Thailand weather updates.

Situated between expansive landmasses and bodies of water, Thailand experiences the influence of both summer and winter monsoons. Consequently, the country’s climate is characterized by six months of rainfall during the wet season, three months of dry and cool breezes in the winter, and three months of elevated temperatures in the summer. The average temperature ranges from 18°C to 38°C.

Thailand experiences a tropical climate, generally characterized by dry and wet seasons, though the southern regions have a monsoon climate, and the timing of these seasons can vary by region. The best time to visit Thailand depends on what region you want to visit

The weather seasons in Thailand are becoming less predictable, but peak visitor months are still relatively reliable.

• Thailand can be visited throughout the year, though some rural areas become less accessible during the peak of the rainy season. Winter weather can cause higher seas, which may affect beach days.
• Many find the shoulder season (the transition between seasons) to be a great time to visit because there are fewer crowds, better availability, and the countryside is often lush. It also spreads the economic benefits of tourism.

Northern and Central Thailand

• The dry season in northern Thailand is from November to May, with little to no rain expected during this time.
• Temperatures are cooler between October and January.
• From mid-January, temperatures begin to rise, peaking between March and May, when temperatures can reach the high 30s or even 40 degrees Celsius, especially in the central regions.
• The southwest monsoon typically arrives between May and July, initially bringing short downpours that clear the way for warm, clear skies. As the rainy season progresses, the rain can become heavier and more constant, reaching peak levels in August and September.
• In the early wet season (June to August), temperatures remain high (28-34°C), but they drop significantly in the winter months of October and November.
• By November, the rainfall and hot, humid weather decrease significantly, with dry weather returning for the next six months.
• From October to January, temperatures can be relatively cool, particularly in the north at higher altitudes (17-26°C). Evenings can be chilly due to the lack of cloud cover.

Best time to visit:

November to May for dry weather and cooler temperatures, with November being particularly favorable.

Andaman Sea Coast (West Coast)

• The west coast of Thailand has three defined seasons.
• From November to March, conditions are generally considered to be at their best, with cooling winds keeping temperatures comfortable (26-32°C). Humidity levels are lower at this time.
• From March to May, temperatures rise (30-36°C) as the cooling winds dissipate and humidity increases.
• The monsoon season typically begins in late May and lasts through October, with peak rainfall between mid-September and mid-October. Outside these months, rain often comes in short, heavy afternoon downpours.
• Khao Sok National Park, which is in southern Thailand follows the same weather patterns as the Andaman Sea coastline, with most rainfall occurring between May and October. Rain showers can be expected year-round in this area.
  • The wet season can be a good time to visit Khao Sok National Park as the average temperatures are comfortable (25-26°C), the rainforest is lush and green, and there is a higher chance of spotting wildlife.

Best time to visit:

November to March for the best conditions with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.

Gulf of Thailand (East Coast)

• The east coast of Thailand has three defined seasons.
• From December to February, the weather is good, with little rain, and refreshing winds help to keep temperatures more moderate. The sea can be more dynamic at this time, creating ideal conditions for water sports.
• From March, temperatures begin to rise (29-35°C), usually peaking in April and May.
• Rain is possible by June, usually in the form of an hour-long afternoon downpour, followed by blue skies and sunshine. The monsoon season is expected in late August or September, bringing rain and higher humidity. Temperatures are still in the 30s, with sunny spells interspersed with rainy periods.
• Rainfall typically peaks between October and November.
• Hua Hin & Cha Am, located on the Gulf of Thailand coastline, have slightly different rain patterns, with serious rainfall only occurring in September and October. The islands of Koh Chang and Koh Kood, which are on the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand, experience similar weather patterns to the beaches along the Andaman Sea coast, with the wet season occurring between May and October.

Best time to visit:

December to February for good weather with little rain and moderate temperatures.

Specific Considerations

• Rainy Season: The rainy season is officially from July 1 to October 31, but can start as early as May. Some travelers enjoy this time of year because of fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush greenery.
• Humidity: Thailand is generally a humid place, but this can be particularly noticeable during and after the rainy season.
• Typhoons: If it rains in the Gulf of Thailand during August, it is often because a typhoon is hitting the Philippines or Vietnam, which drops the air pressure, but it is typically sunny and calm.
• Burning Season: Chiang Mai and other northern areas experience a burning season (Feb-Apr) that should be avoided.

Hiking in Rainy Season

During the rainy season, most trails in the national parks are closed, but short hikes to waterfalls remain accessible and highly rewarding, as the waterfalls are particularly vibrant during this time. Walking sandals are ideal for these excursions. Staying at a hilltop resort offers stunning views of lush, green mountains blanketed in fog and clouds, creating a breathtaking landscape. However, walking along the roads during the rain can be both challenging and unpredictable. Despite the occasional inconvenience, the rainy season transforms the region into a picturesque haven, making it an ideal time for those who appreciate serene, natural beauty.