If you’re a travel lover, your bucket list won’t be complete without a trip to the land of smiles, Thailand. With a jubilant atmosphere year-round, Thailand is one of the hottest destinations for travellers. Thailand has something for everyone, whether it’s the nightlife, street food, culture, or history. There are just so many things to do on your trip to Thailand without breaking the bank. Wondering about the best time to travel to Thailand? Here’s everything you need to know.
The best time to travel to Thailand would be from early November to March. With a tropical climate year-round, Thailand is a great place for a tourist holiday in any season. From November to March, Thailand is cool and dry, which means that the temperature will be pleasant and the landscape is lush. During this season, the temperature average ranges between 24-28°C, and rainfall is at its bare minimum, allowing you to enjoy numerous outdoor activities. In North and Northeast Thailand, the temperature will be even cooler.
During this time, you can explore the land of smiles in full bloom. You can enjoy its pristine southern beaches, watch seagulls by the seaside at sunset, and take part in the new year festivities. However, Thailand will be at its busiest, which means bigger tourist crowds and inflated holiday rates.
Thailand In January
During January, Thailand has a pleasant temperature, usually around 27°C, which rarely goes above 30°C, while rainfall averages about 10mm depending on the region. Despite being a predominantly Buddhist state, Thailand welcomes the new year with big celebrations during January. The surrounding neighbourhoods will be filled with lights, and Chinatown is particularly worth visiting due to the Chinese New Year celebrations. It’s also an excellent time to visit the northern areas like Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai.
- Average temperature: 27°C
- Average rainfall: 10mm
Thailand In February
February is also one of the best months to visit Thailand. During this month, rainfall is at its lowest, and the average temperature is around 28°C. The weather is sunny throughout the month, and the skies are clear and cloudless. You can visit some of the pleasant and exotic islands such as Koh Chang and Koh Kood. The great water visibility is perfect for snorkelling and diving in Koh Tao or Koh Wai. The capital of Bangkok is also worth a visit during February.
- Average temperature: 28°C
- Average rainfall: 10mm
Thailand In March
In March, Thailand is moderately hot but still pleasant to visit. The temperature averages around 30°C but rarely exceeds 35°C, and rainfall is relatively low at 50mm. During this month, it’s a great idea to visit the capital Bangkok as the crowds have subsided and the weather is milder. You can wander around the capital, visit the temples and explore the trendy bars and traditional restaurants around the city.
- Average temperature: 30°C
- Average rainfall: 50mm
Thailand In April
April is the hottest month to travel to Thailand, and it can get blistering hot at times. The temperature ranges around 29°C in the evenings, and it can reach as high as 34.7°C. To beat the summer heat, it’s highly recommended that you visit the coastlines and islands. Watersports are very popular, so don’t miss the chance to get a surfing lesson or paddle around Thailands’ pristine beaches. In April, Thailand celebrates one of its most awaited festivals — Songkran. You can join in the fun and cool off from the heat with some water fighting.
- Average temperature: 31°C
- Average rainfall: 110mm
Thailand In May
May welcomes the rainy season in Thailand. Depending on the island, the average temperature is around 30°, and rainfall is about 180mm. The short-lived rain showers offer great relief from the high temperatures, with some destinations such as Phang-Nga and Phuket experiencing more than others. For the best weather, you should explore the islands of Koh Pha Ngan or Koh Samui. During this month, Bangkok is also a great place to visit as there are many bars, restaurants, art galleries, museums, and theatres for you to visit.
- Average temperature: 30°C
- Average rainfall: 180mm
Thailand In June
The rainy season is not much heavier in June. There is a higher concentration of showers on the Andaman coast, as it is particularly affected by the monsoon. The average temperature is around 30°C, and rainfall is about 180mm. Rain showers last only a short while during this season, and it’s a particularly great time to visit as there are fewer tourists. This means you will be able to find great deals on flights and accommodation. Bangkok is the driest destination during this month, and since most of its attractions are indoors, you should consider visiting the capital. Pai Canyon is also stunning during this time of year, and the Gulf of Thailand is well worth a visit.
- Average temperature: 30°C
- Average rainfall: 180mm
Thailand in July
Depending on the location, the average temperature may drop during July compared to June, while rainfall may increase slightly. The average temperature is around 30°C, and rainfall stands at 180mm. The Golden Triangle region and Chiang Rai will be a bit challenging for trekking. However, it’s a popular month for diving in Koh Tao as this is a great time to see bioluminescent plankton after dark. Some regions, like most islands, get less rain while still offering attractive bargains for tourist holidays.
- Average temperature: 30°C
- Average rainfall: 180mm
Thailand In August
By August, rainfall can be a bit unpredictable and sporadic. Throughout the whole of Thailand, the average rainfall is 219mm, and the temperature ranges around 27°C. During this month, flights and accommodation are also much cheaper, so it can be the best time to travel to Thailand if you’re on a budget. Bangkok and central Thailand will witness less rainfall in comparison to northern Thailand. In August, indoor activities are most recommended, and you can also visit the stunning island of Koh Samui and snorkel in its hidden coves and palm-fringed lagoons.
- Average temperature: 28°C
- Average rainfall: 219mm
Thailand In September
In September, rainfall reaches its peak averaging around 252mm. The average temperature is about 27°C and can exceed the 30’s as well. During September, thunderstorms are also common. They are, however, quite short and leave an average of 8 hours of sunshine a day. During this time, Bangkok is a top must-visit destination as it has a lot of indoor attractions. You can also visit Chiang Mai as the mornings are often clear and sunny. The beaches have minimal crowds during this time, and if it’s sunny, you can go for a swim or get some good deals on snorkelling equipment.
- Average temperature: 28°C
- Average rainfall: 252mm
Thailand In October
October is a decent time to travel to Thailand as the rainfall starts to subside and the temperatures start to decrease, allowing for a cooler climate. The average rainfall is about 190mm, and the average temperature hovers around 27°C. This month is pleasant for visits to the northern regions such as Mae Salong, Phrae, Pai, and Chaing Mai as they tend to be drier than in August. The tranquil towns of Khong Chiam and Chiang Khan are also worth a visit.
- Average temperature: 27°C
- Average rainfall: 190mm
Thailand In November
Most of Thailand will witness a considerable drop in rainfall by November. The temperatures are moderate and average around 28°C. Ta, Chiang Mai, and Sukhothai witness the jubilant Loy Krathong festivities. If you want to go diving or snorkelling, Phuket is also worth visiting as the weather usually remains cool and dry.
- Average temperature: 28°C
- Average rainfall: 40mm
Thailand In December
The end of the year, December, is the best time to travel to Thailand weather-wise. The weather is delightful by any standard, and rainfall has subsided considerably. Average rainfall stands at around 57mm, and the temperature can range from 21-31 °C. During this month, most of the tourist attractions will be open, and you can also visit Krabi, Phang Nga Bay, and Phi Phi Island for water activities.
- Average temperature: 26°C
- Average rainfall: 10mm
All in all
Thailand is one of the best tourist destinations, and year-round, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. However, knowing every month’s weather and rainfall conditions will allow you to make the most of your Thailand trip.
Read Also:
Best time to visit Bali | Best time to visit Vietnam | Best time to visit Maldives
Best time to visit Japan | Best time to visit Sri Lanka | Best time to visit Mauritius
Best time to visit Singapore | Best time to visit Malaysia | Best time to visit Cambodia