Cool & Dry (Nov–Feb)
- Best overall for comfort & sightseeing
- Lower humidity, clear skies
- Peak season → higher prices & crowds
Best Time to Visit Thailand
Thailand’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination. But the “best time” depends on your travel style—whether you want blue-sky beach days, vibrant festivals, or off-season deals. Here’s a full guide by seasons, regions, and events.
Thailand’s Three Main Seasons
Hot (Mar–May)
- Bright sunshine, best for beaches
- Great visibility for diving/snorkeling
- Very hot inland cities (Bangkok/Chiang Mai)
Rainy/Green (Jun–Oct)
- Lush landscapes, fewer tourists
- Short but heavy showers + sunny breaks
- Lowest hotel prices of the year
Best Months by Region
Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga)
Best: Nov–Apr · Shoulder: May & Oct · Wet: Jun–Sep
Island hopping (Phi Phi, James Bond) is reliable Nov–Apr. Green season brings value but seas may be rough.
Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Phangan, Tao)
Best: Jan–Sep · Rainy: Oct–Dec
When the Andaman is wet, Samui side shines. Peak sun Jul–Aug makes it a great summer option.
Bangkok & Central Thailand
Best: Nov–Feb · Hot: Mar–May · Showers: Jun–Oct
Cool season is most comfortable for temples, night markets, and river cruises.
Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai)
Best: Nov–Feb (cool mornings) · Hot: Mar–May · Green: Jun–Oct
Great for hiking and culture. Dress in layers as early mornings can be chilly.
Month-by-Month Snapshot
JanCool, dry · Peak
FebCool to warm · Peak
MarHot begins · Clear seas
AprVery hot · Songkran
MayHot → showers · Shoulder
JunGreen season deals
JulSunny breaks · Samui peak
AugSimilar to Jul · Fewer crowds
SepWettest in Andaman
OctTransition · Vegetarian Fest*
NovCool starts · Loy Krathong
DecPrime weather · Peak
*Phuket Vegetarian Festival usually falls late Sep–Oct (dates vary by lunar calendar).
Key Festivals
- Songkran (Thai New Year) – mid-April: nationwide water celebrations.
- Loy Krathong – November: floating lights & lanterns.
- Phuket Vegetarian Festival – late Sep–Oct: unique street processions (dates vary).
Practical Tips
- Book island tours with flexible reschedule in green season.
- For Jul–Aug beaches, consider Koh Samui instead of Phuket.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, light layers, and a compact rain jacket Jun–Oct.
- Peak months (Dec–Feb) = higher prices. Secure hotels & transfers early.