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Best Time To Visit Thailand

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What is the best time to visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand depends on the specific experiences you're seeking, as the country's climate varies from region to region. However, in general, the best time to visit Thailand is during the cool, dry season, which is from November to early April. The weather is generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures ranging between 29 to 34 degrees Celcius and low humidity. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities, exploring cities, and enjoying the beaches. Many festivals and events, including Loy Krathong and Songkran, are celebrated during this period.

As the dry season progresses, temperatures start to rise. April in Thailand can be quite hot, especially in central regions and Bangkok. It's a good time for beach lovers, but some areas, particularly in the north ((Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai), can become quite hot. The rainy season in Thailand varies across regions. The west coast ((Phuket, Krabi) experiences heavy rainfall from May to October, while the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) side is affected by the monsoon from September to November. Although it's not the ideal time for beach activities, this period can offer lush landscapes, and it's perfect for exploring the northern and central parts of the country. The shoulder seasons of May and October can be a good compromise, offering decent weather in many regions. Prices may also be lower during these months.

Bangkok and Central Thailand: November to February
Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai): November to February
Southern Thailand (Phuket, Krabi, and Andaman Coast): November to April (East Coast) and November to May (West Coast)
Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao): December to August
Isan Region (Northeastern Thailand): November to February
Eastern Thailand (Pattaya, Rayong): November to February
Andaman Sea Diving (Similan Islands, Phuket, Krabi): November to April

Thailand Travel Packages

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6 Days / 5 Nights

Thailand Tour Package: Exotic Island Escapes to...

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5 Days / 4 Nights

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7 Days / 6 Nights

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8 Days / 7 Nights

Thailand Honeymoon Tour Package including Phi P...

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6 Days / 5 Nights

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4 Days / 3 Nights

Short Getaway Thailand Holiday Package

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More about Best Time to Travel to Thailand

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.