Phnompenh in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Phnompenh
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Lush green landscapes after rainy season onset - pagodas and parks look spectacular with fresh vegetation and cleaner air quality
- Cooler mornings (24-27°C/75-81°F) from 6-9am perfect for temple visits, cycling, and outdoor markets before heat builds
- Tourist numbers drop 30-40% compared to peak season - shorter queues at Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and this destination
- Fresh seasonal fruits peak in June - rambutans, mangosteens, and dragon fruit at street stalls cost 50% less than dry season
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days disrupt outdoor plans between 2-5pm - need flexible scheduling and indoor backup options
- High humidity (70%) makes walking exhausting after 10am - clothes stick, makeup melts, and you'll need multiple outfit changes
- Some rural temples and Oudong Mountain trails become muddy and partially inaccessible after heavy rains
Best Activities in June
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda Complex Tours
June's morning coolness (24-27°C/75-81°F) makes the 2-3 hour palace walk comfortable before 9am. Post-rain air clarity provides impressive photos of golden spires. Fewer crowds mean intimate experiences with guides who have more time for detailed explanations of Khmer architecture and royal history.
Mekong River Sunset Cruises
June's dramatic cloud formations create spectacular sunset photography opportunities. Afternoon storms clear by 5-6pm, leaving crisp air and dramatic skies. River levels are optimal after early rains, and temperatures drop to comfortable 28°C (82°F) on water with evening breezes.
Central Market and Russian Market Food Tours
June brings peak season for tropical fruits and fresh ingredients. Morning tours (7-10am) capitalize on cool temperatures and most active vendor period. Post-rain cleanliness and cooler air make indoor market exploration comfortable, with seasonal specialties like fresh coconut water and grilled corn.
Tuol Sleng and Killing Fields Historical Tours
Cooler June mornings make these emotionally heavy but essential sites more manageable physically. Audio guides work better in lower humidity, and fewer crowds allow for respectful, contemplative experiences. Indoor Tuol Sleng museum provides storm shelter if needed.
Wat Phnom Temple and Riverside Park Cycling
Early morning cycling (6-8am) takes advantage of June's coolest temperatures and fresh post-rain air. The 5 km (3.1 mile) riverside route from Wat Phnom to Diamond Island offers beautiful views without overwhelming heat. Tree-lined paths provide storm shelter if needed.
National Museum and Independence Monument Cultural Walk
June's frequent rain cleans the city, making walking tours more pleasant with less dust and cleaner air. The Banjul's indoor exhibits provide perfect storm refuge while learning about Angkor-era artifacts. Shorter distances between cultural sites suit June's weather constraints.
June Events & Festivals
Visak Bochea (Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment, and Death)
Major Buddhist celebration with candlelit processions around pagodas throughout the city. Locals dress in white and participate in merit-making activities. Evening ceremonies at Wat Phnom and Wat Botum are particularly atmospheric with thousands of participants.