Just towards the end of monsoon, October in Thailand is a mix of wet and sunny weather. Often called the “Shoulder-Season”, October is one of the best times to explore Thailand because of the fewer tourists and good deals found of flight and accommodations.Just after the rainy season, the countrysides are filled with lush green rice-fields in the north and north-east region.
Rainfall starts to drop off in the mainland after the second half of October. Although sporadic heavy rainfall can be seen, usually it arrives in the afternoon or early evening. The storms can be wild, accompanied by thunder and lightning but don’t last long.
The temperature stays warm, Clear sky and sun can be seen in the mornings as rain usually doesn’t hit until the afternoon. Temperature generally ranges from 21 °C to 31 °C.Weather in the southern Thai island has different weather patterns compared to Northern Island, resulting in higher rainfall in the region. Beaches aren't the best place to hang out at this time.
Best Places to Visit in Thailand in October
1. Chiang Mai
Often known as “Rose of the North” Chiang Mai is surrounded by beautiful architectural marvels that speak for its rich history of the Lanna Kingdom. It’s home for more than 300 ancient temples.Chiang Mai also offers many modern indoor activities. Nimmanhaemin Road here has plenty of bars & restaurants with prices very low allowing tasting the local cuisine & drinks. Also, the weekend markets such as the Saturday Walking Street and Sunday Walking Street are great places for shopping in Chiang Mai, which will give you a taste of the local culture.
2. Bangkok
October in Bangkok usually sees a lot of rainfall, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a good time to visit.Going to see a Thai Boxing match is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. With the adrenalin rush and excitement, you will be in for an experience that will stay with you for your whole life.Not a Fan of Boxing? Then be entertained by cabaret dancers. The Lady-boy dancers in the cabaret shows leave the audience astonished, making it one of the best experiences to do in Bangkok in October.Also, Bangkok is one of the best places to eat a variety of unique dishes in many restaurants. Whether you want Spicy Shrimp or Chicken soup, different restaurants in Bangkok has something to offer to everyone.Last but not least, hire a cab and roam around the city. The Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Ocean World are some of the main attractions here. Be sure to check out the many other places to visit in Bangkok.
3. Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is one of the largest cities in Thailand. It was the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Sometimes called the ‘Art Capital” of Thailand, Chiang Rai has some beautiful temples which are never seen anywhere in the world.There are several attractions in Chiang Rai one shouldn’t miss. Wat Rong Khun temple is one of the non-traditional beautiful Buddhist temples in Chiang Rai. Also, Wat Rong Suen Ten is a beautiful temple built not too long ago. The deep blue colour of the temple resembles the sky. And the interior paintings of the wall tells the life of buddha.Also, one of the more interesting places in Chiang Rai is the Black House Museum. Walking around in the house gets eerie but interesting with plenty of skulls, hides and even whole skeletons.To get a glimpse of the heart of town, Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is the best place to go. With plenty of shops for shopping and food courts to eat you will not get bored here easily.
Events and Festivals Celebrated in Thailand in October
1. Awk Phansa
Awk Phansa is a national holiday in Thailand. In the northern part of Thailand, it’s known as Isan. It resembles the Buddhist lent(known as the “Vassa”) period when many Buddhists abstain from Meat, drinking, and smoking. In this time many people gather around and take part in a candlelit circumambulation in the holy temple. Also, Illuminated boat processions are conducted on Nakhon Phanom and Nong Khai on the Mekong River and the Mun River in Ubon Ratchathani throughout the Isan.
Wan Awk Phansa Dates 2023 - 28 October 2023
2. King Chulalongkorn Day
Also called “Wan Piyamaharaj Day” Chulalongkorn Day is celebrated in the memorial of King Chulalongkorn’s death Every 23rd of October. It’s a public holiday in Thailand. People gather around the Equestrian Statue to show respect to King Chulalongkorn ad lay wreaths at the statue in the Royal Plaza.
King Chulalongkorn Day 2023 - 23rd October 2023
3. Vegetarian Festival
Often celebrated around October Vegetarian Festival it is one of the famous festivals in Thailand celebrated by Thailand’s Chinese people. Most events held in Chinatown in Phuket and Bangkok. Also, small events held in Krabi, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Krabi.
Vegetarian Festival 2023 Dates - 13 - 22 October 2023
4. Long-Boat Races
In October, traditional long-boat races takes place in many parts of Thailand. Buriram, Chachoengsao, Bab Nakhon Sawan, and Nakhon Ratchasima are some of them. Local people get together to celebrate the end of rainy season on the fourth day after the full moon.
If you are considering to visit Thailand in October ,be prepared to experience Thailand in a new way which will astonish you to the core.