Siem Reap in January

January weather, activities, events & insider tips

January Weather in Siem Reap

31 High Temp

22 Low Temp

0.0 inches Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 0.0 inches (0 mm) of rain makes this ideal for Angkor temple exploration starting at sunrise without weather concerns
Comfortable morning temperatures of 22°C (72°F) perfect for early temple visits before crowds arrive at 8am, when most tour groups start
Lower humidity levels at 70% compared to wet season's 85%+, making outdoor activities sustainable throughout the day with proper hydration
Post-harvest season means abundant fresh produce at markets - this is when locals celebrate with the freshest amok, prahok, and seasonal fruits like rambutan and dragon fruit

Considerations

High tourist season drives accommodation prices up 40-60% compared to shoulder months, with temple pass queues extending 20-30 minutes at Angkor Wat by 9am
Afternoon temperatures reach 31°C (88°F) with UV index of 8 - temple climbing becomes challenging between 11am-3pm without proper sun protection
Dust levels peak during dry season, particularly problematic for those with respiratory sensitivities when riding motos on unpaved temple roads

Best Activities in January

Sunrise Angkor Temple Circuit

January's dry weather guarantees unobstructed sunrise views at Angkor Wat, with 22°C (72°F) morning temperatures perfect for the 1.5 km (0.9 mile) walk from parking. Zero rain risk means you can safely bring camera equipment. Start at 5:30am to secure prime viewing spots before the 300+ daily tour groups arrive.

Booking Tip: Purchase temple passes 1-2 days ahead to avoid morning queues. Hire tuk-tuk drivers for multi-day circuits (typically $15-25/day). Book through licensed operators or see current temple tour options in the booking section below.

Tonle Sap Lake Floating Village Tours

January's low water levels create unique access to normally submerged areas, revealing the engineering of stilt houses. Dry season means stable boat conditions and clear photography opportunities. Water levels drop 3-4 m (10-13 ft) from wet season, exposing fascinating village infrastructure.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost $25-40 including boat transport. Book morning departures (8-11am) for best lighting and cooler temperatures. See current floating village tours in the booking section below.

Cambodian Cooking Class Experiences

January coincides with harvest season, meaning markets overflow with the freshest ingredients - perfect timing for authentic cooking classes. Morning market visits at 7am showcase seasonal vegetables like water spinach and fresh river fish, followed by hands-on preparation of traditional dishes.

Booking Tip: Classes typically cost $35-55 including market tour and meal. Book 3-5 days ahead as popular classes fill quickly during high season. Look for classes that include market visits for full cultural immersion.

Banteay Srei and Countryside Bicycle Tours

Cool 22°C (72°F) mornings and minimal rain make January perfect for the 37 km (23 mile) cycling route to Banteay Srei temple through rural villages. Dry roads provide safe cycling conditions, and post-harvest rice paddies create golden landscape photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Full-day bicycle tours cost $45-65 including quality mountain bikes, helmet, and lunch. Book with operators providing support vehicles. Distance requires moderate fitness - practice 15-20 km (9-12 mile) rides beforehand.

Phnom Kulen National Park Waterfall Hikes

January's dry weather ensures safe hiking conditions on the 2 km (1.2 mile) trail to Kulen waterfall, though water levels are lower than wet season. The 487 m (1,598 ft) elevation provides 3-4°C cooler temperatures, making the climb comfortable in morning hours.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost $40-60 including transport and entrance fees. Start early (7am departure) to complete hiking before afternoon heat. Book through operators with reliable vehicles for the mountain road access.

Pub Street Evening Food Tours

January evenings cool to 24°C (75°F) by 7pm, creating perfect conditions for street food exploration. Dry weather means all outdoor food stalls operate fully, and this is peak season for fresh seafood from Tonle Sap lake - try the amok and grilled fish preparations.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost $25-45 for 3-4 hour experiences covering 6-8 food stops. Book evening tours (6-9pm) when temperatures drop and street food scene peaks. See current food tour options in the booking section below.

January Events & Festivals

January 7th

Victory Day (January 7th)

National holiday commemorating the fall of the Khmer Rouge, marked by ceremonies at Angkor Wat and local pagodas. Many locals visit temples for prayers and offerings, creating authentic cultural observation opportunities but potentially larger crowds at major temples.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirts - essential for temple visits requiring covered shoulders, while providing sun protection during 31°C (88°F) afternoons with UV index 8

Comfortable walking sandals with ankle support - temple surfaces are uneven stone, and you'll walk 5-8 km (3-5 miles) daily exploring Angkor complex

High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+) and wide-brimmed hat - January's clear skies offer no cloud protection during peak UV hours 10am-2pm

Lightweight rain poncho - despite low rainfall, afternoon showers occur on 10 days, lasting 20-30 minutes with potential intensity

Respectful temple clothing - pants/long skirts covering knees, avoiding tank tops. Many visitors get denied entry to Angkor Wat's upper level for dress code violations

Electrolyte supplements or rehydration salts - 70% humidity and temple climbing cause significant fluid loss, local pharmacies stock reliable brands

Dust mask or bandana - unpaved roads to outer temples like Banteay Srei create dust clouds, especially problematic for moto transportation

Portable phone charger - temple circuits are long days (8+ hours) with limited charging opportunities, essential for photography and navigation

Cash in USD and Cambodian Riel - temple passes, food, and transportation primarily cash-based, ATMs charge 4-6% fees for foreign cards

Insect repellent with DEET - evening activities near water sources like Tonle Sap attract mosquitos, especially around sunset hours

Insider Knowledge

Temple pass vendors open at 4:45am for sunrise seekers - buy passes afternoon before your temple day to skip morning queues and go straight to viewing spots

Local restaurants close 2-5pm during peak heat - plan lunch at tourist-area restaurants or pack snacks if exploring remote temples during afternoon hours

Negotiate tuk-tuk prices before sunrise temple runs - drivers quote premium rates for 5am pickups, establish price (typically $15 small circuit, $25 grand circuit) in advance

January hotel rates peak around January 15-31 when European winter vacationers arrive - book accommodations before January 10th for 20-30% savings on identical rooms

Avoid These Mistakes

Attempting full temple circuits during 11am-3pm heat - many visitors underestimate 31°C (88°F) impact with stone surfaces reflecting additional heat, causing exhaustion and dehydration

Wearing inappropriate temple attire - sleeveless tops and shorts above knee result in denied entry to Angkor Wat's upper levels, wasting time and money returning to change clothes

Failing to book accommodations early enough - January's high season fills quality mid-range hotels ($40-80) by December, leaving only budget hostels or expensive resorts available