Weather in Thailand

Thailand can be considered a year round destination. The country is not prone to weather extremes (it is outside the Asian cyclone zone) and even the rainy season can be a good time to visit as the rain is often limited to short sharp bursts.

With a subtropical climate, there are three principal seasons – Cool, Hot and Rainy – which are outlined below. The south of the country is more humid than the north and sees more rainfall although there are different weather patterns between the Andaman and Gulf coasts so it is important to be aware how the seasons will affect where you want to go.

The Cool Season: November to February, average 26c

Not what we in the UK would consider cool but this is the period overall when the tropical temperatures and humidity levels are at their lowest and for many, it is the most pleasant time to visit.

For the southern resorts of the Andaman and Gulf coasts this is a warm and sunny time to visit and therefore the peak time for tourist visits. Away from the coasts, warm evening clothing is required in the hills around Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle.

The Hot Season: March to June, average 32c

This is the hottest time of the year to visit Thailand and coincides with the Thai new year celebrations – Songkran – in mid-April when the entire country cools down with a giant water fight! The northern parts of the country heat up to 40c at the peak although this is a dry heat.

The temperature change in the south is less distinct although the higher humidity can make it feel just as hot on some days. Towards the end of this season, sporadic rain starts to fall indicating the seasonal change and overall this is the least popular period for tourist visits.

The Rainy Season: July to October, average 28c

The post hot season rains do fall at this time but not continuously. Showers tend to be short bursts of heavy rain although these can bring inland flooding in central and northern Thailand, including Bangkok.

On the Gulf Coast however, the rain comes much later in October and November meaning July and August is a peak period to visit this coast with dry and sunny weather.

The heaviest coastal rains are on the Andaman coast between June and August which is the low season here and whilst Phuket functions year round, some of the smaller islands are inaccessible during this time.

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