July is one of the wettest months of the year in Thailand. As it is the low tourist season, fewer crowds exist, and bookings are more affordable. The country experiences significant rain showers, resulting in limited outdoor and water activities. As for the bonus side, the rain showers result in lush greenery and scenic countryside. Here is everything you need to know about Thailand in July.
Weather in Thailand in July
With the onset of monsoon, typically in June, Thailand experiences more torrential rainfalls in July. Northern and southern Thailand lie in similar temperature ranges. It is windy throughout the country, with heavy downpours and splashes of sunshine in some regions.
In the Northern region of Thailand, in places like Chaing Mai, the weather is humid, with daily downpours of rain. The daytime temperatures are 25 to 32 degrees Celsius. As there is heavy rainfall, outdoor activities are limited, but you can explore the ancient temples. Similar to the Northern region, Bangkok in the central region of Thailand has humid weather with heavy rainfall. Daytime temperatures range from 26 to 32 degrees Celsius.
In the southern region of Thailand, it is ideal for heading to the drier Gulf coasts like Hua Hin and Koh Samui, where temperatures are 25 to 31 degrees Celsius, instead of Andaman Sea islands like Phuket and Koh Chang, as the latter destinations are wet. Seas are rough with monsoon resorts' onset, guesthouses are mostly shut down, and ferry frequencies are reduced.
In the Northern region of Thailand, in places like Chaing Mai, the weather is humid, with daily downpours of rain. The daytime temperatures are 25 to 32 degrees Celsius. As there is heavy rainfall, outdoor activities are limited, but you can explore the ancient temples. Similar to the Northern region, Bangkok in the central region of Thailand has humid weather with heavy rainfall. Daytime temperatures range from 26 to 32 degrees Celsius.
In the southern region of Thailand, it is ideal for heading to the drier Gulf coasts like Hua Hin and Koh Samui, where temperatures are 25 to 31 degrees Celsius, instead of Andaman Sea islands like Phuket and Koh Chang, as the latter destinations are wet. Seas are rough with monsoon resorts' onset, guesthouses are mostly shut down, and ferry frequencies are reduced.
Best places to visit in Thailand in July
1. Hua Hin
2. Koh Samui
Koh Samui has something to offer for every type of traveler and is one of the most popular beach destinations in the country. In July, the temperature in Samui ranges from 25 to 35 deg. Celsius with the sun still shining for long hours and short bursts of rain in the afternoon. You can choose from a varied range of water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving, sea kayaking, kitesurfing, swimming, and many more. One can take a day trip to the pristine archipelago Angthong National Marine Park or trek to the picturesque Namuang Waterfall to enjoy the scenic beauty of the island, or visit religious places like Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem. Adventure lovers can try paragliding and zipline at some of the famous beaches of the island. If interested, watching the Ladyboy Cabaret shows near Chaweng Beach would be an excellent option for a fun-filled evening!
3. Kanchanaburi
Located at a short distance from the hustling Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is a hub of fabulous waterfalls, national parks and charming landscapes that attract foreigners and local nationals alike. With the onset of monsoon, the waterfalls gush with water, and flora and fauna thrive, making it the best time to visit this place for people who don’t mind the rain. The city is also renowned for its many war memorials and museums of the World War II era. Erawan National Park, with splendid waterfalls and caves, the mysterious Sai Yok National Park, and the secluded Huai Mae Khamin waterfall are worth visiting during this season; for those interested in the country’s history and a sneak peek into the WWII days, head to Death Railway Bridge, Death Railway Museum, Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, Chung-Kai War Cemetery, and many others.
4. Koh Tao
A small yet charming island of the country typically has a hot and wet day in July and remains mostly sunny. This island is one of Thailand's best scuba diving destinations, with several splendid beaches, viewpoints, excellent bars, and many other activities. Entry is only through waterways, as the island doesn’t have an airport of its own. You can choose to relax on any of the numerous white sand beaches on the island with clear turquoise waters. Have fun with snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking trips. Hike the hills to get to incredible viewpoints like John Suwan Viewpoint, Mango Viewpoint, and Love Koh Tao Viewpoint, to get spectacular views of the nearby islands and Koh Tao as well.
Events in Thailand in July
1. Pattaya Marathon
This annual event, also known as the King’s Cup Marathon, is a large-scale event and is held in July every year in Pattaya, Chonburi Province. Athletes from all over the globe participate in this event, which has full, half, and quarter marathons.
2. Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek
This 4-day event is one of Asia’s most exciting world-class yacht races held in Phuket. Apart from the racing, there will be eerie beachside parties at the 5-star Cape Panwa Hotel.
3. Rambutan Fair
Thailand is the largest producer of Rambutan fruit in the world (55.5%), and the first Rambutan tree of the country was planted in 1926 in Surat Thani. This annual fair is held in the Surat Thani, the major cultivation center of this tree, to celebrate this delicious fruit. The main highlights of this fair are floats decorated with rambutan and other tropical fruits, trained monkeys that harvest coconuts, and exhibits of a variety of local products.
Festivals to Attend in Thailand in July
1. Asanha Bucha Day
Considered one of the holiest days in Buddhism, this day commemorates Buddha’s first sermon in which he explained the religion’s four noble truths to five of his disciples. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the eighth lunar month (month of Ashada) with ceremonies (puja) held at large temples. A significant number of monks gather to be ordained, which is followed by peaceful candle-lit processions in different parts of the country. People donated food and candles to local temples.
2. Wan Khao Phansa
The day next to the holy Asanha Bucha, Buddhist monks enter into three months of Lent, where they take refuge to temples for studies and meditation. This festival, which also marks the beginning of monsoon along with the Buddist Lent period, is celebrated with great vigor with beautiful candle processions and boat ceremonies.
3. International Wax Sculpture and Candle Procession Festival
Held in Ubon Ratchathani, this grand festival exhibits processions of elegantly carved classic beeswax candles, with Buddhism, Buddhist traditions, and beliefs as the central pillars of this celebration. Watching these huge wax sculptures and ornate candles of varying shapes and sizes is a feast for the eyes.
July is the ideal time to visit Thailand if properly planned. Travelers who don't mind occasional rain showers and are interested in a more relaxed and less crowded experience may find value in exploring Thailand during this month.