Siem Reap in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Siem Reap
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect temple weather - minimal rainfall means uninterrupted sunrise visits to Angkor Wat with clear sunrise views from 5:30-6:30am daily
- Peak visibility for photography - dry conditions offer crystal-clear shots of temple reflections in the moats and pools around Angkor complex
- Ideal timing for countryside cycling - roads are completely dry, and rice fields show busy green growth before harvest season begins in May
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates are 20-30% lower than December-February peak season, with good availability at mid-range guesthouses
Considerations
- Extreme midday heat reaching 34°C (93°F) - outdoor temple exploration between 11am-3pm becomes physically challenging even for fit travelers
- Limited afternoon temple visits - heat radiating from ancient stones makes climbing temple stairs dangerous during peak sun hours
- Dust conditions on unpaved roads - dry season means significant dust clouds when traveling to remote temples like Beng Mealea or Koh Ker
Best Activities in April
Angkor Archaeological Park temple circuits
April's dry weather creates perfect conditions for sunrise temple visits with zero rain interference. Start at 5am for Angkor Wat sunrise, complete small circuit by 10am before heat becomes unbearable. Crystal-clear moat reflections and dust-free photo conditions make this the best photography month.
Tonle Sap floating village expeditions
April water levels are ideal - not too high from rainy season floods, not too low for boat access. Morning trips from 7am-11am avoid afternoon heat while experiencing authentic fishing community life. Dry conditions mean clear views and comfortable boat rides.
Cambodian countryside cycling tours
Perfect road conditions in April - completely dry rural paths with good traction. Early morning rides (6am-10am) through rice paddies show lush green fields before harvest. Afternoon rides impossible due to heat, but morning conditions are absolutely ideal.
Banteay Srei and remote temple combinations
April's dry conditions make accessing remote temples like Banteay Srei (32 km/20 miles) and Koh Ker (120 km/75 miles) much easier. Road conditions are excellent, though dusty. Early morning departures essential to complete visits before midday heat.
Cooking classes and food market tours
April brings abundance of dry season vegetables and fruits to local markets. Morning market visits (7am-9am) showcase peak ingredient variety before heat affects produce quality. Indoor cooking sessions provide perfect midday heat relief.
Phnom Kulen National Park hiking
April offers excellent hiking conditions with dry trails and maximum waterfall flow from late dry season. River pools at 1000 Lingas are perfect temperature for cooling off. Clear weather provides impressive views from mountain temple ruins.
April Events & Festivals
Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey)
Cambodia's most important celebration typically falls April 13-15, 2025. Temples become centers of family gatherings, traditional games, and water blessing ceremonies. Siem Reap temples host special ceremonies, but expect crowds and some restaurant closures.
Water Festival preparations at temples
Local temples begin preparing for New Year water blessing ceremonies throughout April. Visitors can observe monks preparing blessed water and traditional decorations being installed at major temples like Wat Preah Prom Rath.