Thailand is a wonderful choice if you're planning a vacation in Southeast Asia very soon! It is not called The Land of Smiles for nothing, but the warmth and the toothy grins of the locals aren't the only things that give this country it's charm. Visiting as a tourist is sure to leave you with smiles for days, too!
When traveling to any destination (especially those in a different time zone and those with different climate!), though, it is always a good idea to take note of the different peak seasons for tourism in that country. While deciding on when to visit Thailand is largely dependent on the climate and the weather of each of the country's seasons, there is sure to be a best time to visit Thailand for everyone! Continue reading this guide for some of the best activities you can try out in Thailand, like visiting temples in the north or the picturesque landscapes of the south.
When is the best time to visit Thailand?
Since Thailand is a tropical country, the common misconception is that it is only hot all year round. However, Thailand seasons can actually be categorized into three subcategories: hot season, rainy season, and cool season. While the volume of tourists will still vary between these seasons, don't worry, because there are many activities to enjoy for each, no matter when you decide to visit! There is a best time to travel to Thailand for every preference.
Compare what each season has to offer, and to determine the best time to go to Thailand for you!
Thailand's Hot Season
While Thailand is generally warm all throughout the year, the hottest season takes place from March to May, with average temperatures of 32 to 38 degrees celsius. This period marks Thailand's summer season, so it can still be the best time to visit Thailand for you! Naturally, the best things to enjoy in during this season involve cool summer activities!
Songkran Festival
Known as the Thai Water Splashing Festival, Songkran marks the beginning of the spring equinox. Locals and tourists alike can enjoy the festival season, where, as a celebration of the start of the new year, to spread good luck, and to represent purification, everyone splashes water on each other! Songkran occurs every year in April.
Klook tip: Stay tuned for announcements for the specific dates on the year of your visit!
Island Hopping from Phuket
If in case you won't be around to enjoy summer and Songkran in April and are perhaps looking to visit Thailand in May or March, nothing screams summer season like lounging by the beach and enjoying island activities in the water!
We recommend taking a Phi Phi, Maya Area, Khai & Bamboo Island Day Trip from Phuket! This island hopping experience will take you to the beaches of Phi Phi and Khai Islands in Phuket's east coast.
Even under the summer heat, you will still get to enjoy, whether through swimming through crystal clear water, snorkeling with marine life, or meeting adorable island creatures. You're ensured to have a wonderful time in Thailand!
Klook Tips for the Hot Season
- Wear light clothing, protective against the sun!
- Bring a water bottle around and always stay hydrated.
- Don't forget sunscreen!
Thailand's Rainy Season
After the summer season, Thailand experiences its rainy season from June, July, all the way to October, with average temperatures of about 28 degrees celsius. This may also be a best time to visit Thailand for you, because in spite of the showers, the climate is a lot cooler to enjoy.
Rainfall is expected to occur throughout the entire country to this season, often ranging to heavy rainfall. So, it is the perfect time to try out some of the best indoor activities in Thailand!
Enjoyable Activities to Keep Dry Indoors
If you're visiting Bangkok, we recommend using the time to try all the things Thailand is best known for! Indulge in some high tea and Thai cuisine in the Grand Hyatt's Erawan Tea Room, a Michelin Guide awarded experience.
If you're looking for a more sporty activity to try out indoors during your vacation, you can also check out the Thai art of self-defense, Muay Thai! Visit the Watchara Muay Thai Gym for some lessons.
If you're visiting Chiang Mai, the possibility for indoor fun doesn't end! Relax with a classic Thai Day Spa experience in Chiang Mai. Surely, squeezing in some relaxation after all the shopping and exploring should be a priority!
If you want to take home a new skill, try your hand at Thai cooking by enrolling in Grandma's Home Cooking School. You'll learn how to create some of the local dishes you've enjoyed on your trip thus far!
Klook Tips for the Rainy Season
- Pack your umbrellas and waterproof parkas!
- Make sure you have the right shoes to tread the damp streets during this season.
Thailand's Cool Season
Following the rainy season in November to February is Thailand's cool season. During this time, locals and visitors can expect that there will be far less rain, with the same cool and pleasant weather that ranges from 19 to 26 degrees celsius.
For many, this is the preferred Thailand season to visit due to the agreeability of the climate.
Activities for the perfect calmer climate
On top of a calmer climate, the sea conditions during the cool season are also at their optimal level, making this season the best time to visit Thailand for scuba diving. Explore the deep blue sea through three dives during this Phuket Diving Day Trip. Meet some of the native fishes and admire a wide array of coral. You'll even get to enjoy scrumptious Thai cuisine between dives.
Utilize the favorable weather to explore other locations in Thailand, like by joining this one-day tour to Pattaya! Feast your eyes and your belly at the seafood market, then enjoy the breathtaking view from the Pattaya View Point, ideal for a calm breeze.
Klook Tips for the Cool Season
- Though it is called the cool season, since Thailand is in the tropics, it would still be best to wear lighter summer clothing.
- You. may bring a light jacket for when it can start to get colder in the evenings.
Though there is not one specific best month to visit Thailand, we've quickly come to find that with all the activities and events available, any time has the potential to be the best time to visit Thailand!
So, we hope this guide helps you plan your Thai vacation with Klook with ease!