Thailand Weather Guide
Understanding Thailand's weather patterns is key to planning your perfect trip. Weather varies significantly by region and season, so choose your timing wisely.
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Cool Season
November - February
The most popular time to visit. Dry, sunny days with comfortable temperatures and low humidity. Perfect for all activities.
Hot Season
March - May
Very hot and humid. Peak temperatures can reach 35-40°C. Great for beach activities, but expect intense heat.
Rainy Season
June - October
Monsoon season with frequent rain showers. Usually short bursts, not all-day rain. Lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
Important Note: Weather patterns vary significantly by region. The Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui area) has a different rainy season than the Andaman Coast (Phuket area). Always check regional weather patterns for your specific destinations.
Regional Weather Patterns
Central Thailand
Destinations: Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi
Hot and humid year-round with distinct wet and dry seasons.
Cool Season
Nov-Feb: Mild temperatures, low humidity, minimal rain
Hot Season
Mar-May: Very hot, high humidity, occasional thunderstorms
Rainy Season
Jun-Oct: Heavy monsoon rains, high humidity, frequent downpours
Northern Thailand
Destinations: Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai
Cooler temperatures, especially in mountains. More distinct seasons.
Cool Season
Nov-Feb: Cool mornings/evenings, warm days, dry and pleasant
Hot Season
Mar-May: Hot days, warm nights, occasional rain
Rainy Season
Jun-Oct: Moderate to heavy rain, lush green landscapes
Andaman Coast
Destinations: Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta
Tropical climate with two distinct seasons. Best weather Nov-Apr.
Cool Season
Nov-Apr: Dry season, sunny days, calm seas, perfect beach weather
Hot Season
Mar-May: Hot but still dry, great for water activities
Rainy Season
May-Oct: Monsoon season, heavy afternoon rains, rougher seas
Gulf of Thailand
Destinations: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Hua Hin
Different rainy season pattern than Andaman coast.
Cool Season
Dec-Mar: Dry and sunny, ideal beach conditions
Hot Season
Apr-Aug: Hot and mostly dry, peak season for Gulf islands
Rainy Season
Sep-Nov: Wettest period, but still manageable
Eastern Thailand
Destinations: Pattaya, Koh Chang, Rayong
Similar to Gulf coast with slight variations.
Cool Season
Nov-Mar: Dry and pleasant, good beach weather
Hot Season
Apr-May: Hot and humid, occasional rain
Rainy Season
Jun-Oct: Monsoon season with frequent showers
Best Time to Visit by Activity
Beach & Island Hopping
Best: November - April (Andaman Coast), December - March (Gulf Coast)
Dry season offers calm seas, clear waters, and sunny days perfect for snorkeling, diving, and beach activities. Avoid monsoon season for water activities.
City Exploration
Best: November - February
Cool season provides comfortable temperatures for walking tours, temple visits, and outdoor markets. Avoid hot season for extended outdoor activities.
Mountain & Nature
Best: November - February (cool season)
Northern Thailand's mountains are most pleasant during cool season. Rainy season offers lush green landscapes but can limit hiking.
Festivals & Culture
Best: Year-round, but check specific festival dates
Songkran (April), Loy Krathong (November), and other festivals happen throughout the year. Plan around specific events you want to experience.
Weather Tips & What to Expect
During Rainy Season
- • Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts, not all-day
- • Mornings are often sunny before afternoon showers
- • Sea conditions can be rougher (check before boat trips)
- • Prices are lower and crowds are smaller
- • Landscapes are lush and green
- • Bring waterproof bags and quick-dry clothing
During Hot Season
- • Stay hydrated and seek shade during midday
- • Plan indoor activities during peak heat (11am-3pm)
- • Air conditioning is essential in hotels
- • Perfect for early morning and evening activities
- • Beach and water activities are ideal
- • Use high SPF sunscreen and reapply frequently
UV Index Warning
Thailand has a high UV index year-round, even during rainy season. Always use sunscreen (SPF 30+), wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours (10am-4pm).
Plan Your Trip Based on Weather
Now that you understand Thailand's weather patterns, explore our destinations and check specific weather information for each location.