Thailand is one of the most famous travel destinations in Southeast Asia. This tropical paradise boasts crystal-clear beaches, remote islands, historical landmarks, great food, and the friendliest people. The best part is you can spend a little money to visit Thailand. You can get your money’s worth and enjoy everything the country offers by knowing the best time to visit Thailand.
Best Time to Visit Thailand According to Season
Thailand’s tropical climate varies though the country’s good weather year-round attracts millions of beach lovers, nature adventurers, scuba divers, honeymooners, and more. However, there are many factors you need to consider before you visit Thailand, and one of them is the weather. The country has its fair share of extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and major flooding now and then. Fortunately, you can avoid them by finding the best time to visit Thailand according to the seasons.
Like other countries in mainland Southeast Asia, Thailand’s weather is characterized by two monsoon seasons, resulting in its three seasons: wet, cool, and hot.
Wet Season (May to October)
Thailand’s wet season runs from May to October. It also refers to reudu fon. The southwest monsoon season dominates these months, bringing warm, humid air from the Indian Ocean and causing rain throughout the country. Though it’s not always rainy, one can expect rain in the afternoon or at night. Meanwhile, heavy rainfall is typical in September and October.
Many consider the wet or rainy season not the best time to visit Thailand due to the high humidity from the southwest monsoon. It can be very uncomfortable, mainly if you’re not used to this weather.
However, you can still visit Thailand during the rainy season. In fact, it’s considered the low season because prices are lower, and the number of people who visit Thailand is significantly lower, too. The only problem is you’ll have fewer beach options with some islands shutting down. Boat service for island hopping is limited during stormy conditions.
If you find it the best time to visit Thailand during the wet or rainy season, make flexible travel plans as much as possible.
Hot Season (March to May)
Many consider the country’s hot season the best time to visit Thailand. Known as ruedu ron, it starts from March to May. This season is most notable in northern Thailand, where the temperatures vary year-round. In Chiang Mai, the temperatures range from 37 degrees Celsius in April, while those in southern Thailand have a less pronounced hot season. The average temperatures in Phuket are around 33 degrees Celsius.
Visiting Thailand during the hot season may differ from everyone’s cup of tea. Though tourists also come to visit Thailand during this time, others who’ve experienced traveling here find the minimal breeze and little rainfall the season brings rather difficult.
Cool Season (November to February)
The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool season, from November to February. Also known as ruedu nao, it’s the time of the year when the northeast monsoon changes wind direction. It brings calm, dry air resulting in cooler temperatures and better humidity. This means there’s less rainfall, too. No wonder it’s the best time to visit Thailand.
If you love the beach and hope to see the islands, visiting Thailand during the cool season is your top option. Thailand’s west coast, the Andaman Sea, is at its calmest. You’ll have the most unforgettable time in the different west coast resorts, including the world-renowned Phuket, Krabi, and Ko Phi Phi islands. The great weather is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, island-hopping, and more.
On the other hand, if you plan to visit the Gulf coast or east coast of Thailand, including Ko Chang or Ko Samui, remember that the northeast monsoon hits these areas during the cool season, specifically between October and January. You should better book your trip to the east coast between April and September instead.
The cool season is the best time to visit Thailand. It’s the peak season or high season, so it’s not surprising that it’s also the most expensive and busiest time of the year. Thousands of tourists flock to Thailand; if you don’t like crowds, it’s best to avoid these months. Also, consider visiting Thailand when everything’s more affordable.
Best Time to Visit Thailand for Budget Travelers
Visiting Thailand costs money. After all, you must pay for plane tickets, hotel bookings, food, tours, transportation, and more. If you’re traveling on a budget, you should know the best time to visit Thailand. The good news is it’s one of the most affordable destinations in mainland Southeast Asia.
You can avail of low prices on Thailand flights, tours, and accommodations during the wet or rainy season, specifically from May to October. However, you should know what to expect during this time. It’ll be raining for days, and heavy flooding may occur because of the monsoon season. You may be unable to do island hopping, scuba diving, surfing, and other water activities. However, if you’re willing to take your chance to visit Thailand to enjoy fewer people and significant savings, go for it!
On the other hand, you should also book your Thailand trip during the shoulder season, specifically in April, May, or June. There are no promises of good weather, but at least the rains usually happen in the afternoon for a short time. July is also the best time to visit Thailand for most tourists on a budget.
Best Times to Visit Thailand to Enjoy Festivals
The beaches aren’t just the reason why many dream of visiting Thailand. It’s also home to some of the world’s most unique and historic festivals. Many tourists enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience of being a part of the country’s celebrations of its amazing culture and traditions.
Thailand offers numerous festivals every year. To start, there’s the Chinese New Year which falls in January or February. Bangkok’s Chinatown will be packed with people, including worshippers, who visit the temples to pay respect to their ancestors. Visitors are in for a treat as they witness the skillful dragon dancers performing in time with the rolling of the drums and enjoy the crackling of firecrackers.
Another must-see festival in Thailand is the Chiang Mai Flower Festival, which lasts up to three days. There’s a parade featuring floats adorned with chrysanthemums, damask roses, and many more. Beautiful flowers are everywhere and the air is filled with their natural fragrance.
Meanwhile, you’ll also enjoy Thailand’s Songkran Festival, or Water Splashing Festival held in the middle of April. It signifies the Buddhist New Year, and there’ll be parties, parades, and all sorts of performances in Chiang Mai, the central regions, and other parts of the country. The Vegetarian Festival follows the Songkran festival in September or October.
Another famous festival to look forward to when visiting Thailand is the Lantern Festival in November. This annual celebration includes the Yi Peng festival and the Loy Krathong festival. During Yi Peng, the people in Chiang Mai release thousands of rice paper lanterns into the sky, while in Loy Krathong, tons of candlelit baskets are released into the water. If you want to participate in the Lantern Festival, you can do so in Chiang Mai, where tourists can avail of ticketed entry at around $140.
For more information about festivals in Thailand, please click here to see our full guide.
The Best Times to Go Island-hopping
One of the main reasons why people want to know when is the best time to visit Thailand is to explore the country’s beautiful islands and witness first-hand the gorgeous scenery. Thailand is a dream come true for beach lovers. You can visit Phuket, Ko Lanta, Phi Phi islands, and other isles on the Andaman Coast, which promise powdery white sand, crystalline waters, and abundant marine life.
You can have the best time of your life in these tourist attractions when you come here during the cool season when accommodations and boat transfers are accessible. Meanwhile, traveling to Thailand between May and October is unfavorable, with heavy rains dominating the country. Most resorts are closed during this time, too.
Thailand offers numerous attractions and festivities for you throughout the year. But when it comes to the best time to visit Thailand, it depends entirely on you!
