Thailand is a beautiful country that offers you a wide range of experiences, from stunning beaches to ancient temples and bustling cities. The best time to visit Thailand depends on what you want to do and see, and how much you have to spend. Below we have listed 4 different times of year to go to Thailand and what to expect while you are there.
November to February
November to February is peak season in Thailand. The weather is cooler and drier, making it an ideal time to explore the northern and central parts of the country, including the capital Bangkok. The temperatures range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), and you can expect clear skies and plenty of sunshine.
During this season, you can also witness some of the most colourful festivals in Thailand, such as the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival, which are held in November. These festivals involve floating candles and lanterns into the sky and water, creating a beautiful and memorable spectacle.
One downside of visiting Thailand during this season is that it can be crowded and more expensive. Hotels and tourist attractions may have higher prices, and you may need to book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation and tours.
March to May
March to May is the hot and dry season in Thailand, temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F) in some parts of the country. It certainly can be an uncomfortably hot time to visit Thailand, but it’s good if you’re looking for lower prices and better choices plus fewer crowds.
If you can handle the heat, you can still enjoy outdoor activities during this season, such as visiting waterfalls or going to the beach. Just make sure to stay hydrated and take precautions to protect yourself from the sun as it really can get overwhelming when you also throw in the humidity out there.
June to October
June to October is the rainy season in Thailand, and it’s not the most popular time to visit. However, if you don’t mind a little rain and are looking for a budget-friendly trip, this season can be a great time to visit Thailand. Temperatures can reach around 35 degrees (95°F).
The rain is usually not constant and can be sporadic throughout the day, allowing for plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities in between. Plus, the rain can make the landscapes lush and green, creating a beautiful backdrop to your trip.
The downside of visiting Thailand during the rainy season is that some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding, and not so many choices for outdoor activities. It’s also important to keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden rain showers.
December to April
December to April is the best time to visit the southern beaches and islands in Thailand, such as Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi. The weather is dry and sunny, making it an ideal time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and water activities.
This is also the peak season for these areas, so expect higher prices and more tourists. However, if you plan in advance and avoid the most popular destinations, you can still find affordable accommodations and have a relaxing trip.
One thing to keep in mind when visiting the southern beaches and islands is the possibility of the “red tide” phenomenon, which occurs when algae blooms in the water, making it unsafe to swim. This typically happens between May and October, so if you’re planning a beach vacation, aim to visit during the dry season.