Siem Reap
ISO3: KHM
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Time Zone: Asia/Phnom_Penh
"សៀមរាបក្រុងប្រាសាទ | Siem Reap, the city of temples"
13.3633° N, 103.8564° E
About:
Siem Reap, a city in northwestern Cambodia, was once the seat of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries. The colonial and Chinese-style architecture in the Old French Quarter and around the Old Market reflects its past. The city experienced a tourism resurgence in the late 20th century due to the nearby Angkor temples, particularly Angkor Wat. Today, Siem Reap is a popular tourist destination, with a developed hospitality industry and a growing arts scene.
When to visit:
Siem Reap, Cambodia, is best visited during the dry season, which typically runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and other nearby attractions. The months of November and December are particularly popular due to the cooler temperatures and lower chance of rainfall. However, it is important to note that this is also peak tourist season, so it is advisable to book accommodations and tours in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday experience.
When to avoid:
Siem Reap, a popular tourist destination in Cambodia known for its stunning Angkor Wat temple complex, experiences its peak tourist season from November to March when the weather is cooler and drier. Therefore, the worst time to travel to Siem Reap on a holiday would be during the hot and humid months of April and May, as well as the rainy season from June to October. During these times, visitors may encounter heavy rainfall, high temperatures, and increased humidity, which can make sightseeing and outdoor activities less enjoyable. It is advisable to avoid traveling to Siem Reap during these periods to ensure a more comfortable and pleasant experience.
"Rainy Season (May-Oct)"
The warmest part of the year in Siem Reap, Cambodia, typically occurs between March and June, with average temperatures ranging from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). However, temperatures can sometimes spike up to 40°C (104°F).
Rainfall is minimal during this period, as the rainy season doesn't usually begin until late June. The days are generally sunny, with an average of 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day.
Humidity is relatively high, often exceeding 60%, which can make the heat feel more intense. The sky is typically clear or lightly clouded, but the cloud cover can increase towards the end of this period as the rainy season approaches.
For a visitor, a typical day during the warmest part of the year in Siem Reap would be hot and humid. The intense heat may require frequent breaks for hydration and rest, especially during the afternoon when the heat peaks. Despite the heat, the weather is generally bright and sunny, providing great light for photography, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. However, the high temperatures and humidity may make physically demanding activities more challenging.
Hot Season (March-May)
The warmest part of the year in Siem Reap, Cambodia, typically occurs between March and June, with average temperatures ranging from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). However, temperatures can sometimes spike up to 40°C (104°F).
Rainfall is minimal during this period, as the rainy season doesn't usually begin until late June. The days are generally sunny, with an average of 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day.
Humidity is relatively high, often exceeding 60%, which can make the heat feel more intense. The sky is typically clear or lightly clouded, but the cloud cover can increase towards the end of this period as the rainy season approaches.
For a visitor, a typical day during the warmest part of the year in Siem Reap would be hot and humid. The intense heat may require frequent breaks for hydration and rest, especially during the afternoon when the heat peaks. Despite the heat, the weather is generally bright and sunny, providing great light for photography, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. However, the high temperatures and humidity may make physically demanding activities more challenging.
Language:
khmer
Siem Reap, a city in Cambodia, primarily speaks Khmer, the official language of the country. Khmer is an Austroasiatic language, with influences from Sanskrit and Pali. English is also widely spoken due to the city's thriving tourism industry, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and other tourist-oriented establishments. Other languages, such as French and Chinese, are also spoken by a minority of the population.