Phnompenh in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Phnompenh

32°C (91°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

7.6 mm (0.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 7.6 mm (0.3 inches) expected, making it ideal for temple hopping and riverside walks along the Mekong
Comfortable evening temperatures of 23°C (73°F) perfect for exploring night markets and rooftop bars from 6pm onwards when the heat subsides
Chinese New Year festivities in Phnom Penh's busy Chinatown district bring dragon dances, special temple ceremonies, and traditional foods not available other months
Lower humidity (70%) compared to rainy season makes walking tours of the Royal Palace complex and S21 memorial site much more comfortable during morning hours

Considerations

Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 30-40% and popular sites like the Royal Palace can have crowds of 200+ visitors during 9am-11am peak hours
Afternoon temperatures reach 32°C (91°F) making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable - you'll need to plan around morning and evening schedules
Strong UV index of 8 requires constant sun protection and limits comfortable outdoor time to early morning (6am-9am) and evening (5pm-8pm) periods

Best Activities in February

Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda Temple Complex Tours

February's dry weather makes exploring this 870m x 435m (2,854ft x 1,427ft) royal compound comfortable in early morning hours. The reduced 70% humidity means less fatigue while walking the extensive grounds, and clear skies provide perfect photography conditions for the golden spires. Visit between 6:30am-9am to avoid both crowds and peak heat.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 40,000 riel (about $10) and tours typically run $25-35 for half-day guided experiences. Book through licensed guides at the entrance or see current tour options in the booking section below. Avoid midday tours - morning slots fill quickly during February.

Mekong River Sunset Cruises

February's stable weather patterns make evening river cruises ideal, with gentle breezes cooling you down from the day's 32°C (91°F) heat. The dry season means clear sunset views and calm waters. Traditional wooden boats offer dinner cruises with views of the Royal Palace illuminated at night, departing around 5pm when temperatures drop to comfortable levels.

Booking Tip: Dinner cruises range $35-55 per person with most operators offering 2-3 hour experiences. Book 5-7 days ahead during February's peak season. Look for boats with shade covers and life jackets. Current cruise options available in booking widget below.

Cyclo Tours Through French Colonial Districts

February's lower rainfall makes pedal-powered cyclo tours through the French Quarter feasible, covering 8-10 km (5-6.2 miles) of colonial architecture. The comfortable evening temperatures from 6pm onwards are perfect for leisurely rides past the Central Market, Wat Phnom, and riverside promenade. Local drivers share stories impossible to get from walking tours.

Booking Tip: Half-day cyclo tours cost $20-30 including driver and typically last 3-4 hours. Morning tours (7am-10am) or evening tours (4pm-7pm) work best in February heat. Negotiate rates directly with cyclo drivers near major hotels or book organized tours through the options below.

Traditional Khmer Cooking Classes

February's dry weather makes market visits comfortable for sourcing ingredients, and indoor cooking classes provide welcome relief from afternoon heat. Learn to prepare amok, loc lac, and other Cambodian specialties while avoiding the midday 32°C (91°F) temperatures. Many classes include market tours between 6am-8am when it's coolest.

Booking Tip: Full-day cooking classes range $45-65 including market tour and lunch. Half-day classes cost $25-35. Book 3-5 days ahead in February. Look for classes that include transportation to local markets and provide recipe cards. See current cooking class options in booking section.

Tuol Sleng and Killing Fields Historical Tours

February's stable, dry conditions make visiting these outdoor memorial sites more comfortable than during rainy season. The emotional weight of these historical locations requires full attention, which is easier when not dealing with heat stress or sudden downpours. Audio guides work reliably in dry conditions.

Booking Tip: Combined tours cost $35-50 including transportation between sites 15 km (9.3 miles) apart. Individual site entries are $5-6 each. Book morning tours starting 7am to avoid afternoon heat. Respectful dress required - long pants and covered shoulders. Current memorial tour options available below.

Traditional Arts and Crafts Workshop Tours

February's comfortable indoor temperatures make extended workshop sessions enjoyable. Visit silk weaving cooperatives, silver smithing workshops, and traditional pottery studios without the energy-draining humidity of rainy season. Many workshops are in restored French colonial buildings with natural ventilation perfect for February's moderate humidity.

Booking Tip: Workshop tours range $30-45 for half-day experiences including hands-on activities and transportation. Book 4-7 days ahead during peak February season. Look for workshops supporting local artisan cooperatives. Purchase opportunities available but no pressure to buy. See current workshop options in booking widget.

February Events & Festivals

Early February

Chinese New Year Celebrations in Phnom Penh Chinatown

The city's Chinese-Cambodian community celebrates with dragon dances, temple ceremonies at Wat Ounalom, and special foods like sticky rice cakes and lion dance performances. Street vendors sell traditional decorations and lucky charms throughout the Phsa Chas (Old Market) area.

Mid February

Meak Bochea Buddhist Festival

This important Buddhist holy day features candlelit processions around major wats including Wat Phnom and Wat Botum. Locals dress in white and participate in evening ceremonies with chanting and offerings. Visitors can respectfully observe from designated areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 and shade is limited at temple complexes and riverside areas

Lightweight, breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which traps heat in 70% humidity conditions

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - brief afternoon showers occur on 10 days during February, lasting 15-20 minutes

Comfortable walking shoes with good ventilation - expect 5-8 km (3.1-5 miles) of walking daily on hot pavement and uneven temple grounds

Modest clothing for temple visits - long pants and shirts covering shoulders required at Royal Palace and major wats

Portable water bottle - staying hydrated crucial in 32°C (91°F) afternoon heat, refill stations available at major tourist sites

Power bank and waterproof phone case - high usage from navigation and photos drains batteries quickly in heat

Anti-mosquito spray - evening activities along Mekong River require protection despite dry season

Light scarf or shawl - air conditioning in restaurants and hotels can be intense contrast to outdoor heat

Cash in small bills - many local vendors, cyclo drivers, and market stalls don't accept cards or large denominations

Insider Knowledge

Start your day at 6am when locals do - markets, temples, and outdoor sites are most comfortable before 9am, and you'll experience authentic morning routines like alms giving and fresh noodle soup vendors

February's peak season means restaurant reservations essential for dinner - book rooftop restaurants and riverside dining 3-4 days ahead, especially for sunset timing around 6:15pm

Use the 2-4pm afternoon heat for indoor activities locals prefer - visit museums, art galleries, cooking classes, or traditional massage parlors when tourists crowd outdoor sites

Bargain at markets in morning hours when vendors are fresh and inventory is full - by afternoon in February heat, everyone's patience runs thin and prices become less negotiable

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing between 11am-4pm when temperatures reach 32°C (91°F) - locals avoid this timing and so should you, scheduling temple visits and walking tours for early morning or late afternoon instead

Not booking accommodations 4-6 weeks ahead - February is peak season and riverside hotels with views fill up completely, forcing last-minute visitors into less desirable locations far from city center

Wearing dark colored clothing which absorbs heat intensely - stick to light colors and breathable fabrics since you'll be walking 6-10 km (3.7-6.2 miles) daily on hot pavement and temple grounds