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Best time to visit Thailand
The best time to visit Thailand is undoubtedly during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, temperatures can reach up to 35°C and, with clear blue skies and lush tropical valleys, it's an excellent time to visit the country! With its sweltering climate, you can enjoy exotic beaches, crystal-clear rainforests and spectacular wildlife virtually all year round.
Average weather in Thailand
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Weather in Thailand
Thailand not only caters to royalty with its jungle-covered mountain valleys and crystal-clear coastline, its far-eastern climate means it's warm all year round - although if you're a beach lover, it's not advisable to travel during the low season!
The climate differs slightly from east to west in the south of the country. The west coast prefers the winter months, from November to February, when diving and snorkelling are particularly popular. The climate on the east coast remains warm all year round, perfect for dreamy seascapes. November sees the most rainfall.
Seasonality in Thailand
Thailand has two distinct seasons: high season and low season. High season is the dry season, from November to April, while low season is the wet season, from June to September. May and October are considered the 'shoulder season', with warm rays of sunshine mixed with some rainfall, and for some, this is the most idyllic time to travel! Thailand's tourism industry thrives during the high season, particularly during the Christmas and February holidays. If you wish to travel during the high season, it is strongly recommended that you book as early as possible.
Peak season in Thailand
The high season coincides with the dry season, which runs from November to April. November to February are the driest months. During this period, you can expect scorching sunshine and pleasant sea temperatures. With very little rainfall, sunbathing and swimming are the order of the day.
Low season in Thailand
The low season in Thailand lasts from June to September, which is also the rainy season. During this time, heat and humidity increase along rainfall, and some downpours can be intense. Koh Samui, Southeast coast, is an exception experiencing heavy rain between October to December.
Holidays in Thailand
Sacred Thailand combines immaculate beauty with scorching heat all year round. This serene escape to unspoilt beaches, untouched karsts in every shade of green and temples steeped in antiquity has to be experienced in perfect conditions, and these are best experienced between November and April. Your holiday in Thailand is full of possibilities…
Thailand enjoys a warm, mild climate all year round, but some seasons are more suitable than others for lazing around in the blazing sun. From November to April, sunny spells are accompanied by average temperatures of 32°C and low rainfall, making it an awesome time to make the most of Thailand's exotic beaches. This is the dry season, and the months from December to February are particularly popular for escaping the harsh British winter and enjoying the pleasant sea temperatures and calm waters.
If snorkelling and diving in Thailand is on your bucket list, the dry season will provide the best conditions from December to April. During this period, the seas are generally calm, and the waters have crystal-clear visibility underwater with vibrant marine life. December to March is considered the prime time for snorkelling, where the kaleidoscope of corals colours the ocean floor amidst clownfish, rays, butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, reef sharks, and sea turtles. Koh Phi Ph Island is an excellent destination to witness whale sharks in the Andaman Sea, and in the Gulf of Thailand Koh Tao is famed for its abundant school fishes boasting barracudas and whale sharks.
Over the years, Thailand has become a magnet for surfers. We believe that the best weather conditions for surfing in Thailand are during the low season, from May to October. During this period, the south-west monsoon occurs and the country experiences regular and larger swells, creating more favourable surfing conditions. Because of the country's geographical location, Thailand's coastline has smaller waves that are suitable for all beginners, even during the rainy season.
The vast stretch of sand at Pha Nga, or Memories Beach, is a treasure trove for Thai surfers. It is known for its magnificent sunsets and consistent waves throughout the year. Khao Lak Beach is a fantastic option during the rainy season, with excellent wave conditions between May and October. If you're lucky, you may encounter the unpredictable wave month, which runs from January to March.
We all know that Phuket is the surfing capital of the land of smiles. The beaches of Kata Beach, Patong, Kamala, Nai Thon and Surin Beach are full of places to bask in the blazing sun while waiting for the perfect waves. For surf schools and equipment hire, Kata Beach is the place to be.
Month by month guide to visiting Thailand
Thailand in January
January in Thailand sees little rainfall and average temperatures of 31°C. It's a fantastic time to escape the winter blues, enjoy Thailand's natural wonders and take part in the Chinese New Year festival, with its blood-red decorations, dragon parades, street dances and firecrackers.
Thailand in February
Bursts of showers normally occur on the east coast of the country towards the start of February, but the rest of Thailand stays warm and dry. The average temperatures reach highs of 33°C and with pleasant sunshine, it’s the best time to get stuck in one of Thailand's buzzing festivals. Chiang Mai Flower festival is a three-day celebration held on the first weekend of February. Enjoy a colourful parade and gorgeous chrysanthemums displays in Chiang Mai. The Chinese Lunar New Year also takes place around that time, dates slightly vary each year.
Thailand in March
Thailand's climate warms up in March, with temperatures peaking at 35°C. The weather is hot, sunny and dry, perhaps too dreamy to relax on a beach surrounded by green foliage.
Thailand in April
April is one of the hottest months of the year, with many sunny days and scorching heat. The Songkran (Thai New Year) festival takes place at this time. It's the perfect opportunity to cool off with a traditional water fight and join in the fun celebrations after a relaxing day's sunbathing!
Thailand in May
In Thailand, May is a real roller coaster. Average temperatures can reach 32°C, but light showers generally occur throughout the month. The low-lying southern islands of Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Tao remain considerably drier than the rest of the country during this period. May is also the shoulder season between the high and low seasons, which means it's the ideal time to take advantage of holiday bargains!
Thailand in June
June marks the official start of the low season. Rain generally falls in the form of short but violent showers, but there are plenty of hot, humid days on the menu to counterbalance the downpours. Its lush rainforests come to life after the mild heat, transforming the country into a green season. Exploring Thailand's natural beauty during this period is a majestic experience.
Thailand in July
With average temperatures of 33°C, July brings humidity, sunshine and slightly more rainfall than June. It's the perfect time to discover the emerald wetlands of Thale Noi in Phatthalung and experience the magical wonders of the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival. To see the sun in action, visit the Gulf Coast.
Thailand in August
August brings the low-season rains throughout Thailand, particularly in the north. Although wet, the island's humidity and calm guarantee a comfortable stay, with fewer crowds and a humid climate of up to 32°C. This is the ideal time to explore Thailand's tropical forests and breathtaking landscapes. Showers can be intense, but usually last until late afternoon or evening.
Thailand in September
Although September is Thailand's rainiest month of the year, its tropical climate means that temperatures can hover around 30°C. Take advantage of the off-season bargains and celebrate traditional rowboat races in Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok and Nan, or take on the wild waves at top-level surfing competitions in Phuket.
Thailand in October
The low season ends in October and this is one of the best months to visit Thailand. The weather is pleasant, with less humidity and variable rainfall, but the picturesque landscapes and tourist attractions are well worth visiting. The Buddhist festival of Awk Phansa marks the end of the Phansa rainy season and many festivals take place in towns and villages across the country. Parades, music and dance are the essence of the ceremony. Other festivals include the Chong Para festival in Mae Hong San and vegetarian festivals in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya and Trang.
Thailand in November
Travel at the beginning of the month to avoid the crowds of the high season, as this is an excellent time for a getaway to Thailand. Many travellers prefer to visit in November because of the sunny spells and pleasantly warm temperatures that mark the start of the dry season. Beach lovers should focus on the Andaman coast to the east, which stretches across a lush mountain landscape with turquoise waters. Avoid the lower Gulf coast, including Ko Samui, as heavy showers are still common in the south of the country. Loy Krathong is celebrated at this time in November, with illuminated 'krathongs' lighting up the sky.
Thailand in December
December brings long hours of glorious sunshine and marks one of the driest months of the year in Thailand, with temperatures reaching as high as 33°C. This glorious weather complements sunny days at the beach with idyllic swimming conditions, perfect for family holidays and enticing seascapes. Christmas and New Year celebrations are held throughout the country.
Best time to visit Thailand frequently asked questions
The best time for good weather in Thailand is from November to April, it is the driest time of the year with hot temperatures.
The dry season in Thailand lasts from November to April.
The rainy season in Thailand runs from May to October. The wettest months of the year are from July to September, with heavy rains generally falling in the late afternoon or evening.
The rainy season starts in May, so it's best to travel early to avoid the crowds. October is also a quiet month, marking the end of the rainy season.
The main peak season in Thailand runs in the dry season from November to April, when the weather is best.
The low season in Thailand is the rainy season, from June to September.