July in Thailand is one of the wettest months of the year, with the rainiest areas being the west coast, particularly in places like Phuket and Krabi. While central and northern regions still see rainfall, the east coast, particularly islands like Koh Samui, tends to be drier this month. Travelers can still find sunny breaks between the rain, which is ideal for exploring these regions. As it is the low tourist season, fewer crowds exist, and bookings are more affordable. Also, 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 monsoons, typically in June, Thailand experiences more torrential rainfall 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.
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin is drier than other parts of Thailand in July, with pleasant weather and occasional night showers. Popular among Thais as a romantic getaway, the city boasts a myriad of seaside houses, a couple of classic summer houses, shopping and sightseeing villages, and many more. For all those adventure freaks, Phraya Nakhon Cave would be the perfect place to explore as it is located in a hard-to-reach site, and only an ardent traveler would succeed.
Koh Samui is one of the most popular beach destinations in the country. In July, the temperature in Samui ranges from 25 to 35 degrees 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. Explore Angthong National Marine Park, trek to the picturesque Namuang Waterfall, or visit religious places like Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem. Adventure lovers can try paragliding and ziplining at some of the island's famous beaches.
Located 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 the monsoon season, the waterfalls gush with water, and flora and fauna thrive, making it the best time for people to visit this place, especially those who don’t mind the rain. 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.
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.
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 participated in this event, which included full, half, and quarter marathons.
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.
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.
Asanha Bucha Day commemorates Buddha’s first sermon explaining the religion’s four noble truths. 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.
Wan Khao Phansa
The day next to the holy Asanha Bucha, Buddhist monks enter into three months of Lent, where they take refuge in 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.
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.
