December is one of the most comfortable months in Cambodia: dry, sunny and cooler than the rest of the year. It is also one of the busiest, with Christmas and New Year travel, so it pays to book early.
December at a glance
WeatherDry and generally comfortable, with cooler mornings and evenings.
HolidaysCambodia Peace Day on Tuesday 29 December 2026. Christmas is not a public holiday, and 1 January is.
CrowdsPeak season, especially in the last two weeks of the month.
Best forTemples, the coast and islands, road trips, cycling and festive city breaks.
Weather in December
December sits in the cooler part of the dry season, so long sightseeing days, road journeys and the coast are usually at their easiest. Mornings and evenings can feel fresh, especially in the northeastern highlands, so pack a light layer. Check a short-range forecast before each travel day. See our best time to visit guide.
What’s on in December
ChristmasMalls and hotels decorate, restaurants offer festive menus and churches hold services, although 25 December is a normal working day. Read our Christmas in Cambodia guide.
Cambodia Peace Day, 29 DecemberA public holiday since 2024 that marks the end of the civil war on 29 December 1998. Government offices and banks close.
New Year’s EveCountdowns in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and on the islands, followed by the 1 January holiday. Read our New Year’s Eve guide.
Where to go in December
Siem Reap and AngkorIdeal temple weather, but the busiest time of year. Start early or visit the major temples late in the day. See our three days in Siem Reap.
Kampot, Kep and the islandsCalmer seas and dry days make this a good month for the coast. Book island boats early. See our Kampot and Kep itinerary and Koh Rong guide.
Phnom PenhComfortable for walking the riverside, markets and museums, with festive events in the evenings. See our two days in Phnom Penh.
Mondulkiri and RatanakiriDry roads and cool nights suit forest walks and community visits. Bring a warm layer for the evenings.
Planning tips
Book the holiday weeks earlyRooms and boats for the period from about 20 December to early January sell out first.
Keep a buffer dayBusy roads and full transport around the holidays can slow journeys.
Plan around closuresBanks and government offices close on 29 December and 1 January.
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit Cambodia?
Yes. It is one of the driest and most comfortable months, which is also why it is so popular.
Is Christmas a public holiday in Cambodia?
No. 25 December is a normal working day, but Cambodia Peace Day on 29 December and New Year’s Day on 1 January are public holidays.
Do I need to book ahead in December?
Yes, especially for the last two weeks of the month, island boats and popular hotels.
Sources: 2026 holiday dates from the National Bank of Cambodia holiday list; Peace Day background from Cambojanews; seasons from the Ministry of Tourism, as summarized in our best time to visit guide. Last checked 26 October 2026.