Best time to visit Thailand

Mas Bellboy
29 Sep 2023 - 3 min read

Thailand’s got everything you could want in a holiday: beaches for days, ornate temples, food that packs a punch, and culture that’ll stick with you long after you’re home. Generally, the best time to go is usually November to February, when the skies are clear and the weather’s spot on. 

But here’s the trick: the north and south don’t share the same seasons, so while one side’s copping rain, the other’s all sunshine. That means no matter when you’ve got time off, there’s always a part of Thailand ready to welcome you.

Visiting Thailand in summer

What’s the weather like? This is Thailand’s prime time. The north and central regions are cool and dry, averaging 18 - 26°C, perfect for trekking or exploring temples. Down south, both the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi) and the Gulf coast (Koh Samui, Koh Tao) are sunny with calm seas.

Notable events: Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February) and New Year celebrations.

Recommended time to visit? Yes.

This is peak season for good reason. You’ll find comfortable weather everywhere, ideal for temples, trekking, and island hopping. Just book early, as everyone else has the same idea.

Visiting Thailand in autumn

What’s the weather like? It’s hot across the board. The north and central regions push 34 - 40°C, while the Andaman coast gets sticky with rising humidity. The Gulf Coast stays comfortable a little longer, with sunny spells through March and April before showers creep in.

Notable events: Songkran Festival (April) and Royal Ploughing Ceremony (May).

Recommended time to visit? Yes, but only northern areas like Chiang Mai.

Autumn in Thailand can be sweaty work, especially inland. Still, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai remain dry through April, and Songkran’s water fights are a wild cultural experience you won’t forget.

Visiting Thailand in winter

What’s the weather like? Northern Thailand is in full wet season mode, with heavy rains from June to October. The Andaman coast also cops the monsoon, and seas can be rough. But the Gulf coast is a winner: Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phangan are sunny and warm, perfect for mid-year getaways.

Notable events: Phi Ta Khon Festival in Loei Province (June/July) and Asahna Bucha (July).

Recommended time to visit? Yes, but stick to the Gulf Coast.

While much of Thailand is drenched, the Gulf islands are a gem in winter. You’ll get great beaches, good diving, and plenty of sunshine—ideal if you’re chasing a mid-year escape from the Aussie chill.

Visiting Thailand in spring

What’s the weather like? The north and central regions are still wet in September, but start drying out by November with cooler air rolling in. The Andaman coast is at peak monsoon in September and October, but clears up by November. The Gulf Coast, on the other hand, is wettest from October to December.

Notable events: Loy Krathong Festival (November) and Vegetarian Festival in Phuket.

Recommended time to visit? Yes, but choose wisely.

Spring’s a mixed bag. September is soggy almost everywhere, but by November, the north is cool and dry, perfect for Chiang Mai or Bangkok. Just avoid the Gulf Coast late in the season as storms roll in.

When are the warmest and coolest months in Thailand?

March, April, and May are the hottest months, with the mercury climbing above 35°C. Great if you want to hit the coast, where sea breezes give some relief, but tough going inland.

December and January are the coolest months, especially up north, where nights can be fresh. This is the best time for trekking, city breaks, or just soaking up sunny beach days without sweating buckets.

When are the wettest and driest times in Thailand?

Rain peaks from June to October in the north and central regions, and from May to October along the Andaman coast. The Gulf Coast is wettest from September to December.

Dry season runs from November to May up north, from November to March on the Andaman coast, and from December to August on the Gulf coast. Which means: there’s always a sunny spot somewhere—handy when you’re booking your holiday around Aussie school breaks.

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