Phnom Penh Weather in March

🇰🇭 Cambodia

35°C

High

25°C

Low

Rain Days

11h

Sunshine

82%

Humidity

Asia › 🇰🇭 Cambodia › Phnom Penh

Updated: March 2026

Is March a Good Time to Visit Phnom Penh?

5/10

Fair

March is a fair time to visit Phnom Penh (5/10). With 11 daily sunshine hours and only 6 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 2nd sunniest of the year in Phnom Penh. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find March a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak February without sacrificing all the good weather. April offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The intense midday heat between noon and 4pm warrants strategic planning: front-load outdoor sightseeing before 11am, retreat indoors during peak heat, and resume in the late afternoon when temperatures ease. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.

vs February:33°C avg high

Step off the plane in Phnom Penh in March and the air meets you at around 35°C, carrying the kind of warmth that makes you reach for sunglasses before your bag is off the belt. By the time evening arrives and temperatures settle near 25°C, the city takes on a different character entirely. With 11 hours of daylight sun on offer, March gives you the raw material for a genuinely memorable trip.

35°C

Avg High

25°C

Avg Low

6 days

Rain Days

11h

Sunshine

82%

Humidity

Temperature in Phnom Penh in March

The 10°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. At 82% humidity, the 35°C daytime high feels 2-4°C warmer in practice: quick-dry fabrics and shade-seeking between noon and 3pm are the sensible response. UV index averages 6 this month, classed as moderate. Sunscreen is a sensible precaution for extended outdoor time, particularly at midday. Winds are calm at an average 13 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 95°F average high, 77°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in March

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Phnom Penh in March

Morning25°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon35°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening28°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Phnom Penh in March means dressing for 35°C days and 25°C evenings. A lightweight linen or cotton shirt with loose-fit trousers or a sundress handles the 35°C daytime heat. Evening temperatures settle at 25°C, a modest 10°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. For footwear, breathable walking sandals work for casual exploration, but closed-toe trainers are better for uneven surfaces in the historic centre. For temple and religious site visits, carry a lightweight scarf or sarong to cover shoulders and knees, required at most major sites across the region. At 82% average humidity, quick-dry synthetic or bamboo fabrics dry overnight and stay comfortable longer than cotton.

💡

Local tip: Loose-weave linen and moisture-wicking fabrics are the practical choice in Phnom Penh's heat and humidity. Many shopping centres run air conditioning at near-arctic levels, so a thin layer in your bag prevents discomfort indoors.

Events in Phnom Penh in March

March has no major festivals or public holidays in Phnom Penh, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Phnom Penh in March

Based on 35°C average highs and 6 rainy days

Lightweight breathable clothing
Linen or bamboo shirts for the hottest hours
Sun hat with a wide brim
UV-protective sunglasses
Hydration bottle (at least 1 litre)
Quick-dry travel towel
Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
SPF 30+ sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
Universal travel adapter
Small day pack for city exploration
Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Phnom Penh in March

Early morning walk through Phnom Penh's historic market districtBest before 9amTemperatures are still manageable at 31°C before the midday heat builds
Open-air rooftop dining at sunsetFrom 6pm onwardsThe 35°C daytime heat drops noticeably after sunset, making al fresco dining comfortable
Waterfront promenade or harbour walkEarly morning or after 5pmSea breezes cut through the humidity, making coastal routes the most pleasant in heat
Guided cycling tour of the old quarterFirst tour of the day (7-9am)The low-traffic window before tourist crowds and the cooler morning air make this the prime riding slot
Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningMarch brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in March, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings

Why is Phnom Penh warm in March?

In March, Phnom Penh sits in the dry season corridor, as the ITCZ shifts away from the region and trade winds bring drier, more stable air. This produces reliably sunny days reaching 35°C, with lower humidity than the wet months. Overnight lows of 25°C offer a pleasant reprieve from the midday heat. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Phnom Penh in March

In March, Phnom Penh experiences average highs of 35°C (95°F) and lows of 25°C (77°F). Expect around 6 rainy days and 11 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 82%. The 10°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV index averages 6, so sun protection is advisable on clear days.

Phnom Penh typically sees 6 rainy days in March, with total precipitation of around 39mm. This makes March one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Phnom Penh typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than March.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing (linen or cotton), a wide-brim sun hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle for Phnom Penh in March. The 35°C daytime heat demands sun protection during midday hours, typically 11am to 4pm. Rain is unlikely with only 6 wet days, so leave the umbrella at home and use the bag space for sunscreen. Quick-dry synthetic fabrics are preferable to cotton in 82% humidity.

March is a reasonable time to visit Phnom Penh. Expect 6 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 35°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 11 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.

The average high temperature in Phnom Penh in March is 35°C (95°F), and the average low is 25°C (77°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 30°C (86°F). The day-to-night range of 10°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.

The best month to visit Phnom Penh is generally February. February offers the most sunshine at 11 hours per day and only 2 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 33°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around February gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

March is shoulder or low season in Phnom Penh, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 11 sunshine hours and 6 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.

In March, Phnom Penh suits a range of activities thanks to warm temperatures of 35°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 11 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

March ranks 2nd sunniest of the year in Phnom Penh, with an average 11 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are February, January, and December. March is the hottest month (35°C avg high); October is the coolest (30°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into April. Compared to last month (February: 33°C high, 2 rain days), March is warmer and wetter. March is among the top three sunniest months to visit Phnom Penh.

Year-Round Climate

Month	High	Low	Rain Days	Sun	Details
January	32°C	22°C	3	10h	View
February	33°C	23°C	2	11h	View
March	35°C	25°C	6	11h	View
April	35°C	26°C	14	11h	View
May	34°C	26°C	23	10h	View
June	32°C	25°C	24	10h	View
July	32°C	25°C	25	9h	View
August	32°C	25°C	25	9h	View
September	31°C	24°C	27	9h	View
October	30°C	24°C	25	9h	View
November	30°C	23°C	11	10h	View
December	31°C	23°C	5	9h	View

Other Months in Phnom Penh

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Phnom Penh

Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh Phnom Penh vs Ho Chi Minh City in March Phnom Penh vs Nha Trang in March

Nearby Destinations with Similar Weather

These cities are within 500 km and experience broadly comparable weather conditions during the same calendar month, making them practical standalone alternatives or worthwhile additions to a longer regional itinerary.

Ho Chi Minh City🇻🇳 Vietnam206 km away

34°C24°C low

Nha Trang🇻🇳 Vietnam475 km away

29°C23°C low

Siem Reap🇰🇭 Cambodia232 km away

34°C25°C low

Phu Quoc🇻🇳 Vietnam171 km away

29°C26°C low

Data Sources for Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.