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April is an exciting month to visit Cambodia, offering a mix of cultural celebrations, historical sites and outdoor adventures. While April isn’t the busiest tourist season, it’s a great time to explore this destination. There are a number of things to do in Cambodia in April. You can visit the cultural sites, relax by the coast or experience the energy of the local festivals. The country celebrates Khmer New Year with three days of music, dancing and street parties. The weather is hot, often exceeding 35°C, but occasional showers towards this month bring relief.
Top 10 Things To Do In Cambodia In April
Here’s a list of the best things to do in Cambodia in April for your next visit, offering a mix of amazing experiences:
1. Celebrate Khmer New Year
Photo: Sam Sith / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Khmer New Year, or Choul Chnam Thmey, is Cambodia’s biggest festival, celebrated from April 14th to 16th. The three-day event marks the end of the harvest season with temple visits, traditional games, and vibrant water fights. Locals honour ancestors, make offerings, and engage in joyful festivities. Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are the best places to experience the celebrations. Expect lively parades, cultural performances, and a friendly atmosphere filled with music and dance.
Ideal Duration: 3 days
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: All day
Location: Nationwide
2. Witness The Angkor Wat Equinox
During the equinox, the sun rises perfectly over Angkor Wat’s central tower twice a year. This showcases the temple’s remarkable alignment with celestial events. In April, visitors can witness this awe-inspiring sunrise from the western entrance. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the architectural brilliance of the Khmer Empire. Arrive early for the best views, as this rare phenomenon attracts photographers and history enthusiasts. The golden light reflecting on the ancient stone structures is unforgettable, making it one of the best things to see in Cambodia in April.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fees: ₹3,300 per person (Angkor Pass)
Timings: 5 AM – 6 AM (sunrise)
Location: Siem Reap
3. Explore Lake Yeak Laom
Photo: Ethan Crowley, of Ethan Crowley Productions / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Yeak Laom, a volcanic crater lake in Ratanakiri, is a tranquil escape surrounded by dense jungle. The lake’s clear waters are ideal for swimming, and a scenic 3-km walking trail offers stunning views. Local Tampuan communities consider the lake sacred, and visitors can learn about their traditions at a nearby cultural centre. With fewer tourists, it’s a great place to relax, kayak or picnic while enjoying Cambodia’s untouched natural beauty.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fees: ₹165 per person
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: Ratanakiri Province
4. Relax On Saracen Bay
Photo: Wikirictor / Wikimedia Commons
Saracen Bay, located on Koh Rong Samloem, is known for its white sand beaches and calm, crystal-clear waters. Unlike its bustling neighbour, Koh Rong, this island offers a peaceful retreat. With its beachfront bungalows and hammocks swaying under palm trees, visiting here is one of the best things to do in Cambodia in April. Visitors can snorkel, kayak, or unwind while enjoying the spectacular sunsets. With no roads or loud nightlife, it’s perfect for those looking for relaxation in a tropical paradise away from the crowds.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: All day
Location: Koh Rong Samloem
5. Experience The Phare Circus
Photo: flowcomm / Wikimedia Commons
The Phare Circus in Siem Reap is more than just entertainment. It’s a social enterprise supporting Cambodian artists. The performances combine acrobatics, dance, music, and storytelling to depict Cambodia’s history and folklore. Phare focuses on powerful narratives unlike traditional circuses, from Khmer Rouge survival stories to modern struggles. The energy and passion of the performers make each show unforgettable. Attending supports local talent and provides a unique cultural experience beyond temple – hopping.
Ideal Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Entry Fees: ₹1,650 per person
Timings: 8 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: Siem Reap
6. Visit The Cambodia Landmine Museum
Photo: Siem Reap / Wikimedia Commons
The Cambodia Landmine Museum educates visitors about the impact of landmines and ongoing demining efforts. Founded by Aki Ra, a former child soldier, the museum showcases deactivated landmines and personal stories from war survivors. It is located near Siem Reap and provides a sobering but important perspective on Cambodia’s past conflicts. Visitors can support the museum’s humanitarian efforts, which help children affected by landmines. It’s an eye – opening experience for those interested in Cambodia’s history.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fees: ₹415 per person
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: Siem Reap
7. Explore The Temples Of Angkor
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons
Beyond Angkor Wat, the Angkor Archaeological Park offers countless ancient wonders. Bayon Temple features giant stone faces, while Ta Prohm is famous for massive tree roots engulfing its ruins. Banteay Kdei and Pre Rup provide quieter alternatives. Visiting in April means fewer tourists and stunning sunrises over the temples. Exploring these ancient Khmer structures, one of the best things to do in Cambodia in April, offers an immersive journey into Cambodia’s past. It showcases extraordinary craftsmanship and spiritual significance. A local guide enhances this whole experience.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 3 days
Entry Fees: ₹3,300 per person (1 day pass)
Timings: 5 AM – 6 PM
Location: Siem Reap
8. Discover The Floating Villages Of Tonlé Sap Lake
Photo: Divya Manian / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tonlé Sap Lake is home to fascinating floating villages where locals live on stilted houses and boats. Visiting Kampong Phluk, Chong Khneas, or Kampong Khleang provides insight into Cambodia’s unique water-based lifestyle. April’s lower water levels reveal more of the stilted structures. Boat tours take visitors through floating schools, markets, and temples while showcasing the importance of the lake for fishing communities. It’s an authentic cultural experience beyond traditional tourist spots.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fees: ₹1,250 per person (boat tour)
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Location: Siem Reap
9. Trek Through The Cardamom Mountains
Photo: D Kyle Latinis / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Cardamom Mountains offer untouched nature, wildlife, and eco-tourism experiences. April’s dry season makes hiking trails accessible, allowing visitors to explore lush jungles, waterfalls, and hidden caves. Chi Phat and Tatai are excellent starting points for guided treks and kayaking adventures. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot gibbons, hornbills, and even endangered species like the clouded leopard. Trekking supports conservation efforts while providing an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Cambodia’s largest rainforest region.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 3 days
Entry Fees: Free (guided treks start at ₹2,500)
Timings: All day
Location: Koh Kong Province
10. Explore The Bat Caves At Phnom Sampeau
Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons
Every evening at Phnom Sampeau, thousands of bats exit their caves in a mesmerising wave across the sky. This natural spectacle near Battambang is best viewed at sunset. Visitors can also explore the Killing Caves, a somber site from the Khmer Rouge era, and the hilltop pagoda offering panoramic countryside views. The combination of history, nature, and culture makes Phnom Sampeau a must-visit destination. This is especially for those travelling through northwest Cambodia.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fees: ₹250 per person
Timings: 4:30 PM – 7 PM (bat flight at sunset)
Location: Battambang
April is one of the most exciting times to visit Cambodia. From the lively Khmer New Year to the peaceful floating villages, there’s plenty of things to do in Cambodia in April. Since it’s not peak tourist season, you’ll find fewer crowds at major attractions. Whether you want to explore, relax, or celebrate, Cambodia in April offers a memorable travel experience. Plan your trip with TripXL and enjoy Cambodia in April.
Cover Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Unsplash
