm bed/basic room, street food, shared tuk-tuk/bicycle rental, basic attraction fees.
Comfortable hotel, mix of local/mid-tier restaurants, private tuk-tuk for tours, cooking classes, Phare circus tickets.
Boutique hotel/resort, fine dining, private car hire, guided tours, souvenir purchases.
US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted for larger transactions. Cambodian Riel (KHR) is used for small change. US$1 ≈ 4,000 KHR.
ATMs are available and mostly dispense USD, with typical transaction fees (US$4-5). Inform your bank of travel plans. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and upscale places, but cash is preferred for local businesses and street food.
Ensure US dollar bills are in good condition. Exchange foreign currencies at banks or licensed money changers. Tipping is not traditional but appreciated due to low wages in tourism.
Prioritize small US dollar bills, as many vendors lack change for large denominations.
Prioritize street food and local Khmer restaurants for authentic and affordable meals.
Negotiation is common for tuk-tuk fares and market purchases. Agree on price before the service.
Battambang's city center is compact and flat; walking or cycling saves money and provides experience.
Typical price ranges for various services and items:
Costs for moving around and exploring the city:
Tuk-tuk short ride: US$1.50-3. Half-day tour: US$15-25. Full-day tour: US$25-35. Bicycle rental: US$1-3/day.
Bamboo Train: US$5-10/person. Phnom Sampeau (parking/donation): US$1-2. Wat Banan: US$2-3. Phare Ponleu Selpak: US$15-20.
Local beer: US$1-2. Coffee: US$1.50-3. Fresh fruit shake: US$1-2. Cooking Class: US$15-25.
Consider carrying a Reusable water bottle to save money on bottled water.
