Located across the Mekong delta and Gulf of Thailand coastline, you must travel to Cambodia to taste ancient South Asia. It is home to various old Temples, archaeological ruins, and stunning shores. And this beautiful nation is famous for some of the greatest creative and cultural triumphs.
Cambodia is famous due to its lovely history from the Khmer Rouge era and the Civil war. Thousands of visitors visit this nation yearly to soak up the rich past, timeless culture, and lively aura. There is no doubt that this is one of the must-visit places in Cambodia if you want to enjoy the puzzling wildlife and partake in the adventures of its tropical jungles offer.
Looking for the best places to visit in Cambodia in December? Then this whole blog is for you. Let’s learn more about this topic.
List of the 11 Best Places to Visit in Cambodia in December:
1. Kratie
Kratie Is a lovely little town of well-preserved buildings from the times of French colonization. It is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia in December. The Mekong River flows through it.
In this place, you can visit the Phnom Sombok Pagoda, a small hill Buddhist temple, and the lovely Island of kaoh Trong to enjoy its leafy vista and pristine surroundings.
It is a must for every visitor to take time to sit and see the incredible and magical sunset on the Mekong River.
If you are an animal lover, it is a perfect place for you, and here you can watch the quite rare Irrawaddy Dolphins.
2. Phnom Penh
Situated on the Mekong River and once called The Pearl of Asia, Phnom Penh is the biggest city in Cambodia. It has been its capital since the French colonial days. It is pervasive to find French impact nowadays. The top famous lures include the Opulent Royal Palace Complex, which glows with spires of silver Pagoda at its center.
Visit the buzzing Sisowath Quay if you want a taste of local life, which runs along the Mekong in a medley of markets and spots for picnics. It is a sobering and stark reminder of the horrors committed against Cambodia’s people in the 20th century to see the Killing Fields just outside town.
3. Siem Reap
There is no doubt that Siem Reap is the best place to visit in Cambodia in December. This region is situated Northwest of the Nation, 314 km from Phnom Penh. in all-time, it used to be the capital of the Angkorian Empire. In the Angkor Archaeological Park, many historical styles of work from Angkor have stayed intact with time.
The most famous Cambodian tourist lure is Angkor Wat. There is no doubt that the temple complex is one of the seven wonders of the world, and it may be the greatest gift left by the Khmer. This complex area extends over 400 kilometers, surrounded by a deep and wide trench. Furthermore, this nation also consists of many royal and holy temples.
If you are visiting this place for the first time, you can watch the entire style of the complex stand out with ancient statues. Rocks are stacked on top of one another in towers, temples, and huge halls to give a very natural build to the structures.
With the superb view of Angkor Wat, tourists can enjoy Apsara Dance, and other famous tourist draws such as the Old Market and the Cambodia Landmine Museum.
4. Koh Ker
Koh Ker is a remote temple area located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) northeast of Siem Reap. Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer realm only for a short period, from 928 to 944 AD.
In a rapid time, some fantastic buildings and big cultures were constructed. Prasat Thom is conquered by a vast temple pyramid that stands 30 meters (98 feet) above the surrounding Jungle.
As one of Cambodia’s most remote and inaccessible temple destinations, Koh Ker had been engulfed in the Jungle for nearly a millennium. The situation has changed due to recent demining and a new toll road opening.
5. Mondulkiri
Mondulkiri is approximately 382 km from Phnom Penh’s capital. It is located to the northeast and adjacent to Cambodia’s Stung Treng and Kratie areas. This place is famous because its features are a cool climate yearly and rich in natural resources. You can easily see the fantastic overlapping cliff ranges, unspoiled jungles, vast Pine forests, superb waterfalls, and Green Hills. As a result, visitors can experience an alluring eco-tourism spot at this location.
There are other reasons why Mondulkiri is so famous for its people and culture. The folk of Mondulkiri is very sparse. There is, however, a wide range of regional cultures and languages within the area. In addition to Khmer, Laos, and Vietnamese, visitors may also hear other languages. If you come here, you will indeed have the chance to meet friendly and honest people.
6. Ratanakiri
One of the best places to visit in Cambodia in December is Ratanakiri if you get bored with ruins and temples. This place is full of fantastic nature, infinite dirt roads, and quiet views. You’ll love this place if you’re an adventure lover.
An overnight trip may include spotting buff-cheeked gibbons, sleeping in hammocks, trekking, hiking, and camping. Eyeing elephants, sun bears, and tigers in the Virachey National Park is possible.
One of the famous tourist spots in Cambodia is Yeak Loam Lake. A volcanic eruption occurred about 4000 years ago, leading to this lake’s build.
But according to local tales, it was made by a goliath who dug a pit to rescue his runaway daughter. In addition, this place also has a small museum on its coast showcasing Tampuan culture.
It is a must for those who love waterfalls to visit the stunning Chaa Ong waterfall and Ka Tieng waterfalls in Thailand.
7. Banlung
Banlung is one of the famous and great Cambodian tourist draws. Situated in the north of Cambodia, it is a perfect place for those who wish to be engaged in nature and enjoy outdoor activities.
When you reach this famous place, you will experience trips via the forest, admiring wild and exotic animals. In addition, you will also find Yeak Laom volcanic lake made from an inactive hole and has terrific surroundings. Furthermore, during your visit to Banlu Tung, you will quickly see women knitting fabric which will be a great experience. Therefore, every traveller must travel to these best places to visit in Cambodia in December.
8. Kampot
It may seem tantalizingly close to the coast for Kampot not to be about beaches. However, there is so much more to this river town on the delta waters of the Preaek Tuek Chhu than just sand, sea, and sun.
Explore the pepper farms covering the local flatlands first. Besides being the primary economic driver, these farms produce Kampot’s unique peppercorns.
There are also many earthy fishing villages where seafood fries are seasoned with chili and lemongrass.
There are also rusty shells of old locomotives at the Kampot railway station and dilapidating colonial structures in the center.
9. Koh Russey
Also known by another name, the Bamboo Island, Koh Russey is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia for a relaxing Retreat to the big size. This beach is one of the busiest Islands in the whole of Cambodia.
It is quiet yet one of the most famous tourist attractions in Cambodia and Thailand. On this Island, you can go hiking in the Jungle or swim. Or just relish the striking views of Aquamarine water and golden sand with juice.
Furthermore, don’t forget to try out the local food and enjoy the nightlife. The evenings on the beach are always vibrant, with locals dancing Khmer dances and people just kicking back, enjoying the view. It is among the best places to visit in Cambodia in December.
10. Battambang
Most of the travellers who are visiting Cambodia often miss Battambang, which is quite logical. However, this city does not have amazing beaches or glorious Angkor temples. But it is Cambodia’s second-largest city. Here, you can easily find the perfect balance of activity, friendliness, and hidden interests.
There is a mode of transportation called Norris or Bamboo Train, which is famous among tourists visiting Battambang. It is safe to say that Battambang is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia in December if you love exploring new things.
11. Kep
In Kep, you can enjoy a variety of beach activities. The shallow sea bottom offers snorkelers a chance to view corals. There is a famous beach near Kep called Rabbit Island; the conditions are rustic, however, since electricity is only available in the evenings. A day trip is the most common way to visit the Island.
The ruins of old villas were ruined during the Khmer Rouge days in Kep, a former colonial retreat for the French elite. Kep National Park also offers panoramic ocean views, butterfly preserves, and organic pepper farms.
Cambodia Weather in December
In December, the climate in Cambodia is comfortably warm and generally dry, making it an excellent time to visit. Keep reading to discover more about what to expect from the weather in Cambodia during this month, including details on average temperatures and rainfall. You’ll also find some handy travel advice on what clothing to pack and the best sights to see.
Understanding December Weather in Cambodia:
- Typical temperature range: 23–30°C (73–86°F)
- Usual rainfall: 10–60 mm (0–2 inches)
- The common number of rainy days: 2–8
- Typical number of sunny days: 20–25
The month of December brings a warm and dry spell in Cambodia. The highest average temperature typically reaches 30°C (86°F) and the lowest average temperature usually falls to around 23°C (73°F). Even the western coast of Cambodia sees the rain easing off. Throughout most of December, you can expect to enjoy a warm, sunny weather.
The Weather in Major Cambodian Cities in December:
Phnom Penh: The country’s capital enjoys mild temperatures in December. The minimum temperature usually hovers around 22°C, while the maximum can reach up to 30°C. The city sees an average rainfall of 10mm.
Battambang: Situated in the northwest, Battambang experiences temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. It typically receives about 19mm of rainfall in December.
Siem Reap: Known for the iconic Angkor Wat, Siem Reap also enjoys a comfortable temperature range from 22°C to 30°C. The city gets about 12mm of average rainfall.
Sihanoukville: This coastal city sees slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 23°C and a maximum of 31°C. It gets more rain than other cities with an average of 55mm in December.
Koh Rong: This island off the coast of Sihanoukville experiences temperatures between 21°C and 28°C. However, it gets much more rainfall than the other cities, with an average of 127mm in December.
Summary,
These are some of the best places to visit in Cambodia in December. These places are unique and make your trip memorable, which you will never forget. Make a plan now, depending on your pocket, and get ready to visit the best places to visit in Cambodia in December.
Check More Articles on Cambodia:
- Top 10 Famous Temples in Cambodia
- Cambodia Destinations to Visit in August
- Top 10 Attractions to See in Siem Reap
- 10 Reasons to Go Traveling in Cambodia
- Best Things to Do in Siem Reap | Attractions & Activities
- 10 Best Significant Waterfalls In Cambodia
- Is Cambodia Safe? 5 Travel Safety Tips
- 10 Top-Rated Places to See in Phnom Penh
- Cambodia’s Best Time to Visit: A Month-by-Month Weather Guide
