Phnompenh in January

January weather, activities, events & insider tips

January Weather in Phnompenh

31°C (88°F) High Temp

22°C (71°F) Low Temp

13 mm (0.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Coolest temperatures of the year - mornings drop to 22°C (71°F), perfect for walking tours and temple visits before 11am
Minimal rainfall with only 13 mm (0.5 inches) total - occasional 15-20 minute afternoon showers that actually provide relief from heat
Chinese New Year period brings busy celebrations in Chinatown, dragon dances, and special temple ceremonies not seen other months
Post-holiday season means 30-40% lower accommodation prices compared to December peak, with better availability at boutique hotels

Considerations

Popular month for regional tourists escaping monsoons elsewhere - major attractions like Royal Palace and S21 see 40% more visitors than February-March
Harmattan winds can create hazy conditions mid-month, reducing visibility for photography and making sunrise/sunset less dramatic
Many locals take extended holidays around Chinese New Year, causing some favorite local eateries and services to close for 3-5 days

Best Activities in January

Mekong Delta Day Trips

January's low rainfall makes unpaved delta roads accessible, and cooler morning temperatures (22°C/71°F) are perfect for floating market visits. Water levels are ideal for small boat navigation, and fruit season peaks with dragon fruit and rambutan harvests. The dry season also means clearer canal waters for better wildlife spotting.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators. Tours typically cost $25-45 USD and include boat transfers, local guide, and lunch. Look for operators with insurance coverage and morning departure times to avoid afternoon heat. Check current options in the booking section below.

Angkor Wat Temple Complex Tours

Cool January mornings (22°C/71°F) make the 2-3 hour temple walks comfortable, while minimal rain means stone walkways aren't slippery. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is spectacular with clear skies, and the dry season reveals architectural details often obscured by monsoon vegetation. Tourist numbers are manageable compared to December peak.

Booking Tip: Book 10-14 days ahead, especially for sunrise tours. Day passes cost $37 USD, multi-day tours range $80-150 USD with transport and guide. Choose operators offering early 4:30am pickup for sunrise viewing. See current temple tour options in the booking widget below.

Cycling Food Tours Through Local Markets

January's cooler morning temperatures make 3-4 hour cycling tours bearable, and dry conditions mean better road safety. Chinese New Year season brings special festival foods like sticky rice cakes and roasted duck. Market vendors are most active 6-10am when temperatures are coolest.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours (7am start) to avoid afternoon heat. Tours typically cost $35-55 USD including bike, helmet, and food tastings. Look for small group operators (max 8 people) with local guides. Current food tour options available in booking section.

Tonle Sap Lake Floating Village Visits

January's dry season lowers water levels, bringing floating houses closer together and making village life more concentrated and visible. Cooler temperatures make the 4-5 hour excursion more comfortable, and clear skies provide excellent photography conditions. Bird watching is at its peak with migratory species present.

Booking Tip: Book through eco-certified operators, typically $40-70 USD for full day with lunch. Avoid afternoon tours due to heat reflection off water. Look for operators supporting local communities rather than exploiting them. Check current responsible tour options below.

Historical Genocide Museum and Killing Fields Tours

January's cooler morning weather makes the emotionally challenging 4-6 hour historical sites more manageable physically. Dry conditions mean better access to Choeung Ek memorial paths, and fewer crowds allow for more respectful, contemplative visits. Clear weather ensures audio guides work properly.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots starting by 8am to avoid heat and crowds. Combined tours cost $20-35 USD with transport and audio guides. Choose operators emphasizing education over tourism. Allow full day and book with reputable guides - see current educational tour options in booking section.

Silk Island Countryside Escapes

January's minimal rainfall makes rural roads accessible for authentic village experiences. Cooler temperatures are perfect for walking through silk weaving workshops and traditional houses. Dry season means better ferry connections and impressive Mekong River views without monsoon haze.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost $25-40 USD including ferry and guide. Book through operators supporting local artisans, not just photo opportunities. Morning tours (8am-12pm) are coolest and most authentic when weavers are active. Current village tour options available below.

January Events & Festivals

Late January

Chinese New Year Celebrations in Phnom Penh

Massive celebrations in Chinatown along Street 136 and Wat Ounalom with traditional lion dances, dragon parades, and temple ceremonies. Local Chinese-Cambodian families make special offerings and the entire area transforms with red lanterns and street performances lasting 3-5 days.

Throughout January

Pchum Ben Festival Preparations

While the main festival is later in year, January sees temple preparation activities with monks blessing ceremonies and families beginning merit-making activities. Locals visit pagodas more frequently, offering unique cultural immersion opportunities.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long pants for temple visits - cotton or linen breathable in 70% humidity, covers knees for dress codes

Light rain jacket or poncho - afternoon showers last 15-20 minutes but can be sudden and heavy

SPF 50+ broad spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflects strongly off Mekong River

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes - temple grounds can have sharp stones, plus protection from street debris

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts - sun protection during day, mosquito protection at dusk, temple coverage

Small daypack with waterproof cover - for temple visits, market tours, and protecting electronics during quick showers

Electrolyte tablets or powder - high humidity causes more sweating than expected, especially during walking tours

Portable phone charger/power bank - high usage for maps, translation apps, and photography drains batteries faster in heat

Insect repellent with DEET - evening mosquitoes around Mekong riverside areas and markets

Light scarf or sarong - versatile for temple covering, dust protection, and air conditioning in restaurants

Insider Knowledge

Visit Royal Palace complex first thing at 8am opening - tourist buses don't arrive until 10am, giving you peaceful photography time

Street food is safest 6-11am when turnover is highest and ingredients are freshest - avoid afternoon stalls sitting in 31°C (88°F) heat

Chinese New Year period (late January) sees many local businesses close 3-5 days, but also brings special temple activities and traditional foods not available other times

Tuk-tuk prices drop 30-40% after 4pm when tourist day tours end - negotiate hard for evening transportation to night markets

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 12pm-3pm when temperatures peak at 31°C (88°F) and humidity makes it feel like 38°C (100°F)

Wearing shorts and tank tops to temples - you'll be denied entry and have to buy overpriced covering clothes from vendors outside

Booking afternoon Mekong boat trips - morning departures are 8-10 degrees cooler and water is calmer for better photography