As one of the most enchanting destinations in Southeast Asia, Thailand promises a fantastic holiday experience. From colourful festivals to serene beaches and lush jungles, Thailand abounds in experiences for every kind of traveller. If you plan to visit Thailand in April, read on to discover everything you need to know.
Is April a good time to visit Thailand?
For the most part, April is an excellent time to visit Thailand, although it will depend on what you want to do during your trip. April has plenty of clear skies and sunshine, so it’s great for sightseeing and beach-going. Because the beginning of April is the tail-end of the dry season, many of the national parks are at their most beautiful, making this one of the best times for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Thai New Year, known as Songkran, usually takes place in mid-April, making this a fun and festive time to visit – you can experience water fights in the streets and several celebrations throughout the country.
Overview of Weather in Thailand in April
Thailand’s weather in April generally has high temperatures and humidity – this is considered one of the hottest months in Thailand. In some places, like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the Thailand temperature in April can get as high as 36°C, and most other parts of the country average around 32°C during the day. Even at night, temperatures rarely get below 26°C.
Rain is relatively low outside of the southern coast, which gets about 15 days of rain throughout this month. However, Thailand in late April is generally more rainy than in early April. The rest of the country averages about 4 to 6 rainy days this month.
- Temperature in Thailand in April: 29–34°C
- Average Rainfall in April: 41 mm
Read Also: Weather in Bali in April
What to Wear in Thailand in April
Thailand can be hot in April, especially in the central and northern regions – so it’s essential to wear clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Loose-fitting clothing, including shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops, can help keep you cool.
Don’t forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat or cap to protect your head and face from the sun. Additionally, if you plan to visit temples, it’s important to dress modestly. Both men and women should have their shoulders and knees covered.
Visitor Arrivals: Is Thailand Crowded During April?
During April, the crowds in Thailand are moderate. While the hot temperatures and smog will keep many tourists away, the Songkran Festival, in mid-April, attracts many visitors. Many locals travel to their hometowns to be with their families, leading to increased domestic travel within the country. Chiang Mai and Bangkok also have massive celebrations for this holiday, so hotels are often at capacity during the festival in the middle of the month. If you’re planning to visit in April, plan on booking your accommodations at least a year in advance.
Average Costs of a Trip to Thailand in April
The total cost of a trip to Thailand in April can vary widely depending on many factors, including your travel style, the duration of your stay, the locations you visit, and your preferences for accommodations and activities. A moderate budget traveller might spend approximately £50 to £100 per day, while a more luxurious trip could cost £150 to £300 or more per day.
- Airfare – Airfare to Thailand varies depending on your departure location, but you can expect average international round-trip flights to be around £500 to £850 or more.
- Hotels and Resorts Prices – Hotels and resorts in Thailand during April can also vary significantly. Budget accommodations can start at around £20 to £30 per night, while mid-range options range from £40 to £120 or more per night. Luxury resorts can go beyond £200 per night. Prices tend to be higher in popular tourist destinations and during festivals like Songkran.
- Transfers – Taxis, tuk-tuks, and public transportation are accessible and reasonably priced. Consider budgeting around £20 to £40 per day for transportation and activities.
Things to Do in Thailand in April
If you’re visiting Thailand in April, going to Songkran is a must-do. Grab a few water guns from a street vendor and enjoy the highlights of this water festival. Other fun activities in April can be found in Bangkok, including the iconic Wat Pho and the Grand Palace.
Visit Chiang Mai for shopping, food, and nightlife at Nimmanhaemin Road and the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Outdoor adventures include the Kanta Elephant Sanctuary or exploring Doi Inthanon National Park, home to the country’s highest mountain.
| Things to Do in Thailand in April | |
| 1. The Grand Palace | 2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) |
| 3. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar | 4. Songkran Festival |
| 5. Nimmanhaemin Road | 6. Doi Inthanon National Park |
| 7. Kanta Elephant Sanctuary | 8. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) |
Where to Stay in Thailand in April
The best place to stay in Thailand will depend on what you want to do and see. For Songkran Festival activities, Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the best options. If you’d rather enjoy the beach or exclusive island retreats, Koh Pha Ngan, Ko Samui, and Koh Phi Phi offer stunning beaches and a variety of accommodations.
You can also experience the rainforest in treehouses, eco-lodges, and floating bungalows near Khao Sok National Park. If you’d instead go off the beaten path, Pai, located in northern Thailand, offers a laid-back mountain town experience with several different hostels, guest houses, and boutique hotels.
| Where to Stay in Thailand in April | |
| 1. Bangkok | 2. Chiang Mai |
| 3. Koh Phi Phi | 4. Koh Pha Ngan |
| 5. Khao Sok National Park | 6. Chiang Rai |
| 7. Ko Samui | 8. Pai |
What to Eat in Thailand in April
There is no shortage of delicious food in Thailand, especially during April. During Songkran, you can sample several dishes, like mango sticky rice, khao chae, and pad thai. Wash it all down with a delicious Thai Margarita. No matter when you visit, som tum, a green papaya salad, and tom yum goong, a spicy shrimp soup, are two must-try dishes.
Because Thailand is an island nation, you’ll find plenty of fresh seafood, like crab, lobster, and shrimp. The tropical climate means the fresh fruit here is delicious – especially mango and papaya in April.
| What to Eat in Thailand in April | |
| 1. Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad) | 2. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup) |
| 3. Pad Thai | 4. Mango Sticky Rice |
| 5. Fresh Seafood | 6. Mango and papaya |
| 7. Thai Margarita | 8. Khao Chae |
What to Pack in Thailand in April
When packing for a trip to Thailand, you’ll want to bring lightweight, breathable clothing in addition to your swimsuit, towels, and sunscreen for beach days. You should also bring along an umbrella or rain jacket in case of storms. Comfortable shoes are a necessity, especially if you plan on hiking or sightseeing. Bring some modest clothing if you plan to visit any temples. Don’t forget to bring insect repellent.
| What to Pack in Thailand in April | |
| 1. Light clothing | 2. Swimwear |
| 3. Sun protection | 4. Rain gear |
| 5. Bug spray | 6. Comfortable shoes |
| 7. Modest clothing | 8. Passport and other travel documents |
Hacks & Tips to Visit Thailand in April
- April is a peak travel month, so book your accommodations, flights, and tours well in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
- The April heat can be intense, so always carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- When visiting temples and during the Songkran festival, dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself in case of unexpected events.
- Stick to bottled water and eat at reputable establishments to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Embrace the vibrant Songkran celebrations and join in the water fights, but protect your electronics and valuables in waterproof bags.
- Save money by using local transportation like tuk-tuks, taxis, and buses for short trips within cities.
- Knowing a few local phrases can enhance your travel experience and help you connect with locals. For example, ‘Thank you’ in Thai is ‘Khob Khun’.
- When shopping at local markets, feel free to haggle for a better price.
Read Also: Best time to visit Thailand | Places to visit in Thailand | Best resorts in Thailand
Thailand in February | Thailand in November | Thailand in January
Thailand in December | Vietnam December | Vietnam in November
Thailand in May | Thailand in March | Maldives in April
FAQs of Thailand in April
Ko Samui and Koh Pha Ngan are two of the best places in Thailand in April, due to the uncrowded beaches and infrequent rain.
April is typically one of the hottest months in Thailand, especially in the central and northern regions.
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