Things to Do in Cambodia in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Cambodia

30°C (86°F) High Temp

22°C (72°F) Low Temp

127mm (5.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect transition weather - morning temperatures around 22°C (72°F) make temple visits and cycling comfortable before midday heat
Countryside transforms into emerald green landscapes from recent rains, making rural provinces like Battambang and Kampot stunning for photography
Mekong and Tonlé Sap water levels are optimal - not too high from monsoon flooding, not too low from dry season, perfect for boat tours and floating village visits
Shoulder season pricing kicks in - accommodation costs drop 30-40% compared to peak December-February period, flights from major cities also decrease

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 60% of days, typically 2-4pm lasting 30-45 minutes, requiring flexible scheduling for outdoor activities
Rural roads, especially in Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri provinces, can be muddy and challenging after recent rains - some remote areas may require 4WD
Higher humidity (70%) makes midday temple climbing at Angkor more exhausting - you'll need frequent water breaks and shade

Best Activities in November

Angkor Archaeological Park Temple Exploration

November offers ideal conditions for Angkor Wat complex with cooler morning temperatures (22°C/72°F) perfect for sunrise viewing and extensive walking. The post-monsoon period means lush vegetation frames the temples beautifully, and moderate tourist levels allow better photo opportunities. Morning light is exceptional for photography from 6-9am before afternoon heat builds.

Booking Tip: Book tuk-tuk drivers for multi-day temple passes 2-3 days ahead. Daily rates typically ฿800-1,200 ($25-35). Purchase 3-day passes for ฿1,800 ($62) - weather allows comfortable full-day exploring. See current guided tour options in booking section below.

Mekong River Floating Village Tours

Water levels in November are perfect for accessing Chong Kneas and Kampong Phluk floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake. The lake has expanded from monsoon rains but isn't at peak flood levels, allowing boats to navigate easily while showing dramatic seasonal lifestyle changes. Cooler mornings mean comfortable 3-4 hour boat rides.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost ฿1,200-1,800 ($35-50). Book through licensed operators at Siem Reap pier or hotel concierges. Morning departures (7-8am) offer best light and cooler temperatures. Check current tour options in booking section below.

Kampot Pepper Farm and Countryside Cycling

November's post-rain countryside in Kampot Province is spectacularly green, and pepper harvest season begins. Morning temperatures (22-25°C/72-77°F) are perfect for cycling through rural villages, pepper plantations, and salt fields. The famous Kampot pepper is at peak quality during harvest months.

Booking Tip: Bicycle rentals cost ฿300-500 per day ($8-15). Book guided countryside tours for ฿1,500-2,500 ($45-75) including pepper farm visits and lunch. Start early (7am) to avoid afternoon heat and potential showers. See current cycling tour options in booking section below.

Phnom Penh Cultural and Historical Tours

The capital's museums and historical sites are more comfortable to explore in November's moderate temperatures. Royal Palace visits are pleasant in morning hours, and Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek are emotionally heavy enough without extreme heat. November's clearer post-monsoon skies offer better city photography from elevated viewpoints.

Booking Tip: Walking tours typically range ฿1,000-2,000 ($30-60) for half-day experiences. Book Royal Palace visits for morning hours (8-11am) when temperatures are most comfortable. Many sites close during afternoon storms, so flexible timing is essential. Check current guided tour options in booking section below.

Cardamom Mountains Eco-lodges and Wildlife

November marks the beginning of optimal conditions in the Cardamom Mountains. Jungle paths are accessible after monsoon but not yet dusty from dry season. Wildlife activity increases as water sources normalize. Morning mist through the forest canopy creates spectacular photography conditions, and temperatures at altitude (500-800m/1,640-2,625ft) are refreshingly cool.

Booking Tip: Eco-lodge stays typically cost ฿2,500-4,500 per night ($75-135) including meals and guided activities. Book minimum 2 weeks ahead as accommodation is limited. Multi-day packages (3-4 nights) offer better value and wildlife spotting opportunities. See current eco-tour options in booking section below.

Battambang Bamboo Train and Rural Village Tours

The famous bamboo train (norry) operates best in November when tracks aren't muddy from heavy rains but countryside remains lush and green. Morning rides offer comfortable temperatures and stunning rural scenery. Local artisan villages around Battambang showcase traditional crafts in post-harvest season when families have more time for demonstrations.

Booking Tip: Bamboo train rides cost ฿150-250 ($5-8) for 30-minute round trips. Combined village tours range ฾1,200-2,000 ($35-60) for half-day experiences. Book through guesthouses or see current tour options in booking section below. Morning departures (8-9am) provide best experience.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November (dates vary with lunar calendar - typically November 13-15, 2025)

Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)

Cambodia's most spectacular festival celebrating the reversal of Tonlé Sap River flow. Dragon boat races fill the rivers, and millions gather in Phnom Penh for three days of festivities, fireworks, and traditional performances. The full moon illuminates nighttime celebrations along the riverfront.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain poncho or packable jacket - afternoon storms in November last 30-45 minutes and can be intense

Quick-dry clothing in natural fabrics - cotton and linen breathe better than synthetics in 70% humidity

Closed-toe shoes with good grip - temple stairs can be slippery after morning dew and rain showers

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - post-monsoon period increases mosquito activity, especially near water

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - protect electronics during sudden downpours and boat tours

Power bank and universal adapter - frequent brief power outages during storms in rural areas

Reusable water bottle with purification tablets - stay hydrated in humid conditions, safe refill stations common

Light layers for temperature changes - morning starts at 22°C (72°F), midday reaches 30°C (86°F)

Waterproof daypack - essential for temple visits and countryside tours when weather can change quickly

Insider Knowledge

November marks the start of wedding season in Cambodia - you'll often hear traditional music and see colorful celebrations in villages, which locals welcome you to observe respectfully from a distance

Book domestic flights and buses early morning (6-8am departures) as afternoon thunderstorms frequently delay transportation between provinces

Angkor Wat sunrise viewing shifts to around 6:15am in November - many tourists arrive too late at 6:30am and miss optimal lighting

Local markets like Psar Thmei in Phnom Penh and Old Market in Siem Reap have the freshest produce and lowest prices early morning (6-8am) before tour groups arrive

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities for 2-4pm when afternoon thunderstorms are most likely - schedule temple visits and cycling for morning hours instead

Bringing only sandals - temple stairs become slippery after rain and closed shoes are required at many sacred sites

Assuming November is fully dry season - it's actually transition period, so pack rain gear and maintain flexible daily schedules