Quick verdict
Peak season: Jan–Mar, Nov–Dec. Shoulder: Apr, Oct. Low: May–Sep.
Kampot has a tropical monsoon climate moderated slightly by the sea breeze and the cool air falling off the Bokor plateau.
What's the weather like in Kampot by month?
Each month classified as peak (best balance of weather and value), shoulder (a step in either direction), or low season.
Why visit Kampot during Jan–Mar, Nov–Dec?
The peak window, with cool mornings, warm dry days, and sea-breeze evenings. The salt fields are at their busiest and Bokor Mountain at its clearest.
Shoulder season (Apr, Oct) trades a small weather concession for noticeably smaller crowds and softer prices — often the sweet spot for travelers who want flexibility.
Low season (May–Sep) is when prices fall hardest. Expect weather extremes (heat, humidity, cold, or rain depending on the destination) and reduced hours at some seasonal businesses, but the trade-off can be worth it if budget or solitude matters more than perfect conditions.
What festivals and events happen in Kampot?
- Kampot Pepper Harvest (peak)February - March
The main dry-season harvest. Plantations are open every day with fresh green pepper available, and you can watch the sun-drying process turning it black.
- Sea Festival (Bon Maha Sangkran)December (rotates between coastal towns)
A national festival celebrating Cambodia's coastline; Kampot has hosted in past years with concerts, food stalls, and boat parades.
- Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey)April 13-16
The country's biggest holiday. Many local businesses close for 2-3 days; expect water-throwing on the streets.
- Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)November (full moon)
A national festival for the Tonle Sap reversal. Kampot stays calmer than Phnom Penh — a good time to visit if you want to skip the capital crowds.
Cooler & warmer in Asia this November
If Kampot's November weather isn't your match, here are the closest Asia alternatives at different temperatures. Distances are from Kampot.
Cooler
See the full ranked list: All Asia destinations in November →
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Kampot?
The best time to visit Kampot is Jan–Mar, Nov–Dec. Kampot has a tropical monsoon climate moderated slightly by the sea breeze and the cool air falling off the Bokor plateau. These months balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and prices that haven't yet hit peak-season highs.
When is the cheapest time to visit Kampot?
Low-season months in Kampot run May–Sep. Flights and hotels typically run 20-40% cheaper than peak. The trade-off is weather (which is why these months are off-peak) and some businesses operating shorter hours, especially in smaller seasonal destinations.
What's the weather like in Kampot year-round?
Summer averages around 29°C (84°F) and winter averages around 26°C (79°F) in Kampot. Kampot has a tropical monsoon climate moderated slightly by the sea breeze and the cool air falling off the Bokor plateau. The dry season from November to March is the best window. Temperatures stay between roughly 22°C and 32°C year-round, but humidity and afternoon storms ramp up sharply in the wet months.
What festivals or events are happening in Kampot?
Notable events in Kampot: Kampot Pepper Harvest (peak) (February - March); Sea Festival (Bon Maha Sangkran) (December (rotates between coastal towns)); Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) (April 13-16). The main dry-season harvest. Plantations are open every day with fresh green pepper available, and you can watch the sun-drying process turning it black.
How many days do I need in Kampot?
Most travelers spend 3-5 days in Kampot, which covers the main neighborhoods, top attractions, and a half-day day trip. Add a day if you're visiting during peak season when crowds slow you down, or if you're combining Kampot with nearby destinations.
More peak-season picks for Kampot's best months
See every destination at its peak in each of Kampot's best months.
Full guide
Kampot travel guide →
Cost, food, neighborhoods, transit, and hand-picked things to do.
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