What to know before you go to Thailand in October

Traveloka Team

25 Aug 2025 - 3 min read

The land of golden temples, lush jungles, and turquoise waters. Thailand offers a rich blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation like no other. Whether you’re walking down the lively streets of Bangkok filled with delectable delights from spicy, sour and sweet som tam to juicy satay skewers, or you’re on an outdoor adventure discovering hidden beaches lush green landscapes, the experiences are endlessly rewarding. Plus, if you’re visiting Thailand in October, just before peak tourist season kicks off, you’ll find fewer crowds and true laid-back charm that offers an even more authentic experience.

Is October a good time to visit Thailand?

For those seeking fewer crowds and a laid-back holiday, October is a great time to visit Thailand. Falling at the tail end of wet season, you’ll see a few rain showers here and there along with lush greenery and slightly cooler temperatures. Plus, everyone (locals and tourists alike) have an added pep in their step as clearer skies emerge after a long season of wet weather. So, if you don’t mind a bit of rain and love a good travel deal, October is one of the best months for budget-conscious travellers who are looking for an authentic Thailand experience.

Is October a cheap or expensive time to visit Thailand?

October falls within the off-peak or shoulder season for travel in Thailand, which not only means there are fewer crowds, it also means prices for hotels, flights, and tours are at its cheapest, too.

Weather in Thailand in October

In October, Thailand shifts from rainy season to the dry and cooler season. Which means, there’s still rain but it’s less intense and not as constant as the peak monsoon months prior. Instead, you’re likely to see short bursts of rain showers that are nice and refreshing.

Humidity is still quite high, with temperatures sitting around 25–31°C across the country in October.

Where to go in Thailand in October

Chiang Mai: As the weather cools and skies clear, it’s the perfect time to explore Chiang Mai’s stunning natural escapes — Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest mountain peak and the most photographed rice terrace in Thailand, Ban Pa Pong Piang.

Bangkok: As the rain starts to ease, take it as your sign to explore Bangkok’s lively markets, palaces, and vibrant street life.

Khao Yai National Park: Waterfalls like Haew Su Wat and Haew Narok are dramatic and breathtaking during this time of year as it’s the tail end of wet season.

Ayutthaya: Explore ancient ruins and temples against a lush green backdrop. Plus, the fewer crowds make it all the more immersive.

Koh Samui: Koh Samui is relatively dry in October, making it a great time to head to the beach to relax while there are fewer crowds.

Festivals and events in Thailand in October

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival (Nine Emperor Gods Festival): A sacred tradition that occurs annually on the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar (usually around end of September, early October) to honour the Nine Emperor Gods who are believed to bring good health, prosperity, and protection to the community. During this festival you’ll experience vibrant Chinese culture in Phuket with processions, sacred rituals, music, and traditional vegetarian foods.

Royal Barge Procession: A once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Royal Barge Procession is where a ceremonial fleet of barges are rowed by hundreds of oarsmen along the Chao Phraya River.

Ok Phansa: Also known as the end of Buddhist Lent, Ok Phansa is celebrated throughout the country, especially in Sakon Nakhon – from traditional ceremonies in temples and wax sculptures paraded through streets on floats, to lights and lantern displays and barge processions. Ok Phansa occurs on the full moon day of the 11th lunar month, generally landing in October.

Thai MotoGP: The world comes together in Buri Ram in Thailand to watch world-class riders compete in this premier motorcycle racing event.

Best things to do in Thailand in October

With a few rain showers and cooler temperatures on the cards, below are some of the best things to do in Thailand in October.

Experience the Phuket Vegetarian Festival: A truly one-of-a-kind cultural event in Phuket. Think fire walking, body piercing rituals, parades, and delicious vegetarian dishes. It’s important to note that some sacred rituals can be graphic, and/or extreme (for kids and adults). These rituals generally occur in early morning processions or around specific shrines like Jui Tui temple or Bang Neow shrine.

Explore National Parks: Rain-fed landscapes result in the most dramatic waterfalls and lush rainforests. Khao Yai, Erawan Falls, or Doi Inthanon are all great spots for picture-perfect hikes and wildlife spotting.

Experience Ok Phansa: A deeply cultural celebration, join in on the festivities in Sakon Nakhon, Ubon Tachathani, or Nakhon Phanom.

Visit Golden Rice Terraces: October is harvest season, so terraces in Ban Pa Pong Piang and Mae Klang Luang are golden from within.

Visit an Elephant Sanctuary: Believe it or not, elephants actually love the rain. So, heading to an elephant sanctuary like Hidden Forest or Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is the perfect time to see elephants enjoy the cooler weather while playing in puddles or mud baths. There’s plenty of covered viewing platforms and canopy walkways, but be sure to bring a rain jacket and some waterproof shoes (with good grip) for the full experience.