The best times to visit Thailand

Thailand can be visited year-round, but certain regions are better to visit at certain times of the year due to varying seasons. Thailand experiences three distinct seasons influenced by the southwest and northeast monsoons. These are:

• The rainy season from May to October
• The dry season from November to February
• The hot season from March to May

It's also important to consider the tourist seasons when planning a trip to Thailand. The country experiences a very high tourist season during the dry season and a quieter low season.

When to visit Thailand based on the weather?

Thailand's climate is affected by the monsoon phenomenon, resulting in weather imbalances between the north, central, southeast, and southwest regions of the country.

Climate in Southeast Thailand:

The monsoon occurs from October to December. The Gulf Islands should be avoided during this time if you want to avoid rain. The best time to visit the eastern beaches and islands is January, February, March, and April. If you're traveling to Thailand in July and August, it's also best to prioritize the Gulf Islands rather than those in the southwest Andaman Sea.

Climate in Southwest Thailand:

The monsoon season is from June to August. The best times to visit the western beaches and islands are January, February, March, November, and December.

Climate in Northern Thailand:

Winter begins in November and ends in February. This is the ideal season for hiking and exploration, as rainfall is minimal and temperatures are pleasant, even cool, especially in the highlands. During the day, temperatures in Chiang Mai do not exceed 25 °C and can occasionally drop to 15 °C. The heat sets in from March onward. Some relief can be found in the higher altitudes of Chiang Mai.

The rainy season starts in May or June and ends in October. The rice fields are at their most beautiful during this time, and a trip in July is still feasible in the region. However, it's advisable to avoid September and late August, when rainfall is at its highest.

Climate in Northeast Thailand:

Including the Isan region and the Mekong River, the northeastern part of Thailand is known for its long dry season from November to April. With pleasant and cool temperatures, this period is the ideal time to visit the region. Before the rainy season, this region experiences a very hot intermediate season. It starts at the end of March and gives way to the rainy season in May.

Climate in central Thailand:

Central Thailand experiences three seasons: a cool season, a hot season, and a rainy season. Around Bangkok, temperatures hover around 30 °C throughout the dry season. From March to June, temperatures rise and can reach close to 40 °C. It's best to relax by your hotel pool, enjoy air-conditioned shopping centers, and visit the city in the mornings or late afternoons when the temperature is cooler. Like all Thai regions, its climate is also affected by the monsoon between July and October. During this time, there's a mix of sun and rain, heat, and humidity. Whenever you go out, always remember to carry a raincoat or umbrella to protect yourself from the heavy afternoon rain.

Month to avoid: September is the period of typhoons and heaviest rainfall, so it's best to avoid it in all Thai regions.