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Best month to visit Vietnam and Cambodia – The ultimate cross countries vacation

Embarking on a cross-country adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia promises an unforgettable journey through Southeast Asia’s gems. These nations are brimming with captivating histories, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. 

Yet, to make the most of your Vietnam Cambodia vacation, it’s crucial to pinpoint the best time to explore. Join us in this article as we unravel the considerations that shape the best month to visit Vietnam and Cambodia, ensuring your travels align with ideal weather conditions, vibrant festivals, and memorable experiences. Whether you seek ancient temples, lush landscapes, or bustling cityscapes, timing can elevate your journey to new heights.

Best month to visit Vietnam and Cambodia based on weather conditions

Mekong Delta cruise trip to Cambodia

Weather is a pivotal factor in shaping your Vietnam Cambodia touring experience. Both countries exhibit notable variations in climate throughout the year. Generally, the best month to visit Vietnam and Cambodia coincides with the dry season, spanning from November to April.

  • Vietnam: The best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. December to February is especially ideal for Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi and Halong Bay. Central Vietnam, including cities like Hue and Hoi An, also experiences dry and mild weather during this period. For Southern Vietnam, like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, you can visit year-round, but the dry season from November to April is more comfortable.
  • Cambodia: Cambodia shares a similar climate pattern to Vietnam. The dry season, from November to April, is the best time to visit. During this period, you can explore Angkor Wat and other historical sites comfortably without frequent rain.

For a combined trip to both countries, consider visiting during the months of November to April – which is when the weather is dry and cool, making it perfect for touring historical sites, enjoying beaches, and experiencing local culture. However, be aware that this is also the peak tourist season, so popular attractions may be crowded.

Highlight activities on November to April – best months to visit Vietnam and Cambodia

Another important aspect that plays a significant role in determining the best months to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is the cultural festivals and highlight activities calendar. Each country boasts a distinctive array of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, enriching your travel experience with unique cultural dimensions.

Below is our curated list of some of the most popular festivals and activities that occur from November to April that you can not miss while planning for your trip.

Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in Cambodia

vietnam cambodia

The Water Festival, known as Bon Om Touk in Cambodia, is one of the most spectacular and vibrant festivals celebrated in the country. This annual event is a joyous occasion that typically takes place in November, marking the reversal of the flow of the Tonle Sap River and the end of the rainy season. It holds deep cultural and historical significance for the Cambodian people.

The highlight of the Water Festival is the boat races that happen on the Tonle Sap River. Teams of rowers, often from different provinces, compete in beautifully decorated longboats. These races are not only a display of skill and teamwork but also a source of immense pride for the communities they represent.

In addition to the boat races, the Water Festival features various cultural performances, traditional music, and dance shows along the riverbanks. Illuminated boats and fireworks add a dazzling touch to the evening celebrations. The entire atmosphere is one of festivity, unity, and gratitude for the fertile waters that sustain Cambodia’s agriculture.

For travelers, the Water Festival is an extraordinary opportunity to immerse themselves in Cambodian culture and witness the vibrant spirit of the people. It’s a time when the streets come alive with locals and tourists alike, sharing in the festivities and creating lasting memories of this enchanting celebration.

Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) in Cambodia

Khmer New Year, locally known as “Choul Chnam Thmey,” is a vibrant and culturally significant celebration in Cambodia, typically observed in April. This festive occasion marks the beginning of the Khmer calendar year and is a time of immense joy and community gatherings.

Khmer New Year lasts for three days, and each day has its own special customs and traditions. The first day, known as “Maha Songkran,” is dedicated to cleaning and preparing homes, as well as making offerings at local temples. The second day, “Virak Wanabat,” is for charitable activities, such as giving to the less fortunate. The third day, “Tngay Leang Saka,” is when people cleanse Buddha statues with perfumed water, symbolizing the purification of the soul.

One of the most captivating aspects of Khmer New Year is the colorful processions, traditional dance performances, and lively water festivals that take place throughout Cambodia. People engage in joyful water fights, dousing each other with water as a symbol of cleansing and renewal.

In addition to the cultural and spiritual significance, Khmer New Year is a time for families to reunite, exchange gifts, and share traditional meals. Visitors during this period can immerse themselves in the warmth of Cambodian hospitality and witness the country’s rich cultural heritage on full display. It’s an ideal time to experience the vibrancy and spirit of Cambodia’s people while celebrating the dawn of a new year in this beautiful Southeast Asian nation.

Independence Day in Cambodia

Balloons are released at the Independence Monument during a ceremony marking Cambodia’s 69th Independence Day celebrations in Phnom Penh on November 9, 2022. (Photo by TANG CHHIN Sothy / AFP)

Independence Day in Cambodia, celebrated on the 9th of November, is a momentous occasion that commemorates the nation’s hard-fought struggle for freedom from French colonial rule. This significant holiday is marked with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor across the country.

On this day, Cambodians take to the streets to participate in parades, processions, and various cultural performances. The festivities typically begin with the raising of the Cambodian flag, an act symbolizing the country’s sovereignty and independence. Many government buildings, streets, and public spaces are adorned with the national flag and patriotic decorations.

One of the highlights of Independence Day is the grand parade, featuring marching bands, students, and various organizations from different sectors of society. These parades often showcase traditional Khmer attire, dances, and music, adding a rich cultural dimension to the celebrations.

Local communities also participate in the festivities, organizing events such as traditional games, sports competitions, and communal feasts. There is a strong sense of unity and pride as Cambodians come together to celebrate their nation’s history and achievements.

Independence Day serves as a reminder of Cambodia’s resilience and determination to maintain its sovereignty. It’s a day when the people of Cambodia reflect on their past struggles and look toward a brighter, independent future. For travelers visiting Cambodia during this time, witnessing the patriotic spirit and cultural displays of Independence Day can be a truly memorable experience.

Lunar New Year (Tet/ Tet Nguyen Dan) in Vietnam

Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is an enchanting and vibrant celebration that holds a special place in the hearts of the Vietnamese people. This joyous festival typically falls in January or February, marking the transition from the old year to the new according to the lunar calendar. Tet is more than just a holiday; it’s a cultural extravaganza that encompasses centuries-old traditions, customs, and a profound sense of renewal.

Preparations for Tet begin well in advance, with families cleaning and decorating their homes to welcome good fortune and dispel any lingering negativity from the past year. Iconic yellow blossoms of the mai tree and the kumquat plant adorn homes, symbolizing prosperity and wealth.

The festivities reach their peak during the first three days of the Lunar New Year. Families gather to pay respects to their ancestors, visiting temples and shrines. Traditional dishes like banh chung (sticky rice cakes) and banh tet (cylindrical glutinous rice cakes) are lovingly prepared and shared.

Perhaps the most iconic aspect of Tet is the giving of red envelopes, or “li xi,” filled with lucky money. These gestures of goodwill are exchanged among family members and friends, symbolizing best wishes for the year ahead. Tet is a time of unity, reflection, and hope, and experiencing this cultural extravaganza firsthand is a profound way to connect with Vietnam’s rich heritage and the warmth of its people.

Hung King Temple Festival in Vietnam

Hung King Temple Festival is a deeply revered and culturally significant event in Vietnam, held annually in Phu Tho Province during April. This festival pays homage to the Hung Kings, legendary figures who are regarded as the founders of Vietnam and its ancient dynasties. It is a time when Vietnamese people from all corners of the country come together to pay their respects to their ancestors and celebrate their cultural heritage.

The festival features a wide range of traditional rituals and ceremonies, including offerings of incense, fruit, and flowers at the Hung Kings’ temples. Visitors can witness colorful processions, folk performances, and various cultural activities that showcase Vietnam’s rich history and traditions. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of reverence, patriotism, and unity.

One of the festival’s highlights is the “Banh Chung” and “Banh Day” making competition. These are traditional rice cakes with profound cultural significance. Participants, often representing different villages, compete to make the best cakes, adding a competitive and festive spirit to the event.

The Hung King Temple Festival is not only a time for religious and cultural observances but also an occasion for family reunions and community gatherings. It serves as a reminder of Vietnam’s ancient roots and the enduring values that have shaped the nation’s identity. This celebration of heritage and unity makes the festival a truly special and cherished event in Vietnam’s annual calendar.

Hue Festival in Vietnam


Hue Festival, a biennial extravaganza that graces the historic city of Hue every April, is a mesmerizing showcase of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. This event transcends time and space, drawing from the city’s imperial history and the broader tapestry of Vietnamese traditions.

During the Hue Festival, the city’s ancient streets come alive with vibrant performances, cultural exhibitions, and artistic displays. It’s a splendid opportunity to witness the grace and elegance of traditional Vietnamese arts, including classical music, dance, and royal court performances that harken back to the days of imperial Vietnam.

One of the highlights is the captivating Imperial Night, where the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty is resurrected through a mesmerizing light and sound show at the historic Hue Citadel. This iconic event takes spectators on a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the opulent life of Vietnamese royalty.

Visitors can also partake in various cultural activities, such as crafting traditional Vietnamese handicrafts, enjoying sumptuous local cuisine, and engaging with artisans and performers. The Hue Festival fosters a deep appreciation for Vietnam’s cultural diversity and artistic heritage.

This celebration not only provides a unique window into the past but also showcases the vibrancy and dynamism of contemporary Vietnamese culture. For those seeking an immersive experience in Vietnam’s history and traditions, the Hue Festival in April is an unmissable event on the country’s cultural calendar.

Pros and cons of traveling during the best month to visit Vietnam and Cambodia

Traveling during the best months to visit Vietnam and Cambodia, which typically span from November to April, offers a delightful experience, but it’s essential to consider both the pros and cons:

ProsCons
  • Ideal Weather: The weather during these months is generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity in both countries, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
  • Limited Availability: Booking accommodations and tours in advance is essential, as popular destinations can fill up quickly.
  • Festive Atmosphere: The holiday season brings a festive vibe with various celebrations and cultural events, allowing you to immerse in local traditions.
  • Peak Tourist Season: Due to the favorable weather, this period attracts a significant number of tourists, leading to crowded attractions and higher prices for accommodations and tours.
  • Optimal Sightseeing: Clear skies and mild weather enhance sightseeing experiences, providing excellent visibility for exploring historical sites, lush landscapes, and vibrant cities.
  • Higher Costs: Prices for flights and accommodations may be elevated during this peak season, impacting your travel budget.
  • Great for outdoor Adventures: It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities like trekking in Sapa, cruising in Halong Bay, or exploring temples in Cambodia without sweltering heat.
  • Possible Crowds: Crowded attractions can sometimes detract from the tranquility of the experience, especially at iconic sites.

Final thoughts

The best month to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is a sweet spot from December to March when both countries shine in their unique splendor. From exploring the majestic Angkor Wat to cruising the emerald waters of Halong Bay, this cross-country journey promises unforgettable memories. 

If you are looking for a tour operator that can bring you through these authentic and unique experiences, look no further! Viland Travel’s tailor-made tour packages, like the “Vietnam and Cambodia – 15-day startling family adventure” and “From Angkor Wat to Halong Bay: 14-day magical Tour,” ensure you experience the best of these enchanting destinations. With pleasant weather and vibrant festivals, this season is ideal for cultural immersion and outdoor adventures. 

Book now and don’t miss the chance to embark on this ultimate cross-country vacation!