The seasonal events and climate in Cambodia are closely linked to the tropical monsoon climate, with deep connections to agriculture and Buddhist ceremonies. Below is a summary of the climate characteristics and main events and cultures for each season.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Maximum temperatures rise to around 35°C, with April and May being the hottest.
- Precipitation: There is very little rainfall, and dryness continues.
- Features: Strong sunlight during the day and a sharp drop in temperature at night.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| Mid-April |
Khmer New Year (Chol Chhnam Thmey) |
Celebrated grandly over three days at the royal palace and various locations. With clear weather during the dry season, outdoor events become active. |
| Early May |
Royal Rice Planting Ceremony (Pchum Ben) |
A ritual performed by royalty to pray for a bountiful harvest. Conducted in line with the beginning of the dry season. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Stays around 30°C.
- Precipitation: The monsoon begins in late June, leading to frequent heavy thunderstorms and rains.
- Features: High humidity increases the risk of flooding.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| Late June |
Bahi Katen (Offering of Relics) |
Monks perform alms-giving and offering to relics. This event also symbolizes purification with the start of the rainy season. |
| July to August |
Rice Planting Season |
Farmers actively plant seedlings in rice fields. This traditional agricultural practice takes advantage of the monsoon blessings. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Around 30°C but gradually becoming drier.
- Precipitation: September has much rain, but it decreases after October. November marks the transition to the dry season.
- Features: After the peak of floods, the water level in rivers begins to lower.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| Mid-September |
Pchum Ben (Ancestor Festival) |
A 15-day period of honoring ancestors. It coincides with the end of the rainy season, praying for the safety of agriculture. |
| Early November |
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) |
Celebrations with boat races and lantern floating to celebrate the rising water level of the Tonle Sap Lake. Stable water levels just before the dry season are a highlight. |
| November 9 |
Independence Day |
Celebrates independence from France in 1953. This is a time with frequent clear weather, suitable for outdoor events. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: During the day, temperatures are 25-30°C, and at night, they drop below 20°C.
- Precipitation: Almost no rainfall occurs during the dry season, and humidity is at its lowest.
- Features: Comfortable climate leads to an increase in tourists.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| January 7 |
Genocide Victims Memorial Day |
Commemorates the end of the Pol Pot regime. Memorial ceremonies occur in sunny weather. |
| February |
Meak Bochea (Pilgrimage to Buddhist Sites) |
Buddhists meditate and preach at holy sites. The cool climate during the dry season is suitable for meditation. |
| February |
Chinese New Year |
Celebratory events centered around the Chinese community. Fireworks and lion dances stand out during the dry season. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Connection
| Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Examples of Major Events |
| Spring |
Dry and high temperatures |
Khmer New Year, Royal Rice Planting Ceremony |
| Summer |
Rainy season and high humidity |
Bahi Katen, Rice Planting Season |
| Autumn |
Converging rainy season and gradual dryness |
Pchum Ben, Water Festival |
| Winter |
Dry season with comfortable temperatures |
Genocide Victims Memorial Day, Meak Bochea |
Additional Notes
- Many events are based on the agricultural calendar, marking the arrival and cessation of the monsoon.
- A variety of Buddhist events take place throughout the year, with particularly active outdoor events during the dry season.
- Traditional events coexist with modern celebrations (Independence Day, Genocide Memorial Day).
These seasonal events are closely linked to climate changes and support Cambodia's cultural identity.
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