Visiting Angkor Wat in January 2026: Weather, Crowds and What to Expect!

November 20, 2025
5:51 am

Visiting Angkor Wat in January 2026—Why this month feels like a cheat code for perfect temple adventures.

One smart trip here in January can give you cooler mornings, stunning photos, and bragging rights that people will envy.

Visiting Angkor Wat in January gives you the sweet spot of perfect weather and manageable crowds. The Siem Reap January weather delivers dry, comfortable conditions with temperatures ranging from 70-86°F (21-30°C) and minimal rainfall. While visiting Angkor Wat in January means you’ll share sunrise views with other travelers during peak season, the trade-off is crystal-clear skies, low humidity around 60%, and ideal photography conditions. January combines blue skies, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant festivals, making it one of the smartest months to experience Cambodia’s ancient temples without the extreme heat or monsoon rains.

Visiting Angkor Wat in January

Visiting Angkor Wat in January offers travelers one of the most rewarding temple exploration experiences of the entire year. This month sits right in the heart of Cambodia’s dry season, delivering consistently sunny days, minimal rainfall (typically just 1-2 rainy days for the entire month), and comfortable temperatures that make wandering through ancient ruins an absolute pleasure rather than an endurance test.

Key features of Visiting Angkor Wat in January:

Perfect Weather Conditions: The Siem Reap January weather brings daytime temperatures of 75-86°F (24-30°C) with cooler evenings dropping to 68-70°F (20-21°C). Unlike the scorching heat of April-May or the downpours of August-September, January delivers that Goldilocks zone where everything feels just right.
Low Humidity Levels: With humidity hovering around 60% (compared to 80-90% during rainy season), you won’t feel like you’re swimming through the air. Your camera lenses stay clear, your clothes dry quickly, and that sticky, uncomfortable feeling? Gone.
Crystal-Clear Photography: Blue skies dominate January. This means your sunrise shots at Angkor Wat won’t be washed out by gray clouds or obscured by haze. The Angkor Wat sunrise in dry season creates those mirror-like reflections in the temple ponds that travel magazines love to feature.
Extended Temple Exploration: Cool mornings (starting around 68°F) mean you can comfortably explore temples from sunrise at 6 AM through mid-morning without wilting from heat exhaustion. You’ll actually want to climb those steep temple stairs instead of dreading them.
Vibrant Landscapes: While the countryside isn’t as lush green as during rainy season, January still maintains enough greenery from recent December rains. Rice paddies show golden hues, and the surrounding forests remain verdant without the muddy paths that plague wetter months.
Festival Atmosphere: January occasionally overlaps with Cambodian New Year celebrations and cultural events in Siem Reap, adding an extra layer of authenticity to your visit. Local markets buzz with energy, and you might catch traditional dance performances around town.
Manageable Crowds with Peak Season Energy: Yes, January brings tourists. But here’s the thing—Angkor Wat crowd levels in January mean the temples feel alive and energetic rather than eerily empty or frustratingly packed. Popular spots like Angkor Wat’s main temple and Bayon fill up at sunrise, but by 9 AM, crowds disperse to different temple circuits.
Diverse Tour Options: Cambodia dry season travel in January means all tour operators run their full programs. Sunrise tours, countryside explorations, and multi-day temple circuits operate without weather-related cancellations.

Tour Options for Visiting Angkor Wat in January:

Sunrise Experiences: The Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour takes you to witness the temple’s silhouette against pastel dawn skies. Starting around 4:45 AM, you’ll position yourself at the iconic reflection pool before the crowds peak. January’s dry air means sharper silhouettes and more vibrant color gradients as the sun climbs.

Sunset Alternatives: While many visitors focus on sunrise, the Angkor Wat Sunset Tour or Sunset in Angkor Wat experiences offer equally stunning views with smaller crowds. January sunsets paint the temple stones in warm amber and gold tones.

Extended Temple Circuits: The 2 Days Exclusive Temple Highlights with Sunset and Sunrise package maximizes your January advantage by covering major temples across multiple days when weather reliability matters most.

Countryside Escapes: The Siem Reap Countryside Tour showcases rural Cambodia during its most accessible season. Dry roads, comfortable temperatures, and harvest-season activities create authentic cultural encounters.

What to expect when Visiting Angkor Wat in January:

Morning Conditions (6 AM – 10 AM): Cool and comfortable at 68-75°F. This is prime exploration time. The low-angle sunlight creates dramatic shadows on temple carvings, making bas-reliefs pop with detail. Wear light layers you can shed as temperatures climb.

Midday Reality (11 AM – 3 PM): Temperatures peak at 82-86°F. Not unbearable like April’s 95°F+ heat, but you’ll want shade breaks. Many smart travelers retreat to air-conditioned restaurants or their hotels during these hours, returning for late afternoon temple visits.

Evening Atmosphere (4 PM – 7 PM): Temperatures drop back to comfortable 75-78°F. This is your second exploration window. Sunset tours capitalize on this sweet spot, and you’ll find fewer tourists at popular temples since many are exhausted from morning excursions.

Night Ambience: By 7 PM, temperatures settle around 70°F. Siem Reap’s Pub Street comes alive, night markets open, and that light jacket you packed finally makes sense. The cool evenings feel refreshing after a day of temple hopping.

Things to consider about Siem Reap January weather:

Peak Season Pricing: Hotel rates climb 30-50% compared to low season months. Book accommodations at least 2-3 months ahead to secure reasonable rates. Popular boutique hotels and resorts near Angkor Archaeological Park fill up quickly for January dates.

Sunrise Crowd Strategy: Angkor Wat’s main sunrise viewing area gets packed. Arrive by 5:15 AM (yes, really) to claim a good spot. Alternatively, consider less crowded sunrise locations like Pre Rup or Srah Srang reservoir, which offer stunning views with a fraction of the tourists.

Hydration Requirements: While January isn’t brutally hot, you’ll still walk 5-8 miles exploring temples. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person. The low humidity means sweat evaporates quickly, so you might not realize how much fluid you’re losing.

Dress Code Compliance: The Angkor Wat dress code January remains strictly enforced year-round. Shoulders and knees must be covered for temple entry. January’s comfortable weather makes this easy—lightweight linen pants and breathable cotton shirts work perfectly. Bring a scarf or shawl to cover up if wearing tank tops between temples.

Photography considerations for Angkor Wat photography January:

Golden Hour Magic: January’s clear skies make sunrise (6:00-6:30 AM) and sunset (5:30-6:00 PM) photography spectacular. The low humidity means colors appear more saturated, and the lack of haze creates sharp horizon lines.

Midday Challenges: Harsh overhead sun from 11 AM – 2 PM creates unflattering shadows. Focus on interior temple corridors and shaded courtyards during these hours. Or embrace the contrast for dramatic black-and-white photography.

Weather Reliability: With 97% sunshine probability, you can confidently plan multi-day photo expeditions. Unlike rainy season when weather can derail plans, January lets you schedule specific temples for specific lighting conditions with confidence.

Other benefits of Cambodia dry season travel in January:

Festival Encounters: Cambodia’s cultural calendar sometimes includes Victory Day (January 7) celebrations with ceremonies and parades in Siem Reap. Even if not coinciding with major holidays, January’s tourist influx means cultural shows, traditional dance performances, and Apsara dinner theaters run nightly with full productions.

Culinary Exploration: Comfortable temperatures make evening food market visits pleasant. Siem Reap’s night markets, street food stalls, and open-air restaurants hit their stride during January when locals and tourists converge for outdoor dining experiences.

Extended Exploration Radius: The reliable Siem Reap January weather makes day trips to outlying temples like Beng Mealea and Koh Ker feasible. Dry roads and comfortable temperatures mean you can venture beyond the main Angkor circuit without worrying about muddy jungle tracks or heat exhaustion.

Health and Comfort: Mosquito activity drops during January’s dry period, reducing dengue and malaria risks. The comfortable climate also means fewer heat-related health issues like dehydration or heat exhaustion that plague visitors during hot season.

Important information for visiting Angkor Wat in January:

Pass Pricing and Options: Angkor passes cost $37 (1-day), $62 (3-day valid over one week), or $72 (7-day valid over one month). January’s reliable weather makes multi-day passes worthwhile since you won’t lose days to rain cancellations.

Operating Hours: Angkor Archaeological Park opens at 5 AM daily, allowing sunrise access. Most tourists focus on 5 AM – 11 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM timeframes. Temples close at 5:30 PM, with sunset viewing points remaining accessible until 6 PM.

Temple Circuit Routes: The Small Circuit (12 miles) covers major temples in one day. The Grand Circuit (16 miles) adds remote temples and takes 6-8 hours. The best time to visit Angkor temples during January means you can comfortably complete both circuits across 2-3 days without weather disruptions.

Transportation Choices: Tuk-tuks ($15-20/day) provide shade and breeze during temple hopping. Cars with air conditioning ($35-45/day) offer comfort during midday heat. Bicycles ($5-7/day) work for fit travelers willing to brave January’s midday temperatures.

Booking Recommendations: January qualifies as Siem Reap tourism peak season, so advance reservations matter. Book tours, transportation, and popular restaurants 4-6 weeks ahead. Same-day bookings often mean settling for less desirable time slots or higher prices.

Visiting Angkor Wat in January means you’re hitting the temple complex during its golden hour (literally and figuratively). You’ll get dry weather, comfortable mornings, and those Instagram-worthy shots everyone dreams about. Think blue skies, golden sunrises, and zero rain delays.

Is Visiting Angkor Wat in January Worth the Peak Season Crowds?

Let’s cut to the chase. Yes, January brings more tourists. But it’s not Disneyland-level chaos.

Here’s what “peak season” actually means at Angkor Wat in January: You’ll share sunrise viewing spots with maybe 100-200 people at the main temple. Sounds like a lot? The Angkor Wat complex is enormous. Those crowds disperse across multiple temples within an hour of sunrise.

By 9 AM, when tour buses start rolling in, smart independent travelers are already moving to less-visited temples like Ta Prohm or Preah Khan. The key is timing. Wake up early, embrace the 4:30 AM alarm, and you’ll beat not just the crowds but also the heat.

Angkor Wat crowd levels in January might seem daunting in online forums, but compare this to visiting in April when you’re fighting 95°F heat with far fewer tourists… and most people choose the crowds and comfort of January. There’s a reason it’s peak season.

The trade-off makes sense when you consider the alternative. Would you rather share a sunrise with other travelers under perfect 70°F weather and clear skies, or have the temple mostly to yourself in sweltering 90°F heat with 85% humidity and potential afternoon rainstorms? January wins that battle every time.

Plus, the energy of peak season has its own appeal. Pub Street buzzes with travelers swapping stories, restaurants stay open later, tour operators run their best guides, and the whole town hums with that travel-season excitement. If you’re a solo traveler, January’s peak season means you’ll easily meet fellow explorers for shared tuk-tuk rides or sunset beers.

Want to really hack the January crowds? Focus on these less-visited gems:

Banteay Srei (30 km north): Exquisite pink sandstone carvings, minimal tourists even at peak times
Beng Mealea (65 km east): Jungle-swallowed temple with Indiana Jones vibes, sees maybe 20% of Angkor Wat’s visitors
Preah Khan (north of Angkor Thom): Massive monastic complex where you can wander in relative solitude

Book afternoon time slots for these outlying temples. Most tour groups hit them in the morning, so arriving around 2-3 PM means you’ll practically have these ancient wonders to yourself.

Breaking Down the Siem Reap January Weather: What Those Numbers Really Mean

Weather forecasts throw statistics at you, but what do they actually feel like when you’re climbing temple stairs or waiting for sunrise?

Temperature Reality Check:

Morning (5 AM – 8 AM): 68-72°F (20-22°C) – You’ll want a light jacket or long sleeves for sunrise. The air feels crisp, almost refreshing. Some travelers even wear light hoodies that come off by 7 AM as the sun climbs.
Late Morning (9 AM – 11 AM): 78-82°F (26-28°C) – T-shirt weather. Comfortable for walking, though you’ll start seeking shade spots between temples.
Midday (12 PM – 2 PM): 84-86°F (29-30°C) – Hot, but not oppressive. You’ll be grateful for that tuk-tuk ride between temples and the breeze it creates. This is “retreat to hotel pool” time for many visitors.
Afternoon (3 PM – 5 PM): 80-84°F (27-29°C) – Temperatures drop slightly. Second wind exploration time.
Evening (6 PM – 8 PM): 72-75°F (22-24°C) – Perfect for night markets and outdoor dining.

The Siem Reap January weather feels comfortable rather than challenging. That 60% humidity makes a massive difference compared to rainy season’s 80-90% humidity. Sweat evaporates instead of just coating your skin. Clothes dry quickly. Camera equipment doesn’t fog up when moving between air-conditioned spaces and outdoors.

Rain Probability: You’re looking at maybe one rainy day for the entire month. And even then, “rainy” usually means a brief afternoon shower lasting 30-60 minutes, not all-day downpours. Pack a compact umbrella more for sun protection than rain concerns.

Sun Intensity: January sun at Angkor Wat is no joke. UV index regularly hits 10-11 (extreme category). The dry air and lack of cloud cover mean sunscreen isn’t optional—it’s survival gear. Reapply every 2 hours. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses are non-negotiable accessories.

The Cambodia January humidity levels create this weird paradox where you feel comfortable temperature-wise but still need serious sun protection. Think desert-like in terms of sun intensity but tropical in terms of temperature. This combination is exactly why January works so well for temple exploration.

Compare this to:

April-May: 95-105°F with brutal humidity, temples close early due to heat
July-September: 85-90°F with daily downpours, muddy temple paths, leeches in jungle temples
November-December: Similar to January but slightly wetter early in the season

January hits that sweet spot after the landscape has dried out from November-December rains but before the scorching pre-monsoon heat of March-May arrives.

What to Pack for Visiting Angkor Wat in January: The Real Essentials

Forget those generic packing lists. Here’s what you’ll actually use when visiting Angkor Wat in January:

Clothing That Respects Temples and Comfort:

The Angkor Wat dress code January enforcement is strict, so plan accordingly:

Must-Have Items:

Lightweight linen pants (2-3 pairs): Breathable, quick-drying, temple-appropriate. Black or khaki colors hide dust from temple visits.
Breathable long-sleeve shirts (3-4): Cotton or moisture-wicking blends protect from sun while allowing airflow. Roll up sleeves between temples, roll down for entry.
One lightweight cardigan or hoodie: Sounds crazy for tropical Cambodia, but those 68°F sunrise temperatures feel chilly at 5 AM when you’re sitting still waiting for dawn.
Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes: You’ll walk 5-8 miles daily across uneven stone surfaces. Sneakers or trail runners work better than hiking boots (too hot) or sandals (not enough support).
Backup sandals: For evening strolls, hotel pool time, and giving your feet a break from closed-toe shoes.
Wide-brimmed hat: Baseball caps don’t cut it. The sun beats down from all angles when you’re in open temple courtyards. Get something with a 3-inch brim minimum.

Dress Code Specifics: Temple guards at Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Baphuon strictly enforce these rules:

Shoulders covered (no tank tops, no spaghetti straps)
Knees covered (no shorts, no skirts above knee)
No see-through clothing
No offensive graphics or slogans

They literally sell emergency sarongs and T-shirts at temple entrances for $5-7 if you forget. Save your money and pack right.

Photography Gear for Angkor Wat Photography January:

Essential Camera Equipment:

Wide-angle lens (16-35mm): Captures full temple facades and those classic reflection shots
Lens cleaning cloth: Dust from temple visits plus occasional morning dew means you’ll clean lenses multiple times daily
Extra batteries: Bring at least 2-3 backup camera batteries. Cold morning air drains batteries faster than you’d expect
Polarizing filter: Cuts glare from reflective pond surfaces and intensifies blue skies
Small tripod or GorillaPod: For sunrise long exposures and keeping your camera stable in low light

Phone Photography Setup:

Portable power bank (20,000 mAh minimum)
Wide-angle lens clip-on attachment for phones
Waterproof phone case or bag (just in case that 3% chance of rain hits)

January’s clear conditions mean your photography equipment won’t face the moisture challenges of rainy season, but dust from dry paths is real. Bring zip-lock bags or protective cases for camera gear during tuk-tuk rides between temples.

Health and Safety Essentials:

Sun Protection Arsenal:

SPF 50+ sunscreen (water-resistant formula): Apply before sunrise, reapply every 2 hours religiously
After-sun aloe gel: For those spots you inevitably miss with sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF: January’s low humidity dries out lips quickly
UV-blocking sunglasses: Protect your eyes from reflections off temple stone and water features

Hydration and Energy:

Reusable water bottle (1-2 liters): Refill at hotels and restaurants. Many temples have water stations too.
Electrolyte packets: Add to water bottles to replace minerals lost through sweating
Energy bars or trail mix: Temple cafeterias charge premium prices for mediocre snacks

First Aid Basics:

Blister bandages: New walking shoes plus 5-8 miles daily equals blisters
Anti-chafing stick: Prevents thigh chafing during long hot days in pants
Anti-diarrhea medication: Not everyone’s stomach handles Cambodian street food well
Basic pain relievers: For headaches from sun exposure or muscle soreness from climbing temple stairs

What You DON’T Need:

Skip these commonly over-packed items:

❌ Rain jacket or umbrella: Maybe pack a compact one, but you probably won’t use it
❌ Heavy jeans: Way too hot even in January’s comfortable weather
❌ Fancy evening clothes: Siem Reap is casual. Even upscale restaurants accept smart-casual attire.
❌ Hairdryer: Hotels provide these, and January’s low humidity means hair dries quickly naturally
❌ More than 3-4 outfits: You’ll wear the same comfortable temple clothes repeatedly

So should you book that January flight to Siem Reap?

If you want reliable weather, comfortable temperatures, crystal-clear photography conditions, and vibrant cultural atmosphere—then yes, absolutely. Visiting Angkor Wat in January delivers on all these fronts.

The crowds? Manageable with smart timing and strategic temple selection. The cost? Worth it when you consider you’re seeing one of humanity’s most significant archaeological sites under near-perfect conditions.

January strips away the excuses. You can’t blame bad weather for missed temples. You can’t blame excessive heat for cutting days short. You can’t blame monsoon rains for ruined camera equipment. The month hands you ideal conditions—what you make of them is up to your planning and execution.

Three days minimum. That’s my recommendation. One day for main temples (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm), one day for extended circuits or countryside exploration, and one day as buffer for spontaneous discoveries or revisiting favorite spots.

Book your accommodations now. January fills up fast—especially that sweet spot after New Year holidays but before February. Contact Journey Cambodia to arrange tours that maximize your January advantages with expert guides who know exactly when to visit which temples for optimal experiences.

The temples have stood for 800+ years. They’re not going anywhere. But your optimal window for visiting them under perfect conditions? That January window is narrower than you think.

Resources:

Official Angkor Archaeological Park Information – Pass prices, operating hours, and temple regulations
Cambodia Weather Historical Data – Month-by-month climate patterns for trip planning comparison
Journey Cambodia Contact Page – Professional tour arrangements for customized Angkor experiences