Phnompenh in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Phnompenh
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak green season - Royal Palace gardens and Wat Phnom are lush and photogenic, with jacaranda trees in full bloom along Sisowath Quay
- Fewer crowds at Tuol Sleng and S-21 - you can spend proper time reflecting without tour group rushes, and photography is easier
- Best time for Mekong River activities - water levels are high, making boat trips to Silk Island (Koh Dach) more scenic and accessible via 45-minute rides from Sisowath Port
- Lower accommodation prices - boutique hotels in Riverside district drop rates 30-40% compared to December peak season, with rooms from $25-45/night
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms hit 60% of days between 2-5pm, often flooding Street 51 and areas near Boeung Kak Lake for 30-60 minutes
- High humidity makes walking between temples exhausting - the 1.5 km (0.9 mile) walk from Royal Palace to Wat Phnom feels much longer in 70% humidity
- Some outdoor markets close early during heavy rains - Russian Market vendors start packing up by 4pm if storms approach
Best Activities in August
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda Morning Tours
August mornings (7-10am) offer the best lighting and coolest temperatures for exploring the palace complex. The rainy season brings out busy colors in the traditional Khmer architecture, and fewer crowds mean better photo opportunities at the Throne Hall and Emerald Buddha. Morning visits also avoid afternoon storms that can disrupt outdoor exploration.
Mekong River Sunset Cruises
August's high water levels make river cruises spectacular, with dramatic storm clouds creating impressive sunset backdrops. The 90-minute cruises from Sisowath Quay offer views of floating villages that are most accessible during rainy season. Evening departures (5:30-7pm) usually avoid afternoon storms while catching the golden hour.
Central Market and Russian Market Food Tours
August brings seasonal fruits like dragon fruit and rambutan to local markets, making food tours particularly rewarding. The covered this destination (Phsar Thmei) provides shelter during afternoon storms, while morning visits (8-11am) offer the freshest ingredients and most active vendor interactions before the heat builds.
Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek Memorial Tours
August's lower tourist numbers create the respectful, contemplative atmosphere these memorial sites deserve. The emotional weight of these historical locations requires unhurried visits, which is more possible during rainy season. Indoor museum sections at Tuol Sleng also provide climate-controlled respite from humidity.
Silk Island Cycling Adventures
August's lush countryside makes Koh Dach (Silk Island) cycling tours exceptionally scenic. The 45-minute boat ride across high-water Mekong leads to 2-3 hour cycling routes through rice paddies and traditional weaving villages. Morning departures (8am) return before afternoon storms, and the rural setting offers authentic cultural interactions away from city crowds.
August Events & Festivals
Pchum Ben Festival Preparation
Late August marks the beginning of preparations for Cambodia's most important Buddhist festival. Locals begin preparing traditional offerings and visiting pagodas for merit-making ceremonies. While the main festival occurs in September, witnessing the preparation period offers insight into Khmer Buddhist traditions.