Discover the Best Time to Visit Thailand

From exotic beaches to incredible nightlife, Thailand offers something for everyone

Though you’ve never been there, you’ve probably heard of how amazing Thailand is. Whether you’re here for tantalizing food, breathtaking beaches, lively celebrations, or incredible culture, Thailand will never disappoint you. However, as the saying goes, ‘there’s a right time for everything,’ you might want to make sure you’re in Thailand when everything around complements your trip.

So, if you’re planning to visit Thailand, buckle up! This article guides you through the best time to visit Thailand, so there’s no weather factor between you and your amazing travel experience. First, you might want to know a thing or two about Thailand that you may not be aware of yet.

A brief introduction to Thailand

Located in the middle of mainland Southeast Asia, Thailand shares its borders with Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Malaysia. Expect crazy and diverse landscapes and incredible culture, not to mention food, when you’re traveling to Thailand because you’re in the 50th largest country in the world.

If you’re a traveler that loves to explore nature, Thailand has breathtaking sites. If you’re a social fella who’s more into meeting new people and exploring new cultures, Thailand offers a widely diverse society with warm and welcoming people. Love the crazy city life, you have it. Love peace and tranquility, you have that too. You’re in for a great treat if you’ve already planned for a Thailand trip. Just figure out the best time to visit Thailand according to your preferences.

Most people in Thailand follow Buddhism, so expect respectful encounters

Local Time in Thailand

Thailand observes Indochina time, UTC +7 all year round. There is no daylight saving in Thailand, so you don’t have to worry about fixing your clock in the middle of your visit.

Thailand climate

Interested to have some knowledge about the climate, so you figure out the best time to visit Thailand? We’re at your service!

Thailand has a humid subtropical and tropical climate, with an average yearly temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. There are basically three seasons—cool, hot, and rainy. From March to May, the average temperature ranges between 29 and 38 degrees and can go above 40 during the hottest days. This is the time of the year that’s not widely considered to be the best time to visit Thailand. The rainy season begins in June and lasts till October. However, you can experience many sunny days during this time, but short rainstorms are frequent. The cool/dry season lasts through February from November, as the temperature averages 19 degrees Celsius.

The best time to visit Thailand

Contrary to what most people suggest, Thailand is accessible all year, although some rural areas become less accessible during the rainy season, and the winter may invite higher seas, putting a damper on the lovely beaches.

Of course, you wouldn’t want the weather to mess up your travel plans while visiting a new place. However, the best time to visit Thailand also depends on how you want to explore the country. So we present you the best time to visit Thailand according to traveler’s preferences:

Most of Thailand enjoys tropical and subtropical climate

Best time to visit Thailand for good weather: November to March

According to most travelers, the best time to visit Thailand is between November and early April during the cool season. It’s because the weather is at its finest. It’s also the main tourist season in Thailand as people from around the world pour in during this time of the year. Not only that, but the temperature averages between 20 and 30 °C, and you can see the sun all day in the clear sky. But keep this in mind: things get quite expensive in here during this time.

Best time to visit Thailand coastal areas: April to June

The time between April and June is generally hot and dry, with an average temperature of 30 °C. However, the cool sea breezes act as natural air conditioners in coastal areas. Therefore, if you’re fond of coastal areas and want to explore them on a discounted rate, the best time to visit Thailand for you might be during summer.

Best time to visit Thailand for budget travelers: July to October

The monsoon season can come with major flooding. However, the rain is usually short but heavy. It’s the best time to visit Thailand if you’re on a budget. The low season definitely means lower prices, but you might not get to experience the best—some islands are shut down and boat services are limited. Therefore, be flexible with your travel plans if you’re planning for a Thailand trip during this time of the year.

Thailand weather

North and central: The dry season runs from November to June in north and central Thailand. There’s almost no rain during this time. The temperature starts to rise from mid-January and can peak up to 40°C in March through April, especially in the central regions. The monsoon arrives in the form of short downpours and helps cool the temperature down, usually in May. The rain gradually becomes heavier and more frequent, reaching peak levels in August or September. Some famous destinations in north and central Thailand are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Nan, Chiang Kham, Kanchanaburi, Issan. Dry season could be the best time to visit Thailand if you’re planning for north and central Thailand and don’t like weather challenges.

Chiang Mai is considered to have a better climate than other parts of the north

West Coast: If you’re planning to visit Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi Island, Khao Lak, Koh Lanta, Koh Kood, Koh Chang, you may want to know about the weather on the west coast. Thailand’s west coast has three similar seasons. From November to March, the cooling wind keeps temperatures at bay and keeps humidity levels in check, creating a comfortable daytime. The temperature begins rising in March as the cooling winds disappear and the humidity rises. Then in late May, the monsoon arrives and lasts through October.

East Coast: The Gulf of Thailand or the east coast with famous tourist attractions, such as Koh Samui, Koh Phan Ngan, Koh Tao, Khanom, Hua Hin & Cha Am, also experiences similar seasons as the rest of the country. Hua Hin & Cha Am experience slightly different rain patterns than other coastline areas as there’s heavy rainfall only in September and October. The islands of Koh Chang and Koh Kood experience similar weather patterns as the beaches along the Andaman Sea coast, with the wet season occurring between May and October.

Things travelers should bring with them while visiting Thailand

If you’re planning to travel to Thailand for the first time, only figuring out the best time to visit Thailand may not be enough. You may want to take a few things with you. Not to worry! It’s just another great country with a lot of helpful people. We still have a list prepared for you to make your trip a bit easier.

Many nationalities don’t require a visa to enter Thailand. So, at first, you might want to check if your country is on the visa waiver list of Thailand. Like traveling to any other country, the first and foremost important thing is to ensure you have all your necessary documents with you. It includes a passport that’s valid for at least six months, proof of vaccination, and travel insurance.

Additionally, you wouldn’t want to leave behind your prescription medicines, credit and debit cards and scans of all important documents.

It’s even better if you take a Thailand guidebook and maps with you. Some other essential travel elements you would need are a backpack, travel wallet, toiletries, Sunscreen, mosquito Repellent, diarrhea treatment, first Aid Kit, proper clothing and swimwear, electronic devices and their accessories, and a pocket torch. Figure out your travelling preferences, know the best time to visit Thailand according to your plan, and pack your bag accordingly. It’s as simple as that.

Every year, Bangkok welcomes more than 22.7 million international visitors

Five Places you want to be in Thailand

Forget the best time to visit Thailand, if you’re planning to visit this place, plan for a long trip and take a few weeks off your daily routine. You may want to come back because once is never enough. Here’s the list of major attractions in Thailand, so you won't want to miss them when you’re here.

Bangkok

You probably already know Bangkok is crazy from the way it is portrayed in the popular culture. But there’s much more to Bangkok than just rush and bustle. It’s a great tourist destination that offers visitors many things: great food, excellent culture, stunning historical temples, Muay Thai, crazy festivals, and one of the world’s best massage services. Don’t worry about knowing the best time to visit Thailand if you’re heading to Bangkok. There is always something exciting for you round the year.

Chiang Mai

Love visiting historical places? Chiang Mai is the place you want to be while visiting Thailand. Referred to as ““Rose of the North,” Chiang Mai is a historical city located in the north of Thailand. This city was founded in 1296, and hence offers many historical temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. You’ll also love the weather and scenic views here.

Phuket

Loved by travelers around the world, Phuket Island is located in the Andaman Sea of southern Thailand. If you love exotic beaches and vibrant nightlife, you wouldn’t want to miss it. While in Phuket, you can also enjoy open sea boat tours, mesmerizing live shows, adventurous water sports, and scuba diving.

Koh Phi Phi, located off Thailand’s Andaman coast, can be a great destination for a relaxing holiday. Some travelers refer to this island as a place you must visit before you die. You’ll love the turquoise water and stunning beaches here.

Khao Sok National Park

Who doesn’t love nature, especially when you get to see the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world? Khao Sok National Park is located in Southern Thailand and is an amazing place to be when you’re in Thailand. Expect huge limestone mountains, deep valleys, stunning lakes, mysterious caves, amazing wild animals and much, much more.

Khao Sok national park has the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest

Khao Sok National Park is one of the wettest areas of the country, and you can expect rain showers around the year. If you’re planning to visit this place, the best time to visit it may be a bit different from the best time to visit Thailand overall. The wet season might actually be the right time as the temperature is pleasant, and there is a higher chance of spotting wildlife.

Activities to expect in Thailand

No travelers visit Thailand for a single reason. From thrilling adventure, nonstop party, colorful nightlife, historical monuments, to stunning natural view and amazingly diverse and unique culture, this place has something for everyone. It’s no wonder why Thailand has millions of returning visitors.

Expect to get soaked in the Songkran festival, view stunning beaches, visit beautiful temples, learn Muay Thai and meditation, release a lantern at Yi Peng festival, experience colorful night markets, and taste great food in Thailand. When you get tired of your travel schedule, get a fine Thai massage. Refresh and carry on with your activity the next day. Each place in Thailand is unique and offers a different experience to its visitors.

Yi Peng festival usually occurs in November

FAQs on best time to visit Thailand