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Best Time To Visit Thailand

Continent: Asia

Region: Southeast Asia , Far East

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What is the best time to visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand is from November to February which is the cold and dry season.

Thailand can broadly be divided into three distinct geographic regions; The North and Central region, the Gulf of Thailand, and the Andaman Sea coast. The best time to visit the Northern and Central region of Thailand is from October until January during summers. The rest of the year receives monsoon spells with an increase in humidity levels.

December onwards until March would provide the ideal conditions for tourists hence making it the best time to visit the Gulf of Thailand. This is an excellent time for water sports and other beach activities since the weather is pleasant and windy.

April and May are the hottest months of the year in Thailand. The most pleasant time of the year on the west coast of Thailand is from November until March. The monsoon starts to kick in from May to Mid-October on the west coast. The climate in these regions varies significantly throughout the year.

The three distinct seasons of Thailand are summer, winter and monsoons. Depending on where in Thailand one visits, the length of these seasons vary. For instance, southern Thailand faces a longer monsoon season than the rest of the country.

Regions of Thailand

Northern and Central Thailand
The best time to visit the Northern and Central region of Thailand is during winters from October to January. The North and Central region of Thailand which includes Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Issan, amongst others, experiences its summer from November to June. The temperatures hover between 31 and 35-degree Celsius. These scorching temperatures last well into the monsoon season, and as a result of the heavy rains and the heat, the humidity percentages also skyrocket. July to October experiences heavy showers with short bursts of precipitation during the initial months of monsoon. October marks the end of monsoon and start of winters, thus an ideal time to plan a trip to this region. By October, the temperatures drop down to 20 degrees. The lack of rain and pleasant weather ensures an ideal time for sightseeing.

Gulf of Thailand
December onwards until March would provide the most ideal conditions for tourists hence making it the best time to visit the Gulf of Thailand. The relatively cool weather and the lack of rain allows tourists to make it from one place to another with ease, and the low humidity make travelling much feasible. Water sport junkies should also keep an eye out for this, the lack of rain and the slightly windy conditions make up for the most exciting water sport activity conditions. The temperature gradually increases from March onwards, with temperatures averaging near the 30 degree Celsius mark. The summer is at its fiercest during April and May. Rainfall starts to be expected soon after June starts, with sparse afternoon showers cooling the midday heat. The monsoon truly begins to come in force towards the end of August or early September. The consistently high temperatures make for days that have humidity reaching up to 85%. However, the patterns of rainfall are not uniform across the Gulf of Thailand coast, with some areas receiving rainfall later than others. The monsoon season reaches its zenith during November, after which rainfall begins to slow down and the dry season starts again in December.

West Coast of Thailand
The most pleasant time of the year on the west coast of Thailand is from November until March. During this period, the heat is far more manageable, with the thermometer reading ambling near the mid-20 degree Celsius mark. The sea breeze also ensures that the humidity is countered, making for cool evenings that can be spent frolicking on the beaches. The temperatures begin to rise soon after March, as the mercury touches 35 degrees Celsius during the daytime. These temperatures remain high throughout May, and that?s when the monsoon weather starts to kick in. Rain is a feature of daily weather on the west coast of Thailand until mid-October. After October, the storm dies down and the dry season begins once more in November.

Thailand in Winter (November - February)

Starting from November, going on till February, these months are most preferred by tourists since Thailand is a beach country, and to explore beaches, these temperatures are superbly ideal. The temperatures during winter in Thailand range between 15 degrees being the lowest and 28 degrees being the highest. Although not entirely, most parts of northern Thailand and a few southern islands start seeing the sunshine after the heavy rains. Bangkok and other parts of central Thailand along with eastern islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are the regions that still receive rainstorms. Northern Thailand, especially the Chiang Mai and Pai highlands, become slightly colder than the southern regions. A lot of travellers who want to indulge in trekking, a favourite activity in the north, should make sure to carry the right amount of jackets. All the islands on the west coast as well as the east are busy and packed with tourists lazing around in beachwear. Bangkok and other parts of central Thailand, as well as all the northern regions, experience a slight rise in temperatures by February that goes above 30 degrees Celsius. However, the islands on both sides of the coast still see cooler temperatures ranging between 25-28 degrees. It would be a smart decision to make hotel and flight bookings much in advance to get cheap deals since this is the high season for tourists

Thailand Weather in November

The dry summer season begins in Northern and Central Thai regions during November. Although not entirely, most part of northern Thailand and a few southern islands start seeing the sunshine after the heavy rains. The Andaman sea coast of Thailand is bathed in sunshine and tourists begin to throng towards the beaches again as the peak season arrives once more. Rainfall reduces in Krabi and Phuket and temperatures in the region also dip. Bangkok and other parts of central Thailand along with eastern islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are the regions that still receive rainstorms. All you beach bums who got disappointed reading that eastern islands need to be avoided, worry, not you can head to Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta and other islands on the west coast. With almost no rain and perfect temperatures, you can do all the sun bathing you want!

Activities and Events in Thailand in November

The most tourist prefered places to visit in November would be northern Thailand, especially Chiang Mai where the Loi Krathong and Yi Peng festivals are in full swing.
Many other north and north-eastern areas of Thailand have their rice harvest season in November and the fields turn into a glorious golden, another reason to visit.
Lopburi, in northeastern Thailand celebrates a truly unique festival, one hosted in honour of monkeys native to the region.
Loy Krathong celebrations are observed throughout the country, especially in the southwestern region, so keep an eye out for celebrations in Koh Samui as well.
Pattaya?s skyline is set alight with a magnificent display of fireworks during the Pattaya International Fireworks festival.

Thailand Weather in December

With a cool and dry climate, lots of sunshine and no rain, December is the peak season for travelers visiting Thailand. The temperatures across the country are moderate, ranging from 15 degree to 27 degree celsius. This is the most prefered month mainly for the divers and water enthusiasts since the visibility underwater is clearer compared to any other month. All the islands on the west coast as well as the east are busy and packed with tourists lazing around in beach wear. Northern Thailand, especially the Chiang Mai and Pai highlands, become rather colder than the southern regions. Rainfall on the Gulf of Thailand coast remains fairly high and Koh Samui still experiences more than 250 mm of rain during December. Temperatures are still low, and rarely cross the 30 degree Celsius mark. A lot of travelers who want to indulge in trekking, a popular activity in the north, should make sure to carry a good amount of jackets. It would be a smart decision to make hotel and flight bookings much in advance to get cheap deals, since this is the high season for tourists.

Activities and Events in Thailand in December

What's better than spending your New Years in Thailand? Head to one of the fancy rooftop hotels in Bangkok for a classy party, or go all crazy at the Full Moon Beach parties at Koh Phangan, Koh Tao or Koh Samui.
The Trooping of the Colours is held in Bangkok to commemorate the late King?s birthday anniversary.
The Phuket King?s Cup Regatta is also held in December to mark the late King?s birthday.
The Wonderfruit Festival is also held during December at Pattaya and it is a multi-day music festival that places special emphasis on conservation and eco-friendliness.

Thailand Weather in January

January is another peak month for Thailand, with very similar climatic conditions like December. The temperatures range between 18 degrees to 28 degrees Celsius. With ample sunshine, underwater visibility attracts travellers from all around the world during January. Not only the islands but north and central Thailand are also famous among people during this month. The weather and climatic conditions on the Gulf Sea coast of Thailand are not too different from that of the Andaman Sea coast weather. That is to say that tourists can expect more beautiful sunshine without the humidity and the scorching heat. Trekking is quite common with moderate temperatures. Sometimes the Chinese New Year falls in January, and many destinations can be packed with Chinese tourists. If you want to avoid that, find out the dates in advance. Just like December, the hotel and flight prices during January can shoot up too, so it is advisable to make bookings beforehand.

Activities and Events in Thailand in January

Chiang Mai hosts the Bo Sang Umbrella festival every year, where the city becomes flooded by an avalanche of colourful umbrellas lining the streets.
Bangkok?s streets come alive with the sound of music thanks to the Concerts in the Park, conducted by the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra.
The Bay Regatta is held in Phuket every January, and it is a chance to watch world-class speed boats race against each other.
For the people that have a taste for the more exceptional things in life, the Phuket RendezVous is held during the first week of January.
For the ones that love a good party, Krabi always plays host to the world renowned Full Moon Party.

Thailand Weather in February

Again, with a climate very similar to the previous two months, February makes another ideal choice for travellers going to Thailand. The cooler temperatures start rising towards the end of the month but are still suitable for exploring around. Bangkok and other parts of central Thailand, as well as all the northern regions, experience a slight rise in temperatures that go above 30 degrees Celsius. However, the islands on both sides of the coast still see cooler temperatures ranging between 25-28 degrees. Afternoon showers can be expected with Krabi and Koh Samui, experiencing less than 30mm and above 50 mm rainfall respectively. The waters are calm, and many good sightings can be found on dives. It can get crowded sometimes with several festivals on the calendar. Beach bums, don?t forget your swimsuits; trekkers, don?t forget your hiking gear.

Activities and Events in Thailand in February

The Chinese New Year can sometimes fall during February, and the town roads can be seen filled with crowds of worshippers, dragon dancers and firecrackers.
Bangkok?s Yaowaraj locality has been dubbed the Chinatown of Bangkok and plays host to some of the most extravagant Chinese New Year celebrations in the country.
As the winter season comes to a draw, Chiang Mai blooms with the life of the springtime, and the Chiang Mai flower festival is celebrated.
Phuket?s Old Town Festival also happens from February 21-February 23 and is a celebration of Phuket and its rich heritage.
The Buddhist festival of Makha Bucha Day is celebrated on the 19th of February.
Pattaya also witnesses the Burapa Bike week during February and is sure to excite all motorcycle lovers.

Thailand in Summers (March to June)

The period between March to June experiences summer in Thailand during which the weather is hot and dry. The temperatures range from 32 to 40-degree Celsius. This is the low season for tourism when tourists avoid the months of April and May entirely. The only advantage during summer would be the extremely cheap deals on hotels and flights considering the off-season. Warmer temperatures start settling in during summers from March and goes up to 39-degree Celsius. March is the tail end of the tourist season, and the crowds begin to thin out. While the temperatures are still rising in cities on the Andaman Sea coast of Thailand, so does the amount of rainfall that it receives. The Gulf of Thailand, however, notices a decrease in rainfall, especially Koh Samui, which records 67mm of rain received during March, on average that could go down to 60mm in April. The end of the tourist season also spells out far fewer crowds, and prices for hotels and flights reduce. Central regions of Thailand stay sunny throughout May and June, and the temperatures hover near the 35-degree Celsius point. Temperature drops are felt significantly in the northern regions and the west coast of the country. On the other hand, Thailand?s west coast becomes a little cooler during May. Cities of the Gulf coast of Thailand remain similarly warm throughout May and June and as it is the low-season, expect far fewer crowds at traditional tourist destinations. June is the last month in which tourists can experience the tropical sunshine of Thailand before the monsoon.

Thailand Weather in March

As the colder winds of February start escaping the country, warmer temperatures start settling in. To turn into a heat bomb in the next month, March still sees a few tourists who either head to the islands of Krabi, Surat Thani, Koh Phi Phi and Similan islands, or the hilly regions beyond the north for some trekking. Central areas like Bangkok and Ayutthaya are usually avoided due to high humidity while the northern cities like Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son are avoided because the farmers burn their fields during March. Expect the temperatures to be around 32-34 degrees. While the temperatures are still rising in cities on the South coast and west coast of Thailand, so does the amount of rainfall that it receives. You could easily get hotels and flights for lower prices, however, make sure to book a room with the air conditioner, or you?ll regret it.

Activities and Events in Thailand in March

The Thai government has recognised March 13th as National Thai Elephant day, and Chiang Mai revels in its celebration of their national animal, the white elephant.
Chang Thai day honours these gentle giants by offering lavish spreads of food that are laid out for the elephants to feast on.
Chiang Mai also hosts the Lanna giant drums festival where local musicians pound away on large traditional drums.
Phuket hosts the Thao Thepkasattri-Thao Sri Suntorn festival every March.
The Koh Samui midnight charity runs are an event that the athletically-inclined tourist might want to look into. 5km and 10km races are held on Chaweng beach to raise funds for charities supporting various social causes.
The Pattaya Music Festival also occurs during March and is an excellent opportunity to unwind and listen to some great music, at no cost! The Pattaya Music Festival is one of the largest music festivals in Asia.

Thailand Weather in April

Unlike March, April sees the hottest temperatures in Thailand ranging between 35, going up to 39-degree Celsius. Travellers most often avoid this month since it gets challenging to walk around the city or hit the beach. The ferries almost stop running during this low season and hence you should check on the schedules in advance. The tropical heat reaches the Andaman sea coast and Krabi records temperatures of 34 degrees Celsius on average during April. April being the last month of the peak tourist season, the Andaman Sea coast of Thailand begins to receive significantly more rain during this month. Koh Samui, on the Gulf of Thailand coast, sees the mercury rise past the 34 degree Celsius mark on the thermometer. The Gulf of Thailand coast gets relatively less rainfall as compared to the Andaman coast, and averages about 60 mm of rain during April. The heat of Koh Samui is countered by the cold water and is ideal for swimming at the beaches. Jet skiing, wakeboarding, and other water sports are popular on the white sand beaches littering the Gulf of Thailand coast. In the Northern and Central regions, this is the beginning of the tourist season, with one of the biggest holidays on the Thai calendar, which is the Songkran Festival to bear the heat and Thai New Year being held in April.

Activities and Events in Thailand in April

The Songkran Festival is a three-day water fight which involves people celebrating around the whole country with music, food and drinks while they throw water at each other through pipes, water guns and buckets.
Chiang Mai conducts the Arts and Culture festival during April as well. One can enjoy the serene sounds of Thai folk music from different regions of the country.
Phuket also celebrates Bike Week during April, and it is one of Southeast Asia?s largest motorcycle exhibitions.
The Krabi International Rock Climbing competition also happens in April.
Many hotels in Koh Samui are known to organise Easter egg hunts on Easter Day, which is always a pleasant time.

Thailand Weather in May

Just like April, don?t expect the temperatures to go any lower in May. This month marks the onset of the monsoons in Thailand with some showers arriving here and there. Despite these occasional rains, the country is still warm throughout. Some islands like Koh Samui and Koh Tao receive less rainfall than others and are therefore more preferred by tourists. The Chiang Mai and Lampang highlands turn green with farmers adorning their fields. Thailand?s west coast becomes a little cooler during May as Krabi and Phuket both note a drop in average temperature readings. Both cities, however, see increased rainfall patterns, with Phuket receiving well over 300 mm of rainfall during May. Cities of the Gulf coast of Thailand remain similarly warm throughout May. Koh Samui still averages 33 degrees of Celsius every May. Rain is expected but only intermittently and should not deter tourists from coming in search of some tropical sunshine. Being the month between peak summer and peak monsoon, tourism is still down in May; hence the hotel and flight deals are cheaper than ever.

Activities and Events in Thailand in May

The city of Rayong in eastern Thailand is particularly a great choice during May because of the Food Festival that takes place.
The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is held during the first week of May to mark the beginning of the ploughing season.
As May is when the Muslim holy month of Ramadan is celebrated, one can expect to find restaurants serving up sumptuous Iftar fare once the fasting period is broken.
The Phi Phi islands also observe Visakha Bucha during May.
Visakha Bucha ceremonies are held across the country and festivities also occur in Koh Samui.
The Koh Samui Regatta attracts a fair few tourists and athletes from around the world to take part in sailboat races.
Another full moon during the month means that yet another full moon party is thrown at nearby Koh Phangan.

Thailand Weather in June

By June, temperature drops are felt significantly in the northern regions, and Chiang Mai records pleasant weather. Rainfall estimates gradually rise and the monsoon season begins to be felt. The Andaman Sea coast of Thailand averages similar temperatures during June, but rain in the region increases significantly. Phuket receives nearly 300 mm of rainfall whereas Krabi gets more than 250 mm, effectively signalling the beginning of the monsoon season. Places like Koh Samui on the Gulf of Thailand coast experience good amounts of sunshine, and as it is the low-season, expect far fewer crowds at traditional tourist destinations. Although still hot and humid in many places and wet in many others, travellers often choose June because sightseeing is quite comfortable and fun. Trekking in the northern hills of Pai and Mae Salong is common. Many might even head down to the gulf islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Hua Hin and Koh Phangan to laze around on the beach without worrying about a storm hitting them hard.

Activities and Events in Thailand in June

A unique festival called the ?Ghost Festival? is usually celebrated in June or July in Loei province.
The Hotel Art Fair is held every June in Bangkok.
The Chor Cher Farm and Folk festival is a celebration of local produce and serves up food made with these incredibly fresh and flavourful ingredients by local chefs.
Phuket also celebrates the Baba Peranakan Wedding festival in June.
Koh Tao celebrates its pristine beaches by hosting the Koh Tao festival. A beach festival spanning two days that places a special emphasis on conservation, it acts as a fundraiser for local environmental causes.

Thailand in Monsoon (July - October)

Many times tourists completely avoid Thailand in the monsoon season with the misconception that the entire country will be flooded. This is not true. Although the rains can get pretty bad in some parts of the country, many other regions are beautiful to explore. The dense forests and waterfalls come to life, while some beach destinations are dry too. Temperatures can be expected around 24 to 28-degree Celsius during these months. The rainfall level increases as June comes to an end and July begins. August sees the peak of wet season in Thailand with torrential downpours, especially in northern and central Thailand. Both Krabi and Phuket, and other cities on the Andaman sea coast both see increased rainfall. September is regarded as the wettest month of the year in Thailand and it should come as no surprise to see that Bangkok receives more than 320mm of rainfall during this month. The monsoon season has well and truly arrived on the east coast of Thailand and Koh Samui receives significantly more rainfall during October than September. Temperatures also drop slightly so the air is a little less humid during this time. The monsoon don't end in the Gulf coast by October end, as it still experiences intermittent rainfall, but the Northern, Central and Southern regions see a decline in precipitation by the end of monsoon months.

Thailand Weather in July

The rainfall level increases as June comes to an end, and July begins. The country turns pretty much wet except for a few lucky days of sunshine. The islands are mostly avoided since there are chances of storms and the underwater visibility is not good. The lower gulf islands of Samui, Phangan and Tao are comparatively drier, but still, you should only be lucky. The daily temperatures all across the country range between 27 to 32-degree Celsius. This hot and wet month sees fewer tourists and therefore, fewer ferries running between islands. As the European summer holiday season begins, beach towns along the Andaman coast begin to get more crowded as more tourist make their way to Thailand. If you?re visiting in July, your best option would be central Thailand - either Kanchanaburi for some lush greenery and raging waterfalls, or Ayutthaya to see the ruins in all its glory. To get up close and personal with the local culture, you can also head to Ubon Ratchathani that hosts the candle festival. Don?t let the rains stop you from exploring this gorgeous country in a wet month.

Activities and Events in Thailand in July

The Candle Festival of Ubon Ratchathani is held in July and is one of the main festivals of the Thai calendar year.
One of the most important Buddhist holidays, Asalha Puja, is held during the 16th of July. It signifies the beginning of three months, known as Vassa, where Buddhists vow to give up ascetic pleasures.
The King of Thailand?s birthday is celebrated on the 28th of July, and therefore transport around the country may be impeded because of street closures.

Thailand Weather in August

August sees the peak of the wet season in Thailand with torrential downpours, especially in northern and central Thailand. The temperatures around the country remain the same as July, but the rain sees a rise. However, towards the end of August, many regions start drying a little. Both Krabi and Phuket, and other cities on the Andaman sea coast both see increased rainfall. The eastern coast islands are again a popular choice since they are much drier than Phuket or Koh Chang. Hua Hin, Surat Thani and Chumphon are ideal compared to the rest of the country too. Visibility isn?t that bad, and hence, divers shouldn?t be very worried. Short showers interrupt the sunshine during the afternoons; the Gulf of Thailand is one of the last few places that still sees regular sunlight during August. However, if you plan on trekking in the north and north-east, be ready to face floods or landslides too. Try and avoid those regions completely. August can only be a good choice if you?re all right with hopping among the few islands that still have ferries running.

Activities and Events in Thailand in August

The Thai Queen?s birthday is celebrated on the 12th of August and is also celebrated as Mother?s Day in Thailand.
The Sat Duan Sip or Hungry Ghost festival is celebrated in Krabi and Phuket during August as well.

Thailand Weather in September

September is regarded as the wettest month of the year in Thailand, and it should come as no surprise to see that Bangkok receives more than 320mm of rainfall during this month. The rains start to disappear from the southern islands completely, however, central and northern Thailand still experiences some downpours before they entirely leave. Regions of Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi, Lopburi, Ayutthaya, Khao Yai and many others may face floods and are best avoided. Temperatures near Phuket and Krabi average 30 degree Celsius but Phuket receives on average 380mm of rain during September, and Krabi faces slightly less than that. The rainy season ensures that having a beach all to yourself is entirely possible, something that would be unthinkable during the peak tourist season. You can spend all your time on the trip down in the islands, playing volleyball by the beach. However, be wise while choosing your islands, this also means that prices for places to stay are significantly lower than during the peak seasons. Since the Andaman islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta are still overcoming the monsoon, the gulf islands would be for the best. Divers and surfers can finally be smiling towards the middle and end of September, and why shouldn?t they be?

Activities and Events in Thailand in September

The Lamyun or Longan festival takes place in August at Lamphai, and it is a celebration of the Longan fruit.
One of the most significant festivals in the Chinese calendar is the Mid-Autumn festival, or the Moon festival is celebrated during September in Bangkok.
The Phuket Vegetarian festival also happens during September. These activities happen over a nine day period during which the Taoist Chinese-Thai community abstain from eating meat, and a bevvy of vegetarian food stalls pop up.

Thailand Weather in October

You can finally bid the monsoons goodbye in October and head to the north and central Thailand destinations without fear. When it comes to the islands, the gulf islands are not a good option anymore since the rains have hit their coast now. Koh Samui receives significantly more rainfall during October than September. Temperatures also drop slightly so the air is a little less humid during this time. However, the Andaman islands of Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe and Phuket start becoming drier. The temperatures across the country seem perfectly ideal for travellers, ranging between 24-28 degree Celsius. The cold and dry weather in the north makes it great for trekkers, and the beach bums can directly head to the Andaman coast.

Activities and Events in Thailand in October

The Wing Kwai Chonburi, buffalo racing festival, has been celebrated for more than a century and a half and attracts attention from around the world.
The Lai Ruea Fai festival is celebrated during October and marks the end of the Buddhist Vassa period.
On the other hand, Phuket has an exciting festival called the ?Vegetarian festival? celebrated majorly by the Chinese community.