Bangkok   Travel Guide

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best time to visit bangkok and thailand

Best Times To Visit Bangkok

The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to March when the heat and humidity are at their lowest. Still, Thailand's tropical climate could easily bring temperatures up to 90 degrees on any given day, regardless of the time of year. To find deals on airfare and hotel rates, consider a trip between April and October, the hottest and rainiest time of the year. Not only are you more likely to find a deal during this time, but crowds will also likely be fewer in comparison to "winter," which is Bangkok's peak travel season. Keep in mind that monsoon season officially starts in May and generally lasts until late September and early November. 

Weather in Bangkok

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Bangkok

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Bangkok

best time to visit bangkok and thailand

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The best time to visit Bangkok is in November when monsoon season is ending, but busy season and temperatures haven’t yet peaked. Also during November, you’ll get to see Loi Krathong, one of Thailand’s most loved festivals .

Although Bangkok can be enjoyed at any time of year , factors such as monsoon season, busy festivals, and heat with high humidity can affect your time there. Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year celebration, is the wildest and most festive time to visit Bangkok. But to participate in the world’s largest water fight, you’ll have to deal with extreme heat in April that precedes monsoon season.

Key Events and Festivals

Although not as disruptive as they are in Chiang Mai, Songkran and Loi Krathong (Thailand’s two busiest holidays) bring even more chaos than usual to Bangkok’s streets.

From April 12-15, neighborhoods such as the Khao San Road area in Banglumphu will be in the throes of the largest water fight in the world. Unless you happen to be a monk or hide indoors for four days, you’re going to get drenched during Songkran. Protect your passport and electronics!

Lunar New Year (January or February) is another exceptionally busy time to be in Bangkok. Both airports become inundated with Chinese travelers taking advantage of the holiday. Although Suvarnabhumi becomes clogged, the older Don Mueang Airport gets hit the hardest. Wait times at immigration can be more than two hours as queues snake throughout the airport.

Thailand is one of the few countries in the world where travelers should pay attention to the moon phases. If you’re traveling to islands in the Samui Archipelago , know that transportation from Bangkok will be affected just before a full moon. Tens of thousands of travelers head south to Haad Rin on the island of Koh Phangan to dance on the beach during Full Moon Parties. Afterward, there is a mass migration north to Bangkok.

The Weather in Bangkok

Unless extreme air conditioning in massive mega-malls is the cause, you’ll never be chilly in Bangkok. Middle-of-the-night lows in January, often the coolest month, are still in the mid-70s F. Temperatures feel warmer and the air thicker due to urban humidity trapped by pollution.

Daytime averages usually range between 82-89 degrees F. Highs during the “hot season” from March to May can surpass 100 degrees F with more than 70 percent humidity.

Monsoon Season

Monsoon season gives Bangkok a much-needed cleaning from May to October . The finale in September and October is usually the rainiest time to travel in Thailand. September receives 12.3 inches of rain on average. Even during the peak of the rainy season, you’ll still have plenty of days without rain to explore Bangkok. Enjoy, but be ready for pop-up downpours on most afternoons.

The Chao Phraya River is subject to flooding during monsoon season (especially in August and September). Although engineering measures have been taken since the record-breaking floods in 2011, parts of the city remain inundated every year. Closed streets and halted taxi-boat service on the river exasperate traffic problems.

Peak Season in Bangkok

First, prepare yourself: Bangkok is always busy . In fact, Thailand’s capital often lures in more annual travelers than any other city in the world, including London and New York. Over 23 million tourists traveled to Bangkok in 2018. You’re going to have to share the delights, especially at top tourist attractions such as the Grand Palace and floating markets .

As mentioned, Lunar New Year and big Thai festivals cause the number of travelers passing through Bangkok to surge. If your plan is to get out of Bangkok quickly , try flying into another port of entry (e.g., Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui) instead to avoid congestion.

With an average temperature of 82 degrees F, January is one of the coolest months in Bangkok. It’s also one of the busiest. Practically no rain and tolerable temperatures draw more travelers than ever, especially during Chinese New Year. If you don’t mind entering the fray of peak season, January is one of the best times to visit Bangkok.

Events to check out:

  • Bangkok is home to one of the largest ethnic Chinese communities in the world. Unsurprisingly, Lunar New Year is a busy event every January or February (dates change). Base yourself near Chinatown to see the most lion and dragon dances.
  • To witness island hedonism at its wildest, the January Full Moon Party in Haad Rin is often the biggest of the year.

February is also a peak, high-season month to visit Bangkok. Temperatures average a toasty 85 degrees F, and humidity can reach 70 percent. Although that doesn’t sound very “cool,” February is the last cool month before Mother Nature really turns up the heat.

Lunar New Year sometimes occurs in February. Check dates if you’ll be visiting Bangkok in February.

March is the start of hot season in Bangkok. Although rainy days are still rare, temperatures and humidity climb. Highs average in the 90s F but can top 100 degrees F during the afternoon. Nights are warm and muggy.

Pack plenty of extra tops ; you’ll need at least two a day. Use the heat as an excuse to take advantage of the excellent shopping in Bangkok.

April is the hottest month in Bangkok and the last month of dry season. High temperatures hover between the mid-90s F and 101 degrees F.

At this point, locals and tourists alike are ready for monsoon season to bring some relief next month. Fortunately, the Songkran celebration gives everyone a great excuse to dump ice water on each other for a few days.

  • Songkran (April 13-15) is hands down the largest, rowdiest celebration in the country. Expect to get wet every time you walk out of the hotel. Arm yourself, and splash some strangers.

May is the first month of monsoon season. Although at least 15 of May’s 31 days are rainy, precipitation isn’t overly disruptive . Temperatures barely budge. The air is (thankfully) much cleaner but remains stubbornly hot and humid.

  • Coronation Day on May 4 is a public holiday celebrating the crowning of King Vajiralongkorn. Tourists won’t see much of the action.
  • The Royal Ploughing Ceremony (dates change) kicks off the rainy season. Rituals and formal ceremonies are held at Sanam Luang, the parade ground next to the Grand Palace.

As rain continues in June, temperatures finally begin to dip slightly. Despite the rain, tourist arrivals remain relatively high. Backpacking students take advantage of summer break to travel. Winter in Australia sends residents north to Southeast Asia.

July temperatures are in the mid-80s F as monsoon season continues. At least one out of every two days will be rainy.

King Vajiralongkorn’s birthday is observed on July 28.

Temperatures remain consistently in the mid-80s F throughout August. Average rainfall dips a little, perhaps gathering for a final deluge in September and October.

August 12 is the Queen's Birthday and Mother’s Day in Thailand.

With an average of 21 rainy days, September is the peak of the monsoon season . Rain nearly tops 13 inches, triggering flooding in low areas.

September is arguably the worst month to travel to Bangkok in terms of weather. But far fewer tourists will be clogging up popular temples and attractions.

The Mid-Autumn (Moon) Festival usually occurs in September. You’ll see mooncakes for sale throughout the city.

October is usually the second rainiest month in Bangkok. It’s also the last month of monsoon season. At this point, most people are ready for drier weather and busy season to begin. Temperatures average 85–90 degrees F.

  • October 13 is observed as King Bhumibol’s Memorial Day.
  • The Phuket Vegetarian Festival (dates vary in October) is a week of chaotic processions and bodily mutilation.
  • For some quirky fun, go check out the creative costumes shown off by locals in the Khao San Road and Soi Rambuttri area on Halloween.

November in Thailand marks the start of dry season and buildup to high season. Temperatures climb a little as rain (usually) begins to subside around mid-month. The number of wet days plummets to five or six for the month.

  • Loi Krathong is the second largest holiday in Thailand . Colorful, candlelit floats are placed on the Chao Phraya River for blessings. Cultural performances can be enjoyed throughout the city. The famous sky lanterns often seen in photos are restricted in Bangkok. They are actually a part of Yi Peng in Northern Thailand.

The tourist floodgates really open in December as high season feels official. Many European travelers take their Christmas holidays in Thailand . The "winter" weather is enjoyable with temperatures and humidity among the lowest felt all year.

  • December 5 is the anniversary of King Bhumibol’s birthday. Although Thailand’s longest-reigning monarch passed away in 2016, he’ll still be remembered with candlelit vigils and memorials.
  • New Year’s Eve is a public holiday. Many of the nightlife venues and rooftop bars will host countdown parties to lure in expats and holiday travelers.

The best time to visit Bangkok is in November, during the end of monsoon season, but before Thailand's busy season. It's during this month that you can also experience Loi Krathong, one of Thailand’s best cultural festivals.

In Bangkok, the rainy season (or, "monsoon season," as the locals call it) lasts from July through October.

It is customary in Thailand to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees (for both sexes). Long shorts, capris, pants, and midi skirts are acceptable, as well as any shirt that's not a tank top or crop top.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Bangkok, Thailand, Year Round." Retrieved March 11, 2021.

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. Department of Drainage and Sewerage. "Flood Mitigation and Management in Bangkok Metropolitan Area."

The Jakarta Post. "Bangkok Tops in 2018 for International Visitors: Report." September 5, 2019.

Britannica. "Bangkok - The People." Retrieved March 11, 2021.

Bangkok Post. "Restrictions on Sky Lanterns During Yi Peng Festival." November 7, 2016.

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Best Time to Visit Bangkok: Month-by-Month Guide

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Renowned for its stunning temples, delicious street food and pounding nightlife, Bangkok is one of the most popular cities to visit in the world. While Thailand’s cosmopolitan capital is a rather crowded, chaotic place, that doesn’t stop countless millions from visiting each year.

As it is the cool season and its relentless heat and humidity aren’t quite so bad, most people head here between November and March. Despite the strong monsoon rains, both July and August also see an uptick in visitors due to the summer holidays in Europe. The odds of you getting soaked at some point are pretty high though!

To help you plan your trip, let’s now take a look at what the weather is like month-by-month in Bangkok and what big events are going on. You can then decide whether you want to visit for Songkran and Chinese New Year or give the rainy and hot seasons a skip.

What’s the Weather Like in Bangkok?

While temperatures are pretty consistent, averaging between 31 and 35°C (88–95°F) each month, Bangkok has three distinct seasons – these are the hot, wet and cool.

The most comfortable months weatherwise are from November to February when the city is a bit cooler and there is less humidity. Their dry, sunny days are best for sightseeing with its night markets being a great way to relax afterwards.

March until May is the hot season when its heat and humidity are quite unpleasant, at times soaring into the 40s (100s°F). As wandering about is so tiring, you’ll have to spend a lot of time cooling off in air-conditioned shopping malls.

From mid-May onwards, the monsoon season starts, only letting up in October. August and September are the rainiest months, averaging 19 and 20 days of rain. During this period, its days are quite overcast with thunderstorms mainly tipping it down in the late afternoon.

Best Months to Visit Bangkok

Bangkok Climate

By far the most popular months to explore the massive metropolis are November through to January. This is when Europeans fleeing the cold head here for Christmas and countries like Australia and Singapore have their summer holidays. Chinese New Year also takes place during this period.

As a result, its hotel prices and airfares are more expensive. Although it is the ‘cool’ season, you’ll still need to dress lightly, hydrate regularly and take breaks from the scorching sun.

Both February and March also see lots of people visit but the heat and humidity are already creeping up again. After this is the off-season though April does have its wild, wet Songkran celebrations to take part in.

While July and August are very wet, some Western travelers still venture here during their summer holidays. Prices are cheaper and the city is a bit cooler and less crowded.

Bangkok in January

Bangkok Pool

After December, January is the most popular month to visit Bangkok as loads of people have holidays, the weather is dry and there is less humidity. With nine hours of sunshine a day and average temperatures of 32°C (89°F), sightseeing can still be quite tiring. As the nights are cooler, dropping around 10 degrees, spending time outside in the evenings is very pleasant.

Due to the influx of visitors, prices are higher with its main temples and tourist sites being a bit more crowded. To be honest though, the capital’s streets are pretty much always chaotic and congested. If Khao San Road gets overwhelming, you can always take relaxing cruises along the Chao Phraya River. Its nearby beaches and Ayutthaya’s archaeological sites will be pretty packed though during this high season.

Bangkok in February

Bangkok in February

If Chinese New Year doesn’t fall in January, then February is when all its fun celebrations are held. Red lanterns are strung up everywhere with dragon parades, dance performances and acrobats all creating an amazing ambience in its Chinatown. Large crowds pour into the city to celebrate with many Thai also heading to the countryside to see their families.

As it is still peak season, expect to pay more for accommodation though flight fares should have come down a bit. While February is slightly hotter and more humid, its sunny, dry days are still some of the best for ambling around the capital. The Buddhist festival Makha Bucha also has lovely candlelit processions and large groups of worshipers express their gratitude at its many temples.

Bangkok in March

Bangkok Street

Before the worst of the heat and humidity hit, March is the last main month that people visit Bangkok until July. As its crowds have subsided somewhat, this is a good time to explore its temples, palaces and floating markets. Make sure to take breaks and hydrate often though as it can be uncomfortably hot during the day with even the evenings not being so cool now.

As March is the shoulder season, prices for hotels and flights fall further as less visitors head here on holiday. If you avoid the hottest hours of the day, it is the ideal month to sunbathe and swim at the country’s islands and beaches as there is barely a cloud in the sky. Towards the end of it though, the high temperatures are a bit extreme, especially for sightseeing.

Bangkok in April

Bangkok Songkran

The hottest month of the year, April is almost unbearable at times as averages of 35°C (so 95°F) during the day don’t get much better at night. While hotels are cheaper, you’ll want to book one with a pool. You can also cool off in Lumphini Park or at one of its air-conditioned malls. Sightseeing is tiring and not that enjoyable with the humidity also not helping.

On the plus side, you can find some great travel deals and there won’t be any crowds at its main attractions. Floating along the Chao Phraya River is also very pleasant. Loads of people also pour in to celebrate Songkran when massive water fights break out all around the city. Many businesses shut as residents head back to their hometowns for the Thai New Year.

Bangkok in May

Visakha Bucha

This sweltering heat and humidity continues into May with most visitors staying away as a result. The approaching monsoon creates a muggy, oppressive feeling with the rainy season usually arriving around the middle of the month. Due to the uncomfortable conditions, May sees the least amount of tourists arrive.

While prices are low and there are no crowds, the weather really isn’t great for exploring the city. As well as the high temperatures, there are 15 days with quite a lot of rain. This does at least cool things down a bit. If it doesn’t fall in June, then Visakha Bucha is celebrated at its temples. Devout Buddhists make offerings and perform rituals commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.

Bangkok in June

Bangkok June

A bit better weatherwise, June is less muggy than May with its heat and humidity also being more manageable. While it does rain 15 days on average, its showers are not as strong and tend to pass quickly. You’ll still want to take an umbrella around with you though and spend time in its air-conditioned malls – many of which have discounts as it is the low season.

Both its airfares and accommodation prices remain very affordable with its main attractions also being devoid of crowds. Other than traipsing around CentralWorld, it’s worth heading to Wat Arun and the Grand Palace while no one is around.

Bangkok in July

Bangkok in July

Although July averages 17 days with torrential tropical downpours, there is a smallish spike in visitors as Europeans head here on their summer holidays. While flights tend to be more expensive, hotel prices remain roughly the same as tourist numbers are so low.

As Bangkok’s temples, palaces and museums are pretty quiet, July isn’t a bad month to see its sights. Most of the rain usually falls in the afternoon or around dusk so try and bear that in mind when you’re out and about. During this wet period, there is a mix of sunny days and cloudy ones, short, sudden showers and rainstorms that last almost all day.

Bangkok in August

Floating Market near Bangkok

August is even wetter in Bangkok, particularly towards the end of the month when the rains really pick up and some roads even flood. Despite the endless deluges, plenty of Europeans visit on their summer holidays. While flight prices are again a bit pricier, you can still pick up some fantastic deals on hotels.

In addition to exploring its historic temples and floating markets – with an umbrella in hand of course – there are some fun events to enjoy. Its Mid-Autumn or Mooncake Festival usually takes place in August with loads of stalls selling traditional treats. This is an excellent month to take Thai cooking classes or watch kick boxing bouts – anything to shelter from the rain!

Bangkok in September

Bangkok Rainy Season

After Europeans’ summer holidays are over, the number of visitors arriving plummets as the monsoon really sets in. September is the wettest month of the year with it raining a lot for 20 days on average. As well as its heavy rain and thunderstorms, there is a lot less sun with the skies often being overcast.

Even though the airfares and accommodation options are cheaper, September is one of the worst months weatherwise for wandering about the city. While the rain does make averages of 32°C (89°F) more comfortable, you’ll want to spend a lot of time indoors at its museums and malls. If you don’t mind getting wet or are a bit flexible in terms of sightseeing and day trips, this is one of the cheapest times to visit Bangkok.

Bangkok in October

Bangkok October

Once mid-October comes around, its fierce downpours finally start to decrease a bit. It does still rain though for 16 days on average. As it is the last month before huge crowds pour in, it can be a great time to experience Bangkok’s lively markets and nightlife spots. After this, they get too busy and hotel prices shoot up.

Still quite hot and humid for the most part, October has a number of fun festivals to attend. While parades, dragon dances and fireworks displays are held in Chinatown for its traditional Vegetarian Festival, there is also its International Festival of Dance and Music going on. Lots of terrific plays and ballets then take place at its state-of-the-art Thailand Cultural Center.

Bangkok in November

Loy Krathong

Now that the rains are over, the skies are clear and days are sunny, November sees massive numbers of visitors arrive in Bangkok. While hotels and airfares are more expensive, the dry weather is perfect for sightseeing or sunbathing and swimming at its nearby beaches.

Happening areas like Khao San Road and Chatuchak Market are packed with queues forming at its main attractions. Other than sipping cocktails at rooftop bars, you can take part in its lovely Loy Krathong festival. Thousands of small candlelit vessels are released along its river and canals, creating a very magical ambience. Lots of fun games and holiday food can also be enjoyed at its Golden Mount Temple Fair.

Bangkok in December

Bangkok Christmas

As it is the most popular month of the year to visit, Bangkok is very crowded and even more chaotic in December. Prices are at their highest as everyone heads here for the holidays to enjoy the good weather. With 8 hours of sunshine, no rain and averages of 31°C (88°F), the cool days are some of the best for strolling about the city and taking trips along the river.

Besides the King’s Birthday celebrations, there are also the Trooping of the Colours military parade to watch. Christmas and New Year’s also have various festivities taking place with its rooftop bars being a great spot from which to admire the fireworks displays. Many shopping malls have huge discounts towards the end of the month to entice the holiday crowds.

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Tusk Travel Blog

Insider’s Guide: Best Time to Visit Bangkok (The Heart of Thailand)

Manish

Welcome to the vibrant and bustling city of Bangkok, the heart of Thailand. Famed for its golden palaces, floating markets, and majestic porcelain-laid spires, Bangkok is a travel destination like no other.

However, with the city’s diverse climate and seasonal events, timing your visit can significantly impact your experience. This comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate and identify the best times to visit Bangkok based on various factors.

In This Article:

Bangkok’s Weather

Bangkok, being in the tropical region, is graced with a monsoon climate. The city experiences three primary seasons: the cool season (November to February), the hot season (March to June), and the rainy season (July to October).

The cool season, despite its name, is pleasantly warm, with average temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C. The hot season, on the other hand, can be incredibly scorching, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C and sometimes even reaching 40°C. Lastly, the rainy season brings in heavy but sporadic showers, often in the afternoons or late evenings, while still maintaining a warm temperature averaging around 28°C.

Best Time to Visit for Weather

The cool season, from November to February, is generally considered the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise. The temperatures are more comfortable, and the humidity is less intense compared to the hot season. It’s an ideal time for outdoor explorations and sightseeing tours around the city.

The hot season, while sweltering, allows for trips to Bangkok’s plethora of shopping malls, museums, and indoor attractions. It’s also a good time for water-related activities, like visiting water parks or taking boat tours. However, the heat may be oppressive for some visitors.

Visiting during the rainy season comes with its pros and cons. On the downside, rain can disrupt outdoor activities and create transportation difficulties. However, the rainfall often comes in short bursts and leaves the city refreshed and cool. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this season can be quite enchanting, especially for photography enthusiasts who can capture the city in a different light.

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Best Season to Visit Bangkok

High season: november to february.

The high season in Bangkok, from November to February, is considered the best time to visit for most travellers. The weather during this period is relatively cooler and more comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. The skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal, ensuring bright and sunny days.

This season coincides with the festive period, including Christmas and New Year celebrations. Bangkok transforms into a magical wonderland with dazzling decorations and a vibrant atmosphere. However, it’s important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so popular attractions may be crowded, and prices for accommodation and airfare tend to be higher.

Shoulder Season: March to May and September to October

The shoulder seasons, from March to May and September to October, offer a mix of advantages and disadvantages. March to May is characterized by hot and humid weather, with temperatures often reaching their peak. However, if you can tolerate the heat, you’ll find that the city is less crowded, and prices for accommodation and flights are more affordable compared to the high season.

September to October is another shoulder season worth considering. While there may be occasional rain showers, the weather is generally pleasant. This period offers an opportunity to experience local festivals such as the Vegetarian Festival and Loy Krathong.

Low Season: June to August

The low season in Bangkok, from June to August, is marked by heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels. While this may discourage some travellers, it presents a unique opportunity to explore Bangkok with fewer crowds and significantly lower prices for accommodation and airfare. The rain showers are often short-lived, and you can still enjoy sunny intervals throughout the day.

Best Time to Visit for Festivals and Events

Bangkok’s festivals and events are a significant part of its cultural allure. If your travel plans are flexible, consider aligning your trip with one of these occasions.

Songkran, the Thai New Year , is celebrated in April with much fanfare. The streets come alive with water fights, parades, and a festive atmosphere.

Loy Krathong , usually held in November, is another notable event where people gather around water bodies to float “ krathongs ” – little boats made of banana leaves, decorated with flowers and candles.

Chinese New Year , Christmas, and New Year’s Eve are also celebrated with enthusiasm, and visiting during these times can provide a unique experience.

Best Time to Visit for Lower Tourist Crowds

If your preference is to avoid tourist crowds, the rainy season, particularly the months of May, June, and September, might be your best bet. While the rains could be a slight inconvenience, the city is considerably less crowded. You can enjoy major attractions without having to navigate through throngs of tourists.

Best Time to Visit for Budget (Cheapest) Travelers

For an affordable visit to Bangkok, consider travelling during the hot season, which spans from March to May. During this period, temperatures soar to an average of 90°F, making it the hottest time of the year.

However, this season also offers the advantage of fewer crowds compared to the cool season, making it the most cost-effective time to explore Bangkok. Accommodation, flight fares, and attraction prices reach their lowest points during this period.

Moreover, the intense heat and humidity may appeal to certain travellers, as it provides an opportunity to relish the city’s warm climate without facing excessive crowds. Notably, April hosts Thai New Year, known as Songkran, offering an excellent chance to immerse oneself in local culture and partake in lively festivities.

If you prefer a more authentic and less tourist-oriented experience, April presents an ideal month to visit Bangkok, particularly if you are less inclined to explore the city on foot.

Taj Mahal Agra

Other Factors to Consider

Your ideal time to visit Bangkok might be influenced by personal preferences and flexibility. For example, if you are an avid shopper, you might enjoy visiting during the hot season when indoor malls provide respite from the heat, or in June when the Amazing Grand Sale occurs.

Also, consider global events or situations. For instance, during a pandemic, it’s crucial to keep abreast of the latest travel advisories and regulations.

Airfare and Accommodation Prices

The cost of airfare and accommodation can vary significantly depending on the season you choose to visit Bangkok. During the high season, prices tend to be at their peak due to the increased demand. It’s advisable to book your flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals. On the other hand, the low season offers substantial discounts, allowing you to save on your travel expenses.

Crowds and Tourist Traffic

Considering the level of tourist traffic is crucial when selecting the best time to explore Bangkok. The high season attracts a large number of tourists, resulting in crowded attractions and longer queues.

If you prefer a more relaxed and less crowded experience, the shoulder or low seasons would be better options for you. Exploring the city during these periods allows you to enjoy the sights and attractions with greater ease.

Exploring Bangkok’s Attractions

Regardless of the season, Bangkok offers a wealth of attractions to explore. From the iconic Grand Palace and Wat Arun to the floating markets and vibrant street markets, there’s no shortage of experiences to discover. Take the time to visit the numerous temples, indulge in the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Tips on the Best way to get around Bangkok

Navigating Bangkok can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Use public transportation: Bangkok’s traffic can be notoriously congested, so it’s best to utilize the city’s efficient public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway.

Dress appropriately for temples: When visiting temples, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

Stay hydrated: With the hot and humid weather, it’s important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.

Try street food: Bangkok is renowned for its street food scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies from the bustling street stalls.

Bargain at markets: When shopping at markets, bargaining is a common practice. Negotiate the prices to get the best deals.

Choosing the best time to explore Bangkok is essential for a memorable and enjoyable trip. Consider factors such as the weather, festivals, airfare, and accommodation prices, crowds, and your personal preferences. Whether you opt for the high season, shoulder season, or low season, Bangkok will captivate you with its vibrant energy, rich culture, and incredible sights.

Follow-up Articles:

  • Bangkok’s 20 Most Popular Cafes
  • 12 Most Popular Shopping Places in Bangkok
  • Thailand’s Top 10 Popular Honeymoon Resorts
  • Top 15 Famous Restaurants in Bangkok
  • 10 Famous Thailand Destinations to See in November 2023
  • Thailand’s Popular Places to Visit in October 2023
  • Thailand Shopping Guide: What To Buy And Where
  • 10 Places to Visit in Thailand in March 2024
  • Top 11 Destinations to Trekking in Thailand
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  • Connecting Asia: The Kolkata-Bangkok Highway – A Road Trip Coming Soon

1. Is Bangkok safe to visit?

Bangkok is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always recommended to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

2. What is the currency used in Bangkok?

The currency used in Bangkok is the Thai Baht (THB).

3. How can I get around in Bangkok?

Bangkok has an extensive public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, and buses, making it easy to navigate the city.

4. What should I wear when visiting temples in Bangkok?

When visiting temples, it’s best to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

5. What are some must-visit attractions in Bangkok?

Some of the must-visit attractions in Bangkok include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Chatuchak Weekend Market, and the floating markets.

Manish

Manish Yadav is a writer passionate about food and travel. He enjoys trekking, camping, exploring architecture, and cycling. Travel photography and videography are his interests, and he prefers offbeat destinations for their personal communication.

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  • Travel Guides

Your Ultimate Guide To The Best Time To Visit Bangkok

Unwrapping Bangkok’s seasons and the perfect time to embrace its vibrant essence.

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The energy of Bangkok always screams “Dynamic!” and if you are eagerly waiting to dive right into the epicenter’s rich cultural dynamism then prepare to plan your adventure as you take yourself out on a limb and into the metropolis that is always bustling with its enchanting streets.

Prepare to experience Bangkok at its finest as we spill the season to season beans.

This place is adored by travelers and tourists alike, globetrotting influencers swear by Bangkok too. This destination’s design was made to cater a balance between modernity and holistic tradition. So we call out to the wanderlust- filled travelers and the foodie on the great flavor hunt, we call out to the seekers of spirituality and those with a thirst for enlightenment, let Bangkok satiate all your needs as we uncover t he best time to visit bangkok

But when is the prime time to bask in Bangkok’s glory? Today, we will  unravel season by season, guiding you to the ultimate pinnacle of your Bangkok experience.

Table of Contents

But First, Why Bangkok?

bangkok tourism is doing everything to boost its tourism.

Why Bangkok? You ask? Because this busy metropolis is more than just a city—it’s a spirited ensemble of commerce, culture, and ardor that thrums with energy at every second of the day. From morning to evening, Bangkok calls out to travelers with an entrancing charm, the possibilities here are endless.

The very nucleus of Bangkok has distinctive experiences that are poised with grace and speak thoroughly of an abundance that is cutting-edge. You could be on a leisure window-shopping spree looking for gift cards or you could be seriously shopping for the newly released electronics. The extravagance of this city is not concealed and you will never run out of things to do in Bangkok.

The packages you can find here in Bangkok are curated with taste and to the liking of the travelers. Each one caters to the special needs of the visitors if you make a note of the best time to visit bangkok. Bangkok also invites couples and honeymooners to experience budget friendly luxurious retreats like never before. 

Knowing the best season to visit this destination is key to having a great experience. The options at hand are boundless and you can get to enjoy your stay at the best price if you are a bit smart about when you will visit.

Bangkok And Its Seasonal Symphony, Optimal Times To Savor The City’s Charms

perfect month to visit Bangkok is crucial to have a complete experience.

Having the ability to navigate and choose the perfect month to visit Bangkok is crucial skill, one must note that Bangkok is a perennial destination- meaning it has the all-year-round  amazingness that you are free to bask in, travelers who have been here for more than one season will be able to gauge the ideal seasons very easily, they might even be drawn to the  comfortable temperature in Bangkok around November through February. These months are truly ideal to indulge in the city’s sights and sounds as Bangkok reveals itself under the benevolent sun and azure skies that are so open it refreshes you on sight.

Imagine yourself venturing into Bangkok between June and October, this is the time you will truly discover the treasure trove that this place is, this is the best time to visit bangkok if you are someone that loves exploring sporadically, the discounts that rain on you along with the gentle kisses of the rain itself will leave you having a warm and fuzzy feeling inside your tummy! The random deluges that drench the cityscape are a sight one will instantly fall in love with.

If you love festivities then April and November are the ideal time for you to indulge in heavy revelries, Thailand’s festival scene is very big and they take their culture very seriously, the holiday season just begins during this time and you can see April heralding the arrival of Thai New Year, also known famously as the Songkran Festival, it is celebrated wildly marked by joyous festivities. November is the time the locals are getting ready to usher in the Loy Krathong festival, candles are seen floating over the gentle waterways and casting spellbinding glow upon the night skies– a sight to behold.

The irresistible bargains of Bangkok are too tempting to miss and you will definitely enjoy navigating the labyrinthine markets or shopping malls here.

The Best Time To Visit Bangkok: Deciphering Bangkok’s Seasonal Splendor

check for temperature in bangkok before booking tickets.

Discerning the pinnacle of Bangkok’s allure requires finesse in the intricate tapestry of its climate, Bangkok weather can sizzle with intensity yet the rainy season emerges as a hidden secret, it offers a reprieve from the endless scorching heat. The gentle downpours from July to October are the quieter, more serene days, that beckon you to embrace the outdoors, enthusiasts of the great outdoors can revel in its splendor without the usual throngs of tourists. However, a word of caution: Counterbalance the humidity by ensuring your accommodations boast adequate air conditioning.

Book Now: Bangkok Night Lights: Temple & City Tour by Tuk Tuk

Peak Season: (November To February)

November to February is the peak season of Bangkok, The temperatures here are soaring at 23 to 39 degrees. The city is brimming and boasting with warmth and sunshine, most of the travelers love to visit during this time because the temperatures are favorable and it seems more happening. However, the one drawback of this season is also that the crowd is increasingly high and so are the prices, everything is double the prices. From accommodation to food and packages, everything is expensive. If you are someone who cares about a good experience regardless of budget, then this season is the best time to visit bangkok for you as it also promises a lovely journey that is full of life and vibrancy.

Dynamic Offerings: Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, followed by the exotic vibe of Chinese New Year in February. Grand Palace is in full bloom this time and a must see.Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, each a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Lose yourself in some splurging at the bustling markets of Chatuchak and Pratunam, or venture to floating markets and green spaces for a nature-filled escape.  Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife scene is one to look out for as night falls, offering the best partying experiences. 

Shoulder Season: (March to June)

This is the transitioning season and is greeted with a very unique type of travelers. Bangkok offers better experiences during this time around and it extends from March to June. There are a few nuances that come with this season though –The temperatures begin to rise during this season and it gets very hot, Songkran festival is in full bloom and the festivities are still beginning during this season so that is a plus. The energy is surging and so is the excitement despite the soaring temperatures. Vibrant water fights are a joyous sight to behold, it is also a part of the festivities.

As you progress further into the season of May to June, Bangkok reveals another face – The number of visitors can be seen to be decreasing when compared to the peak season, if you are someone who enjoys secluded and serene getaways then this is the perfect season for you to visit bangkok and its hidden gems in as its the time this city speaks of tranquility.

This season can be a very good opportunity to dive deeper into the city’s soul, where streets are quieter, there are fewer crowds and they offer a chance for genuine connections and authentic experiences. You can be seeking refuge from the heat in the cool confines of a temple or just want to listen to the rhythm of the rain as it dances upon the city streets. Bangkok’s shoulder season promises a journey filled with delight of another kind.

Dynamic Offerings: Absolutely captivating boat tours along the majestic Chao Phraya River, offering a transfixing glimpse into the central heart of Bangkok’s bustling metropolis. Give your palate a treat and your senses a high through the culinary odyssey, the selection is so diverse here, Haute cuisine establishments catch your attention and humble street food stalls satiate your soul. Each offering a tantalizing array of flavors and aromas that embody Bangkok’s rich culinary heritage.

Low Season: (July to October)

At this point, you can see a decrease in the tourist footfall, Bangkok sheds its bustling facade, offering a respite from the usual hustle and bustle. During this time, the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems reveal themselves in all their splendor, inviting the intrepid travelers to commence on a journey of discovery without getting distracted by crowds and noise.

Moreover, the low season presents a once in a blue moon opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to thoroughly enjoy Thailand’s sights at very low prices.

Accommodations and flights are available at very affordable rates, the visitors can explore Bangkok’s variety of attractions without breaking the bank, making it a tempting prospect for those who do not wish to compromise on their budget and yet want to have a fulfilling experience.

Dynamic Offerings: National Museum Bangkok is a must visit during this time, Perfect time to indulge in traditional Thai cuisine with cooking classes or rejuvenate with Thai massages. Also it is the perfect time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife in renowned clubs. Happening festivals during this time are the Phuket Par Tor, Candle, or Lantern. 

The Cheapest Time To Visit Bangkok

The savvy travelers who are seeking wallet-friendly vacations, the low season is very ideal from July to October as it presents an amazing opportunity to explore Bangkok without breaking your bank! There are very few tourists at this time and you can find accommodations at slashed prices. This allows you to stretch out your budget for other things.

Most Expensive Time To Visit Bangkok 

Bangkok’s peak season from November to March is called the peak season for a reason. The crowd is bustling at the speed of light and so are the prices! Sure, the dry and pleasant weather is amazing to be here but the zenith of prices are equally high.

best time to visit bangkok

In essence, the best time to visit bangkok and its charm for us would be in the delicate balance between the weather in Bangkok and the ambiance. It’s really an art to decipher the optimal time to visit the place. All we can say is: Tailor your trip in such a way that it coincides with the vibrant events and experience the land of smiles. This exceptional destination has something happening in every single season.

It really depends on individual preferences, when you wish to visit Bangkok can depend on your personal liking towards a certain climate or even the number of people you are comfortable around.If you are someone that enjoys dry and warm climate and is okay with crowded and expensive packages then you can go for the peak season. If you are someone that likes serenity and doesn’t care about the crowd at all then the dry season is for you.

The hottest month in Bangkok is typically April, the temperatures can soar to the highest levels, often reaching up to 35-40 degrees.

The rainy season in Bangkok occurs from June to October. The city receives the highest rainfall during this season.

There is a lot to explore and see in Bangkok, we would recommend you to visit the place for at least 15 days to get the worth of the effort.

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The Best Times to Visit Thailand for Great Weather, Low Prices, and Fun Festivals

Here are the best times to go to Thailand based on what you want to see and do.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

best time to visit bangkok and thailand

The Best Times to Visit Thailand for Smaller Crowds

The best times to visit thailand for great weather, the best times to visit thailand for lower prices, the best times to visit thailand for festivals, the best times to visit thailand for scuba diving, the best times to visit thailand for island-hopping, the best times to visit thailand for shopping, worst times to visit thailand.

Thailand is one of the most accessible and well-loved travel destinations in Southeast Asia. It's a great place to visit any time of year, but there are better times than others for specific activities like scuba diving and island-hopping.

"Thailand is a tropical country with two distinct seasons," says Jack Tydeman , a Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Southeast Asia specialist for Audley Travel . "It is typically warm all year round. However, the winter months from November through March are the peak dry season and are considered the best time to travel to the majority of the country. April is the hottest month in Thailand before the country moves into the wetter season from May through October."

Here's a breakdown of Thailand's main travel seasons:

  • High Season: November to March
  • Shoulder Seasons: April to June and the month of October
  • Low Season: July to September

Before you book your jungle tree house and island boat tour, learn about the best times to visit Thailand.

Michela Buttignol/Travel + Leisure

Thailand's low season coincides with monsoon season. With the exception of the Thai islands, which draw students from Australia and Europe during their college breaks, the wet and muggy climate keeps many tourists away between July and September. Going during this quiet time has its perks: you'll get cheaper accommodations, better access to restaurants and activities typically inundated by vacationers, and potentially more of a local experience. At the same time, there are limitations. Rains could come in brief cloudbursts, or they could come in days-long downpours that affect boat service and island access. Tours are less abundant, and some hotels even close during the off-season, so be sure to plan ahead if you're considering a trip in the summer.

For ideal weather, visit Thailand during the dry season, which runs from November through March in most of the country, sometimes even lasting until April or May. A major exception is the Lower Gulf — home to the islands of Koh Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Koh Tao — which is rainiest from September through December.

On the Andaman coast, the coolest, most comfortable weather is around November to February, with average temperatures in the 80s and little chance of rain. This means clear, blue waters and gorgeous vegetation quenched from monsoon season.

As for the low season, it's best to temper your expectations. "It is possible to travel over the summer months. However, you may see some short, sharp showers," Tydeman says. "As the east coast of Thailand has its own unique weather patterns, summer is actually the drier season there."

Thailand is a relatively affordable destination throughout the year, though travelers may find the steepest discounts on flights, accommodations, and tours during the low season, July to September.

"The low season does have its advantages, as it's quieter and the rates are typically lower. This makes Thailand a great-value destination during the summer," says Tydeman. While this time of year is generally wetter, you might even get better natural scenery. "Summer is now commonly referred to as 'green season' due to the rains turning the countryside green and filling the rivers and waterfalls."

Travelers should try to experience at least one of Thailand's many festivals, which celebrate everything from flowers and fruit to monkeys and elephants. Two of the most beloved are the late-November lantern festivals: Yi Peng, during which participants release thousands of rice-paper lanterns into the sky; and Loy Krathong, when banana-leaf baskets are filled with flowers and burning candles and released onto lakes, rivers, and canals. Chiang Mai is the Yi Peng epicenter, and Loy Krathong is celebrated across the country.

The Chinese New Year in January or February turns Bangkok's Chinatown into a sea of dragons, drummers, worshippers, and visitors, all under the glow of firecrackers and red lanterns. Also in February is the three-day Flower Festival in Chiang Mai, which features a parade of elaborately decorated floats.

Songkran (aka the Water Splashing Festival) ushers in the Thai New Year in mid-April with parades, parties, and performances across the country. Songkran turns Thailand into "one big water fight," Tydeman says. "It also coincides with the hottest month of the year, so it's a perfect excuse to get wet."

The Vegetarian Festival takes place in late September or early October and commemorates a nine-day abstinence from meat in honor of the Nine Emperor Gods of Taoism.

Divers from all over the world flock to Thailand to explore the country's famous underwater sites and stunning marine parks. Thailand's east coast is largely dive-friendly throughout the year. If you plan an excursion to the Andaman Sea, home to the extraordinary Similan and Surin Islands, time the trip between November and April, when the seas are calm and visibility is clearest. Also keep in mind that Similan and Surin marine parks close from mid-May to mid-October.

Boating from one jungle-topped limestone island to another is a great way to explore Thailand, but downpours between May and October can put the kibosh on nautical fun. Some southern Andaman resorts even close for the rainy season.

"The islands off the west coast, like Phuket, are best to visit in the winter months, whereas the islands off the east coast, like Koh Samui, are great to visit in the summer," says Tydeman.

This means you should time your bouncing around Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands, Ko Lanta, and other Andaman isles between late October (when the rains taper off) and May or June. Conversely, Gulf of Thailand idylls Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Ko Pha-ngan are at their rainiest and windiest between October and December.

No matter what time of year you visit Thailand, try to fit in at least one weekend in Bangkok so you can experience the vast Chatuchak Weekend Market . Many of the stalls are covered, so you can visit even on a rainy day. Tydeman also recommends visiting Bangkok's night markets, which offer "everything from original artwork and designer bags to kitschy souvenirs and secondhand books."

Chiang Mai 's weekend markets deserve a look as well. Every Saturday night, Wua Lai Road (just south of the Old City) closes to traffic and hosts silversmiths, wood carvers, clothing purveyors, sketch artists, and performing musicians. On Sundays, the scene essentially repeats itself along the length of Ratchadamnoen Road, which bustles with artists, food vendors, and massage stations.

There is no objectively bad time to visit Thailand. Each season has its benefits, but most people avoid traveling during the heaviest monsoons, which can disrupt public transportation and make exploring Thailand's stunning natural sites wildly uncomfortable (if not impossible). Forget renting a motorbike or riding ferries during the wet season. Though you're more likely to snag accommodations for cheap, you're liable to spend more time at your hotel than you bargained for, waiting for the downpours to pass. If you're averse to heavy rains and thick humidity on vacation, avoid planning a trip to Thailand in August and September.

best time to visit bangkok and thailand

PlanetWare.com

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Written by Diana Bocco and Meagan Drillinger Updated Apr 14, 2023

The best time to visit Bangkok is highly dependent on the seasons. Like the rest of the country, Bangkok is mostly a tropical destination year-round. It enjoys warm-to-hot temperatures, dry and wet seasons, year-round festivals, humidity, and even monsoons. Prices fluctuate, as do the number of tourists, depending on the season. So when determining the best time to visit Bangkok, the question then becomes, what is it you're looking for?

Thailand's capital offers a fascinating mix of temples, skyscrapers, one of the oldest Chinatowns in the world, and some of the best shopping you'll find in Asia. It's also one of your best chances to experience a true marriage of tradition-meets-innovation, a city where there's always something exciting happening. If you're in the early stages of planning a visit to Bangkok, here's an in-depth guide to help you choose the best time to visit.

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Best time of year to visit bangkok, best month to visit bangkok, best season to visit bangkok, cheapest time to visit bangkok.

The Marble Temple in Bangkok at sunset

Bangkok's weather is tropical all year-round, which translates to long, hot days no matter what time of the year you arrive. If you'd like a bit of a break in temperatures (high 20s instead of high 30s Celsius), December and January are the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise . But overall, you will not be disappointed with the weather if you visit Bangkok between November and March. Because Bangkok is still very much a tropical destination, the weather can often have a mind of its own. The heavy monsoon rains taper down in early November, and the holiday crowds don't arrive till late December, so you'll see slightly cooler, drier weather and smaller crowds. Bear in mind, however, that the time between November and January is high season, so hotel rates and airfare will be at their highest.

If your plan is to head south to the islands after a stop in Bangkok, arriving between November and April guarantees the best beach and water conditions. In Bangkok, where everything's air-conditioned, and many of the attractions are at least partially indoors, there's no such thing as "the worst time to visit." For example, arriving during the wettest months might seem inconvenient, but it guarantees shorter lines at the main attractions and lower prices almost everywhere.

If you want a peek into local culture, the two major Thai festivals occur in April and November. April is the Songkran festival , which is Thailand's most famous festival. It's the traditional Thai New Year festival, and it's a time when the entire country erupts with celebration. November hosts the Loi Krathong, which is the time to thank the Water Goddess for her abundance, as well as ask forgiveness for the human pollution of the bodies of water. It's a beautiful festival held all over the country, marked by thousands of lanterns that are released into the night sky. In December, all the major shopping areas in Bangkok get decked for Christmas, even though it's not traditionally celebrated in Thailand.

Sunset over Bangkok

Most of Bangkok's main attractions – such as the Grand Palace , the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Jim Thompson House and Museum – remain open year-round, so you won't miss out no matter when you visit. But depending on the season and the weather, some months are more convenient and comfortable than others. Still, Thailand is home to many beautiful festivals and special events throughout the year, so you might want to consider these when planning a visit.

January: The Chinese New Year (which usually falls in late January or early February) is celebrated in full force in Bangkok-with festivities mainly concentrating around the Chinatown area but also spilling into the rest of Bangkok in one form or another. Expect dragon parades, lanterns, and firecrackers, and plenty of food stalls lining up the markets. The average high in January is 32 degrees Celsius, while the average precipitation is 8.8 millimeters. This means it is one of the coolest and driest months to visit Bangkok.

February: With no major holidays in February (except the Chinese New Year sometimes) the best way to spend this month is to explore the outdoors before the temperatures start increasing. The average high is still around 32 degrees Celsius. January and February are "kite season" in Bangkok , with many locals heading to Lumphini Park to take advantage of the stronger winds-where you can either watch the many kites taking to the skies or buy your own and try your luck. The 57-hectare Lumphini park is a great place to sit down for a picnic, rent a canoe, or look out for the giant three-meter-long Komodo dragons that inhabit the park.

March: March is a dry month, ideal for island-hopping and burying your toes in the sand. You'll find temperatures are starting to climb, with the average high around 34 degrees Celsius, but precipitation is still low, at less than three centimeters. While Thailand's main island destinations are several hours away, there are still beaches you can visit on a quick day trip from Bangkok. Less than 90 minutes away from the capital, Bang Saen is a quiet beach getaway that offers a four-kilometer-long, palm-fringed coastline and great dining choices. If you're up for a longer drive, the town of Hua Hin , about 2.5 hours south of Bangkok, offers several beaches and lots of water sports.

April: April is the hottest month in Bangkok. The average high is almost 35 degrees Celsius, so if extreme heat is a deterrent, April is not the best time to visit Bangkok. April in Thailand can only mean one thing: Songkran festivities. Songkran is the Thai New Year celebration, which officially happens between April 13-15 th , but in reality extends to a full week. During this time, locals are off work, many shops and city buildings are closed, and Bangkok is the quietest and most deserted you'll ever see it .

Songkran is a time for cleansing, both spiritually and physically (it's the equivalent to "spring cleaning" in Thai households), which also means massive water fights on the streets. As a tourist, you'll be a primary target, so if you're around during this time, expect to be hit with high-velocity water guns, buckets, and hoses several times a day as you walk around Bangkok. If you don't mind the "attacks" and are willing to stay out, there are plenty of street festivities, parades, and food stalls all over Bangkok to keep you entertained. Keep in mind that April is often the hottest month of the year in Bangkok , so be ready to schedule lots of air-conditioned indoor fun as well.

May: Visakha Bucha is the holiest Buddhist celebration in Thailand, a day dedicated to celebrating the teachings of the Buddha. Since the holiday is based on the lunar calendar, the exact date of celebration varies from year to year-but keep in mind that on this day (and sometimes the day before and after), clubs, many restaurants, and even shops will be closed, and the city in general will be quieter, as silence and time for reflection are recommended. If you're planning on visiting one of Bangkok's temples on this day, you'll find lots of candles, incense burning, and other quiet celebrations taking place. May is a very humid month , with high temperatures and, with rainfall averaging about 22 centimeters in the month. It is better spent indoors discovering museums and restaurants.

June: There's a lot of rain and no major festivals in Bangkok during the month of June , making it a good month for indoor fun, including visiting the covered Chatuchak market (Bangkok's biggest market with over 8,000 stalls) and the many temples around the city.

Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok

July: Starting in mid-June, Bangkok has an extended sale period known as the Amazing Grand Sale -and by July, most shopping centers, markets, and even small mom-and-pop stores are offering discounts of up to 80 percent on everything from high-end clothing to electronics to household products and even jewelry. This is the best time to visit if you're after great shopping deals or want to take home an expensive piece of art or traditional items you couldn't afford otherwise.

August: On the Chinese calendar, the 15th night of the seventh lunar month (which usually means August) is dedicated to the Hungry Ghost Festival -a sort of Hallow's Eve day in which restless spirits are free to roam the Earth in search of food, relief, and sometimes revenge. Heading to Bangkok's Chinatown during this festival means lots of colorful festivities, including the burning of incense and Joss paper (sheets of paper also known as "ghost money") and food offerings left on the side of the road to appease the spirits.

The yearly International Thai Film Festival (ITFF) also happens in Bangkok in August, and it's a great way to discover indie films and shorts from around the world-but also a great way to escape the heat and monsoon rains and spend some time indoors.

September: September is usually the wettest month of the year . You can expect an average of 34 centimeters of rain through the month of September in Bangkok. While this means it's not a good time to visit the islands or the beaches, it's still great to head to Bangkok: the rains are intense but short, the crowds less crazy, and the prices lower.

The Moon Festival is another Chinese festival that is widely celebrated in Thailand-a good thing, since this is probably the best festival for dessert lovers. In addition to mooncakes, you can find all kinds of sweet delicacies being sold around the city during this festival, including roasted chestnuts and ginseng and green tea ice cream. Traditional long wooden boat races happen all around Thailand during the month of September-including in Samut Prakan and Nonthaburi, both less than 30 minutes from central Bangkok.

October: For nine days in October (sometimes starting in late September depending on how the date falls on the Chinese lunar calendar), the Kin Jay Vegetarian Festival turns Bangkok into veggie paradise. Meant to be a cleansing time, restaurants all over the city offer vegetarian dishes, with some converting completely into meat-free for the duration of the festival. Watch for the yellow flags announcing a particular restaurant is participating. October is when temperatures start to cool down and the rains begin to dissipate, as well.

November: Thailand's most beautiful festival, Loi Krathong , falls in November-to be exact, on the first day of the full November moon. Loi Krathong is a celebration full of light, where Thais make merits (good deeds) and pay respect to water spirits by releasing tiny floats into the river. The tiny boats (krathongs) contain candles, coins, or sweets and are traditionally made of banana leaves. In Bangkok, hundreds of thousands of floats are usually released into the Chao Phraya River and surrounding canals, and the flickering lights make for an impressive display.

Visitors can also head to Wat Arun on the same day to see the floating of sky lanterns, released to make merits during Yi Peng festival (which falls on the same day as Loi Krathong).

November hardly sees any rain, and temperatures come way down, averaging a high of 31 degrees Celsius.

December: December is not only the driest month in Bangkok , next to January, but also one of the coolest, with daytime temperatures under 30 degrees Celsius and evening temperatures that can get into the low-20s Celsius. This is the best month to walk around the city and discover outdoor markets, explore the waterfront along the Chao Praya River, and enjoy all the street food you could ever want.

Traditional Thai dancer

If you're staying in Bangkok for your entire Thailand holiday, you basically get to choose between three seasons: hot season, rainy season, and cool season.

Hot Season (March to June): The hot season is part of the shoulder season, which extends from April to June. This is a time where crowds are not as thick; you won't see a lot of rain; and prices, although not as their lowest, are still affordable. The downside, of course, is that Bangkok gets really hot during this period, with temperatures regularly reaching into the 40s Celsius. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hotel with a pool are a must during this season.

Rainy Season (June/July to October): In Bangkok, the monsoon rains arrive as early as May, but the heaviest rainfall is usually in September , when parts of the city sometimes get flooded, and the humidity index skyrockets. Monsoon showers are usually in the form of short afternoon downpours, rather than continuous rain, so it's still very possible to explore the city for most of the day-just hide inside one of Bangkok's many spectacular shopping centers (including the luxury megamall Siam Paragon and the themed Terminal 21, where every floor is decorated to represent a world-famous city) when it starts to rain for some window shopping or a quick bite.

Cool Season (November to February): The cool season is also Thailand's high season , which means prices go up, hotels get fully booked, and the crowds get bigger. Don't let the word "cool" fool you, though- temperatures during the day still reach into the 30s , but mornings and nights are more comfortable, and the cool breeze alongside the Chao Praya riverfront is truly pleasant for walks. In fact, this is the best season for night markets, tasting street food, and discovering Bangkok's colonial heritage.

Long-tail boat in Bangkok

Bangkok's low season is slightly different from the rest of the country (especially the islands in the south). As a general rule, the months between May and October are the best for budget-conscious travelers heading straight to the Thai capital. These are Bangkok's hottest and rainiest months , which means the crowds thin out, and the prices go down. The high tourist season starts in November, so booking a visit in late October will get you similar weather at much better prices.

Visiting during the cheapest time offers additional benefits-not only do hotels and airlines offer the best deals during these months , but smaller crowds mean more room to explore Bangkok's main attractions, such as the Grand Palace, without bumping into thousands of other tourists. Low season is also the best time to go to Bangkok for shopping, as the biggest sales and discounts occur between June and August.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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Exploring Bangkok: Need help planning your Bangkok holiday? You can see a list of the best attractions and must-see destinations in our article, Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok , as well as tips on making the most of your visit to the city's main attraction in Exploring Bangkok's Grand Palace: A Visitor's Guide .

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Bangkok Day Trip : Planning on exploring outside Bangkok but wondering where to go? Read From Bangkok to Ayutthaya: Best Ways to Get There to plan a visit to one of Thailand's most famous historical attractions.

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The Best Times to Visit Thailand

By Rick Jordan

The Best Time to Visit Thailand

When is the best time to visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand is from December to March—though, as with any tropical destination, a short and ridiculously torrential burst of rain is unpredictably possible, even on the sunniest of days.

When’s Thailand’s rainy season?

The time to not go to Thailand is the rainy season, from May to October, when monsoons blow in from all directions. The rain is heavy but sporadic in the first few months, while in the final months of the rainy season, it's more persistent.

Koh Tao Thailand

When is Thailand’s shoulder season?

Thailand's shoulder season lasts from April to June and then again from September to October. Temperatures will peak country-wide around April, but this also means you don't have to compete for a prime spot on the best beaches in Thailand, and hotel rates will be lower. However, business and ferry services on the smaller islands (especially on the Andaman Sea side) will shut down as the low season approaches. The period from September to October sees more rain but fewer crowds.

What is the cheapest time to visit Thailand?

Unsurprisingly, the cheapest time to visit Thailand coincides with the rainy season. If you’re willing to deal with unpredictable weather, then you could bag a few hotel deals visiting Thailand during this time. We recommend going during the shoulder season.

Catch Beach Club Phuket

When is the best time to visit the islands?

East coast islands.

The best Thai islands in the Gulf of Thailand— Koh Samui , Koh Phangan, Koh Tao—tend to get less rain than the rest of the country (even in the rainy season) and are at their best from the end of January until mid-March. January is the freshest month—great for after the Christmas and New Year's Eve party chaos. February is the driest month, one of the sunniest, and the heat is still bearable; March is sunny and dry, too. The European and American summer break crowds hit the Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Koh Pha-Ngan, and Koh Tao) during July/August, so heading here in September usually hits the sweet spot for both crowds and weather.

West coast islands

Over on Thailand's west coast and the Andaman Sea—where you'll find the Thai islands of Phuket , Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi—the optimum time for a beach holiday is slightly earlier, in December and January, when fresher weather, maximum sunshine, and minimum rainfall combine to create the best climate for a beach holiday.

The Best Time to Visit Thailand

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

Bangkok , meanwhile, is stiflingly humid practically all the time (discomfort levels range from 'high' to 'extreme' year-round), but the best time to visit Thailand's capital is in December and January when it is dry and a relatively bearable 87-89ºF average during the day, and 68ºF at night (the coolest Bangkok ever gets). But also consider July and August, when there are great hotel deals to be had—and the rain only lasts for a short while in the afternoon. Avoid the months of April and September. April is unbearably hot and humid; September is hot and torrentially wet.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai and the north?

Chiang Mai and the lovely little town of Pai, in Thailand's cooler north, have much more pleasant climates than Bangkok and the south. Go from December to February for lovely sunny days (around 84ºF) and cooler evenings (the temperature dips to 55ºF—and even lower in the highlands, so dig out some warm clothes if you're trekking).

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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Best & Worst Time to Visit Thailand 2024, Rainy Season (Not when you think!)

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and March when the weather is cool and dry . However, it is also prime tourist season, and hotel and flight prices reflect the surge.

Thailand experiences very hot weather between April and June . The rainy season in Thailand occurs between June and October . One exception is the south's east coast (including Koh Samui), which experiences heavy rainfall from October to December.

Ready to plan your trip? Explore the ultimate guide to the best and worst times to travel to Thailand, complete with insider tips, recommended destinations, and curated activities for each season and month.

  • 1. Best Times to Visit Thailand
  • 2. Worst Times to Visit Thailand
  • 3. Thailand Weather Month By Month

Best Times to Visit Thailand for Great Weather, Beaches, Festivals, and Low Prices

As mentioned above the best times to visit Thailand are from November to March. However, this can depend on your Thailand holiday purposes, budget, and weather preferences.

Best Time for the Best Weather

To bask in Thailand's finest weather, plan your visit between November and February. During these months, the country from the north inland to the south islands experiences cool and dry conditions, offering a delightful escape from extreme heat and rain. Perfect for exploring with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Best Time for Beaches and Islands

If you are a beach/island lover, November to March is the best time to visit beaches on the west coast of Thailand like Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Similan Islands, and Krabi. Meanwhile, Koh Samui, nestled on the east coast, is good to visit from January to March and July to September.

Get more ideas on planning a family trip to Thailand .

Best Time for Low Prices

For budget-conscious travelers, the monsoon season from May to October offers lower prices and fewer crowds. Despite frequent rain showers, this period offers unique opportunities to secure significant discounts – up to 50% – on accommodation, flights, and tours.

Best Time for Thailand Festivals

For an authentic experience of Thailand's vibrant festivals, plan your visit in November for the enchanting Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival or in April to immerse yourself in the lively Songkran Festival. Additionally, many couples opt to celebrate their honeymoon or anniversary at the captivating Yi Peng Festival.

Get more tips in our article: How to Plan Your First Trip to Thailand — 7 Easy Steps .

Or tell us your interests , and we're glad to share the perfect timing and activities.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

The Worst Times to Visit Thailand

Avoiding the hot season if possible.

Thailand's hot season, from April to June, brings soaring temperatures and intense humidity, peaking in April and May at over 40°C (104°F). If you're not a fan of the heat, be sure to avoid those months.

Tips for Travelling during the Hot Season:

  • Explore northern regions like Chiang Mai, where the climate is generally cooler compared to the southern parts of the country.
  • Engage in water-based activities to cool off, such as visiting coastal areas or islands.

Avoiding the Rainy Season If Possible

While the rainy season (July to October) graces Thailand with lush landscapes, it also brings short afternoon showers and potential disruptions due to monsoons and storms.

However, you can revel in the perks of serene locales with fewer crowds and attractive prices.

Tips for Travelling the Rainy Season:

  • Explore eastern and northern regions during the rainy season, as they typically receive less rainfall compared to the southern areas.
  • Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan indoor activities on days when rain is expected.
  • Consider the sun-kissed beauty of Bali as a radiant alternative when Thailand is drenched in rain.

If you are going to visit other countries in Southeast Asia, you can read the Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia .

Thailand Travel Guide by Month

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

Thailand Weather in January: Nice Weather

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 15–25°C (59–77°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 25–32°C (77–89°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 26–32°C (79–89°F)

January offers great weather conditions, whether for city sightseeing or beach holidays.

It is a popular tourist season in Thailand, especially in tourist hotspots, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Koh Samui. Expect larger crowds at popular attractions and book accommodations in advance.

Events and Festivals

The key festival, when it is in January, Chinese New Year, is celebrated right across the country, especially in Bangkok's Chinatown.

Suggested read: Thailand in January: the top 5 places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in February: Nice Weather

Similar to the weather of January, February's weather is still nice, warm, and dry.

Good weather means almost anywhere is a good place to plan your holiday.

Beautiful islands and beaches are also good places to go — Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak... All kinds of water activities enjoy ideal conditions.

Thailand Weather in March: The Heat Builds

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 20–30°C (68–86°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 28–35°C (82–95°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 28–34°C (82–93°F)

March is still a fabulous month to visit Thailand, especially in the first half of the month, though it starts to heat up in March. It's advisable to stay hydrated, especially in the central region with warmer temperatures.

During this season, you can go literally anywhere in Thailand thanks to the low rainfall. Water-related activities in the southern islands are enjoyable.

Suggested read: Thailand in March: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in April: Hottest

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 25–35°C (77–95°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 29–35°C (86–97°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 29–35°C (84–95°F)

April is the hottest month in Thailand. It is not unusual for temperatures to exceed 30°C (95°F) all day and night!

The heat in Chiang Mai during April gets even more oppressive than in Bangkok. Chiang Rai is slightly cooler by 1 or 2°C but is still hot nonetheless.

For beach lovers, you are almost guaranteed some blue skies and clear seas. Staying in a beach resort will be at least 4 or 5°C cooler than in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

Festivals and Events

Thai New Year (Songkran Festival) is the biggest, longest, and most enjoyable festival in Thailand. It is a 3-day-long water fight that takes place throughout the country!

Suggested read: Thailand in April: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in May: The Rains Start

  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 31–36°C (88–97°F)

May is still hot and starts to be wet with it, as Thailand begins its rainy season. The rainy season is in full swing by the end of the month.

The weather in Bangkok and other cities in May starts to get extremely humid. Koh Samui is better than Phuket and Krabi to go because rainfall during May is much lower on the Gulf of Thailand than on the Andaman Coast.

May sees the end of the high season, which means that prices on hotels and flights begin to drop, bringing great value for visitors.

Suggested read: Thailand in May: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in June: Wet and Hot

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 28–38°C (82–100°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 29–35°C (84–95°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 27–33°C (81–91°F)

Thailand can expect an average of 15 to 22 days of rain in June. However, the rain is usually short-lived, occurring in short bursts in the afternoon or evening.

This tourism low season is the best time to travel to Thailand for prices and quietness, with more choices of accommodation and various different promotions.

For beachgoers, Ko Samui and Hua Hin are the best destinations as they are not so affected by the rains at this time.

Suggested read: Thailand in June: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in July: Wet

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 28–36°C (82–97°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 28–34°C (82–93°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 27–32°C (81–89°F)

July experiences heavy rainfall, so be prepared for wet conditions.

The southern islands are affected by the monsoon in July, which brings heavy rains and turbulent waves to the west coast.

However, the east coast (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, etc) experiences fewer showers during this season and has relatively good weather in July. You can still enjoy sunny days at the beach on these islands.

Some urban areas, such as Bangkok, remain hot and wet. Staying refreshed with indoor swimming pool visits and cold showers will help relieve any discomfort.

Suggested read: Thailand in July: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in August: Wet

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 27–35°C (81–95°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 27–33°C (81–91°F)

Like July, August is one of the best times to visit Koh Samui and the surrounding islands. Though there are some brief rains, it is much better than the other side of the peninsula in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Chang, and the Phi Phi Islands.

A trip to Thailand in August can be a cost-effective opportunity to enjoy scenic spots and quiet beaches without the crowds.

Suggested read: Thailand in August: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in September: Wettest

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 25–32°C (77–89°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 26–32°C (79–89°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 26–31°C (79–88°F)

September is the wettest month in Thailand. But actually, only some rural areas are significantly affected by the rains during the wet season, such as the mountainous north around Chiang Mai.

Destinations like Bangkok offer travelers plenty to do and see, even when it's raining outside. Koh Samui is recommended for beach holidays in September as it is less affected by the rains.

Rains do not disrupt the travel experience too much for some, as it seldom rains all day long.

Suggested read: Thailand in September: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in October: End of the Rains

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 22–30°C (72–86°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 24–31°C (75–88°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 25–30°C (77–86°F)

Thailand experiences high or very high rainfall again in October, except in Northern Thailand where the rainy season already tails off to moderate levels.

The monsoon rain eases off with less rainfall and lower temperatures by the end of October in most of Thailand. However, Koh Samui begins its peak rainy season at this time.

Some visitors come to Thailand at the end of October to wait for the annual grand Thailand Lantern Festival in early November. Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the main venues.

Suggested read: Thailand in October: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in November: Peak Season Starts

  • Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): 18–28°C (64–82°F)
  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 23–30°C (73–86°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 24–30°C (75–86°F)

Thailand's peak travel season starts from November. The rains and heat are gone or going from most of the country.

You can venture out without any worries of getting drenched, EXCEPT on the east coast, which receives a massive half a meter of rain in November.

Islands on the Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Island, Similan Islands, etc.) are ideal places to go, by contrast, with only moderate rainfall.

Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with low rainfall, are the most popular cities in November for the Thailand Lantern Festivals .

Suggested read: Thailand in November: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .

Thailand Weather in December: Coolest

  • Central Thailand (Bangkok): 22–31°C (72–88°F)
  • Southern Thailand (Phuket): 23–39°C (73–84°F)

December is the coolest month in Thailand, but it's still warm everywhere but in the cool/mild mountainous north.

December is a great time to visit most areas in Thailand (Koh Samui is still in rainy season though) and is also the country's busiest month for tourism.

There are celebrations on Christmas and New Year's Eve in Thailand. Shopping malls in Thailand have big sales from late December to early January. If you're planning a trip to Thailand over the Christmas and New Year period, try to book as early as possible. Popular hotels are usually booked up 3-6 months in advance.

Suggested read:

  • Thailand in December: top places to visit, costs, and crowds .
  • The Ultimate Guide to Spending Christmas / New Year Holidays in Southeast Asia
  • Planning a Family Holiday to SE Asia? 20 Expert Tips for Christmas

Thailand Weather/Temperature Month by Month

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best time to visit bangkok and thailand

It was a whirlwind across a number of cities, but a very comprehensive experience across the many sides and cultures of China. Most days had sufficient activities, but weren’t overwhelming, which was great.Across cities, we had excellent tour guides, like Kitty (Beijing), Jenny (Xian), William (Guilin/Yangshuo), Kris (Shanghai), and Tony (Yellow Mountains.)

best time to visit bangkok and thailand

From the time we landed in Beijing until we left, we were well taken care of. My wife and I had Lily Liu as our guide and she was amazing. From arranging visits to all the different sights, to teaching us the history, it was fantastic.

The tour was excellent. Selinda was very knowledgeable about all the aspects of our tour. Selinda was very interesting and knew so much Chinese history

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

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The best time to visit Thailand

Chawadee Nualkhair

Jan 3, 2024 • 5 min read

best time to visit bangkok and thailand

Find the best time to visit Thailand for you © Chadchai Ra-ngubpai / Getty Images

Silky-soft beaches, jungle-draped mountains, incredible food and a well-connected position at the heart of Southeast Asia have made Thailand a tourism hub for decades.

It welcomes more than 11 million visitors a year. All the same, travelers who dream of perpetually sunny skies and balmy weather might be dismayed at the pelting rain that arrives like clockwork every July or the sky-high price of their hotel from December to January.

The kingdom is full of diversions – myriad night markets, thundering waterfalls, even cherry blossoms and the occasional dusting of frost – but to experience them for yourself, you need to be in the right place at the right time. Here’s how.

Asian family enjoying summer vacation on the beach in morning with kids on their shoulders and the man pointing to something

December to February is best for beaches

The prevailing joke about Thai weather is that the country has three seasons: hot; wet and hot; and really, really hot. That may be, but when the “cool” season rolls around in December, you will find Thais bundled up in sweaters and even puffer jackets to combat temperatures that fall as low as 23°C (73°F).

While this may be cold for Thais, it’s perfect for international travelers hitting the beach, especially those escaping the northern winter, and resorts like Phuket , Samui and Krabi are predictably packed with sun-seekers at this time of year.

Daytime highs of 31°C (88°F) make outdoor activities warm but bearable, while nights are a hive of activity, with street food vendors lining the sidewalks and markets clad in fairy lights tempting even the most unwilling of shoppers.

The cool season is not for beachcombers alone. This time of year sees frost up north in the mountains as temperatures drop to 13°C (55°F). The northeast region even ushers in its own cherry blossom season as Phu Lom Lo erupts in a burst of pink Himalayan cherry blooms. Early morning hikers are rewarded with sunrise views over a sea of fog at the northern border with Laos , and wildflowers dapple the slopes of Doi Suthep and Phu Tabberk .

Not surprisingly then, this time is considered Thailand’s high season, when hotel and transportation prices are at their peak. However, the payoff is the kingdom at arguably its most beautiful and welcoming, temperature-wise.

Tourists spray water guns out of a tuk tuk on Khaosan Road during the Songkran festival in Bangkok, Thailand.

March and April are best for tropical fruit and Songkran

The weather, even for Thais, becomes alarmingly toasty during Thailand’s “summer” when temperatures average 30°C (87°F). School is out, meaning the capital is less crowded than usual, and the beaches are typically jammed with Bangkokians seeking reprieve from the heat. Meanwhile, temperatures in the usually temperate north soar to 36°C (97°F).

While it may seem a miserable time to visit, foodies will have a field day because all of Thailand’s most beloved fruits – mangoes, mangosteens, rambutans and Marian plums – are in season.

In mid-April, Thailand celebrates its new year, Songkran , and the streets burst into joyful water fights. You’ll find the entire country in celebration: families seeking blessings from their elders, Thais dancing in the streets, and travelers receiving benedictions in the form of perfumed water on the hands, daubings of brightly colored powder on the cheeks or (most likely) a blast of water in the face. Fans of water fights (and getting drenched) will find their like-minded brethren anywhere in the kingdom.

Meanwhile, fans of an empty Bangkok can take advantage of… an empty Bangkok. That means breezy commutes from one end of the city to the other, less competition at popular restaurants and fewer crowds to contend with at shopping malls and theaters. The change in the city is so pronounced that quite a few Bangkokians prize this time of year, opting to make sure that when Songkhran rolls around, they celebrate in the capital.

A Photographer bagpacker travel and take a caption of beautiful step of rice terrace paddle field during sunset in Chiangmai, Thailand

May to October is best for accommodation bargains

Thailand’s rainy season is long, but it doesn’t necessarily mean non-stop torrential downpours. Monsoon rains, especially before July, are typically violent but short, usually arriving in the early evening and lasting for 20 to 30 minutes. (Luckily, Thailand’s location means it avoids the strong typhoons experienced by Vietnam and the Philippines.) The problem is Bangkok traffic snarls for hours as a result, but travelers in less congested destinations are not necessarily affected, and hotel and transportation prices linger at months-long lows.

From May to July, beach resorts on the Andaman Sea side of Thailand – especially on weekdays – are basically deserted, claiming only a fraction of the prices they would normally charge during high season. This means that even at five-star resorts, choice rooms can be rented for far less than their usual rate. And while there will likely be daily rains, they’re usually brief.

Low-season rates extend to non-beach-but-still-popular destinations like Chiang Mai and Khao Sok , where a treasure trove of accommodation options, from floating bungalows to mountaintop cabins, awaits savvy bargain hunters willing to put up with a sudden shower or two. In contrast, July and August are peak season for islands in the Gulf of Thailand like Samui , where the weather is less affected by monsoon rains.

From September to October, the northeast is brimming with waterfalls, providing impromptu bathing areas for visitors with the foresight to bring bathing suits or even just towels. A word of warning: this is also when flooding may occur in the north or northeast, with water reaching all the way to Bangkok in some years. Only riverside areas are at risk, so make sure to check before you go.

Scores of lit lanterns float in the dark skies of Thailand as part of the Loi Krathong festival

November is best for experiencing Loi Krathong

November marks the beginning of the dry season and is considered the shoulder to high season, but bargains can still be found among the bigger local hotel chains.

On the night of November’s full moon, the country celebrates its Loi Krathong festival, marking the end of the rainy season. This is also when people float away their sins by placing candles on makeshift river rafts or lanterns in hopes of welcoming the coming year with a clean slate.

This article was first published March 2021 and updated January 2024

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Month-by-Month Guide: When is the Best Time to Visit Bangkok

by: The Beat Asia

April 05, 2022

Month by Month Guide When is the Best Time to Visit Bangkok

As a tropical country, Thailand experiences warm and humid weather with seasonal rainfall.

If you have plans to go to Bangkok, one of the first things to consider is the weather. It is recommended to travel during the cool season with low humidity so you can enjoy strolling through the city (unless you don’t hate the rainy season, then it’s perfectly fine).

To keep yourself updated on Bangkok's year-round climate, we put together a guide on the best time to visit Bangkok based on its monthly weather.

January - February

Considered the “cool season,” January is one of the best times to visit Bangkok because there is little chance of rainfall. The average temperature is warm between 25 C and 34 C, while humidity is low and manageable at an average of 68%.

However, be prepared for big crowds during this month especially if the Chinese New Year falls in early February. Expect a week full of activities such as parades and fireworks display.

On the other hand, the weather condition in February is comfortably warm like in January, making it a perfect time to explore Bangkok. Head to Thailand’s hidden gems including its mountains, beaches, and scenic towns. The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is celebrated every February when streets are filled with colorful plants and orchids.

The hot season in Thailand starts in March, with the temperature expected to rise to 30.1 C and humidity at 72%. This is the best time to visit beaches and soak up the sun.

March is also the time when the wind is strong which makes this month the official kite-flying season in the country especially in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

April - June

If you’re visiting Bangkok in April, pack light clothing because this month marks the hottest time in the country. Even at nighttime, the heat remains high between 31.2 C and 40.2 C.

The Thai New Year, Songkran, also happens every April. It involves street water fights that serve as refreshments to beat the summer heat.

Meanwhile, May remains a hot month with a little rain on the east coast islands of the country. It is also the cropping season when the Royal Ploughing Ceremony is held as farmers look forward to a productive year.

Days still feel hot in June but expect short rains in the afternoon. This could be one of the best times to visit Bangkok because of cheaper hotels and less crowded tourist attractions.

This month starts the rainy period before the official wet season in August. Despite some sharp downpours, tourists visiting Bangkok will enjoy the east coast islands with good weather.

August - September

One of the rainiest months in Thailand happens in August. This, however, does not prevent some tourists from visiting the country and experiencing its famous Thai massage, which is perfect when the weather is calm and cold.

The wet season continues until September. One of the most phenomenal events during this month is the Nine Emperor Gods Festival or the Kin Jay Festival, which is celebrated by the Chinese Thai community. The celebration involves off-the-wall rituals and activities like fire walking ceremony, piercing of spear on cheeks, dipping hands on hot oil, and many more.

Expect fairer weather in October as it marks the end of the rainy season in Bangkok. There are still small crowds in some tourist attractions except in top-rated destinations like Wat Pho or the Grand Palace. If you prefer to visit Bangkok in October, the cost of hotels and lodges is relatively lower.

November - December

The months of November and December are the best time to visit Bangkok because the weather is generally clear and bright. These months also welcome the tourism season when huge crowds are inevitable, and costs are higher. There are major events and parties in different cities, especially during Christmas and New Year.

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Best Time to Visit Bangkok: A Seasonal Guide

  • February 15, 2024

Nick Harvey

  • Travel Guide Thailand

Table of Contents

Best Time To Visit Bangkok

Introduction.

Welcome to Bangkok, Where Every Season Brings Adventure

Bangkok, the heart of Thailand, is a whirlwind of sensory delights – a dynamic metropolis infused with ancient temples, buzzing markets, aromatic street food, and a captivating energy unlike any other. Deciding when to experience this iconic city can impact your trip significantly. With this guide, we’ll unlock the secrets to finding the perfect season for your Bangkok adventure. 🇹🇭 

Be sure to take a look at our other guides to Asia and Thailand , such as Cambodia Travel Guides . Enjoy.

Bangkok, Thailand

Key Takeaways

Shoulder seasons are the sweet spot. For an ideal blend of manageable weather, smaller crowds, and reasonable prices, plan your Bangkok trip during the shoulder seasons (March-April or October-November).

Festivals can enhance your experience. If you’re interested in celebrating unique Thai festivals, time your trip to coincide with Songkran (Thai New Year, in April), Loy Krathong (the festival of lights, usually in November), or Chinese New Year.

The rainy season offers surprising advantages. For budget travelers and those seeking the least crowded experience, consider visiting during the rainy season (May-September). Rain showers are often intense but short-lived, and you’ll benefit from cheaper flights and accommodations.

Consider your personal priorities. The “best” time to visit Bangkok ultimately depends on your preferences. Factor in your sensitivity to heat and humidity, crowd tolerance, budgetary constraints, and desire to experience specific events or festivals.

There’s a Bangkok adventure for everyone. Whether you enjoy vibrant cityscapes, bustling markets, cultural experiences, or a mix of it all, Bangkok is a welcoming and fascinating destination year-round.

Tourist Seasons: The Travel Seasons in Bangkok

Understanding High, Shoulder, and Low Seasons

Bangkok’s travel year is defined by three distinct seasons:

  • High Season (December – February): Peak popularity brings sunny skies, pleasant temperatures, and the largest crowds. Prices soar along with an influx of tourists.
  • Shoulder Seasons (March-April, October-November): The magic sweet spot! You’ll find the best balance of weather, smaller crowds, and reasonable prices.
  • Low Season (May-September): Monsoon rains dominate, though downpours are often short. Expect high humidity, but also the cheapest flights and accommodations.

Seasons in Bangkok: When to Visit Bangkok for the Best Weather?

Bangkok, Thailand. Golden Boat

Dry Season (November – February)

Bangkok in its cool season is ideal for many first-time travellers. Clear skies, comfortable temperatures (averaging 25-30°C), and low humidity make for picture-perfect exploring. It’s prime time for temple hopping and outdoor markets without breaking a sweat.

Hot Season (March – May)

Temperatures in Bangkok skyrocket between March and May, often hitting the high 30s°C and feeling even hotter with humidity. If you can brave the heat, the crowds start to lessen, and you may stumble upon fantastic deals. Hydration is key!

Rainy Season (June – October)

Monsoon season arrives, painting the cityscape with dramatic rainstorms. These bursts are intense but usually short-lived, clearing up by mid-afternoon. Humidity intensifies, however, bargain hunters will thrive.

Related article: Solo Female Travel

Recommended Tours in Bangkok

The best month to visit bangkok.

The Sweet Spot: Shoulder Seasons in Bangkok

Aiming for March-April or October-November can lead to your ultimate Bangkok experience. The crowds thin out, prices ease slightly, and while heat can linger, it’s still manageable for enjoying all the city offers. If travel flexibility allows, this is your ultimate window.

The Best Days to Visit Bangkok

Weekday Wisdom: Less Crowds and Better Deals

If you can time your arrival for weekdays (Monday-Thursday), you’ll beat the surge of weekend travellers and locals enjoying popular sights. Markets will be a smidge calmer, and some tours or accommodations might offer mid-week specials.

Related article: Thailand Travel Guides

When is the Best Time to Visit Bangkok for Events

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan

  • Songkran Festival (Thai New Year): Get ready for an all-out water fight celebration normally held in April! This joyous tradition makes for an unforgettable Bangkok experience.
  • Loy Krathong Festival: Held usually in November, this dazzling festival of lights transforms rivers and canals as thousands of floating candles shimmer across the water.
  • Chinese New Year in Bangkok: The city’s Chinatown explodes with colour and festivities during this vibrant celebration. Expect street decorations, lion dances, and delicious street eats.

When is the Best Time to Visit Bangkok on a Budget?

The Frugal Traveler’s Guide

Stick to the rainy season (May-September) to secure the most affordable flights and hotel rooms. While there will be downpours, strategic planning allows you to explore during dry spells. Street food markets and budget-friendly guesthouses also help minimise costs.

Related article: How to save for a trip

The Best Time to Visit Bangkok to Avoid the Crowds

Seeking Tranquility and Fewer Tourists

If bustling crowds aren’t your forte, the rainy season might be surprisingly appealing. Yes, expect downpours, but those same rains deter many travellers, so temples and attractions feel noticeably emptier. Early October, towards the tail end of the monsoon, can be a good compromise since rains begin to decrease.

Related article: How to plan a trip

Recommended tours in Bangkok, Thailand

Frequently asked questions (faqs).

Often, you’ll find the most affordable flights landing in May, right at the onset of the rainy season. Keep an eye out for mid-week, off-season specials for the best savings.

For a fulfilling first-time Bangkok experience, dedicate at least 3-4 days to discover its many layers. This permits time for iconic sights, exploring markets, and delving into some neighbourhoods. To truly soak in the atmosphere and venture further afield, aim for a week-long getaway.

Bangkok is generally considered a safe city for travellers, even solo female travellers. However, take typical precautions – stay aware of your surroundings, use licensed taxis, and be mindful of valuables.

While tipping isn’t strictly a Thai custom, it’s becoming more common due to tourism. It’s appreciated in restaurants (round up the bill if service was good), hotels (small tip to porters), and tour guides. Street food vendors don’t expect tips.

Bangkok can be an adventure for little explorers! It’s child-friendly in many ways. Most hotels cater to families and attractions like Kidzania, zoos, or even a riverboat trip keep little ones entertained. It’s wise to book child-friendly accommodation, pack snacks for fussy eaters, carry lightweight strollers for busy days, and embrace the chaos – some flexibility goes a long way!

Final Thoughts

Finding Your Perfect Time for a Bangkok Adventure

There’s no single “best” time to visit Bangkok. Ultimately, it hinges on your priorities! Consider these essential factors:

  • Weather Preferences: Love clear skies or brave the heat?
  • Crowd Tolerance: Busy vibes or peaceful exploration?
  • Budgetary Limitations: Peak season or bargain hunting?
  • Festival Bucket List: Seeking unique experiences?

Bangkok will captivate you no matter the season. Use this guide to weigh your desires and tailor your travel timing for a journey through this remarkable city that will resonate long after you return home. 🇹🇭 

Have lingering Bangkok questions or curiosities? Drop a comment below – let’s keep the conversation going!

Add us to your socials!

Related articles: Thailand Travel Guides , Asia Travel Guides

Recommended websites: Bangkok tourism , Visit Thailand

Nick Harvey

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The Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Photo of author

June 21, 2023

A sprawling metropolis of madness and mayhem, Bangkok is many tourists’ first introduction to life in Southeast Asia. One of the planet’s most exciting cities, it’s a non-stop whirlwind of nightlife, street food and a countless cast of curious characters.

But beyond that, it’s also the epicenter of much of Thailand’s history and heritage, with imposing temples, several architectural oddities and many fantastic museums.

But depending upon when you visit, your Bangkok experience can vary widely and wildly. With various weather seasons, a tropical climate and many festivals and events throughout the year, it’s essential that you choose a time of year that you’ll enjoy.

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok but you’re not sure exactly when you should visit, this guide is exactly what you need.

We’ve compiled lots of information about events, weather and busy periods in Bangkok to help you decide on the perfect time to take your trip!

Let’s dive in!

When is the best time to visit Bangkok? The quick answer:

We recommend two separate periods:

The best time to visit Bangkok is between November and February . During this period you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the best of Bangkok’s attractions and areas of interest. In these months, rainfall and humidity are low, and temperatures are at their most pleasant, especially at night.

But if you want to experience a more unique side of Bangkok life, we recommend you visit during April’s Songkran festival . The Thai New Year, it’s one of the world’s biggest, most exciting and most unusual parties. For the entire period, locals and tourists participate in the world’s biggest water fight. It’s disruptive and bizarre, but it’s one of the world’s most unique experiences.

Hot Season: March to June

Rainy season: july to october, cool season: november to february, bangkok weather charts, high tourist season, low tourist season, shoulder season, when is the best time to travel to bangkok for a honeymoon, the best time to go shopping in bangkok, the best time to visit bangkok for culture and museums, the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities in bangkok, what is the best time to visit bangkok on a budget, what is the best time to visit bangkok with kids and family, wrapping up, the weather seasons in bangkok.

Bangkok has a tropical climate, so its year is divided into three seasons (rather than the traditional four seasons): the hot season from March to June, the rainy season from July to October, and the cool season from November to February. Each one offers distinctly different weather and events.

Here’s a brief introduction to these three seasons in Bangkok:

As you might have guessed, this is Bangkok’s hottest season. With daytime temperatures sometimes hitting peaks of around 40ºC, this period really isn’t ideal for city sightseeing. Unless you’re particularly accustomed to searing-hot temperatures, it’s generally best to avoid this time of year.

Of these months, March is the most pleasant – temperatures are marginally lower and there’s not too much rainfall. May is searingly hot and unpleasantly humid, while June cools a little, but brings with it the early downpours of Bangkok’s disruptive monsoon season.

While April can be stiflingly hot and humid, the month plays host to Songkran, the annual Thai New Year celebrations. During this three-day period (which in reality lasts around a week), the entire nation descends into one giant water fight – and that’s really no exaggeration.

The most fun time to be in Thailand, it’s impossible to escape the excitement, as ice-bucket-touting, water gun-shooting assassins lurk on every corner. It’s fun, it’s unbelievably busy and it’s a welcome respite from the soaring temperatures. It’s one of the world’s most exciting experiences.

People on Songkran water festival in Bangkok

Humid, wet and disruptive, Bangkok’s monsoons hit during this entire period. Though October’s monsoons can be a little lighter, Bangkok often floods in August and September. If you want to travel to Bangkok during this period, July and October are the best options, though they’re still pretty humid and sticky.

A note: if you’ve never before experienced a rainy season in Asia, you might be surprised by just how heavy the downpours can be. When we say rainy season, we mean rainy season. That said, the big bouts of rainfall rarely last longer than 30 or 40 minutes, so they’re definitely dodgeable. Though the monsoon season isn’t an ideal time to visit, you shouldn’t let it deter you entirely.

One advantage of this period is a distinct lack of tourists. If you’re keen to avoid crowds in one of the world’s most-visited cities, the rainy season allows you to do exactly that.

Rainy season plays host to some interesting events, including October’s Chulalongkorn Day, when Thai residents mark the passing of King Chulalongkorn. Another highlight is the Queen’s Birthday in August (which doubles up as a Mother’s Day celebration).

Khao San Road on a Rainy Day in Bangkok

This is Bangkok’s most pleasant and busy season, as tourists flock to the city while temperatures, rainfall and humidity are all relatively low. Though average high temperatures still sit at around 32ºC, humidity is relatively tolerable and rainfall is very minimal.

Some tourists like to avoid this season in an attempt to dodge the countless crowds of other visitors. But although there are many travelers in Bangkok during this period, it’s absolutely the best time to visit in terms of weather. Don’t let all the other tourists detract you – you’re one of them too!

Cool season has lots of exciting events, including Trooping of The Colours and countless crazy New Year’s parties, which celebrate the western New Year’s.

Average Temperatures in Bangkok, Thailand (Chart in °Celcius)

Source: weatherbase.com

The Tourist Seasons in Bangkok

High season in Bangkok is the same as the cold season, from November to February, when countless tourists from across the globe descend upon Thailand’s capital to enjoy pleasant weather – and indulge in all of the city’s excitement and adventure.

Here are the best things to do in Bangkok during high season:

  • Trooping of The Colours: a march-filled military extravaganza, this royalty-attended event sees the Thai army, navy and air force don special uniforms to engage in strictly-choreographed ceremonies. If you’re in Bangkok during December, you should consider attending.
  • New Year’s: though Thai New Year takes place in April, Thailand still celebrates the western New Year’s – and Bangkok embraces the event with gusto. Huge parties, massive gatherings and excellent fireworks displays make Bangkok one of December 31st’s most exciting cities.

Bangkok’s low season is the same as its rainy season, from July to October. With heavy storms, huge rainfall and a chance of flooding, it’s not an ideal time to explore the city – but if you want to grab some bargains and avoid crowds, this period may be what you’re looking for. Just be sure to take a raincoat!

If you visit Bangkok during this period, there are lots of events to enjoy. Here are some of the best:

  • Mother’s Day/Queen’s Birthday: on this annual August celebration, Thai people celebrate both their own mothers and Queen Sirikit, who is considered to be the mother of all Thai people. With illuminations, shrines and candles, it’s an interesting insight into a sensible side of Thai celebrations.
  • Chulalongkorn Day: another of Thailand’s more subtle celebrations, Chulalongkorn Day pays tribute to King Chulalongkorn. With food, religious remembrances and flowers, it’s a respectful and reflective day.
  • International Festival of Dance and Music: Bangkok’s biggest annual arts festival, this multi-week celebration offers top-quality servings of jazz, dance, opera, classical music and much more, in a jam packed programme of events and performances.

Huge clouds before rain in Bangkok

Bangkok’s shoulder season is the same as its hot season, from March until June. Hot, sticky and sometimes overbearing, the weather deters some travelers – but it’s largely preferable to the rainy season, so the city still welcomes many tourists during these months.

Some highlights during this period include:

  • Songkran: it’s no exaggeration to say that this may be the biggest party you’ve ever attended. Songkran is one of the world’s biggest festivals, as the entirety of Thailand descends into one gigantic water fight for a period of many days. Every April, Thai New Year is celebrated with this watery extravaganza, but it’s especially crazy in Bangkok.
  • Visakha Bucha Day: one of Buddhism’s most important holidays, this event typically takes place in May. With temple events, holy services and some nightlife restrictions, this is Bangkok at its most respectful – and it’s a very interesting insight into Thailand’s relationship with Buddhism.

When to Visit Bangkok Depending on the Type of Traveler You Are

The best time to spend your honeymoon in Bangkok is during the high season, from November to February.

Yes, the city is very crowded during this period, but unless you want to spend your honeymoon dodging monsoons or staring at your new spouse’s sweaty face, high season is the best time to visit.

There’s nothing romantic about having to plan a honeymoon around changeable weather, so you should visit when Bangkok’s climes are at their most reliable and enjoyable.

Because Bangkok is diverse and multi-faceted, it’s an excellent honeymoon location for couples who like the sights and sounds of big city life.

The best time for shopping in Bangkok is from mid-June to mid-August, when the city celebrates its so-called ‘Amazing Grand Sale’. Some stores offer discounts up to a huge 80% – and there’s no limit to the bargains on offer, with a plethora of products ranging from electronics to clothing to jewellery.

During this period, you can grab inexpensive bargains throughout the entirety of the city, making it a great time to visit Bangkok if you’re a keen shopper.

Be prepared for low prices, competitive fellow shoppers and potentially-disruptive weather. But most of all, be prepared to shop!

Bangkok has a huge number of exciting, interesting and innovative indoor attractions, with several museums, temples and other areas of interest.

These are at their least busy during the city’s low season, from July to October. Though this period’s monsoons make outdoor adventures difficult, they of course don’t affect the city’s indoor attractions.

During this period, Bangkok is relatively less busy, meaning that museums and other indoor attractions are quieter. If you want to spend less time queuing and more time enjoying indoor exhibits without the distraction of countless crowds, July to October is absolutely the best time to do it.

If your priorities are sightseeing and outdoor adventures, you should visit Bangkok during the city’s high season, between November and February.

Although this season brings the chaos of crowds, it also offers very reliable weather, with relatively low humidity, pleasant temperatures and little chance of rain. If you attempt sightseeing and other outdoor activities outside of this period, you’re likely to be disrupted by the sweltering heat of the city’s hot season – or the disruptive downpours of its monsoon period.

Yes, this season is busy, but battling with a few more crowds is way more pleasant and tolerable than battling unpleasant weather.

During this season you can even enjoy nice day trips away from Bangkok and discover other exceptional parts of the country.

Because Bangkok is such an inexpensive city, with low-price accommodation, super-cheap street food and some of the world’s least pricey shopping opportunities, any time is an affordable time to visit the city – on even the tiniest of budgets.

If you’re really keen to save some money, you should visit during the city’s hot season, between July and October. During this period, there are relatively less other tourists, making it a great time for finding good deals on accommodations. If you want to stay in a swanky hotel at a low price, visiting during this period can be a good time to do it.

But generally speaking, Bangkok is a perfect place for cash-conscious travelers at any time of year.

If you’re traveling with kids, the best time to visit Bangkok is during its cold high season, between November and February. Though this season is also Bangkok at its busiest, it offers by far the most pleasant weather.

Bangkok’s monsoon season and hot season can be a little overwhelming even for adults, but they can be especially unpleasant for kids – and the adults who have to tolerate their complaints.

Bangkok is full to the brim with kid-friendly activities and adventures, so keeping your children entertained while in Thailand’s capital city is no problem – but you should ensure that your kids can fully enjoy all of the city’s fun and frolics by traveling during its most tolerable period of weather.

Many kids absolutely love Bangkok, especially during this period. For kids, the mega-busy November to February period can make the city even more exciting.

Every January, Thailand celebrates National Children’s Day, which offers special events, great discounts and a variety of kid-friendly adventures. Though we definitely wouldn’t recommend planning your trip around this annual (but relatively low-key) day, you and your kids should absolutely check it out if you’re visiting Bangkok during January.

The Weather in Bangkok by Month

With average temperatures of around 26ºC, this is Bangkok during its coolest period. It’s also Bangkok at its driest, with very little chance of rain and relatively low humidity. If you want to enjoy Bangkok‘s most pleasant period of weather, January is a fantastic choice.

Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothes, but forget the waterproof – you won’t need it!

This is one of Bangkok’s busiest months, as endless tourists from across the globe visit the city to enjoy Bangkok’s brilliant weather. But unless you’re particularly averse to large groups of crowds, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

Highlights in January include National Children’s Day. Although the celebrations are relatively small, this can be a very fun event if you’re traveling with kids.

  • Average Temperature: 26°C / 80°F
  • Average Low Temperature: 21°C / 71°F
  • Average High Temperature: 31°C / 89°F
  • Average Rainfall: 10mm / 2 days

January busy street Bangkok

February is very similar to January, though temperatures creep up marginally to an average of 28ºC. Again, you can expect very little rainfall during this month, making it a brilliant time to enjoy excellent weather while exploring all of Bangkok’s sights and sounds.

This is the last month of Bangkok’s busy period, before tourist numbers drop off slightly in anticipation of the city’s hot season. If you’re looking for a month which combines great weather with relatively few tourists, February is a good choice.

Again, you’ll need breathable clothing, but you can go easy on the waterproofs.

One highlight of this month is Makha Bucha Day, an important festival in the Buddhist calendar. This celebration includes candles, processions, temple visits and religious ceremonies. If you’re interested in Thailand’s relationship to Buddhism, this is a fascinating insight into the quieter side of bustling Bangkok.

  • Average Temperature: 28°C / 83°F
  • Average Low Temperature: 23°C / 75°F
  • Average High Temperature: 32°C / 90°F
  • Average Rainfall: 20mm / 2 days

Buddhists on Makha Bucha Day in Bangkok

The beginning of Bangkok’s hot season, average temperatures in March sit at 30ºC, and rainfall begins to very slightly increase. As the temperatures begin to increase, so too does the humidity, as Bangkok begins to get hot and sticky.

By April, the hot, humid weather can make sightseeing a little unpleasant, so if you want to enjoy Bangkok’s attractions without too much sweat and sun, this is your last opportunity for a while.

Though you’re unlikely to need any waterproof clothing, you should take a light jacket in case of rain.

At the end of March, Bangkok welcomes its National Book Fair, perfect if you’re an avid reader.

  • Average Temperature: 29°C / 85°F
  • Average Low Temperature: 25°C / 78°F
  • Average High Temperature: 33°C / 92°F
  • Average Rainfall: 30mm / 5 days

National Book Fair in Bangkok

Bangkok’s hottest month, April offers average temperatures of 31ºC, but the highs can often be way higher. As these soaring temperatures combine with very high humidity, April isn’t the most pleasant time to go sightseeing in Bangkok. Rain begins to increase slightly in April, but it isn’t yet too disruptive.

If you want to avoid crowds, early April has less tourists than the months preceding it, as some are deterred by the heat and humidity.

In mid-April, the crowds increase again, as Bangkok celebrates Songkran, the Thai New Year. This is one of the world’s most fun and fascinating celebrations. The world’s biggest water fight, every street is packed with water pistols, ice-cold buckets of water, and the pulsing beats of blaring music.

Thailand at its most unique, Songkran is – in the best way possible – hugely disruptive. No type of normal sightseeing is possible during Songkran, but it’s an incredible and unique way to experience the city. You’ll get drenched on every corner, but you’ll cherish the memories forever.

In short, April is Bangkok’s worst month for sightseeing – but if you visit during Songkran, it’s also Bangkok at its most fun, frenetic and unique.

  • Average Temperature: 30°C / 87°F
  • Average Low Temperature: 26°C / 80°F
  • Average High Temperature: 34°C / 94°F
  • Average Rainfall: 70mm / 8 days

People during Songkran on Bangkok street

In May, Bangkok’s average temperatures sit at around 30ºC, but humidity is high and rainfall increases significantly. There’s a slight chance of flooding and some chance of disruptive downpours.

Though you need to pack light, breathable clothing, you also need to make sure you take some waterproof layers.

Because May’s weather isn’t ideal – and because April’s Songkran’s crowds have disappeared – May has relatively few tourists, making it a good time to visit if you want to dodge the crowds.

Bangkok’s May highlights include the holy Buddhist festival of Visakha Bucha, one of the most important days in the Buddhist calendar. During this period, Bangkok’s temples are full of local visitors.

  • Average Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
  • Average Rainfall: 190mm / 17 days

Tourist near Bangkok’s temples

In June, temperatures and rainfall are similar to those of May, but you might find that June has more rainy days than the month that came before it.

Again, you should pack breathable clothing to combat the humidity, along with waterproofs to ensure you don’t get soaked by the now-regular downpours.

In June, the city welcomes the beginning of its so-called ‘Amazing Grand Sale’. From the middle of the month, you can grab discounts on all manner of bargains. Whatever you want to buy, you’ll find it at a reduced price during this two-month period.

If you’ve got a passion for shopping, mid-June can be a great time to visit. Just make sure you’re prepared to handle unpleasant weather… and the keen hands of other shoppers.

  • Average High Temperature: 32°C / 91°F
  • Average Rainfall: 150mm / 18 days

Cha Tu Chak Market, Bangkok, Thailand

July is when Bangkok’s rainy season officially begins, though in truth, the weather is similar to June, with average temperatures of 30ºC and pretty heavy rainfall on most days.

Though rain is frequent, downpours rarely last for more than 30 or 40 minutes, which is pretty standard for monsoon season in this part of Asia.

Again, tourist numbers are relatively low, so you can grab a bargain on accommodation while you also grab a bargain during the height of Bangkok’s Amazing Grand Sale.

In addition to the continuation of this sale, you can also look forward to enjoying the celebrations of the Pattaya Marathon. Though Pattaya is over an hour away from Bangkok, many tourists travel from Thailand’s capital to enjoy the marathon festivities, which include fantastic views, multiple races and competitors from around the world.

  • Average Rainfall: 150mm / 19 days

In August, Bangkok’s rainy season continues.

The rainfall is similar to the levels seen in July, but downpours become more frequent, and you’ll find that more days are rainy. On any given day, the chances of experiencing a heavy downpour are higher than the chances that you won’t.

Temperatures remain at an average of 30ºC, and humidity is still high, making for a wet and sticky Bangkok August. There’s still some chance of flooding. During August, visitor numbers are relatively low, as the weather deters some tourists.

This is your last chance to grab some great bargains in the Amazing Grand Sale, though the slight reductions on hotels and other tourist services continue through to September.

Cultural highlights this month include the Queen’s Birthday, which features lights, candles and huge images of Queen Sirikit.

  • Average Temperature: 28°C / 84°F
  • Average Rainfall: 180mm / 21 days

Khao San Road on a Rainy Day in Bangkok

Bangkok’s wettest month, the vast majority of the city’s September days are wet, with frequent downpours. Though September is the soggy epicentre of the rainy season, these downpours, though disruptive, are typically pretty short.

Humidity remains quite high, while average temperatures sit at 29ºC. If you’re willing to navigate the city’s frequent downpours in your attempt to avoid the chaos of crowds, September can be a good time, as most tourists stay away from Bangkok in their quest to avoid the frequent rain.

Make sure you pack good waterproof clothing, but you’ll still need breathable stuff too.

During September, it’s best to spend most of your time enjoying Bangkok’s indoor attractions – and because the city’s International Festival of Dance and Music begins in September, there’s plenty to keep you entertained indoors, with an exciting abundance of opera, dance, jazz, ballet, and more.

  • Average Low Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
  • Average Rainfall: 320mm / 22 days

Thai dancer in theater

During October, Bangkok begins to gladly wave goodbye to the rainy season, but frequent downpours can still occur in the first half of the month. There may also be some flooding, though it’s way less likely to happen now than in the weeks preceding October.

Average temperatures remain at 29ºC, but by the middle of the month, the weather is much more pleasant and enjoyable – and much more suited to sightseeing and outdoor activities.

If you want to enjoy good weather before endless groups of other tourists descend upon the city, it’s a good idea to visit during the end of October, just as the rain begins to cease. You should still pack some waterproof clothing, but you’re less likely to need it.

Cultural highlights in Bangkok’s October include Chulalongkorn Day and Ak Phansa, which celebrates the end of the Buddhist Lent period.

  • Average Rainfall: 230mm / 16 days

November marks the end of Bangkok’s rainy season, as the city finally waves goodbye to torrential downpours and the risk of flooding. Rainfall levels drop very significantly in November, so there’s little chance that you’ll need any waterproof clothing.

Though November is the start of Bangkok’s so-called cool season, average temperatures in November still sit at around 29ºC. That said, evenings are a little cooler, so post-sunset city strolls can be a pleasant experience.

As the weather becomes more enjoyable, visitor numbers are driven up, as November sees a sharp increase in the amount of tourists visiting Bangkok.

Bangkok’s November highlights include the annual Beer Garden Festival, and Loy Krathong Festival, in which locals gather around bodies of water to release rafts of flickering candles. A magical festival full of tradition and heritage, the beautiful illuminations are a surprisingly quaint way to experience a quieter side of life in typically-busy Bangkok.

  • Average Temperature: 27°C / 81°F
  • Average Low Temperature: 23°C / 74°F
  • Average High Temperature: 31°C / 88°F
  • Average Rainfall: 50mm / 5 days

Tourists on Loy Krathong - Lumpini Park, Bangkok, Thailand

Along with January, December is Bangkok’s joint-coolest and joint-driest month, making it a fantastic time for lengthy sessions of city sightseeing. Humidity is tolerable, rainfall is very low, and temperatures, especially after dark, can be very pleasant.

The cool climes of December’s post-sunset Bangkok are great for enjoying the city’s nightlife.

Because the weather is so enjoyable during December, many other tourists descend upon Bangkok, so you’ll find that the city is very busy.

Though, traditionally, Thai people don’t celebrate Christmas or the western New Year’s, modern-day Bangkok embraces both with utter enthusiasm. With several parties, seasonal decorations and lots of fun festivities, the holiday season in Bangkok is very exciting.

  • Average Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
  • Average Low Temperature: 21°C / 70°F
  • Average High Temperature: 30°C / 87°F

View on Wat Arun Bangkok temple

Bangkok is one of the world’s busiest and most exciting cities. With some of the planet’s best street food, incredible nightlife, perpetually-smiling locals and a whole host of fascinating cultural attractions, it truly is a diverse destination.

A hugely popular tourist spot, Bangkok is endlessly exciting.

But depending on when you visit, your experience can hugely differ. With three very distinct seasons and a number of fantastic events throughout the year, different times of year offer different experiences in Bangkok.

We recommend two separate periods. If you want to experience Bangkok’s attractions and areas of interest, visit between November and February, when rainfall is low and temperatures and humidity are tolerable. Though you’ll see countless other tourists doing the same thing as you, this period offers Bangkok’s weather at its best by far.

If you want to experience what might just be the world’s most unbelievable party, visit during Songkran, the three-day celebration which – in reality – lasts for around an entire week. The Thai New Year, every corner of the entire country becomes a giant water fight. One of the world’s best festivals, it’s impossible to describe its scale.

Visiting during April’s Songkran makes normal sightseeing impossible, but when you’ll otherwise be having perhaps the best week of your life, who cares?

But whenever you go, you’ll fall in love with Bangkok. Unique, non-stop and sometimes even overwhelming, it’s packed with adventures, new experiences and mile-wide grins.

About the author

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Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Best Time to Visit Thailand – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Best Time to Visit Thailand – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Idyllic beaches, fascinating culture, and sublime cuisine come together to provide one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations – Thailand. Once you’ve narrowed down your options of what you’d like to see and do, you’re left with choosing the best time to visit Thailand.

From exploring the many ornate temples and monuments to lazing on a sandy, palm-fringed beach with a festive cocktail, there’s no shortage of experiences to be had. Water sports enthusiasts have a wide range of aquatic activities to choose from, including surfing, fishing, snorkelling, and whale and dolphin watching.

The bustling capital of Bangkok is a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds where the modern and the traditional coexist. Whilst the various islands and beach destinations provide a simpler, slower pace of life in stark contrast to the buzzing cities.

Thailand is a great year-round destination, but because of its geographical location, the country can experience climate extremes that may influence your decision. It all comes down to finding the best time to go to Thailand for the experience you’re wishing to have.

Finding the sweet spot in terms of costs, crowds and climate is the ultimate juggling act, but it’s one we hope to simplify with this guide.

Best Time To Visit Thailand – January to April

Best Time To Go To Bangkok – November to March

Best Time To Go To Koh Phangan  – January to May

Best Time To Go To Chiang Mai  – November to February

Best Time For Sightseeing – November to February

Cheapest Time To Visit Thailand – May to September

When is the Best Time to Go to Thailand?

When to visit thailand – a month by month breakdown, faq about the best time to visit thailand, final thoughts on the best time to visit thailand.

Choosing the best time to visit Thailand will depend largely on the kind of experience you’re wishing to have.

Perhaps you’re planning a trip for a specific season or event, or even if you have a small window for travel and want to decide on where to go for that season, we’ve gathered all the facts.

The busiest season for travel in Thailand is the cooler season between November and March. While technically this is the winter, don’t let that fool you. Temperatures are still in the high 20s (Celsius) with blue skies and lower humidity than at other times of the year.

Because the weather is so good, this is a popular time with other tourists too. So expect crowds at attractions and inflated pricing on flights and accommodation across Thailand . If you wish to travel at this time, it’s best to book well in advance as hotels fill up fast.

February is the driest month, particularly in the south, so if avoiding rainfall is important to you, then this is the best time to travel.

Wat Pho, Bangkok, Thailand

April and May, and September and October are good times to travel if you’re looking for lower prices and smaller crowds. The weather at this time is still good, but not too hot. Rains can be expected but these are usually in the form of a sudden, heavy shower which passes quickly. 

August can get busier in Thailand as a result of the influx of visitors from Europe taking their summer holidays along the west coast. 

The summer months in Thailand are humid, making the already high temperatures feel even hotter. It’s the rainy season which means rain is expected almost every day, causing potential travel delays and changes to plans. Because of the weather, there are far fewer tourists and prices are pleasingly lower. This is the cheapest time to visit Thailand – whatever your Thai itinerary.  

While this is not the best time to visit for water sports, hiking or lazing on beaches, if you’re up for a cultural experience of visiting temples, Thai cooking classes, and other indoor pursuits, it’s worth it. 

Best Time to Go to Bangkok

The thriving capital of Thailand is a busy destination year-round, with distinct peaks of increased tourist numbers at certain times.

Ironically, the winter months (November to March) are the busiest times to visit the city. While it is technically winter, the temperatures reach into the high 20s and early 30s, so it’s still hot, but not unbearably so.

This is when tourists flock to the city to make the most of the milder temperatures, low humidity, and rainfall. As a result, expect larger crowds of tourists and elevated pricing when visiting at this time. Still, there are plenty of affordable Bangkok hostels so shop around.

By April, the humidity begins to rise and rainfall is becoming more common. Between the heat (average temperatures rarely drop below 30ºC) and the humidity, things can get uncomfortable. Between April and October, visitor numbers are lower and you’re more likely to pick up some good deals on accommodation and flights.

Thai festivals such as Songkran (Thai New Year) tend to attract many tourists and cause brief spikes in pricing and tourist numbers in this otherwise off-peak season.

Monsoon rains fall between July and August in Bangkok. While you’ll experience frequent bursts of heavy rain, you’ll also enjoy the benefits of the low season – fewer tourists and cheaper prices. Bangkok offers a wide variety of indoor attractions, temples, and shopping. There are lots of things to do in Bangkok even if it is raining. 

Best Time to Go to Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, offering powdery beaches, clear coastal waters, and a laid-back island atmosphere.

As one would expect from a tropical destination, the climate is hot and humid. January to April are the best months for a visit as the temperatures are milder, as is the humidity. This is peak season, so expect higher prices and lots of other tourists.

best yoga retreats on Koh Phangan

October and November (and sometimes into December) are the rainiest months on the island and not a good time to travel. Aside from making it difficult to even reach the island, flooding is common.

The rest of the year can also experience rainfall, however, this is usually in the form of short and heavy downpours. February is the only month of the year that doesn’t see much rainfall.

April to June can be extremely hot and humid, although it’s still less humid than Phuket. July and August are good times to travel from a weather perspective as it’s lovely and hot – perfect for lazing on the beach. You can expect frequent downpours but these are usually short and clear quickly.

The island gets really busy around Full Moon so book your Koh Phangan accommodation in advance.

Best Time to Go to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s elevated location in northern Thailand means it has a very seasonal climate, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity than the rest of the country.

The best time to go to Chiang Mai would be during the cooler months between November and February. Temperatures at this time peak in the high 20s (Celsius) and can drop to a cool 10°C. There’s also much less humidity and rainfall at this time. 

That said, you’ll be in the company of many other tourists at this time and likely have to pay slightly more for things like accommodation and activities. Locals also flock to Chiang Mai during this time to enjoy the cooler weather, so expect lots of the famous Thai traffic , and crowded restaurants and transport. 

chiang mai thailand

By April, the weather is hot, averaging around 40°C, and dry. The landscape is less lush and photogenic, and occasional wildfires choke the air with smoke.

Chiang Mai is a great place to experience Songkran (Thai New Year) – they have one of the largest celebrations in Thailand next to Bangkok and Khon Kaen. As a result, there’s a spike in tourism at this time.

The rainy season in Chiang Mai is between June and October. Conditions are humid and rain falls mostly in the late afternoons or evenings. After a short downpour, it usually clears up again. Towards August and September, you may experience longer rains which linger for a day or two.

The rainy season is considered low season, so you’re likely to snatch up some good bargains on accommodation, and enjoy a much quieter experience.

Best Time for Sightseeing in Thailand

The months between November and February are the best time to visit Thailand for sightseeing. This is technically the winter period, but temperatures are still hot, reaching the high 20s (Celsius).

This is the most popular time to visit, so be prepared for crowds of other tourists and long queues at attractions and restaurants. If you wish to travel at this time, you’d do well to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. 

If you’re wishing to avoid the crowds and snag a bargain on accommodation, the months between September and November are ideal. This is the rainy season when showers are frequent, but usually, only last an hour or two in the late afternoon and evening.

This is both the cheapest and least crowded time in Thailand, but it can mean some travel delays in the case of dirt roads turning to mud during this time. 

Best Time for Visiting Koh Phangan

The islands in the Gulf of Thailand offer an incredible tropical retreat that’s great to visit at most times of the year. The islands generally experience less rain than the rest of the country throughout the year. The monsoon rains arrive later here and are over in less time.

A tropical holiday on the island of Koh Phangan is best enjoyed between January and April when the temperatures are cooler and less humid. However, this time of year also comes with larger crowds of tourists and higher prices. Beaches will be packed, and there may be a wait at restaurants and water sports centres. 

Koh phangan thailand

Increased heat and rainfall are more common from April until August, so you’ll enjoy much more affordable prices, but short, late-afternoon downpours are frequent. July and August offer great weather but see a peak in summer tourist numbers from Europe and prices can rise in anticipation of this. 

The best time to visit Koh Phangan for a beach holiday that offers a balance between the climate and the crowds is between September and October. 

Divers visiting the island can head out at most times of the year outside of the heavy rains. Good visibility and an incredible variety of species make Koh Phanang a popular spot to explore the world under the waves. 

Cheapest Time to Go to Thailand

In general, Thailand is an affordable destination with a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. It’s possible to experience all that this incredible country has to offer at a reasonable cost, but if you’re feeling flush, you can add the bells and whistles to take it up a notch or two.

Thorough planning is essential if you’re hoping to visit during the peak season. But if you’re very price conscious, then the cheapest time to visit Thailand is during the rainy high summer between May and September.

Busiest Time to Visit Thailand

Thailand is a popular destination that sees tourists pretty much throughout the year. Because most visitors are seeking an idyllic beach holiday in this tropical paradise, certain times of year see more tourist traffic than others. 

Peak season in Thailand falls over the cooler months of November to April. The weather is less stifling, with temperatures hovering in the high 20s (Celsius) and the humidity is much less. This is the best time to visit Thailand for a beach holiday as well as snorkelling and swimming, but it will come at an increased rate. Beaches will be crowded as will transport routes and restaurants. 

In April, the Thai New Year festival of Songkran attracts large numbers of tourists who come to join in the celebratory water fights in the streets throughout Thailand. 

If you’re planning to visit Thailand in the peak season, it’s best to plan and book your travels as far in advance as possible. There are more options in terms of accommodation, and costs can sometimes be lower by booking long in advance. Be aware that booking for high season will also come with stricter booking and cancellation terms. 

August sees another spike in tourist numbers when European travelers head to Thailand on their summer holidays.

best time to visit bangkok and thailand

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Weather in Thailand

Thailand offers a warm tropical climate all year long. The weather in Thailand comprises three main seasons – rainy (May to October), cool (November to February), and hot (March to May). The high summer temperatures can feel even hotter as the humidity rises. 

The cool season falls between November and February and is considered the peak travel season. The weather in Thailand at this time is pleasant and hot (between the high 20s to low 30s), humidity is low, and rainfall infrequent. The cool season attracts significantly more travelers and you’ll likely need to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Prepare yourself to be among loads of other travelers at this time. 

In the north of the country, you can expect less humidity and overall cooler temperatures. Between November and February, the more mountainous regions can see some chilly weather, with temperatures dipping to the single digits (Celsius). 

Thailand sea

The rainy season also differs from place to place. In the northeast, rain is common between November and April, while the southwestern regions get their downpours between May and October. 

Overall, the southern reaches of Thailand experience the most rainfall in the country, usually in the form of short, dramatic downpours which clear up quickly. The central regions of the country experience the greatest heat. This includes cities like Bangkok which feels even hotter as a result of the high humidity. 

The rainy season is a great time to visit Bangkok for good shopping – the Amazing Grand Sale takes place from Mid-June to mid-August. 

Where is the Best Weather in Thailand?

It’s always warm in most of Thailand. The mountains in the north can get pretty chilly during the cool season, but for the rest of the year, the mercury hovers in the pleasant high 20s (Celsius). 

The best weather for a beach holiday is between November and March when it’s not too hot or humid, and there’s less rainfall. This does mean sharing those powdery beaches with other tourists though, and perhaps having to wait in lines at attractions.

The rainy season between May and September is a great time to hit the cities and visit the many temples and palaces, do some shopping, and explore the more cultural side of Thailand. 

Don’t be fooled into thinking that the rainy season is cooler. High temperatures and humidity combine to make things stiflingly hot. You’ll be saving on accommodation by traveling at this time, so we recommend springing for air conditioning if you can. If you can handle the heat and the afternoon downpours, you’ll be rewarded with blissfully empty beaches and a more laid-back experience with no queues. 

April to May and September to October offer somewhat of a balance between climate, crowds, and costs. The weather is still hot but not stifling and there is the occasional downpour. But usually, these are brief, and there aren’t too many other travelers about. Prices aren’t at their peak season high, but not quite as cheap as the rainy season. 

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Festivals in Thailand

Most celebrations in Thailand have a religious root or are national holidays. Religious festivities don’t usually have fixed dates, so you’ll need to plan carefully and do your research before booking.  

Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai, Thailand

From the popular Songkran Thai New Year celebration to spectacular sights such as the Loy Krathong Festival, and even the Kin Jay Vegetarian Festival, there’s something for everyone.  

  • Full Moon Party :

Once a month, Phangan Island hosts a popular Full Moon beach party in celebration of the full moon. Dance music throbs throughout the night as partygoers dance into a new day on the sandy beach. These parties are very popular with tourists, and attract top EDM DJs to supply the beats. 

The Thai New Year celebration is a popular event with tourists. The Thai people pour scented water on each other to symbolically wash away the sins and bad luck of the previous year. This turns into a spirited water fight in the streets with people using buckets, water pistols, and hoses. The festival is best enjoyed in the bigger cities–so plan to stay in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. 

  • Amazing Thailand Grand Sale :

Mid-June to mid-August draws shoppers to Thailand for a nationwide shopping extravaganza. Bangkok is arguably the best place to take advantage of these incredible sales, but other places like Phuket and Chiang Mai are still worth checking out.

Shoppers can grab some incredible discounts on everything from clothes to jewellery and electronics. If you’re searching for a bargain, you’re likely to find one here with up to 80% discounts being offered by retailers.

  • Chonburi Buffalo Racing Festival :

If you’re in Bangkok in October, why not try something a little different and head out to Chonburi (about an hour away) for this unique 140-year-old festival? In addition to the main event, buffalo racing, there are also some other fun side attractions like the buffalo beauty pageants and other contests. 

  • Loy Krathong Festival:

This is arguably the prettiest festival in Thailand. Locals release thousands of boats made from banana leaves bearing flickering candles and flowers into ponds, lakes, and rivers throughout Thailand to symbolically wash away sins. The spectacle is a feast for the eyes as these glittering offerings float along in the night. 

  • Phi Ta Khon :

Also known as the Ghost Festival, this three-day celebration replicates the legend of a party that both the living and the dead wish they could attend. On the first day, it’s traditional for everyone to dress up as a ghost. The second day features pageants and shows, and on the last day, Buddhist ceremonies are held. 

  • Kin Jay Vegetarian Festival:

This annual festival is celebrated between late September and mid-October and is centered on cleansing the body by not consuming meat, fish, or alcohol. Any vendor who wears a yellow apron, or hangs a yellow flag in their establishment will provide only completely vegan food during this time. 

If you’re still trying to pinpoint the exact time to go to Thailand that ticks all of your boxes, we’ve broken down each month of the year and detailed the experience you’re likely to have. If you have a very narrow window to travel and need help deciding what’s good at that time, this breakdown will make that easier. 

thailand

January in Thailand

January offers great weather throughout the country with cooler temperatures and a lower chance of showers. Chiang Mai is the coolest in January, dropping to around 10-15ºC. Tourist season is kicking in throughout the country, so things are likely to be busy (roads, restaurants, beaches) and more expensive.

February in Thailand

Warm weather in the high 20s and low 30s can be expected. Further north, you’re likely to experience more rainfall, as well as occasionally along the east coast. Rain generally comes down in short showers that cool things down a bit.

In other parts of the country, February offers perfect beach holiday weather – hot, sunny weather, and minimal rain. This also means it’s a popular time to travel, so you’re advised to book well in advance for a visit during peak season. Crowds of tourists and higher pricing may deter some.

March in Thailand

On the whole, March is lovely and hot. As the summer season approaches, temperatures can head into the mid-30s, and rainfall is minimal. Water sports along the west coast are great at this time, especially scuba. The crowds of tourists start to lessen as the offseason approaches, so prices can start to ease.

April in Thailand

April sees temperatures rise and rise, and the addition of increasing humidity before the monsoon can make the heat quite oppressive. There’s a spike in tourism over April with people coming to join in the Songkran New Year festivities. While this is a great experience, it comes with those higher prices and much larger crowds.

May in Thailand

Temperatures drop off a bit from April, but it’s still stifling. Humidity increases significantly as a result of more frequent downpours. Despite the approaching rainy season, there are still plenty of sunny days to be enjoyed. This is a good time to travel if you’re wanting to miss the crowds and high costs, but still enjoy lovely weather that isn’t too hot or too rainy. 

June in Thailand

June is still considered shoulder season, so you’re likely to enjoy some lovely sunny days with some afternoon showers that pass as quickly as they arrive. The west coast gets somewhat more rain than other places at this time. 

June features several food and music festivals, making it a really fun and fascinating time to visit. Overall, you’ll enjoy the shoulder season benefits in June – fewer crowds and some really good bargains on accommodation. 

phang gna island thailand

July in Thailand

Heavier rainfall is expected in July, especially along the coast, but temperatures remain in the low 30s. There’s an increase in tourist numbers related to the start of the summer holidays, and so accommodation costs are likely to increase at this time. 

There are a few important celebrations in July, namely the King’s birthday and the Buddhist period of Lent. 

August in Thailand

Rainfall is at its highest in the north and west Thailand, making travel here much less appealing. You’re likely to find some good deals on travel at this time as a result. 

The east coast is still reasonably rain-free, making it a popular spot with European travelers on their summer holidays. 

September in Thailand

Heavy rains and stormy seas make escaping to the islands difficult. In the rest of the country, the heavy rains bring muddy roads and humid conditions that make the 32ºC average temperature feel much hotter. 

On the upside, there won’t be many other tourists around resulting in some really good bargains to be had. 

October in Thailand

The major rains start to taper off in most of the country, taking much of the humidity with them, especially in the north. Temperatures are easing too as we head into the winter months. 

This milder climate brings an increase in travelers coming to enjoy the pleasant weather. As tourism picks up again, so the prices begin their steady climb to the peak season. 

The end of the rainy season and the end of Lent bring many religious celebrations. 

November in Thailand

Thailand’s one of the best countries to explore in November . The West Coast is blessed with mild temperatures and sunny skies, and visitors begin to flock here for beach vacations, kicking off the peak season. You can still pick up a deal on accommodation at this time, especially if you book in advance. 

In the north of the country and the high-lying regions, the cool weather arrives, with temperatures getting decidedly chilly in the early mornings and evenings. The east coast and islands in the gulf are only now getting the peak of their rainfall. 

December in Thailand

December offers some of Thailand’s best weather – it’s sunny and pleasant with minimal rain. With the peak season crowds, you can expect peak season pricing, so if you plan to visit at this time, make sure you book well in advance. 

The Christmas and New Year period bring high rates as well, as well as stricter booking conditions and cancellations. 

If you’re traveling to the north, make sure to pack in some warm clothing to beat the evening chill, while visitors to the south-east should not forget to bring a light rain jacket as rainfall is still expected. 

When is the Best Time to Go to Chiang Mai?

The busiest time in Chiang Mai is between November and early February when the weather is cool and comfortable. Rainfall and humidity are also much lower at this time. Maximum daytime temperatures are in the high 20s, but at night, it can get quite cool, dropping to the low teens.  Because of this mild weather, it’s peak tourist season, so you’ll pay quite a bit more for accommodation. At this time of year, Chiang Mai sees an influx of local tourists as well, so it can get quite busy.  If you’d like to balance good weather with smaller crowds, then a good time to visit would be between June and October. While this is the rainy/monsoon season, the rainfall isn’t more than a brief, short downpour, which cools things down somewhat too. The surroundings are lush and green at this time, and there are few other tourists about.  

When is the Rainy Season in Thailand?

Thailand’s rainy season arrives in various places at different times and affects each region differently.  In the north, the rains arrive earlier and stay longer, beginning in mid-June and sticking around well into December. The rains aren’t the persistent, lingering sort. Instead, showers are frequent and unpredictable, occurring in short, sharp bursts. The rains arrive later as you move south, with central Thailand getting rainier in June, but it’s all over and done with by late October.  The west coast sees a similar rainfall pattern to central Thailand, but the east coast experiences its rainfall much later, between October and December.

When is the Coldest Month in Thailand?

The word ‘cold’ isn’t usually associated with a tropical location such as Thailand which offers warm to hot weather for the most part throughout the year. January generally sees the lowest temperatures of the year.  In the northern parts of the country, especially in the more mountainous regions, temperatures can dip to the low teens (Celsius) between December and March, especially in the early mornings and evenings.  Between November and April, Thailand is generally much cooler than during the high summer months, with average temperatures in the high 20s and low 30s (Celsius). This is the best time to visit Thailand for pleasant weather that’s ideal for a beach holiday.

When is the Worst Time to Visit Thailand?

The worst time to visit Thailand is during the summer (May to September) when it’s oppressively hot, humid, and rainy. In certain parts, this can cause unpleasant traveling conditions, and stormy weather can pull the hand brake up on any travel plans.  It is the best time to travel if you’re looking for a bargain on accommodation and far fewer other tourists. Conversely, the high season, which offers incredible weather, is the worst time to travel if you’re not keen on large crowds and inflated prices. 

Don’t Forget your Thailand Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

By now, you’ve probably settled on the best time to visit Thailand that will offer you the experience you’ve been dreaming of. 

If you’re planning a tropical beach break in high season, make sure to book well in advance to mitigate some of the high-season inflation, and to ensure you have more accommodation options. Last-minute deals are a great way to save even more for low season travel, but it will leave you frustrated and out of pocket if you try it over the high season. 

Whenever you choose to visit, a trip to Thailand is guaranteed to leave you with incredible memories of a colorful country, amazing nature, sandy beaches, palm trees, and vibrant culture. 

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  • Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Thailand for a wealth of info!
  • Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Chiang Mai covered.
  • Check out the best places to stay in Chiang Mai before you arrive.
  • Save yourself hassle and money and get an  international SIM card .
  • Swing by our super epic  backpacking packing list  to prep for your trip.
  • Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Thailand to avoid any issues. 

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Clair Cathryn

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Best Time to Visit Bangkok, Thailand

Well well well, so you’re heading off to explore Southeast Asia are you and wondering what the best time to visit Bangkok is?

Good for you!

It is, after all, one of those classic destinations, everyone should experience at least once in their lives.

A veritable mecca for backpackers, culture vultures, temple traipses and food market lovers, there’s no question this region ranks high in many people’s travel books and unsurprisingly, it’s still a big crowd-puller!

And at the heart of the region – or at least a city that you’re likely to stay in at least once – is the mighty Bangkok, the capital of Thailand.

Generally acknowledged as the international hub of the region (save Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, which are further south), Bangkok offers some of the most reasonable flight fares from Europe and North America, which is why many people find themselves starting their SE Asia adventures here.

Plus of course, the fact that it’s BANGKOK!

The infamous, fabled, stuff of legends mega-city that refuses to judge and be judged in return, if you’re heading there soon, then here’s my guide for the best time to visit Bangkok…

Thailand, Bangkok, Floating Market

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When to Visit Bangkok?

Thailand, Bangkok, Me in Pool

Ok, so let me start off this article by saying there is both a short and long answer as to when the best time to visit Bangkok is!

Because the high season, or the best weather season, or the festival season, may seem like the obvious answers on the face of it, but dig a little deeper and they might just not be the answers you are looking for!

So let’s keep it simple in the beginning by exploring when the best time to visit Bangkok is weather-wise.

And the answer is, during this city’s coolest and less humid months of course!

And when I say less, I mean it’s still hot and humid af compared to many places on the planet, but just not as much as other times of the year in this sweltering tropical region – a region in which you can literally sweat out of places you didn’t even know you had!

Sorry, went slightly off-piste there, but getting back on track, the time to visit Bangkok when you’ll be the least hot and sweaty (note least, instead of not) is during the cooler season which runs from November to February.

This is Bangkok’s high season, the time when most tourists choose to visit thanks to the nearing-reasonably weather situation and, let’s not forget the fact that the northern hemisphere is cold at this time and many people there have some time off work thanks to Christmas.

So in general yes, November to February is the best time to visit Bangkok, as well as the other destinations in Central Thailand such as Ayutthaya.

But as I’ll explain as this article goes on, with this being the most popular time, it’s also the time when the prices are highest and the crowds thickest – a situation not helped by the fact that many of the country’s holidays fall within these months too.

At festival / holiday times the country pretty much comes to a standstill and travelling around can become impossible for several days at a time.

There’s also the climate in other areas of Thailand (if you’re travelling beyond the capital), as well as other countries in Southeast Asia (if you’re travelling the region) to contend with too.

This means that the best time to visit Bangkok for you, may also involve taking into account other destinations that may have different climatic patterns.

So you see what I mean when I say it’s not straightforward!

To explain more, I’ve firstly going to give you a rough breakdown of the Bangkok climate so that you’re armed with as much info as possible.

Let’s jump in…

Bangkok’s Climate

Thailand, Bangkok, Tuk-Tuk

Here’s a short breakdown of the annual climate patterns you’re likely to experience in Bangkok and other factors that might influence when in the year you decide to visit.

November – February: Technically the winter season, this is when Bangkok is at its coolest and least humid. Rainfall is low during these months, making it high season for northern hemisphere tourists especially. The highest prices can be found at this time, and the major holiday of Chinese New Year usually falls within this time period, so be sure to research that.

March – May: The shoulder season months are good for visiting Bangkok if you don’t mind heat and humidity and are keen to dodge the heavy crowds! Mid-range prices makes things attractive at this time, as do blue sky days, but burn-off season at the end of this period can really drag down the air quality. Songkran, the Thai New Year, usually takes place within these months too, when the whole country comes to a standstill. If you’re visiting at this time, be sure to research when it falls and plan accordingly. This can be a really fun festival to witness, but you’ll need to book everything in advance and be prepared not to move during this time.

June – October: Low season to travel in Bangkok (and Thailand more generally) with prices at their cheapest and crowds at their thickest. This is due to the high rainfall levels during these months, which marks Thailand’s rainy season. Being in the tropics, it doesn’t generally rain here all day, but with heavy downpours in the afternoon a regular occurrence and flooding sometimes common, the weather can still hamper your plans. If you plan to scuba dive from the islands too, the underwater visibility can be dramatically reduced at this time.

Best Time to Visit the Thai Islands

Thailand, Krabi, Hammock

Which leads me nicely onto the next sub-topic, namely, when is the best time to visit Thailand’s islands – after all, most people who venture to Bangkok usually enjoy a few days elsewhere in the country too.

And with their paradisical appearance, relaxed vibes and great outdoor activities, it’s no surprise the Thai islands tend to be a hot choice.

Thankfully, the islands, which are in Southern Thailand, below Bangkok, tend to largely follow a similar weather pattern to the capital, making it easy to combine these 2 destinations into a great trip at the same time of year.

The only nuances however are that, being close to the Equator (and the further south you go, the closer you get), the islands have more of a 2 seasonal climate rather than 3.

Loosely this means there’s a dry season, which usually runs from November to May, and a wet season, which generally runs from May to October.

And I say generally, because this can also be affected by whether you’re staying on an island on the east or west sides of the Thai peninsula.

This is down to the monsoon cycles which operate slightly differently on either side (as they also do in Malaysia), but without going into too much detail here, the basic essential info is that high season to visit the Thai Islands, like Bangkok, is November through April.

The beginning half of this period around Christmas and New Year will also be the busiest with the highest prices and crowds, while the tail end here will be the optimal time for spotting some of the best marine life – namely mantas and whale sharks.

Depending whether you want to snorkel and scuba, or simply sunbathe and party, will likely have the biggest bearing on when the best time to visit the Thai Islands is for you.

Best Time to Visit Northern Thailand

Thailand, Chiang Rai, White Temple

But this is where things start to get interesting because, if you’re wanting to really explore the diversity of Thailand, then moving beyond the islands of the south and central area of Bangkok, to the northern highlands of the country is a must.

Up here you’re at a much higher elevation, which means things can be cooler… and also hotter…. great!

In general, the range in temperatures is bigger, which means if you don’t have warmer clothes packed with you, you might need to think more carefully about when you head up here… or at least buy a few additional items!

The main thing to know however is the rainfall and thankfully this does come mostly at the same time as the rain in Bangkok – namely June through October.

Honestly, I’d avoid the mountain region at this time as many spots can be cold, damp and impassable – not a lot of fun!

Just before that season is the mega-hot season in the north of Thailand, which runs from February through May – this is when I visited the north of Thailand and can certainly attest to it being a sweltering affair.

However, even towards the tail-end of this, I still managed to get out hiking, which means it’s not so stifling here you can’t do anything.

In contrast, the main problem was the burn-off.

This is when farmers use slash and burn techniques to rejuvenate the land after the harvest. Sounds like a good idea in theory, but the smoke created from so many fires is catastrophic for the environment and the air pollution.

Honestly, some days I was in northern Thailand in May, the air pollution was too bad to even go outside and mask-wearing was a necessity.

Not very pleasant or happy to travel in I can tell you!

Between November and January is therefore the best time to travel in the north of Thailand in my opinion.

And this fits well with expanding your trip beyond Bangkok if you wish.

Best Time to Visit Southeast Asia in General

Cambodia, Angkor, Me in Ruins

And this season also fits well with many other parts of Southeast Asia too – a welcome message if you plan to travel beyond Bangkok and other parts of Thailand into neighbouring countries.

Yes generally across many places in the region including Cambodia, Laos, South Vietnam and the Malay peninsula, the best time to visit weather-wise is also during the months of November through to March.

This means that covering quite a lot of ground in Southeast Asia is generally easy as, during these times, you’ll experience a dry, cooler climate with blue sky days and plenty of opportunities to get out for activities and sightseeing.

The countries in Southeast Asia that don’t conform so well to this weather pattern are the central and northern parts of Vietnam, as well as the Malaysian Islands – if you plan to travel to these destinations, but don’t presume November through March is the best time!

Cheapest Time to Travel to Thailand

best time to visit bangkok and thailand

But now that we’ve established November to March is probably the best time to visit Bangkok, as well as the islands and north of the country as a whole, and even to other countries in Southeast Asia too, we do need to consider the cons to travelling at this time as well as the pros.

Well we know the pros are the weather, but the cons (as I’ve outlined before) are the number of other tourists, the festivals that can make getting around during certain weeks difficult and, most crucially for us budget travellers, the price!

Yes given this is high season and both the Christmas and Easter holidays fall within this period, prices are definitely the highest at this time of year and things need to be booked in advance too.

It therefore pays to be organised during this season as you’ll certainly want to reserve accommodation and book flights ahead of time too.

If you tend to be more disorganised, or if your budget is tight, then the shoulder season of April through May might suit you better.

Best Overall Time to Visit Bangkok

Thailand, Bangkok, Temple

Overall then, it’s the shoulder months of April and May or September and October that gets my vote as the best time to visit Bangkok.

During these months, the prices are good, the number of other tourists bearable and the temperatures across the country are manageable.

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Bangkok Mini Travel Guide

Thailand, Bangkok, Floating Market

How to Get to Bangkok?

Now it’s time to move on to discussing how to get to Bangkok.

First up flying, which is probably the preferred option for most travellers, especially those who are coming from further away.

The main international airport in Thailand is handily situated in Bangkok, and it is clean, well-serviced and easy to access – transport from the suburbs of the city can be easily arranged through ridesharing apps.

As always, I recommend you check out Skyscanner to get the best deals on your flights to Thailand no matter where you’re heading in from.

Alternatively, if you’re arriving into Bangkok from any nearby countries i.e. those within the Southeast Asia region, then it’s true that travelling overland i.e. by bus, might be the easier (and will certainly be the cheaper) option for you.

Common routes include between Siem Reap and Bangkok, and Thailand also has several open land borders with Myanmar, as well as Laos and Malaysia too.

When to comes to booking your bus transport for travel to Bangkok or anywhere in Southeast Asia, I highly recommend 12Go .

Their secure online booking platform allows you to compare and book buses easily across the region in English – hoorah!

And finally, if you’re not totally comfortable with travelling this country independently, then a small group or guided tour is a great option that will have you seeing the best of Thailand safely, securely and easily.

Check out these top picks for some super ideas and prices.

How Long to Spend There?

I think 3-6 days is a good amount of time in Bangkok.

It’s a big city, with a lot to see and do, but can be quite hectic and tiring after all while!

Travel Insurance for Thailand

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Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Top 5 Packing Items for Your Bangkok Trip

#1 Lonely Planet Guidebook – The Bangkok Lonely Planet is excellent and very helpful for any trip to this city with lots of top tips and good practical information.

#2 Walking Shoes – There’s likely to be a lot of walking in Bangkok especially as the traffic here can be so bad. As such, I advise packing a pair of good runners, like these New Balance trainers , which are perfect for city strolling.

#3 European & British Power Adapters – Bangkok has a mix of power outlets, but generally opts for a combination of the European and British ones, so make sure you come prepared with a Skross world adapter .

#4 Camera and Lens – I love my Sony A6000 mirrorless , which was ideal for capturing this crazy capital at its best.

#5 Travel Scarf – A great multi-purpose travel item that can be used to safely store valuables and cover your shoulders while you explore Bangkok’s temples.

Best Place to Stay in Bangkok

As opposed to staying on or near the Khao San Road, which is honestly one of the worst places I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending a full 3 minutes before I turned on my heels and fled, can I suggest you stay in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok instead.

Having stayed there myself as a solo female, I can definitely say I felt a lot safer there walking around at night by myself than anywhere else, and there’s an excellent choice of accommodation in this bustling part of the city too.

And when it comes to my recommendations, especially if you want to treat yourself, then look no further than the Mercure Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 .

Ideally located, with huge, clean and comfortable rooms (some of which include a bath!) and some of the most helpful staff I’ve ever encountered, this place is an absolute haven amongst the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

The gorgeous pool and daybeds are a dream when you need to relax away from the sweat and urban chaos of the city, and the bar and several restaurants onsite here will make your stay easy, convenient and stress-free.

Where to Travel After Bangkok?

If you want to stay within Thailand, then the southern destination of Krabi or the northern cites of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai were my favourites.

Otherwise, it’s an easy hop, skip and a jump across the border to Cambodia and the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat.

Learn all about how to cross from Bangkok to Siem Reap – the city closest to Angkor Wat – in this post I wrote, as well as the top things to do in Siem Reap here .

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Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Which Month is Best to Visit Bangkok?

Liz Cox

The Best Times In Which To Visit Thailand’s Capital

Bangkok Skyline | Bangkok, Thailand These photo's of Bangkok… | Flickr

Bangkok, like the rest of Thailand, enjoys a tropical climate year round, but there are some months that feature less intense weather than others. Those months are usually from November to March when the head and humidity take a much-needed break. However, despite these months featuring milder weather, it is still important to remember that such conditions still have a mind of their own.

Between November and March, the daytime temperatures can range from the mid-70s (fahrenheit) and climb up to the low 90s. As these months are considered the ‘high season’ or ‘winter’ for Thailand, the weather is usually at a prime temperature from December to January. Daily temperatures can dip towards the 60s, especially in the evening, making it a great time to enjoy the night markets. If you are planning a trip to Bangkok, these 2 months are the best time in which to visit. Keep in mind, however, that flights will also be at their highest for these times, as they are the most popular times to visit Bangkok and the rest of Thailand.

During the high season, there are many events that may lure travelers to Bangkok. Some popular events include:

November: Loi Krathong and the Golden Mount Temple Fair. Celebrate Loi Krathong at Bangkok’s Lumphini Park or alongside the famous Chao Phraya River in Bangkok’s Old Town.

December: The King’s Birthday is December 5. This is also known as Father’s Day in Thailand. The New Year is also a largely-celebrated event in Thailand, as December 31 will see many firework shows and parties. If you want to see the best firework shows, visit Central World Plaza or the Chao Phraya River for some spectacular, end-of-year celebrations that truly light up the entire, night skyline.

January: Chinese New Year (Bangkok features the largest Chinatown in the world!) Celebrate on Yaowarat Road, which is the main road running through Chinatown.

February: Makha Bucha

Floating krathong - Loi Krathong festival | Loi Krathong coi… | Flickr

Traveling to Bangkok During the Low Season

If you are looking to save money on a flight to Bangkok, the best deals and hotel rates are between April and October. Although these months are known to be the hottest, most humid, and rainiest, experiencing this Southeast Asian country how locals do will surely be quite memorable for more daring travelers. And, although the low season features monsoons, it may not be what travelers expect. Such a rainy season is actually a mix of overcast weather and rainstorms in the afternoons that eventually clear up.

Just like other tropical countries, Thailand’s rainy season features short bouts of daily rain, only to be diminished by the warming sun. Thus, it is still enjoyable to venture out and go sightseeing despite the average expected amount of rainfall. Temperatures will spike to around 90 degrees during the day, with rain showers temporarily cooling off the daily heat. Crowds will also be less dense if you visit Thailand’s capital during these months. So, bring a nice rain jacket and some rain boots while you enjoy Thailand’s rainy summer as the monsoon season (from May to October), yields refreshing rain. And, if you are interested in celebrating the Thai new year of Songkran, April is the month in which you should visit to experience a citywide waterfight.

File:Songkran 002aa.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

During the low season, some of the best events can be experienced in Bangkok. Such events include:

April: Thai New Year (Songkran). Celebrate the yearly waterfight at Silom Road or Khao San Road in Bangkok.

May: Visakha Bucha and The Royal Ploughing Ceremony (date based on lunar cycles for a profitable harvest).

September: International Festival of Dance and Music and the Moon Festival

Despite the obvious benefits of visiting Bangkok during the high season, any time of year is really a treat when visiting one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Bangkok has consistently been featured as the most-visited city on Earth, and once you arrive, you will see why. From bustling and fragrant streets to mega malls that can take all day to walk through, there is plenty to do and see in Bangkok without needing to spend a lot of time outdoors. Kids also love the endless amount of activities available for them in Thailand’s capital. Free museums, floating markets, cinemas, arcades, gymnasiums, Muay Thai lessons, waterparks, and zoos can all be great entertainment for the entire family.

If you plan to visit during the high or cool season, just be sure to expect more crowds and higher prices for flights and hotels. Along with that, however, you can enjoy lower temperatures and humidity to make outdoor adventures all the more fun! For those wanting to experience the low season, along with smaller crowds and accompanying prices, don’t forget to pack a quality raincoat and be prepared to get soaked during Songkran as the water fights are, indeed, the best way to wash off the old year and ring in the new one!

For more information concerning current travel restrictions to Thailand, you can check the latest updates here.   And, if you are looking for a guide to the current ASQ hotels, check out our current information here.

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What is the overall best time to visit Thailand?

The overall best time to visit Thailand is from November to early April for islands, beaches, hiking, vacation, and outdoor activities, as it falls into the dry season, which typically runs from November to February.

During this time, the weather is relatively cooler and less humid, making it perfect for exploring islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan , lounging on the beautiful beaches of Phuket or Krabi , exploring floating markets in Bangkok , and the northern mountains near Chiang Mai .

Best time to visit Thailand for island Hopping and beaches

However, if you are interested in diving or snorkeling, the best time to visit would be from March to May when the waters are clearest. For experiencing traditional festivals like Songkran (Thai New Year) or Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights), plan your visit around April or November respectively.

Best time to visit Thailand for snorkeling, scuba diving and water activities

It’s worth noting that popular tourist destinations may be crowded during the peak season. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting Thailand during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October when the weather is still good but there are fewer tourists.

It’s also important to remember that specific regions of Thailand may have slightly different optimal times to visit based on their unique climate patterns.

We’ll explore it all in this complete guide on when to visit Thailand.

Best time to visit Thailand for sunny weather and beaches

About the weather in Thailand

Thailand , a fascinating country in Southeast Asia, has a tropical climate, with seasonal monsoon winds and monsoon rains affecting it. This means warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and occasional bursts of rain to keep things lush and green.

The weather in Thailand can vary across different regions. This is because the country stretches from north to south and has a wide variety of scenery, including beaches, mountains, lakes, and jungles.

Best time to visit Thailand to enjoy the beaches

In addition, Thailand also boasts three distinct main seasons that bring their own unique vibe. So, knowing the hot, wet, and cool seasons is key to maximizing your Thailand vacation.

Therefore, the best time to visit Thailand depends on which places you would like to visit and the activities you want to do.

Must-do activities and experiences in Thailand

Snorkeling in the clearest waters of Similan Islands and Surin Islands . Scuba Diving among rich marine life around the waters of Koh Tao . Staying overnight in a floating bungalow in Khao Sok . Island-hopping in Phuket and Phi Phi Islands . Exploring floating markets in Bangkok . Temple-hopping and nature exploring in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai . Rock climbing and adventure activities in Krabi .

Best time to visit Thailand to see the floating markets

THAILAND EXPERIENCES

Thailand Weather Seasons Explained

Hot season in thailand.

The hot season in Thailand runs from March to May . On certain days, the temperature can rise to 33°C (90°F) or even reach 38°C (100°F), especially in the north and central parts of the country, with the hottest places being Bangkok and Chiang Mai .

The weather during the hot season is dry and sunny, with minimal chance of rain. So if you want to visit Thailand during the hot season, it’s best to wear light clothing, remain hydrated, and take advantage of any opportunity to spend time in an airconditioned environment or shade because the heat can be very intense.

Best time to visit Thailand for beaches in South of Thailand

Do most of your sightseeing in the mornings.

The advantage of this summer weather is that the ocean’s cooling water is ideal for swimming. It’s a great time to hit the beach, go island-hopping, explore underwater, or check out waterfalls and swimming holes. Indoor activities are also a great idea.

The hot season marks the beginning of the low season in Thailand, meaning you can save money on accommodations and flights, and you can expect to share the attractions with fewer other tourists.

Best time to visit Thailand for beaches in Gulf of Thailand - island-hopping

Rainy Season in Thailand

In most parts of Thailand , the rainy season, or the so-called wet season, is from June to October. The monsoons bring high humidity and frequent rain, which limits outdoor activities.

However, this is a lush, green time of year that brings new life to nature. The rain might not be the best time for beach days, but it’s a beautiful time to explore Thailand’s forest trails, waterfalls, and rural areas. The rainy season is a low-tourism season in Thailand, so flights and hotels are cheaper.

Best time to visit Thailand to explore the nature, outdoors, and waterfalls

If nature is not your thing, you can always wear a raincoat and bring an umbrella to go sightseeing or go on a street food hunting trip. The downside is that some areas are prone to flooding, so it’s best to research local conditions before planning any trips.

Best time to visit Thailand weather-wise - rainy season, cool season, dry season

It’s worth noting that while the rainy season in Thailand comes with a lot of rain, it might not always be the case that it’s raining the whole time. But rather in certain periods of the day, when it’s a powerful downpour, and the rest can actually be a nice sunny day.

It’s also important to know that the wet season is different on the Andaman Coast and Central Thailand (June–October) from the rainy season in the Southeastern part and Gulf of Thailand (October–January).

Dry and Cool Season in Thailand

November to February is the dry season in Thailand , with cooler temperatures, an average high of 27°C (80°F) and an average low of 10°C (50°F), especially in the northern mountain regions.

Rainclouds are gone, the humidity drops and refreshing winds blow through. In this perfect weather comes peak tourism season, so hotels are full, flights and fares are costly, and famous destinations in Thailand are packed.

Best time to visit Thailand to explore the nature in national parks - rivers - jungle - trekking - hiking

Outdoor activities are also in full swing, and they’re definitely much more pleasant in the dry weather and lower humidity. You can safely access all the beaches and national parks, and you can explore tons of historic places or street markets without being too hot or wet. There are also a few Thai festivals you can join during the dry season.

Best time to visit Thailand for island-hopping in the south

Pack a light jacket for chilly nights and early mornings because this season offers the best of Thailand’s tropical weather before the heat returns!

The southeastern regions and the Gulf of Thailand are exempt from the dry season because the rainy weather starts during these months. – Koh Samui , Koh Tao , Koh Phangan ..

Best time to visit Thailand for cultural activities and visiting attractions

Burning season in Thailand

Burning season in Thailand typically lasts from February to early April and is a time of year when farmers burn fields and agricultural waste to make way for the incoming planting season. Every year, locals and travelers unfortunately deal with a reduction in visibility, respiratory issues, and an overall decrease in the quality of the air.

Best time to visit Thailand for exploring the north of Thailand - rice fields, nature, temples

This practice results in thick smog and air pollution that covers several parts of the country, making the burning season the worst time to visit Thailand, air quality-wise.

This annual issue mainly affects Thailand’s northern region, especially Chiang Mai and its surrounding areas. So, for health and safety reasons, vacationing up north during this season is not ideal.

KEEP IN MIND

The burning season can affect all parts of Thailand, but never in the same amount . But it does depend on the year!

For example, we traveled through Thailand at the exact time of the burning season, but as we mostly stayed on the islands of Koh Tao , Koh Phangan , Koh Samui , and the Andaman Coast ( Phuket , Krabi ), we weren’t affected at all.

When is the high season in Thailand, and when is the low season?

When you’re planning your travel in Thailand , knowing the high and low seasons can help plan your budget and manage your expectations regarding activities you can do on your visit.

The months of November through February are considered the high season, or peak tourist period in Thailand because the weather is cool and pleasant, a big contrast to the winter months in Europe.

The high season is the best time to visit Thailand because you can expect sunny skies and clear and calm waters for activities. However, with higher demand comes higher prices for accommodations.

Best time to visit Thailand for island-hopping to Maya Bay and Phi Phi Islands from Phuket or Krabi

On the other hand, the low season in Thailand spans from June to October , when rain is more frequent due to the monsoon season. This is a good time to visit Thailand if you’re budget-conscious and enjoy reduced crowds.

You can score great deals on accommodation and flights, but outdoor activities are more limited. So traveling to Thailand during the summer months (July – September) is not a bad idea if you know the limitations.

Best time to visit Thailand for island-hopping to Phi Phi Islands - Best time to visit Thailand for beaches

When do Thailand islands close off to tourists?

Thailand’s islands have varying closure periods for tourists due to the monsoon season, when heavy rains and rough seas can disrupt travel plans or make it more dangerous. And in most cases, they also close for conservation reasons.

It’s always a good idea to check the specific closure periods for each island before planning your trip to ensure you can make the most of your time in Thailand’s beautiful island destinations.

The Similan Islands , for example, are closed to tourists from mid-May to mid-October every year. The Surin Islands also have a similar closure period, with restrictions in place from May to October.

Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Le is closed from August to October every year to preserve the natural environment.

Best time to visit Thailand for snorkeling and scuba diving

During the low season in Thailand, there are also much fewer ferries operating, especially for islands like Koh Kood and Koh Lipe, which are more affected by adverse weather conditions.

Plus, the travel between Phuket and nearby islands like Phi Phi Islands is a bit rougher due to the rougher waters, as well as between Koh Lipe and other southern Andaman islands.

Best time to visit North Thailand

The cool season between November and February is the best time to visit the north of Thailand . This makes it the perfect time to see the stunning landscapes, temples, and vibrant cultures of Northern Thai provinces like Chiang Mai , Chiang Rai , and Mae Hong Son ( Pai ).

If you book guided tours, you don’t have to worry about them getting canceled. You can also be sure that most of the famous attractions are open, like Tham Lod Cave in Mae Hong Son, one of the best caves to explore in Thailand.

Best time to visit Thailand to explore caves and other natural attractions

In addition to the comfortable weather and amazing sights, you’ll also have the chance to join traditional festivals like Yi Peng, Loy Krathong, and Chiang Mai’s flower festival.

Most travelers avoid visiting the north of Thailand from late February to May because the burning season is not worth experiencing. Not only is sightseeing difficult, but the thick smog can cause some health issues.

Best time to visit Thailand to explore national parks in the north - Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai

The rainy season in North Thailand, from July to October, is also not ideal because trekking or swimming in some waterfalls can be dangerous.

However, no matter when you choose to go, the north of Thailand promises an unforgettable experience filled with scenic nature, delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and rich cultural traditions.

Best time to visit Thailand for visiting temples and attractions

NORTH THAILAND EXPERIENCES

Best time to visit Bangkok and Central Thailand

The best time to visit Bangkok and Central Thailand is from November to February , during the dry and cool season.

During this time, the weather in Central Thailand is milder, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), making it comfortable to explore the bustling cities, temples, and nature.

This period also coincides with major festivals like the Chinese New Year and the Candle Festival, adding more fun to your trip.

Best time to visit Thailand for cycling around the countryside

Since March and April mark the end of peak season, they may be a good alternative for Central Thailand if you prefer fewer tourists and don’t mind slightly higher temperatures. If ever the heat gets unbearable, just consider it a chance to visit famous museums in Bangkok , shopping malls, trendy cafes, and other indoor attractions.

From July to October, which is the monsoon season, outdoor activities will be limited in Bangkok and Central Thailand due to more frequent downpours.

Best time to visit Thailand for exploring Bangkok and Central Thailand

However, Bangkok is always fun to explore. We’ve spent time there in all the seasons, the hot, rainy, and the cool, and each was fine. The rains are often a welcome thing after the very hot periods, and often, they don’t last that long. And you can always choose to only explore in the morning to avoid the unbearable heat.

Best time to visit Thailand for visiting top tourist attractions - Mae Klong Railway Market

CENTRAL THAILAND EXPERIENCES

Best time to visit the Gulf of Thailand

The best time to visit the islands in the Gulf of Thailand is from April to October for a pleasant time on the white-sand beaches and to have clear blue waters.

Because the Gulf of Thailand is a tropical paradise filled with many picturesque islands, it’s no surprise that most things to do are water-related. That’s why visiting the Gulf of Thailand during the summer season is not only the best but also the safest time.

Best time to visit Thailand for scuba diving in Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui

Plan your trip from February to March when the waters are calm and clear if you want to go scuba diving, snorkeling, island-hopping, or kayaking in Koh Tao or Koh Phangan .

The worst time to visit the Gulf of Thailand is the monsoon season, from October to December. Water-related activities can be a bit more dangerous because of the heavy downpours and rougher seas. Though, nature really comes to life then.

However, it’s worth noting that the most visited Thai Islands in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui , Koh Phangan , and Koh Tao , are much less rainy than other places in Thailand during the rainy season.

Best time to visit Thailand for island-hopping in the Gulf of Thailand

Otherwise, an alternative vacation destination, but on the mainland, is Hua Hin, which is mostly pleasant all year round since Hua Hin is considerably drier than Phuket and is one of the driest places in Thailand. Although the main beaches in Hua Hin aren’t the prettiest in the country, there are some really nice ones a bit north and south of Hua Hin. It’s a great place for a relaxed holiday, as it’s much slower-paced.

Best time to visit the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand

Another group of islands in the Gulf of Thailand is Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood, which have distinct weather patterns and are often quite the opposite of the other side of the gulf around Koh Samui .

So the best time to visit the east coast islands of the Gulf of Thailand is between November and February . On the other hand, the rainy season, and also the low season there, lasts from May to October.

To better understand the different islands in the Gulf of Thailand, check the map below.

GULF OF THAILAND EXPERIENCES

Best time to visit South Thailand (Andaman Coast)

The Andaman Coast in the South of Thailand boasts some of the most beautiful and popular destinations in the country, like Phuket , Krabi , Phi Phi Islands , Koh Lanta, and Koh Lipe.

Ideally, the best time to visit South Thailand and the Andaman Coast is from November to April, when the weather is sunny and dry .

The water is clear and calm, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving around the Similan , Surin , and Phi Phi Islands . November to April is also the perfect weather for island-hopping from Phuket or Krabi and for kayaking around Phang Nga Bay’s limestone cliffs and through the fascinating sea caves.

Best time to visit Thailand for beaches

November to April is also the best time to visit Khao Sok National Park and the nearby west coast beaches and destinations like Khao Lak.

Best time to visit Thailand for exploring the national parks and lakes

During these months, Phuket and other islands come alive with festivals, beach parties, and night markets. It’s also the perfect time for witnessing stunning sunsets while relaxing on fine-sand beaches or viewpoints.

Best time to visit Thailand for stunning sunsets

The rainy season on the Andaman Coast of South Thailand is from May to October , which occurs a bit earlier than in the Gulf of Thailand. The monsoon brings heavy rain and high humidity, along with rougher seas, which makes it a bit tricky to go into the water, as the waves are higher, but also there are more rip currents.

However, if water activities are not your thing, you want to avoid the flock of tourists, or you’re just looking for a chill staycation, then the rainy season on the Andaman Coast of South Thailand is a great choice.

We spent time in Phuket , Krabi , and Phi Phi Islands during May and June and still had a pleasant time.

Best time to visit Thailand for kayaking and beaches

SOUTH THAILAND EXPERIENCES

Best time to visit Thailand for festivals

Due to its rich cultural heritage, Thailand has many vibrant festivals celebrated throughout the year in different parts of the country. The most popular festivals in Thailand are usually held during the months of November and April when the weather is dry.

One of these is the Songkran festival , also known as the Thai New Year, which the country celebrates around mid-April with massive, multi-day water fights, street parties, and other Buddhist rituals.

Best time to visit Thailand for festivals and celebrations - Songkran Festival

You can also look forward to the magical Loy Krathong festival in November, which is celebrated on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, where people release beautifully decorated floating baskets into rivers.

Best time to visit Thailand for festivals and celebrations - Loy Krathon festival

If you would rather see a sky full of illuminated paper lanterns, join the Yi Peng festival that occurs during the same time as Loy Krathong. And you can experience both on the same day in northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai .

For a unique experience, visit the town of Dan Sai (Loei Province) to celebrate the three-day Phi Ta Khon festival . This is dubbed the Ghost Festival because of the grand parade, where participants dress up in spooky costumes that resemble ghosts and spirits. The festival usually occurs sometime between March and July, though the exact date changes annually.

The Vegetarian Festival takes place in Thailand between late September and early October for nine days of festivities celebrating Chinese beliefs of abstinence from animal products. The vegetarian festival is mostly celebrated in Phuket and in Bangkok’s China Town .

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best time to visit bangkok and thailand

Songkran Festival: Thai New Year

Best time to visit Thailand for surfing

If you’re a surfing enthusiast, the best time to visit Thailand to catch some waves is during the monsoon season , which typically runs from May to October .

During this time, the southwestern coast of Thailand experiences consistent swells and favorable wind conditions, making it ideal for surfing in Phuket , Khao Lak, Koh Phayam, or Koh Lanta.

Best time to visit Thailand for surfing - Best time to visit Thailand to learn how to surf

However, it’s important to note that the monsoon season also brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, so be sure to check the weather and surf conditions before heading out on the Surf Forecast .

For beginner surfers, we recommend taking lessons or surfing with experienced locals who can guide you through the waves safely. Some of the recommended surf schools in Thailand are Talay Surf School , Whale Surf School , and Beyond Surf Kata in Phuket.

Best time to visit Thailand for surfing - Best time to visit Thailand to learn how to surf

For a more in-depth learning experience, check out one of the Thailand Surf Camps , like the Phuket 6-Day Learn to Surf Camp .

Best time to visit Thailand for surfing - Best time to visit Thailand to learn how to surf

Best time to visit Thailand plus other Southeast Asian countries

The best time to visit Thailand and the rest of Southeast Asia, including Vietnam , Laos, and Cambodia , is during the dry season, which is from November to April.

In Vietnam , the dry season varies slightly depending on the region, but it’s similar to the dry season in Thailand. In the north, it typically lasts from November to April, while in the south, it lasts from December to April.

If you prefer cooler weather and don’t mind some rain showers, visiting during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October can also be a good option as there are fewer tourists and lower prices.

Best time to visit Thailand for breathtaking views on viewpoints

Best time to visit Thailand: Month-by-month overview

It’s quite hard to generalize the best time to visit Thailand by month since Thailand is a diverse country with variations in weather across different regions. For example, the southern islands have a completely different climate than cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai .

Still, below is a month-by-month overview of the general weather and temperature in Thailand.

Month-by-month Overview

  • November to February: This is considered the best time to visit Thailand as the weather is generally dry and temperatures are cooler, ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). It’s a great time for beach activities and exploring outdoor attractions.
  • March to May: These months are hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in some areas. It can be quite humid, but it’s still possible to enjoy outdoor activities if you stay hydrated and take breaks during the hottest parts of the day.
  • June to October: This period is Thailand’s rainy season, with increased chances of rainfall and occasional storms. However, it doesn’t rain all day every day, and there are still plenty of sunny hours. The advantage of visiting during this time is that prices for accommodations and flights tend to be lower.

Best time to visit Thailand for beaches and islands

While it’s possible to have an enjoyable trip in the country at any time of year, the best time to visit Thailand really depends on what you want to see and experience.

November to February is considered ideal , as you can have a pleasant time in almost all regions, Central and Northern Thailand and in the south along the coast of the Andaman Sea.

We hope this comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Thailand, gives you all the information you need to plan your exploration or vacation to this wonderful country.

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  • international tourism
  • best time to visit bangkok

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Best time to visit bangkok.

The weather in Bangkok is tropical. The country has three main seasons namely summer which extends from March to June, the monsoon or rainy season from July to October and the relatively cooler winter season which runs from November to February.

The winter is the best time to visit Bangkok. The days tend to be cooler and the evenings much more pleasant. If one is looking to spend time at the beaches or taking a boat cruise, then summer is possibly the best time to visit though bear in mind it can get beastly hot. 

The monsoon season is not the best time to visit for a variety of reasons, primary amongst these the bouts of torrential rain which can take apart any itinerary one has drawn up. Shopping is the one activity that can best be enjoyed at this time though.

Bangkok in March to June 

Temperature: 30 – 40 degrees

Bangkok's hottest time is between March and May, when temperatures soar as high as 40 degrees. The average temperature stays in the mid 30s for the entire season, though the months of May and June start getting showers which offer some respite from the intense heat. During the ‘Hot Season’, boat cruises, mall shopping, rooftop bars and lounging on the beach or by the pool come highly recommended to escape the intense Bangkok weather. It will still be quite warm, with an average high temperature of 32°C, and, when combined with the rain, the humidity can be excruciatingly intolerable, though the rains do help cool things off a bit. April by far the most unpleasant month temperature wise. 

Significance:  

This is when the Thai New Year, Songkran, takes place and the country embarks on a three-day water fight. While many go away for the vacation those who stay celebrate with high velocity water guns, buckets and hoses to spray water as part of huge water fights. Tourists and businessmen are often the top targets.

Visakha Bucha, the holiest of all Buddhist holidays is also commemorated on the full-moon day of the sixth lunar month which normally falls in May. On this public holiday, Thai Buddhists visit the temple to make merit in addition to making an extra effort to uphold the Five Precepts of Buddhist teachings 

Why you should visit now: 

While external activity and sightseeing is not recommended during this season, the popular “Amazing Grand Sale” commences in June and sees large crowds.  Shopaholics would definitely see June as the best month to visit Bangkok. Also in the middle of March The Bangkok International Fashion Week is held. This five-day event showcases a variety of products, including clothing and cosmetics, jewellery, leather products, bridal and handicrafts and generally takes place at the Impact Exhibition & Convention Center. 

If you love sea food and crabs in particular then this is the best time to visit too. The annual Crab Festival held at Central Plaza Rama in the middle of June offers the chance to taste fresh crab from Bang Khun Thian, a sea side district of Bangkok. It also features a number of exhibitions, including international cooking demonstrations.

Given you have the requisite skin protection, it is also a great time to loll on the beach and get a great tan in this season.

Know before you visit:  

With the heat being extremely oppressive, from an activities perspective it is highly suggested you stay indoors. Some things you could do include visiting temples, aquariums and entertainment complexes aside from shopping.

With lesser crowds visiting the tariffs on rooms as well as other services tends to be much less and you can strike some good deals.

Further on Visakha Bucha, many bars and clubs are closed for the day, and the few that do remain open keep the music at lower levels and only serve alcohol in a very discreet manner. 

Tips: 

More important than time of year when visiting Bangkok, try to visit the most popular attractions early in the morning for the smallest crowds, coolest temperatures, and best experience.

In such oppressive heat protection from the sun is critical. Take as much sunscreen as you can. While minimal clothing is good, shorts and tank tops aren’t appropriate for the city, particularly in the temples and palaces - loose and light long pants and comfortable, short-sleeve tops are the way to go. 

Ensure you have an air conditioned room – the cooling is much wanted after being out in the heat. The heat can be oppressive during the day, so ensure if you want to do any sightseeing or trips, you do these in the late afternoons or early evenings particularly if your skin is sensitive to the heat. 

Also ensure you take regular breaks from the heat and intake a large amount of fluids.

Bangkok in July to October

Temperature: 26 - 34 degrees

Also called the Low Season, the monsoon occurs between July and October. Low reflects the mood and this is because of the largely due to the wet and humid weather in Bangkok. While it is is still hot, the city is also prone to bouts of rain, which why this is not the best season even more so if you are looking for a beach holiday.

Typically on a monsoon day there can be light rain, torrential 30-minute showers, with a mix of clear skies and overcast days with little to no rain. September and October are Bangkok’s rainiest months.

While the monsoon can play havoc with plans and movement, given the relative paucity of crowds it can be a great time to visit sites a little more peacefully.

July is also the month for the famous Pattaya marathon.

The off-season weather isn’t completely intolerable, and the trade-off of considerable savings for more elbow room is likely to be worth the bit of discomfort.

The Grand Palace is Bangkok’s No. 1 must-see attraction, drawing millions of tourists annually. During the monsoon however, there are times when you can enjoy it in relative peace. A good idea is to come early in the morning during the peak of the rainy season. 

By far, this is also the best time for shopping in Bangkok.  The “Amazing Grand Sale” of Bangkok is at its peak in July and August. Shops offer discounts between 10 and 80 percent on a variety of items including clothes, electronic items and jewellery allowing shoppers to stock up on dream purchases at a fraction of the price.

There are some important festivals and occasions that also take place in September. These include the Chinese Mid-Autumn Moon Festival and the International Festival of Dance and Music. The former is an exciting time for food lovers. Chinatown is filled with food stalls promoting mooncakes in every possible flavour. The International Festival is Bangkok’s largest annual arts festival featuring top or second-tier opera, classical music, dance, ballet and jazz in a star-studded program. 

Know before you visit: 

Expectedly given the erratic weather, there again are not too many crowds, putting on offer some of the best deals on hotels and excursions. 

Like in summer, when it rains heavily, tourists can enjoy a wide range of indoor activities or just continue shopping.

Asana Bucha and Khao Pansa are two important Thai Buddhist holidays that fall next to each other in July. Asahara Bucha commemorates the day Buddha preached his first sermon to his five first disciples, while Khao Pansa is the beginning of the Buddhist Lent, when the monks’ three-month rainy reason retreat starts and alcohol is banned all day. Lay people too abstain from cigarettes, alcohol or meat. A Buddhist Lent Festival takes place, featuring celebrants that make huge candles and parade them through the streets along with floats depicting scenes from Buddhist and Hindu mythology.

Bangkok in November to February

Temperature: 23 - 39 degrees

The best weather in Bangkok is experienced between November and February. These are the ‘cool months’ when discovering the city by foot will not result in drowning perspiration. During the evenings at this time of year temperatures have been known to drop to around 22 degrees Celsius. 

There is very little rain during this season. This is when the city is often at its most pleasant, though you may still need protection from the sun in the form of sunscreen, as well as loose, lightweight clothing. December is Bangkok’s driest month, with just 9 mm of rain. As always, you’ll need light, loose clothing and sunglasses as well as a jacket or a cardigan for indoors, but you can do away with that umbrella.

Significance: 

This is peak tourist season, and the coolest time of the year. There’s a more happening nightlife too. 

The season is extremely festive. Aside from Christmas and New Year which are celebrated with a lot of reverence and gusto, the World Film Festival of Bangkok is held in early November. The festival screens more than 80 international films from across the globe. Add to that, the Beer Garden Festival which marks the start of the country’s annual beer garden season, where tables and chairs are brought out onto the street and Singha, Heineken, and a host of other beers are available on tap. Food stalls, live bands and a humungous variety of beers can be found at plazas, bars and malls. There is also Loy Krathong Festival which is one of the most picturesque festivals in Bangkok taking place on the first full moon day of November, In the evening, Thai people buy or make a krathong, which is like a small boat made of banana tree and banana leaves, with flowers and a candle in the middle. They then gather around lakes, rivers and canals to pay respects to the goddess of water. 

The weather is obviously the key reason. While it won’t make a huge difference, late November and early December is the best time to visit Bangkok, when the city is drying out from the monsoon season and experiencing a slight cool down, and the holiday crowds have yet to arrive.

The best weather for Thailand’s beaches and islands are December to March. Combining Bangkok with a visit to one of the southern islands would be a good idea at this time.

Chinatown which is Bangkok’s most chaotic, colourful district, and a little city in its own right is definitely worth a visit. Around the Chinese New Year in late January or early February is when Chinatown is at its best.

In this season, particularly from the second half of December onwards, it is virtually impossible to explore the city without banging into several other tourists and the outdoor beer bars are packed with them.

Tips : 

Prices across the board rise steeply and accommodation and all else fills up quickly. It is imperative to book well in advance.

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The best countries to travel to in southeast Asia

A fter many of its countries remained inaccessible to Brits for much of the pandemic, southeast Asia is finally welcoming a growing number of UK visitor back this year.

A wider variety of destinations in this corner of the continent is also starting to appeal to holidaymakers; while places such as Bangkok and Singapore have seen high numbers of British tourists for decades, others have only started to attract a larger crowd in recent years. For example, the number of UK visitors to Indonesia rose from roughly 219,000 in 2012 to almost 400,000 last year.

The geographical region of southeast Asia is a melting pot of different religions, traditions and cultures, and is home to some of the most incredible temples, palaces and natural sights on the planet.

From Angkor Wat to Ha Long Bay, the southeast possesses some of the most famous attractions on the continent to add to sprawling cities, a section of the Himalayas, hundreds of beaches and pleasant tropical climates.

Below are The Independent’s picks for the region’s best countries to visit on holiday; read on to start planning your next long-haul getaway.

From travelling youngsters to business people, Thailand is a long-time favourite on the continent for UK tourists and welcomes roughly one million Brits per year. Its capital, Bangkok (known locally as Krung Thep) was the most visited city in the world for several years in a row before Covid and is just a short journey away from the ancient city of Ayutthaya .

With dozens of famous white-sand beaches around the country (such as Railay and Ko Phi Phi ), as well as several areas of natural beauty (one of the most unique being Khao Sok National Park) and dozens of temples and palaces, Thailand offers anyone visiting the country a diverse mix of sightseeing, city experiences and relaxation – not to mention the nation’s impressive cuisine.

Best time to visit Thailand

With a rainy season falling between July and October, the best time to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are higher (with average highs in the early 30s). May is usually a quieter time to visit, but the sunshine may be interrupted by short rain periods.

A similarly popular choice for Brits travelling around Asia, Vietnam’s various areas of natural beauty are among the most coveted in the region. Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi and Da Nang are the best destinations for those who want to experience Vietnamese cities (Da Nang also has beach areas), while Hoi An is sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of Vietname’ due to its canals, alongside its well-preserved Ancient Town comprised of wooden Chinese shophouses and French colonial buildings.

Ha Long Bay (pictured above) is the country’s most famous natural area, while the beaches of Phu Quoc and the Cham Islands offer equal beauty in different settings. Other natural attractions include the caves of Phong Nha and Hang Son Doong, the Marble Mountains and the sand dunes at Mui Ne.

Best time to visit Vietnam

April and September fall just before and after the high season in Vietnam and also offer less humidity and lower temperatures than at the peak of summer. With weather that can vary quite drastically across the country in different months, these should give the best weather across the board too.

Read more on Asia travel :

  • Indonesia travel guide: everything you need to know before you go
  • Can Cambodia become southeast Asia’s sustainable travel capital?
  • The ultimate Thailand travel guide: Everything you need to know

Singapore is a popular destination for British expats, with an estimated 50,000 living there. It’s a country that is almost unlike any other; its urban planning strategy has created a metropolis and enabled almost six million people to live in an area roughly half the size of London.

Despite its diminutive size, the country offers numerous attractions , from its Botanic Gardens (a Unesco world heritage site) and historical and art museums to the Gardens by the Bay , a nature park spanning 101 hectares, and a Universal Studios theme park. It also hosts a Formula 1 race, which takes place in September on the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

Best time to visit Singapore

Singapore has significant rainfall all year, although the country’s dry season falls between February and April, when humidity levels are also at their lowest. Specifically, February and September offer the lowest rainfall and humidity, with average highs of around 31C. September also falls in low season.

By far the largest country in southeast Asia (by land mass and population size), Indonesia lies at the southern end of the region and consists of roughly 17,500 islands, including Sumatra and Bali. With so many islands, it’s no surprise that the archipelago contains some of the region’s most attractive areas. Bali in particular is a tourism hotspot, while many of the islands offer tropical rainforests, rugged terrain and even volcanoes (the country sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire and is prone to both eruptions and earthquakes).

Jakarta is the capital and largest city in the country and is located – along with the popular tourist town of Yogyakarta– on the island of Java. Idyllic locations include Lombok and the Raja Ampat islands; Bromo Tengger Semeru and Komodo National Parks offer unreal nature and wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Best time to visit Indonesia

The dry season usually runs from April to October, which is also when the country welcomes the most tourists. If you want to avoid crowds, May and June offer average highs of roughly 31C and over eight hours of sunshine per day.

Malaysia’s culture is an eclectic mix of European, Chinese, Indian and Malay influences, while the country itself is famous for its rainforest, beaches and the capital city of Kuala Lumpur , with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers being one of the country’s most iconic symbols.

Away from the capital, many tourists decide to visit the Malaysian part of Borneo – in the north of the island – where rainforest treks, wildlife viewing and relaxing on the beach are all possible. The Perhentian Islands and Sipadan are two other popular destinations, while nature-lovers flock to the Batu Caves, Mount Kinabalu and the Cameron Highlands.

Best time to visit Malaysia

You can expect fewer crowds from March to June; these months have average temperatures of around 28C, while June is the driest month of the year (though bear in mind you can still expect showers every month).

Philippines

Another archipelago, the Philippines consists of more than 7,000 islands. Under Spanish rule for over 300 years (and named after a Spanish King, Felipe II), it is one of the only predominantly Roman Catholic countries in the whole continent and has been widely influenced by Western culture and traditions. For those keen to see its cities, Manila is the capital while Quezon is the largest.

Tropical white-sand beaches are plentiful on the nation’s thousands of isles, while the volcanoes of Mayon and Tail offer dramatic scenery overlooking the water. Other sites include Sigma Lagoon, Pagsanjan Falls and the Batad rice terraces.

Best time to visit the Philippines

The Philippines dry season falls right in the middle of the low season for tourism. The driest months are between January and March, where there is little rainfall and humidity falls to much more tolerable levels. Expect temperatures of up to 24C – and lows of 15C – every day.

Cambodia welcomes visitors eager to learn about its complicated history (its dictatorial regime only ended in 1979) and experience its mix of Asian and French culture. A largely rural country, only three of its cities are home to over 100,000 people despite the country’s 16 million-strong population. Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city, while Siem Reap is another metropolitan centre that also acts as the gate to Angkor Wat (pictured above), an ancient temple which today is the largest religious structure in the world.

The country’s islands, such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, contain pristine white beaches, sandy coves and coral reefs , and are popular spots for partying too. The Cardamom mountain range stretches over 4.4 million hectares of rainforest through the southeast and into eastern Thailand, and is home to a vast range of wildlife, including sun bears, elephants and Siamese crocodiles. Tonle Sap lake is the largest in southeast Asia, with its waters and floodplain home to over three million people and hundreds of different animal species.

Best time to visit Cambodia

Temperatures are at their lowest in the dry season between November and February, but you’ll still see average highs of 30C.

Read our reviews of the best hotels in Bangkok

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Ultimate Guide to S2O Festival 2024: Bangkok’s Premier Music Fiesta

What is s2o music festival.

Imagine a festival where the exhilaration of world-class electronic dance music meets the joyful abandon of Thailand’s traditional New Year water festival, Songkran. This is the essence of the S2O Music Festival – an extraordinary confluence of sound, water, and celebration that lights up Bangkok with vibrancy, color, and life. Staged annually over the Songkran holiday in mid-April, this festival has rapidly evolved into a flagship music event on Asia’s entertainment calendar, drawing both local enthusiasts and international travelers into one collective, effervescent experience.

At the heart of S2O is the innovative integration of massive water jets, synchronized with pulsating beats and state-of-the-art light shows, creating not just a concert but an immersive sensory spectacle. As the rhythms soar, festival-goers revel in the coolness, dancing and splashing in an enormous outdoor venue that becomes a boundless, fluid dance floor under the starlit Bangkok sky. This distinctive feature pays homage to the water-throwing traditions of Songkran, symbolic of washing away the past year’s misfortunes and heralding a fresh start.

The S2O Music Festival is more than just a musical event; it’s a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates the dynamic spirit of modern Bangkok while staying rooted in ancient traditions. Each year, the festival showcases a meticulous selection of eminent electronic dance music artists from around the globe, set against the backdrop of Bangkok’s urban landscape. Previous line-ups have featured luminaries like Steve Aoki, The Chainsmokers, and Tiësto, promising an unforgettable experience of non-stop music and entertainment.

In short, S2O not only sets the stage for an electrifying assembly of the world’s leading EDM talents but also offers a unique opportunity to experience Songkran in an avant-garde setting, making it a standout event that beautifully marries the old with the new. As you prepare to dive into the heart-pounding beats and cooling splendor of S2O, remember, you’re not just attending a festival – you’re becoming part of a pulsating, living mosaic of Bangkok’s vibrant cultural landscape.

EDM party

2024 Line-Up and What to Expect

The heartbeat of Bangkok’s April nightlife, the S2O Music Festival 2024, is set to host an electrifying ensemble of international and local DJs, making it the zenith of the city’s musical year. The sheer anticipation of witnessing these artists live is palpable, as S2O unfailingly curates a lineup that amalgamates the very best of electronic dance music with the joyous abandon of Songkran. This year, the festival proudly announces an extraordinary roster of headliners, including Illenium, Joyryde, Deorro, TJR , and Wuki . Each artist brings their unique energy and sound, promising to deliver performances that will resonate with attendees long after the festival concludes.

Illenium , known for his emotive, melodic bass-driven tracks, is sure to enchant the audience with his immersive soundscape. Joyryde , on the other hand, will rev up the crowd with his high-octane bass house sets, while Deorro ‘s fusion of electro, Dutch house, and progressive beats promises to keep the energy levels soaring. TJR , an emerging talent on the electronic music scene, is expected to deliver a fresh and invigorating set, showcasing why they’re one of the most talked-about newcomers. Wuki , with his genre-defying mixes, spanning everything from house to trap, will ensure the dance floor remains electrified.

As the festival gears up for its most anticipated edition yet, attendees can expect to immerse themselves in an event that transcends conventional music festivals. S2O 2024 is positioning itself as a beacon for electronic music lovers, offering a unique opportunity to experience the euphoria of live performances by these illustrious artists, all while partaking in the cultural richness of Songkran in Bangkok. Prepare to be part of a celebration that elevates music, culture, and communal joy to spectacular new heights.

Concert, water party

Navigating the Venue

Beyond the music, the venue boasts an array of amenities designed to enhance your festival experience. The food zone offers a taste of Bangkok’s famous street food, alongside international cuisines, catering to all dietary preferences. Chill-out zones with comfortable seating allow for moments of rest and relaxation, while the merchandise area offers exclusive festival gear to keep the memory of S2O 2024 alive.

For those attending S2O for the first time, or even seasoned festival-goers, here are a few tips to navigate the venue effortlessly:

  • Arrive early to familiarize yourself with the venue layout and avoid the peak arrival times.
  • Stay hydrated by making use of the water refill stations scattered across the venue.
  • Dress appropriately in comfortable, waterproof outfits and footwear, ready to embrace the water festivities fully.
  • Plan meet-up points with friends in advance, as the festival grounds can become crowded, making it easy to lose track of each other.
  • Keep your valuables safe in waterproof bags or leave them in secured lockers available at the venue.

With these insights and tips, navigating the S2O Music Festival venue will be a breeze, allowing you to focus on the music, the culture, and the shared joy of Songkran, creating unforgettable memories in the heart of Bangkok.

Sukhumvit area, Bangkook, Thailand

Accommodations: Where to Stay?

Choosing the right accommodation can significantly enhance your S2O Music Festival experience, providing not just a place to rest, but a sanctuary to recharge, reflect, and relax amidst the vibrant energy of Bangkok. With an array of options available, from luxury hotels soaring into the skyline to boutique hostels nestled in the city’s bustling lanes, there’s a perfect fit for every festival-goer’s budget and style.

Luxury Options: For those looking to indulge, Bangkok offers some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, combining exquisite Thai hospitality with world-class amenities. Properties such as the Grande Centre Point Sukhumvit 55 and the Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit stand out for their strategic locations, offering ease of access to the festival venue while providing an oasis of tranquility away from the euphoric beats.

Budget-Friendly Stays: If you’re attending the festival with a tighter budget, fear not. Bangkok is renowned for its affordable accommodation options that do not compromise on quality. Boutique hostels and budget hotels provide comfortable, clean, and safe lodging, ensuring you have a pleasant stay without breaking the bank. Exploring areas like Khao San Road or Sukhumvit can offer you a range of choices that cater to the savvy traveler.

Cultural Experiences: For those wishing to immerse themselves in Thai culture, opting for a traditional guesthouse or a bed and breakfast in the historic districts of Bangkok can provide a unique experience. Areas such as Rattanakosin Island , home to the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, offer stays that are rich in cultural heritage, allowing you to combine your festival journey with a deeper exploration of Thailand’s storied past.

Staying Connected: Wherever you choose to stay, ensure that your accommodation offers good connectivity to the rest of the city. Bangkok’s efficient public transport system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT, makes it easy to navigate the city. Staying close to a station can save you time and make your travel to and from the festival hassle-free.

Here are some additional tips when booking your stay for S2O 2024:

  • Book early: With thousands of music lovers flocking to Bangkok for S2O, accommodations can fill up quickly. Secure your booking well in advance to get the best deals and locations.
  • Check for festival deals: Some hotels offer special packages for festival attendees, including shuttle services to the venue, complimentary breakfast, and late check-out options.
  • Consider your post-festival plans: If you intend to explore Bangkok or other parts of Thailand post-festival, choose an accommodation that serves as a convenient base for your further adventures.

Remember, your choice of stay can greatly influence your festival experience. Whether you’re winding down in the luxury of a five-star hotel or soaking up local culture in a cozy guesthouse, selecting the right accommodation ensures your S2O Music Festival adventure is comfortable, convenient, and complete.

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The 9 Best Places to Visit in December 2024

As the year draws to a close, don't think it's too late to get in some last minute trips this December. From the snowy slopes of Whistler to the vibrant souks of Morocco, we are full of ideas to close out the year in amazing places across the world. Go see Santa near the North Pole and see out the year with a bang in the best places to Asia for New Year's Eve fireworks. Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean you have to stay home!

The HomeExchange platform offers an extraordinary opportunity to travel to the best places to visit in December that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the comforts of a home away from home for the holiday season. Learn more about how you can travel with HomeExchange.

The Best Places to Visit in December in North America

Whistler, british columbia, canada.

best places to visit december whistler

If a cozy cottage with snow falling all around is your idea of an ideal December destination, then look no further than Whistler, Canada . Nestled in the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Whistler is renowned as one of the world's premier ski resorts. In December, the entire town transforms into a snowy paradise, blanketed in pristine powder. Whether you're an avid skier or a snowboarding enthusiast, the legendary slopes of Whistler Blackcomb offer endless thrills and exhilarating runs for all skill levels. From the exhilarating peaks to the charming village below, every corner is adorned with festive decorations and a contagious holiday spirit. After a day on the slopes, relax in cozy mountain lodges, sip hot cocoa by crackling fireplaces, and indulge in delectable cuisine at world-class restaurants. Embrace the enchanting après-ski scene, where lively bars and cozy pubs come alive with music and laughter. 

New York, NY, USA

best places to visit december new york city

We must admit, it seems like year around New York City is one of the best places to visit. The city that never sleeps has something special to offer in every season, but the holiday season here is extra special and definitely to be experienced at least once in a lifetime. From ice skating in Central Park to the lighting of the tree in at Rockefeller Center, there are special holiday moments that mark the season. Shopping is unrivalled in New York City at Christmas time, with amazing holiday window displays inviting you in to find the perfect gifts. Neighbourhoods like Dyker Heights in Brooklyn are really a site to see at this time of year with some of the best Christmas Decorations in town, and visiting is free, so rest assured there is plenty of free fun to be had in the city this time of year as well. For a full list of ideas, check out our 10 Best Things To Do in New York City at Christmas Time .

Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

best places to visit december hawaii

Ever wondered if Hawaii was a good place to visit in December? In fact, it's one of the best places to visit in December for anyone looking for some a tropical winter escape. December here is considered the start of the high season, but the islands are less crowded compared to the summer months, making it an ideal time to visit. During December it's generally warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 24-28 degrees Celsius). The ocean temperatures remain inviting, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Hawaii's breathtaking natural beauty is on full display in December so you can explore the beaches, hike through lush rainforests, marvel at majestic waterfalls, and even witness the incredible humpback whale migration. Winter weather is also ideal for waves, so surfers will delight. Island hiking, snorkeling, and golfing, also ensure there's something for everyone. In the state capital, you can enjoy the annual Honolulu City Lights each December for a bit of Christmas spirit too.

The Best Places to Visit in December in Europe

Rovaniemi, finland.

best places to visit december Rovaniemi

Christmas is coming but why wait for Santa Claus to come to you? Located on the Arctic Circle, this magical city is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. The snowy landscape with glistening trees and sparkling ice is like a fairytale. In December, Rovaniemi activities and attractions embrace the holiday spirit. Visit Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa himself, explore his post office, and cross the magical Arctic Circle. Take a thrilling reindeer sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests or embark on an exhilarating snowmobile adventure. For an unforgettable experience, witness the enchanting Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky. The weather in December is delightfully cold, with temperatures often below freezing, but fear not—the cozy log cabins, crackling fireplaces, and warm saunas provide a haven of comfort. Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying traditional Finnish dishes like reindeer stew and hearty Karelian pies. Rovaniemi is one of the best places to visit in December to make truly unforgettable winter memories!

Salzburg, Austria

best places to visit december salzburg

Nestled amidst snow-capped mountains, the charming streets of Salzburg come alive in December. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, adorned with festive lights and decorations while the smell of roasted chestnuts and glühwein fills the air. The renowned Christkindlmarkt Christmas market in front of the cathedral is full of joyful entertainment, food, and shopping and consider one of Europe's best Christmas Markets . Another must see is the Hohensalzburg Fortress , perched high above the city, for panoramic views of the snow-kissed landscape. If you're feeling adventurous, take a short trip to the nearby alpine village of Hallstatt, known for its picturesque beauty and shimmering lake. The weather in December is chilly, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, but that only adds to the cozy and festive ambiance. You can also embrace the season by attending classical concerts with works by Salzburg's famous son, Mozart, or by enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered streets. If you're Christmas connoisseur, this is one of the best place to visit in December in Europe without a doubt.

The Canary Islands, Spain

best places to visit december canary islands

While technically part of Europe, The Canary Islands are actually off the coast of West Africa, which is why they can be considered the warmest place to visit in December in Europe. While some people are into to cozying up by the fireplace with a hot chocolate this time of year, other search from sunshine and you'll find it here. Visiting the Canary Islands in December is like discovering a hidden paradise where summer lingers throughout the winter months. Temperatures this time of year linger around a comfortable 70 degrees fahrenheit, making it ideal for exploring the diverse local landscapes of Tenerife , Lanzarote , and Gran Canaria. You can enjoy water sports off the beaches, or hike along picturesque trails in the volcanic mountains. But if you still crave a bit of Christmas you can find that here too – December in the Canary Islands is a time of festive cheer and celebration, with lively Christmas markets, colorful parades, and traditional Canarian cuisine to indulge in for a proper holiday feast!

The Best Places to Visit in December Worldwide

Chefchaouen, morocco.

best places to visit december Chefchaouen

Visiting Chefchaouen in December is like stepping into a magical blue oasis nestled in the heart of the Rif Mountains in Morocco. This picturesque town, known as the "Blue Pearl," captivates visitors with its enchanting blue-washed streets, buildings, and alleyways. In December, Chefchaouen offers a serene and peaceful ambiance, as the town is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season. The cool mountain air adds a refreshing touch as you explore the maze-like medina, adorned with vibrant handicrafts and local artwork. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture as you visit the striking Kasbah, discover hidden mosques, and interact with friendly locals.

December in Chefchaouen provides comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for leisurely walks and hikes in the surrounding mountains, which offer breathtaking vistas of the town's blue-tinted beauty. Indulge in the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine, savoring aromatic tagines and mint tea, while taking in the serene atmosphere. Whether you find yourself lost in the narrow blue streets or gazing at the panoramic views from a hilltop, Chefchaouen in December offers a tranquil and unforgettable experience that will leave you mesmerized by its unique charm.

Tbilisi, Georgia

best places to visit december tsibili

Visiting Tbilisi, Georgia in December is like stepping into a winter fairy tale. The city embraces a traditional holiday ambiance, with its enchanting streets adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. As the air fills with the aroma of warm spices and freshly baked pastries, locals and visitors gather in cozy cafes to indulge in traditional Georgian delicacies like khinkali and khachapuri. The historic Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets and ancient churches, takes on a magical allure as snowflakes gently fall from the sky. December offers the perfect opportunity to explore Tbilisi's rich cultural heritage, from visiting the iconic Narikala Fortress to immersing oneself in the soul-stirring melodies of Georgian polyphonic singing. Don't miss the vibrant Christmas markets, where artisans showcase their crafts and locals celebrate with music and dance. 

Bangkok, Thailand

best places to visit december bangkok

For a bangin' New Year's Eve, head to Bangkok in Thailand. This country's capital has an electric energy perfect for ending the year with a bang. As New Year's Eve approaches, Bangkok transforms into a lively party hub. The cityscape illuminates with dazzling fireworks, and renowned hotels and clubs host glamorous events. One of the most iconic places to celebrate is along the Chao Phraya River, where river cruises offer panoramic views of the fireworks display. The atmosphere is electric, with revelers counting down to the new year, dancing to live music, and indulging in delectable cuisine. December marks the start of the peak tourist season, allowing visitors to explore the iconic temples like Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew without the scorching heat. The famous floating markets, such as Damnoen Saduak and Taling Chan, offer a unique shopping and dining experience, where you can savor delicious Thai street food while gliding along the canals.  

Stay with HomeExchange in the Best Places to Visit in December

best places to visit december home exchange

Get ready to embark on unforgettable December adventures and make the most of your end-of-year travels with HomeExchange . Discover the magic of these incredible destinations while enjoying the comforts of a home away from home. Swap houses with like-minded travelers and immerse yourself in the local culture. With HomeExchange, you can stay right in the heart of these enchanting places, creating everlasting memories. From exploring the snowy slopes of Whistler, Canada, to chasing summer in the Canary Islands, there's no limit to the extraordinary experiences awaiting you. HomeExchange opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to unlock new adventures and plan your last vacations of the year. Dare to have some December wanderlust and see you soon in these incredible destinations!

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  1. Best Places To Visit Bangkok Thailand 2023 !!

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  3. Best places to visit Bangkok Thailand

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  5. ✈️ 3 Days in Bangkok Thailand

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  1. Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Bangkok 2024

    There are few tourists in Bangkok in May. It is a great time to visit Bangkok for favorable prices. Bangkok in June — Hot and Wet. Average low/high temperature: 27°C/33°C (80°F/92°F) Bangkok in June is a little less muggy than May. Rainfall is moderate and passes quickly. You could expect less-crowded attractions and shoulder season ...

  2. Best Times to Visit Bangkok

    The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to March when the heat and humidity are at their lowest. Still, Thailand's tropical climate could easily bring temperatures up to 90 degrees on any ...

  3. Best time to visit Bangkok

    Bangkok's high season is also arguably the best time of the year to visit as the weather is relatively cool and dry. However, it also means bigger crowds and inflated rates, particularly around Chinese New Year, which falls in either January or February, depending on the lunar calendar. Some of the city's biggest festivals are held in November.

  4. The Best Time to Visit Bangkok

    The best time to visit Bangkok is in November when monsoon season is ending, but busy season and temperatures haven't yet peaked. Also during November, you'll get to see Loi Krathong, one of Thailand's most loved festivals . Although Bangkok can be enjoyed at any time of year, factors such as monsoon season, busy festivals, and heat with ...

  5. Best Time to Visit Bangkok: Month-by-Month Guide

    Bangkok in January. After December, January is the most popular month to visit Bangkok as loads of people have holidays, the weather is dry and there is less humidity. With nine hours of sunshine a day and average temperatures of 32°C (89°F), sightseeing can still be quite tiring.

  6. Insider's Guide: Best Time to Visit Bangkok (The Heart of Thailand

    The cool season, from November to February, is generally considered the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise. The temperatures are more comfortable, and the humidity is less intense compared to the hot season. It's an ideal time for outdoor explorations and sightseeing tours around the city. The hot season, while sweltering, allows for ...

  7. Your Ultimate Guide To The Best Time To Visit Bangkok

    November to February is the peak season of Bangkok, The temperatures here are soaring at 23 to 39 degrees. The city is brimming and boasting with warmth and sunshine, most of the travelers love to visit during this time because the temperatures are favorable and it seems more happening. However, the one drawback of this season is also that the ...

  8. These are the Best Times to Visit Thailand

    If you are planning a trip to Thailand, you might want to know the best times to visit this amazing country. Whether you are interested in island-hopping, scuba diving, fun festivals, or great ...

  9. What is the best time to visit Bangkok?

    The best time to visit Bangkok, Thailand. It largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek. Bangkok experiences a tropical climate with three main seasons: hot, calm, and rainy: Cool Season (November to February) This is generally considered the best time to visit Bangkok.

  10. Best Time to Visit Bangkok

    The average high is almost 35 degrees Celsius, so if extreme heat is a deterrent, April is not the best time to visit Bangkok. April in Thailand can only mean one thing: Songkran festivities. Songkran is the Thai New Year celebration, which officially happens between April 13-15 th , but in reality extends to a full week.

  11. The Best Time to Visit Thailand

    When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai and the north? Chiang Mai and the lovely little town of Pai, in Thailand's cooler north, have much more pleasant climates than Bangkok and the south. Go ...

  12. Best & Worst Time to Visit Thailand 2024, Rainy Season (Not when you

    The best time to visit Thailand is between November and March when the weather is cool and dry. However, it is also prime tourist season, and hotel and flight prices reflect the surge. ... 13-Day Essence of Thailand Tour: Bangkok — Chiang Mai — Phuket; More Thailand tours; Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating) Save ...

  13. The best time to visit Thailand

    March and April are best for tropical fruit and Songkran. The weather, even for Thais, becomes alarmingly toasty during Thailand's "summer" when temperatures average 30°C (87°F). School is out, meaning the capital is less crowded than usual, and the beaches are typically jammed with Bangkokians seeking reprieve from the heat.

  14. Month-by-Month Guide: Best Time to Visit Bangkok

    The hot season in Thailand starts in March, with the temperature expected to rise to 30.1 C and humidity at 72%. This is the best time to visit beaches and soak up the sun. March is also the time when the wind is strong which makes this month the official kite-flying season in the country especially in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. April - June

  15. Best Time and Season to Visit Bangkok: Complete Guide

    1. Peak season in Bangkok. You can travel to Bangkok anytime during the year. However, the peak time to visit is from November to February, when it's comfortable, warm and sunny. However, this also brings more travellers with trip costs also rising up due to the upsurge of ticket demand. 2.

  16. Best Time to Visit Bangkok: A Seasonal Guide

    Songkran Festival (Thai New Year): Get ready for an all-out water fight celebration normally held in April! This joyous tradition makes for an unforgettable Bangkok experience. Loy Krathong Festival: Held usually in November, this dazzling festival of lights transforms rivers and canals as thousands of floating candles shimmer across the water. Chinese New Year in Bangkok: The city's ...

  17. The Best Time to Visit Bangkok in 2024

    Check out the best time to visit Bangkok, events, weather, and busy periods in Bangkok, so you can decide the perfect time for you to take your trip! ... People at National Book Fair in Bangkok, Thailand - by Prachatai (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0) April. Bangkok's hottest month, April offers average temperatures of 31ºC, but the highs can often be ...

  18. Best Time to Visit Thailand

    Best Time To Visit Thailand - January to April. Best Time To Go To Bangkok - November to March. Best Time To Go To Koh Phangan - January to May. Best Time To Go To Chiang Mai - November to February. Best Time For Sightseeing - November to February. Cheapest Time To Visit Thailand - May to September.

  19. Best Time to Visit Bangkok, Thailand

    Best Overall Time to Visit Bangkok. Overall then, it's the shoulder months of April and May or September and October that gets my vote as the best time to visit Bangkok. During these months, the prices are good, the number of other tourists bearable and the temperatures across the country are manageable.

  20. Which Month is Best to Visit Bangkok?

    As these months are considered the 'high season' or 'winter' for Thailand, the weather is usually at a prime temperature from December to January. Daily temperatures can dip towards the 60s, especially in the evening, making it a great time to enjoy the night markets. If you are planning a trip to Bangkok, these 2 months are the best ...

  21. Best Time to Visit Bangkok (Climate Chart and Table)

    The rainy season in Bangkok runs from May to October and is characterized above all by humid-hot air and a very oppressive climate with very high humidity ( September 84%). The highest amount of rain usually falls in September and runs out slowly in October, which is also very humid. From November to about the beginning of April, the dry season ...

  22. Best Time To Visit Thailand: Complete Guide on When To Go

    The best time to visit Bangkok and Central Thailand is from November to February, during the dry and cool season. During this time, the weather in Central Thailand is milder, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), making it comfortable to explore the bustling cities, temples, and nature.

  23. Bangkok Travel Guide: Where to Stay, What to Do, See and Eat

    The standard "Thailand 101" itinerary has three parts: buzzy, chaotic Bangkok; the forested, temple-filled hills of the north; and the talc-white beaches and jagged karst formations that ...

  24. Best Time to Visit Bangkok

    Temperature: 30 - 40 degrees. Bangkok's hottest time is between March and May, when temperatures soar as high as 40 degrees. The average temperature stays in the mid 30s for the entire season, though the months of May and June start getting showers which offer some respite from the intense heat. During the 'Hot Season', boat cruises, mall ...

  25. The 10 best things to do in Bangkok

    Insider's tip: The Kathmandu Gallery, right opposite the temple on Pan Road, is a long running Bangkok institution owned by one of Thailand's best-known art photographers and features regular ...

  26. 12 Things To Do In Bangkok: Complete Guide To The Adventurous ...

    One fun thing to do while in Bangkok, Thailand, is to visit the iconic 'centralwOrld' shopping plaza, located towards the heart of the city. Notably, this mall is the ninth largest in the world ...

  27. Bangkok Itinerary 4 days Discovering Thailand's Vibrant Capital ...

    This Bangkok 4-day itinerary takes you on a whirlwind tour of the best things to do in Bangkok and popular nearby experiences to make the most of your time in the lively capital of Thailand ...

  28. The best countries to travel to in southeast Asia

    From travelling youngsters to business people, Thailand is a long-time favourite on the continent for UK tourists and welcomes roughly one million Brits per year. Its capital, Bangkok (known ...

  29. Ultimate Guide to S2O Festival 2024: Bangkok's Premier Music ...

    Dive into the ultimate experience at S2O Music Festival 2024 in Bangkok! From electrifying lineups featuring Illenium, Joyryde, Deorro, and more, to embracing Songkran's water festivities, find the best travel tips, accommodations, and cultural insights for an unforgettable adventure.

  30. The 9 Best Places to Visit in December 2024

    Bangkok, Thailand. For a bangin' New Year's Eve, head to Bangkok in Thailand. This country's capital has an electric energy perfect for ending the year with a bang. As New Year's Eve approaches, Bangkok transforms into a lively party hub. The cityscape illuminates with dazzling fireworks, and renowned hotels and clubs host glamorous events.