Between November to early April, the cold and dry season, when temperatures vary from 29°C to 34°C, is the best time to visit Thailand. The climate changes throughout the country, so you may visit any time of year.
The climate in the south varies between the eastern and western shores. During the winter months, when diving and snorkelling are at their optimum, the west coast is more appealing.
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Best time to visit Thailand
The weather on Thailand’s east coast is pleasant most of the year. The wettest months are January and February, while the wettest are November and December.
Thailand captivates visitors for a variety of reasons, including tempting food, interesting culture, boisterous celebrations, and the promise of days spent on lovely beaches. While it’s known for its lush terrain and lovely islands that sparkle on warm, sunny days, it also has a monsoon season and occasionally blistering temperatures, so picking the proper time to visit is crucial.
Here’s how to figure out when the best time to visit Thailand is.
Note: Before planning any trip during the COVID-19 pandemic, please read the most recent travel restrictions and always follow government health advice. It’s possible that things will alter.
November to March: Best for weather
The monsoons are followed by a mild and dry season, which means the terrain is lush and the temperatures are pleasant. The beautiful weather, on the other hand, means Thailand is at its busiest: crowds and inflated rates abound during Christmas and the western New Year holidays.
April to June and September to October: Ideal for a coast trip
The months of April through June are often hot and dry, with an average temperature of 30°C in Bangkok. Sea breezes, on the other hand, provide natural air conditioning in coastal areas. The Gulf Coast Islands are your best hope for escaping weather in September and October.
July to October: Best for budget
If you are tight with the budget, plan a trip from July to October. The rain during the monsoon season might range from midday showers to catastrophic flooding, although it usually comes in short, strong bursts. While the low season brings reduced pricing and fewer visitors, it also has drawbacks: some islands close and boat access is hampered during inclement weather. If you travel during the off-season, be flexible with your travel plans.
Weather conditions and significant events in Thailand
January
The weather has turned cool and dry, signalling the start of the busy tourist season.
Significant events: New Year’s Day in China
February
Thailand provides sun and fun for anybody escaping colder weather abroad, even if it is still in high season but less busy than December and January.
Significant events: Flower Festival and Makha Bucha.
March
The beaches begin to empty as the hot and dry season approaches, coinciding with Thailand’s semester break (‘mid-term’), when students go on sightseeing vacations.
Significant events: Mango Season and Kite-Flying
April
The land is blanketed in hot, dry weather. Make reservations well in advance, even though the major tourist season is winding down – the entire country is on the move for Songkran.
Significant events: Songkran Poy Sang Long
May
Festivals are held in the run-up to the rainy season in the hopes of encouraging ample rains and good harvests. Although prices are low and tourists are few, it is nevertheless scorching hot.
Significant events: The Rocket Festival, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, and Visakha Bucha.
June
The rainy season is only an afternoon drizzle in certain regions of the country, leaving the rest of the day free for music and revelry. This month is the start of the shoulder season.
Significant events: Chanthaburi Fruit Festival, Hua Hin Jazz Festival, Phi Ta Khon, and Pattaya International Music Festival.
July
Buddhist Lent, a month of introspection and meditation, begins with the arrival of the rainy season. Tourists flock to the area throughout the summer months.
Significant events: HM the King’s Birthday, Asahna Bucha and Khao Phansaa
August
The middle of the rainy season is marked by an overcast sky and daily showers, which should mean fewer visitors.
Significant events: Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen
September
The rain will continue through September, though this often keeps the crowds at bay.
Significant events: Mid-Autumn Festival (Also known as the Chinese Moon Cake festival), International Thai Film Festival and Kin Jay Vegetarian Festival.
October
Religious preparations for the end of the rainy season and Buddhist Lent begin. The monsoons are reaching the finish line (in most of the country).
Significant events: King Chulalongkorn Day, Ork Phansa and Bangkok Biennale
November
The cold, dry season has arrived, and if you arrive early enough, you can avoid the crowds. The beaches are beautiful, and the scenery is lush.
Significant events: Loi Krathong and the Lopburi Monkey Festival.
December
The peak of the tourist season has arrived, bringing with it clear skies, crowded beach resorts, and a festive spirit.
Significant events: Red Cross and Winter Fair in Chiang Mai
Things to do in Thailand
Surfing in Thailand
The best time to go surfing in Thailand depends on whether you want to go to the east or west coast. Because the waves are lower, surfing is ideal for beginners and longboarders (about 3-10 feet). Surfing is best on the west coast from April to October, and on the east coast from October to December. Many islands, however, have relatively shallow shoreline reefs that might be treacherous below mid-tide.
Hiking in Thailand
The cooler months of October to February are ideal for exploring Thailand’s excellent hiking/trekking opportunities. Though hiking is possible all year, summers in this area may be extremely hot, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and bug protection. It is best to begin the hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
Swimming and snorkelling in Thailand
Swimming and snorkelling are both excellent year-round in Thailand, except for days when thunderstorms occur during the rainy season. November through April is generally the best time to visit, especially if you want to see the Andaman Sea islands.
Watching Whales and Dolphins in Thailand
The best time to see whales and dolphins is in the Gulf of Thailand, which is located on Thailand’s east coast. Between September and December, Bryde’s whales come near Bangkok’s coasts to dine on the numerous anchovies. At this time of year, Irrawaddy (river) dolphins with rounded foreheads can be observed splashing in the Chao Phraya river.
Fishing in Thailand
Different fish bite at different times throughout the year in Thailand, with different fish biting at different periods throughout the wide coastline and of the islands. The wet season is good for fishing. Freshwater fish are particularly popular in Thailand. Aside from common fish species, native species such as Giant Mekong Catfish, Barramundi, Siamese Carp, and Giant Snakehead are quite popular. Fishing sites include ponds, lakes, dams, and rivers, as well as fishing parks and specific resorts.
Destination wedding in Thailand
Thailand is a beautiful wedding location all year, except during the rainy season, because of its tropical beaches and sunny weather. In the beginning and conclusion of the monsoon, rains tend to fall in brief bursts that swiftly dry up. On the west coast, November to February is the finest (and safest) period to get married, while on the east coast, June to September is the greatest (and safest) season.
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