Best Time to Visit Thailand

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• Locations to Stay in Bangkok
• Where to Lodge in Phuket
• Accommodation suggestions on Koh Samui

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• Where to Stay in Pattaya
• Family Hotels in Koh Samui
• Family-friendly resorts on Koh Phangan island

When is the best time to go to Thailand?

I always enjoy visiting Thailand regardless of the time of year. I’ve been to Thailand in nearly every month on the calendar and while I’ve certainly come across some rain each trip has been fun without any regrets. That said, I believe the best period to visit is between late November and early April when there is little rain and abundant sun, but the temperature is cooler. For swimming and sunbathing on Thailand’s best beaches, I’d recommend January to April; for tours and sightseeing, the best months are December, January, and February. Most parts of Thailand experience a rainy season from July to October.

Thailand – When I Recommend Visiting

• Best Time for Good Weather: January to April
• Ideal Timeframe for Pleasant Weather: December to August
• Best Time for Diving: November through April (west coast), May through August (east coast)
• Best Period for Surfing: April to October (solely western seaboard)
• The best time for sightseeing is November to February
• Prime Time for Wedding Trip: January through April
• Best Time for Nightlife: December and January
• Best Time for Saving Money: May through September
• Best Time for Beaches (Phuket Coast): late November to April
• Best Time for Beaches (Koh Samui Coast): late December through May
• Best Timeframe for Chaing Mai (Northern Thailand): November to February
• Best Time for Bangkok: From November through March

When I Like To Visit Thailand?

Thailand offers great weather throughout the entire year, but the best conditions are usually between November and April. The climate differs between the east and west coasts. September sees the heaviest rainfall on the west coast, while the east coast receives its maximum rainfall in November. Summer spans from April to June, and the rainy period is from July to October over most of Thailand.

• Best Time to Visit Thailand for Pleasant Weather: Being a tropical country, Thailand has warm weather throughout the year, with winters having average highs of 26-28oC, and summers, 32-40oC. The north and west experience their rainy season from June to October, and the east from November to March. The finest weather is usually present in December, January, and February.
• Best Timeframe to Reserve Hotels for Thailand: The Best Hotels in Thailand get reserved early – especially for the Chinese New Year, Kin Jay (vegetarian) festival, and the months of December and January. Try to reserve rooms at least 2-3 months in advance for peak season, and about 1-2 months in advance for the low and shoulder seasons.
• Best Time for Surfing: The optimal time for surfing in Thailand is influenced by whether one intends to visit the east or west coast. Surfing is especially beginner-friendly and suitable for long boards along the west coast from April to October, and along the east coast from October to December, as the waves are generally smaller (around 3-10 feet). However, many islands have very shallow coastal reefs in locations that can be dangerous below mid-tide.
• Best Time for Snorkeling and Swimming: Excellent swimming and snorkeling is possible year-round in Thailand, except on days when thunderstorms occur during the wet season. November to April is probably the top period, particularly around the islands in the Andaman sea.
• Most Advantageous Time for Hiking: The cooler months of October to February provide preferable conditions for Thailand’s remarkable hiking/trekking experiences. Though hiking may take place year-round, summers can become extremely hot, so remember to pack ample water, sun-shielding cream, and insect repellent. Starting the hike at the initial hours of daylight is advisable to avoid the heat of afternoon.
• Optimal Season for Watching Whales and Dolphins: The Gulf of Thailand on the eastern coast is a habitat for many whales. Bryde’s whales approach the shores near Bangkok between September and December to feed on plentiful anchovies. Irrawaddy river dolphins with rounded foreheads can also be seen splashing in the Chao Phraya river during this period.
• Most suitable time for fishing: One is able fish in Thailand throughout the year, with diverse fish being tempted at shifting times around the extensive coastline and off the islands. Fishing in the rainy season is appropriate. Thailand is specifically renowned for its freshwater fish. In addition to the common species, local types such as Giant Mekong Catfish, Barramundi, Siamese Carp, and Giant Snakehead are highly sought after. Fishing locations span from fishing parks to unique resorts, ponds, lakes, dams, and rivers.
• Most Beneficial Time Periods for Discounted Rates: Booking in advance and catching flights mid-week would result in the most competitive rates. Commonly, the best pricing for flights and lodging occurs during the rainy season, specifically March to May, September, and October which often find superb deals. The yearly significant sales in the large shopping centers run from mid-June to mid-August, which is in fact a busy travel period.
• Best Time for Avoiding Crowds: The quietest months for travelers are April, May, September and October. Late August is also fairly peaceful except for European visitors.
• Most Suitable Time for a Destination Wedding: With its tropical coastlines and bright weather, Thailand is a great year-round wedding site, excluding during the height of the rainy time frame. Precipitation tends to fall in brief bursts that swiftly dry up in the commencement and conclusion of the wet season. November to February is the best (and safest) time to get married on the west coast, and June to September on the east coast.
• Best Time for Inter-Island Boat Tours: September to December is ideal for spotting whales from your ship, but November to January is also the most expensive time to visit. The beginning and end of the rainy season offer the best deals on cruises.
• Best Timeframe for Purchasing Airline Tickets: Airline ticket pricing relies on the season, festivals, events, and trade fairs. Generally, reserving one to three months beforehand offers the top rates, with six weeks prior providing the optimum deals. Exceptions exist when reserving for Chinese New Year and December-January. For these periods, it’s best to book as early as possible.

When to Visit Thailand


The Best Time to Visit Bangkok

The place Bangkok is worthwhile seeing all year round, though in September and October, be ready for heavy downpours. All things considered, my liking for a visit would be November to February. It`s a great time as the rains have withdrawn and the climate is cooler (average top temperature varies between 27°C to 29°C). Visiting in the damp season is a smart idea to get exceptional deals on lodging rooms and enjoying the numerous indoor pursuits that the city has to offer, in case it is pouring outside. The annual “Extraordinary Big Sale” is held from mid-June to mid-August, and shoppers can discover incredible discounts, containing reductions up to 80%, on garments, electronics, gems, and more. April to June are the city’s hottest months, and July and August are the wettest; both periods seeing thinner groups and lower airfare and lodging rates. The peak season also coincides with New Year’s Day as well as the Chinese New Year. The 9-day Kin Jay (Vegetarian) festival in September/October is also very popular, when all of Thailand observes the Chinese purifying festival, and several stalls and restaurants put up yellow flags to announce their participation by serving only vegan food).

The Best Time to Visit Phuket

I like visiting Phuket between November and April, when the climate is warm (but not excessive) and the water is perfect for beach and water activities. Phuket’s average daily highs are around 31°C to 34°C year-round, warmer in summer and cooler in winter, but only marginally so. The rainy season spans May through October, with hotels providing excellent rates despite potential dangers from storms, especially on the west coast. The east coast sees relatively calm conditions throughout. December to March represents peak season with maximum occupancy and prices. Low season falls from May to October bringing very high humidity and reduced room rates. September to December offers the best time to see whales in the Gulf of Thailand, off Phuket’s east coast).

Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

The peak tourist period in the hill town of Chiang Mai is from December to January, so the months just before and after, namely November and February, represent the best time to visit to enjoy the climate and avoid the crowds. The cool and pleasant weather is complemented by gentle breezes during these four months, rendering it perfect for all types of outdoor activities. Temperatures range between 10°C and 30°C during winter. Chiang Mai experiences three seasons: summer (March to May), monsoon (June to October), and winter (November to February). Temperatures can rise to 40°C in summer, becoming very hot and humid. The monsoon months are slightly cooler, and the brief heavy downpours can offer a refreshing respite. However, the thin crowds and freshly washed lush green foliage make it a pleasant time to visit. Chiang Mai comes alive during Thai festivals, especially during the Flower Festival (first weekend in February), Songkran (mid-April), and Loi Krathong (usually in November)).

Best Time to Visit Krabi

Krabi offers exceptional natural beauty with national parks, untouched beaches, and islands that can only be accessed by boat along with comparatively less commercial tourism. November to March provides the best time to visit Krabi as the monsoon has just finished and summer is about to begin. Temperatures range from 22°C to 32°C. Unlike other areas of Thailand, Krabi has a more tropical climate which can be described as dry (December to April) or wet (May to November), with the maximum rainfall occurring in September and October. Compared to most locations in Thailand, summers are not that warm in Krabi, rarely crossing an average temperature of 32°C. Traveling in the rainy season could either be dampened by heavy showers or one may get fortunate and have a sunny day with reduced prices and an entire island to themselves. November to April is also the ideal time for water sports like wind surfing, kite surfing and wake boarding, while scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming can be enjoyed throughout the year, whenever the waters are calm.

Thailand Travel Seasons

• High Season (November-April): Late November to early April represents Thailand’s peak period, particularly around the Christmas, New Year, and Chinese New Year holidays. Flights and accommodations are usually most expensive during this time frame. Hotels typically have stricter policies regarding length of stay, deposits, and cancellations surrounding these celebrations. It is best to plan and book early for travel at the peak times.
• Shoulder Seasons (April-May and September-October): These two intermediate periods are an outstanding time to visit Thailand, as the monsoon has just started or finished, and temperatures are not very hot. Expenses are lower, and beaches and attractions have fewer visitors. Occasional brief or heavy showers will cool the heat, though water activities will be prohibited if a storm arrives. It`s also a terrific time to go surfing or scuba diving off the western coast of Thailand.
• Low Season (May to September): Summer in Thailand is very warm and humid (temperatures can go up to 45°C), but it’s still a great time to enjoy the huge selection of indoor activities the country has available. During the rainy season, it can rain practically every day, and afternoons can get almost intolerable in the summer. The stormy climate can also hamper diving, surfing, and other water activities. However, it’s very economical to travel during this time, bookings can be done at the last minute, and one can even negotiate prices at the hotel upon arrival. The empty beaches and public attractions allow visitors to have a more leisurely vacation.

Thailand Weather by Month

Temperatures in tropical Thailand are warm year-round. The rainy season varies in different parts of Thailand, with the rare big storm seen on the west coast in August-September. The north eastern rainy season is from November to April, and the south western, from May to October. Brief and light showers happen regularly everywhere. Southern Thailand gets the most rain, northernmost point gets the lowest, and central Thailand, including Bangkok, is usually the hottest.

• Weather in Thailand for January: January presents one of Thailand`s scarce cool periods, with temperatures ranging in the low 20s to low 30s Celsius generally, and Chiang Mai experiencing a minimum of 10-15°C as the coldest spot. Rainfall is limited. This peak holiday season sees everything fully booked. Light outerwear suffices for evenings. (Average sea temperature 28°C.)
• Conditions in Thailand in February: Average temperatures at this time are much like January, ranging from 22-32oC. Chances of rainfall rise in northern regions while declining in the south. The weather is excellent in southeast and southwest Thailand, with extensive sunshine and mid-20s temperatures. (Average ocean temperature 28oC.)
• Conditions in Thailand in March: March signals the start of warmer weather in Thailand, with temperatures beginning to rise quickly. It`s also the beginning of the shoulder season, especially on islands, as crowds tend to thin out. It’s very dry at this time, providing excellent opportunities for scuba diving off the west coast. Average temperatures range from 26-31 degrees Celsius, though temperatures can reach 35 degrees Celsius during the day. Average water temperature is 29 degrees Celsius.)
• Thailand Weather in April: Typically hot and humid at this time of year, contributing to high temperatures averaging between 29-34 degrees Celsius but exceeding 35 degrees in some areas. Coastal regions may see slightly cooler conditions and occasional west coast showers as the monsoon pattern develops. Average sea temperature is 30 degrees Celsius.
• Weather in Thailand in May: May can bring slightly cooler temperatures, yet humidity remains oppressive due to frequent heavy downpours. Crowds remain thin despite many bright, sunny days. Northern and eastern Thailand experience near drought. (Average temperature 28-34°C, though some places surpass 35°C. Average water temperature 30°C.)
• Thailand Weather in June: Monsoon conditions cover almost the entire country, with a high chance of rain on the west coast. Weather is otherwise similar to May, with average temperatures ranging from 28-34oC but exceeding 34oC in some areas. Average water temperature is 30oC.
• Weather in Thailand in July: Rains are heavier and temperatures decrease slightly, with the west coast experiencing more showers than the east. (Average temperature 33oC. Average water temperature 29oC.)
• Thailand Weather in August: Northern and western Thailand receive their greatest rainfall, while the eastern coast is relatively sunny and dry in August. Humidity levels are fairly elevated. (Average temperature 32oC. Average water temperature 29oC.)
• Thailand Weather in September: Beach conditions are poor nationwide owing to heavy rains and stormy seas. Unsurprisingly, crowds are sparse, and lodgings can be rented very reasonably. (Average temperature 32oC. Average water temperature 29oC.)
• Northern Thailand Weather in October: Rainfall and humidity begin to decrease while the northern region starts experiencing the cool effects of winter`s approach. The south remains relatively hot and humid. (Average temperature 30oC. Average water temperature 29oC.)

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• Thailand Weather in December: December is one of the best months to visit Thailand, as rainfall is minimal and days are sunny and comfortable. The southeast experiences some rain, but the west coast is ideal during this period. A lightweight jacket may be advisable in the evenings in the north. (Average temperature 30oC. Average water temperature 28oC.)

Thailand Events and Festivals

Thailand in January

• Chinese New Year: Celebrated in January or February depending on the Lunar calendar, it’s not a national holiday in Thailand but the streets still illuminate in red and gold as the local Chinese population commemorates it with grandeur, featuring much fireworks, martial arts displays, traditional Chinese cuisine, major sales, music and performances of lion and dragon dancing.
• National Children’s Day (Wan Dek): Thailand regards young people as the nation`s most important resource, and the second Saturday in January is celebrated in honour of them. Locations like museums, zoos, places of entertainment, and even public transport are discounted or free for children, and fun activities are provided in shopping centres and parks.
• Full Moon Gathering: Held each month on Phangan island to celebrate the full moon, this all-night beach party features live DJs playing primarily EDM and frenetic dancing and drinking. This event is unsuitable for families.

Thailand in February

• Makha Bucha Day: An important Buddhist occasion celebrated in either February or March depending on the full moon date in the third lunar month. Those who worship offer prayers, provide food to monks, meditate, and even sleep in the temples, and candlelight processions are held after sunset. Wat Lat Phrao in Bangkok is an excellent place to experience this religious festival.

Thailand in March

• Color in the Park: This event is held on the first weekend in March at Wake Park in Bangkok. It features techno and house music from international DJs along with many arts and crafts workshops, food stalls, and water activities.
• National Elephant Day: Every year on March 13, Thailand honors its revered elephants in various parks, zoos, and wherever they reside. These mighty beings are provided fruits and sugarcane, while Buddhist monks hold blessing ceremonies intended to bring good fortune.
• Bangkok International Fashion Week: Thailand’s premier fashion event, organized in the third week of March by malls in Bangkok, highlights the latest creations from leading Thai designers and brands while also providing shoppers with discounted items.

Thailand in April

• Chakri Day: This important day commemorates the founding of the Chakri Dynasty in 1782, when Bangkok was declared as the capital city. Banks, government offices, and schools close their doors for the day, but typical businesses remain open as usual. The Royal family leads religious ceremonies remembering all preceding Kings of the dynasty.
• Songkran: Held annually from 13-15 April to usher in the Thai New Year, Songkran should not be missed. The occasion involves dousing others using water guns and hoses or even buckets during festive fights everywhere. Some also toss local powder on each other. Shrines receive food from monks during observances.

Thailand in May

• National Labour Day: This international holiday falls on May 1st, and while most private businesses and banks remain closed, some government departments do stay open.
• Royal Ploughing Ceremony: Traditionally held in early May with the precise date chosen by Buddhist monks, this day signifies the start of the rice growing season. The King presents a ceremonial sword and ring to the Lord of Harvest at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok.
• Visakha Bucha Day: Falling in May or June (depending on the Lunar calendar), this important Buddhist observance commemorates notable events in the Buddha`s life. Adherents worship at temples, offer food donations to monks, and follow the Five Precepts teachings of Buddhism, including abstaining from alcohol.

Thailand in June

• Hua Hin Jazz Festival: Typically held for 2 days in June, it showcases local and international musicians and groups on special stages erected on the beach, and attracts over 15,000 visitors.
• Amazing Thailand Grand Sale: An annual nationwide promotional event held mid-June through mid-August where shops, hotels, restaurants, transportation, markets, and entertainment nationwide offer deep discounts and better deals to attract customers during expanded sales and special offers.

Thailand in July

• Asanha Bucha Day: Another important Buddhist holiday, usually falling in mid-July or August, it commemorates the occasion when Lord Buddha delivered his initial sermon in India. Buddhists offer prayers at the temple and engage in acts of merit, and candlelight processions are carried out in several locations. Sales of alcohol are restricted.
• Candle Festival: Coinciding with Asanha Bucha Day, this two-day happening is denoted by a grand candle procession. The most famous urban for this commemoration is Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand, where performers from all around the world come to participate in the candle carving opposition. There are numerous markets, food stalls, and musical presentations.

Thailand in August

• Mother’s Day: Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s birthday on August 12 is commemorated as Mother’s Day across Thailand. Apart from alms-giving, the day is marked with decorations, lights, flowers, and fireworks.
• Ghost Celebration (Phi Ta Khon): Typically observed in August, this traditional 3-day event dramatizes the story of spirits joining the living at a party. On the initial day, parade participants costume as ghosts. The second day involves musical performances and performances. Religious Buddhist rites close out the final day. Dan Sai town is a favored locale for experiencing this festival.

Thailand in September

• Mid-Autumn Festival: This holiday also referred to as the Chinese Moon Cake festival is celebrated during the full moon in the eighth lunar month marking the conclusion of the harvest season. Sweet round pastries containing salted egg yolks famously known as moon cakes represent this festival.
• Foire du Trone (Fun Fair) – One of the oldest gatherings in Paris known as the Foire du Trone occurs for eight weeks from April to May at the Bois de Vincennes comprising rides, games, food as well as family activities. General admission is complimentary and separate fees are paid for each attraction.
• During the Falun Jay Vegetarian Festival occurring in late September through mid-October, nine Taoist religious leaders are honored through cleansing practices avoiding meat, fish, alcohol, and drugs. Vendors identify vegan-friendly dishes using yellow flags and aprons. This period offers an authentic Thai vegetarian and vegan cuisine experience unlike any other time of the year.

Thailand in October

• Awk Phansa: Awk Pansa symbolizes the conclusion of Buddhism`s three month period of spiritual reflection. Folks make contributions to monks and visit temples to gain spiritual rewards. Large boats are loaded with sugary rice treats and launched at nightfall, and boat races also occur in numerous places.
• Masters Tour of Chiang Mai: A 4-day cycling competition across various age and difficulty categories, held yearly in Chiang Mai. Approximately 250 multi-national cyclists participate, and thousands come to cheer them on.
• BangkokThai International Film Festival: Generally held in mid-October in Bangkok, this highly popular film festival highlights hundreds of international function films, short films, and documentaries, and concludes with an awards function spanning several categories.
• Chonburi Buffalo Racing Festival: This traditional event that has occurred for around 140 years is held annually in October in Chonburi, approximately an hour`s travel from Bangkok. In addition to buffalo races, there are buffalo beauty competitions and several other contests.
• King Chulalongkorn Day: On October 23, Thailand commemorates the passing of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V) by placing flowers and garlands on his memorial sites and especially his equestrian statues. It is a national public holiday.
• While Halloween is not a traditional Thai celebration, many bars, eateries, and hotels in the locations with significant expatriate and tourist populations host costume functions, meals, or live music on October 31 yearly due to international influences.

Thailand in November

• Thailand Brew Fest: Usually held in November in Bangkok, there is music, fun, games, food, and over a hundred styles of craft beer for everyone.
• Laguna Phuket Triathlon: Asia’s longest-standing triathlon is held annually at Laguna Phuket resort. It features multiple individual and team relay races, and attracts athletes from around the globe.
• Bangkok Marathon: Extremely well-known annual marathon held in the heart of Bangkok, with a special midnight launch for the full marathon. All races end by 6 am.
• Yee Peng Lantern Festival: Just prior to Thailand’s famous Loy Krathong Festival, Yee Peng is held in Chiang Mai where people release thousands of paper lanterns lit with candles into the night sky. The event also features a parade, traditional Thai dancing, live music, and handicraft-making.
• Loy Krathong Festival: Possibly one of the most picturesque festivals in Thailand, individuals release small banana leaf boats embellished with flowers and a candle in the center into ponds, lakes, or rivers as a symbolic act to wash away their sins. Thousands of flickering lights floating quietly in the water make this a truly magical sight.
• Lopburi Monkey Festival: To commemorate the significant role that monkeys play in drawing visitors to Lopburi (a city located 150km from Bangkok), an annual feast is held every November for the long-tailed residents in this locale. The festivities are marked by dances and live performances, and tables laden with fruits, salads, and sticky rice are spread out for the monkeys to eat.

Thailand in December

• Father’s Commemoration Day: December 5 denotes the birthday commemoration of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and is a national holiday. Celebrations and events mark the event as Thais celebrate their beloved late King, whom they fondly even think of as their father.
• Wonderfruit Festival: Situated in Pattaya, this is Thailand’s response to Glastonbury (UK) and Woodstock (US), celebrating music and cuisine. Family-friendly event, with Camp Wonder featuring several activities and even nannies for children.
• Christmas: The peak holiday season in Thailand has most hotels filled up. During this time, the highly decorated shopping malls offer multiple price cuts and promotions, and twinkling lights are seen everywhere in Christmas.
• New Year’s Eve: All tourist attractions transform into party hotspots on New Year’s eve with shows, galas, musical events, and dinners everywhere as locals and visitors alike ring in the new year.

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