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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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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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). 

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.  

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. 

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. 

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. 

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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. 

• 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. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Clair Cathryn

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Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Thailand makes an excellent destination for backpackers, vacationers and digital nomads year-round. However, the seasons vary widely from region to region and coast to coast. We’re going over the seasons of each region to help you determine the best time to visit Thailand for your travel needs!

Located smack dab in the center of the mainland Southeast Asia, Thailand makes an excellent destination throughout most of the year.

However, in order to avoid monsoon rains and smoke season, you’ll want to be sure to do a little research and planning before packing your bags so you are sure to visit the right places at the  right time .

That’s why we’re here!

With such a diverse landscape throughout the country – from the mountains in the north to the islands in the south – the climate in Thailand varies widely from region to region.

Plus, the seasons are not as straight forward as in other places in the world. Instead of winter, spring, summer and autumn, the Thai seasons are best described as “cool”, “hot” and “rainy”.

In this article, we’re going over the seasons of each region to help you determine the best time to visit Thailand for what you’d like to see and do on your trip.

When is the best time to visit Thailand?

In general, you’ll find the most comfortable temperatures across the country, with little chance of rain, from November – February. 

Now, let’s break it down by region…

Bangkok and Chiang Mai

Bangkok and Chiang Mai have the best weather from  November – February . Outside of these months, you can expect heavy rains and extreme heat, with lots of smoke in the north of the country.

Andaman Sea

If you plan to visit the Thai islands, the best time to visit the Andaman Sea (Thailand’s southwest coast) is  November – April . Monsoon season is May – September in this region, so you will likely want to avoid it during this time.

Thailand’s Gulf 

Thailand’s Gulf Coast will have its best weather from  December – March , but the summer months ( July – September ) are also a decent time to visit and the crowds tend to be fewer. Monsoon season in the Gulf is much shorter than the Andaman Sea, generally lasting from October through the end of November.

When should I travel to Thailand?

As with any destination, there is no straightforward answer to this question. But we’re not going to leave you hanging…

In this article, we’ve organized Thailand’s seasons by region, and listed some of the best things to do during each season all over Thailand. We hope reading through these suggestions will help you decide the best time to visit Thailand for YOU.

Answer these questions to get started:

• What region of the country do you plan to visit?
• Do you mind a bit of rain?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• Are you negatively affected by high humidity?
• Do you prefer to spend your time outdoors hiking?
• Are you planning to do some scuba diving while in Thailand?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Thailand.

Best time to visit Thailand Guide

General Thailand Info

Our experience in Thailand

Thailand geography overview, map of thailand, weather in thailand.

• What to pack for Thailand

Know where you’d like to go in Thailand? Jump to that section of this article so you can quickly see what time of year will bring the best weather.

Seasons by Region

• Northern Thailand
• Central Thailand
• West Coast (Andaman Sea)
• Gulf of Thailand

Where to go during each season

Not sure where you’d like to go, but know what time of year you’ll be traveling? Click on the months so you can see which destinations will be best during that season.

• November – February  (“Cool Season”)
• March – May  (“Hot Season”)
• June – October  (“Rainy Season”)

Overall BEST Time to Visit Thailand

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our advice for the best time to visit Thailand. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Southeast Asia !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Mexico vacation. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

We’ve visited Thailand in all seasons

Our experience:

• We’ve spent quite a bit of time living and traveling in Thailand, and with the exception of June, we’ve been in Thailand during every other month (many of which we’ve been multiple times).

Our favorite time of the year in Thailand

November – January

This is easily our favorite time of the year to visit Chiang Mai and the surrounding area. It’s also a great time to visit the Andaman Coast and the islands in the Gulf.

Worst time to visit Thailand

Starting in mid-February, the burning season begins and it’s not a good time to be in the northern part of the country. We’ve been there for the burning season twice, and it’s rough. (Not recommended!) 

By April, it is uncomfortably hot in the north. The only reprieve is the (very fun!) Songkran celebration (a water festival) which takes place during April. 

Good to know: From February through April, the islands and coasts can be a better choice.

The summer months are very hot, muggy, and rainy in Thailand and can bring monsoon weather to the islands and Andaman Coast.

Thailand is a country in the middle of mainland Southeast Asia with nearly 320,000 square miles (513,120 km²) an odd shape with a long tail leading down towards the equator.

Thailand has everything from high mountains and an upland plateau in the north, to central plains and tropical islands in the south.

The map above shows a very rough break down of the northern, central and souther regions of the country. Generally speaking, you can consider Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai to be in the north, Bangkok is part of central and the lower leg and Thai islands make up the south.

The weather in Thailand varies from region to region with the north experiencing the greatest fluctuation in temperatures throughout the year and the south experiencing very little variation the closer you get to the equator.

The climate is mostly tropical with warm temperatures throughout the year (with the exception of the mountains in the far north).

The seasons in Thailand can be categorized into three main groups: Cool, Hot and Rainy.

Though somewhat unpredictable, and varying from coast to coast and by region, they follow the general pattern below.

• Cool season:  November to February; also peak tourist season
• Hot season:  March to May
• Rainy season:  June to October

The cool season  is felt most distinctly in the far north, but temperatures hardly change in the south.

The hot season  is essentially the dry season where central and north are at their highest temperatures with clouds of dust gathering in the air.

The rainy season  is caused by the southwest monsoon, which is unpredictable. However, the Gulf Coast is effected less by the southwest monsoon and more by the northwest monsoon, causing November to consistently be its wettest month.

We’ve broken down the seasons by region below to give you a better idea of the climate in specific areas.

Seasons in Northern Thailand

The weather in northern Thailand tends to be less humid and experiences the greatest rage of temperatures throughout the year. During January, the average low temp in Chiang Mai is 59ºF (15ºC). On the flip side, during hot season, the north of the country is dry and dusty and temperatures can skyrocket.

• Hot Season:  February – April
• Rainy Season:  May – September
• Cool Season:  October – January

What to pack for visiting Northern Thailand

• Lots of layers for cooler nights and warmer days
• Good hiking shoes or
• Swimwear – even though you’re not by the water, there are plenty of pools and waterfalls!

Seasons in Central Thailand

Central Thailand experiences the country’s three seasons fairly equally throughout the year. The one constant is humidity, which makes the air feel hotter than it should.

• Hot Season:   March – June
• Rainy Season:  June – October
• Cool Season:  October – February

What to pack for visiting Central Thailand

• Loose, lightweight clothes & layers
• A shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders when entering temples and religious sites
• An  insulated water bottle  to stay hydrated

Seasons in South Thailand & the Thai Islands

Temperatures in southern Thailand are more consistent throughout the year, with less variation the closer you get to the equator. There is really only 2 seasons down here: wet and dry.

The climate does vary from coast to coast in the south based on the different monsoons. Which is why we’ve split up the coasts below to show seasonal variations.

A Note About Diving:  Diving and snorkeling will be at it’s best during the winter months. December and January will be more crowded since it’s the peak season. If you want to see some mantas and local whale sharks, it’s best to plan your trip around February to April. 

Phuket, Krabi & Andaman Coast (Southwest Coast)

• The wettest months are September and October
• Dry Season:  mid-November – March

Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao (Gulf of Thailand)

• The rainiest months are October and November
• “Shoulder season”  (not too much rain): January and February
• May – October can be windy

What to pack for visiting Southern Thailand

• Reef safe sunscreen
• Bug repellant  (solids are the way to go!)
• A wide brimmed hat or baseball cap to keep the sun out of your eyes

Cool Season in Thailand: November – February

Peak of the dry season in most parts of the country, November sees cooler temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The western Thai Gulf coast is the only part of the country still experiencing rain.

Getting into the peak of tourism season in Thailand, weather is great all over the country and temperatures are relatively cool. There is little to no rainfall and tourists flock to the beaches for plenty of sunshine.

Peak tourism season and great weather all over Thailand. Accommodation will be at premium prices, and you should book well in advance. The cooler temps in the northern region are great for hiking in the mountains and trekking through the jungles. 

Still peak tourism season all over the country. The Chinese New Year typically happens in February (thought it follows the lunar calendar and the exact vary from year to year).

Best places to visit during cool season in Thailand

• Northern Thailand  experiences the most comfortable weather of the year during this time.  Chiang Mai , Chiang Rai and  Pai  are all great places to add to your itinerary.
• Consider visiting  lesser known destinations , as this time of year is peak tourism season.
• Sam Phan Bok:  A natural wonder only accessible during dry season. Found in Ubon Ratchathani, Isan, thousands of holes are scattered across the Mekong River bed. 
• Bo Sang , a small village in the north hosts their annual Umbrella Festival on the 3rd weekend in January. 
• Chinatown in  Bangkok   is a fun place to witness the Chinese New Year celebrations.
• Visit some of the  Thai Islands in the Andaman Sea  such as  Koh Lipe ,  Koh Lanta  and Phuket.

Best things to do in Thailand during cool season

• Celebrate the  Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai   in November.
• Visit temples in  Bangkok   such as Wet Saket during the Thai national holiday of Makha Bucha to observe spiritual rituals.
• Krabi Naga Fest , a music festival near Krabi.
• Jai Thep Music and Arts Festival  takes place in Chiang Mai in early February.
• Loy Krathong festival is celebrated around the country  by floating krathongs on the rivers to give thanks to the water spirits.
• Ayutthaya World Heritage  and Red Cross Fair boasts stunning light shows amid the ancient ruins.
• Big Mountain Music Festival  in Phetchaburi happens in December.
• The Andaman coast  is at it’s best in November, so it’s a perfect time to go  island hopping .

Hot Season in Thailand: March – May

Temperatures are starting to heat up all over Thailand, so it’s best to stay near the water. In the north, burning season is in full force, so you’ll want to avoid traveling there as much as possible. (Trust us, we lived in Chiang Mai during these months, and we would  not  recommend it.) Instead, this is prime time for  diving in the Andaman Sea  at popular locations such as the Similan Islands. 

One of the hottest months in Thailand. Be sure your accommodation has air conditioning if you are visiting during this month. Remember to drink lots of water and use plenty of sunscreen too. 

Another incredibly hot month in Thailand. With many public and religious holidays, it’s a good time to get off the beaten path and experience new and interesting cultural celebrations. 

Best places to visit during hot season in Thailand

• The  ancient city of Ayutthaya  is a great place for boxing fans to visit on National Muay Thai Day
• Bangkok, Phuket or  Chiang Mai   during Songkran Festival
• Similan Islands liveaboard   for scuba diving in the Andaman sea

Best things to do in Thailand during hot season

• Turtle Release Festival  in Phang Nga in March
• Thailand’s International Balloon Festiva l happens around this time in a different location every year
• Pattaya International Music Festival:  one of Thailand’s best, takes place over a 3-day weekend in March and it’s 100% free to attend!
• Check out a Muay Thai demonstration on  National Muay Thai Day  on March 17
• Songkran Festival  is famous for it’s water fights in the streets takes place around the country in April during the Thai New Year

Rainy Season in Thailand: June – October

The start of the rainy season means you’ll want to carry an umbrella and wear shoes that can get wet. Take extra precautions on scooters as the roads can be dangerous when wet.

Wet and humid all over Thailand, you’ll want to pack and umbrella and wear plenty of bug spray! Be careful of leeches if you are planning on venturing into the jungle.

Typically the wettest month in all of Thailand. Come prepared for the rain and be sure to have a long list of indoor activities to entertain yourself during this month. 

This is the wettest time of year on the Andaman coast, but rains generally ease up in the north. 

Central and Northern Thailand will have dried up by October, but nearly all of the islands on both coasts will still be experiencing heavy rain.

Best places to visit during rainy season in Thailand

• National Parks such as  Khao Yai National Park and Kanchanaburi’s Erawan National Park  will be wonderful this time of year.
• Koh Samui, Koh Phangan,  Hua Hin, and Cha Am will be some of the driest beaches and islands to visit.
• Bangkok  for its magnitude of indoor activities and International festivals.
• The  small mountain town of  Pai  for its decent weather in October.
• Visit the  Mekong River  in the north to experience the mysterious natural phenomenon known as Naga Fireballs of Nong Khai in late October.

Best things to do in Thailand during rainy season

• Phi Ta Khon Festival in Dan Sai district of Loei province
• Go chasing waterfalls!  They will be at their fullest during the rainy season.
• Visit the  floating bungalows in Khao Sok National Park  
• Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival in Isan
• Scuba diving in Koh Tao
• Visit temples, museums, art galleries and malls  to stay indoors as much as possible during the rain.
• Experience  long boat races  on rivers all over the country in September.

The best time to visit Thailand in our opinion…

There really is no “bad” time to visit Thailand, but it’s a good idea to have the seasons in mind when planning your itinerary and activities you’d like to experience during your trip.

Our personal pick would be to visit Thailand between November and February, as you’ll have great weather all around the country.

When to avoid traveling in Thailand

• Chiang Mai : If possible, avoid visiting from mid-February through early April. This is “burning season” and air quality can be quite bad.
• Andaman Sea  (Krabi, Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta) : Rainy season is from May – October
• Gulf Islands  (Koh Tao, Koh Chang, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui) : Rainfall is heaviest in October & November
• Similan Islands : The National Marine Park is closed between the months of November through March.

What to pack for your trip to Thailand

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free SE Asia packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in SE Asia that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to Thailand?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Thailand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• How to Travel Sustainably in Thailand
• Thailand Beaches: Two Week Island Hopping Itinerary
• Scuba Diving in Thailand: The Best Liveaboards for Every Budget
• Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Bangkok

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We want to hear from you!

Have you ever been to Thailand before? When did you go and what was your experience like? Leave your comments in the section below and we’ll do our best to respond to any questions!

Comments (7) on “ Best Time to Visit Thailand: When to Go & When to Avoid! ”

Thailand is everyone first choice for holiday.

Hello ! I will be traveling to Thailand from May 12 to May 29th 2023 with my family. Is there any destinations that are closed to tourists to due the low season or rainy season? Which areas do you recommend me to go in May to avoid rain 😉 Thank you

Hello Wanderers! I am planning to visit Thailand later in the year, after having been there back at the turn of the century. I was very drawn overall toward the culturally rich aspects of life. My query is related to the continuing Covid 19 pandemic waves, and the related fallout: sudden travel restrictions, new testing rules, already booked reservations, which one is then unable to fulfill. Is there a thing such as outright relevant cause to have some pre-booked accommodations annulled, due situations fully beyond a tourist’s control, like a cancelled / well delayed flight, or service shutdown. Wonder if you could share feedback. Cheers ! Julius

This is a useful blog detailing about the best time to visit Thailand. What I liked about it is the description about the climate region-wise that makes planning a trip easy.

Hi, great page – comprehensive, yet easy to read, and great pictures. Maybe you can include a map of the country, making it easier for readers to see where these wonderful places are geographically located. Thanks.

Been to Thailand Phuket before loved it. Coming back next year in August 2022. Can you tell me. Are we able to travel to phi phi island. , And I’m praying Phuket will be open for international visitors. From AUSTRALIA, That are fully vaccinated, Hopefully. NO. QUARANTINE,

Similan Islands are closed from 1st May until end of October officially. In reality it however opens somewhere mid-October

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The Best Times to Visit Thailand

By Rick Jordan

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.

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.

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.

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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When is the best time to visit Thailand?

• Month-by-month

The best to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season between November and early April, when temperatures range from 84°F to 97°F. However, the climate varies throughout the country, so you can visit all year round.

Those who love diving and snorkeling should visit the south west coast of Thailand in the dry season, between November and February. The conditions are better, with calmer seas, and fewer visitors give you more space to enjoy the ocean.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Thailand

Visiting Thailand in January

The weather is good throughout the country at this time of year. There is little chance of rain, while cooler temperatures in the north make conditions more comfortable and all the west coast beaches are likely to be bathed in sunshine. Perhaps the only exception being Koh Samui, which often sees high levels of rainfall at this time of year.

Events & Festivals

• Chinese New Year Festival (date varies): While this isn't a public holiday, it is celebrated across the country; particularly in Bangkok's Chinatown, which turns red and hosts exciting dragon parades, firecrackers and dancing in the streets.

Visiting Thailand in February

A few showers are expected on Thailand's east coast toward the start of the month, but the rest of the country remains hot and dry. Even the normally cool early mornings in the north begin to heat up.

• Chiang Mai Flower Festival (first weekend of February): A three-day festival held at the end of the 'cool season', featuring a parade and colorful displays of chrysanthemums and the Damask Rose — a variety found only in Chiang Mai.

Visiting Thailand in March

Fine weather should be expected throughout Thailand in March, with temperatures rising into the mid 90°Fs and the colder weather in the north disappearing. This means that you can go anywhere in the country to enjoy sun-kissed beaches.

Visiting Thailand in April

More excellent weather during April and the visitor numbers continue to rise. Be sure to book your accommodations far in advance to get the best choice of hotels. Traveling over Songkran (Thai New Year) means you can have great fun joining in the celebrations, but it is likely to be busier.

• Songkran (April 13 to 15): This is the traditional New Year's Day in Thailand. Scented water is poured over people and thrown in the street to symbolize the washing away of sins and bad luck.

Visiting Thailand in May

A great month to visit Thailand as prices lower following the peak season, meaning that you may be able to take advantage of a shoulder season promotion. For the majority of the month very little rain is expected, but for guaranteed sunshine on the beach, stick to the east coast.

Visiting Thailand in June

June is a good time to visit, allowing you to catch the last of the dry weather and avoid the crowds seen during the European school vacations. Thailand is bathed in sunshine at this time of year, and there are wonderful opportunities to grab a shoulder season bargain.

Visiting Thailand in July

Temperatures start to drop a little as wind and rain becomes more common toward the end of the month. The sun is still out on the east coast beaches, but islands such as Koh Samui tend to get busy over the school vacations. The beginning of the month is best.

Visiting Thailand in August

The rain is widespread across Thailand now; especially in the north of the country where heavy rainfall is common. Beach options start to dwindle, with Hua Hin and Koh Samui being the best places to head; although you may still experience a few showers.

Visiting Thailand in September

September is usually the wettest month of the year, so it's not ideal for beach goers. However, those seeking a low season bargain and no crowds can still enjoy a worthwhile exploration at this time of year.

Visiting Thailand in October

Rains continue throughout the beginning of October and temperatures begin to drop. However, the more comfortable cooler temperatures and lower humidity, along with less chance of rain at the end of the month, make October a good month to travel.

• Vegetarian Festival (October): This nine-day festival celebrates the Chinese belief that abstinence from meat during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar will obtain good health and peace of mind. Experience this festival in Phuket.

Visiting Thailand in November

The sun returns to Thailand's west coast and beach goers begin to flock to Khao Lak , Phuket and Krabi once again. Perhaps the only exception being Koh Samui , which often sees high levels of rainfall at this time of year. If you visit at the start of the month you can beat the crowds. Early mornings and late evenings in northern Thailand begin to cool as winter approaches.

• Loy Krathong (November): A festival predominantly celebrated by southwestern Thai cultures. Decorated baskets are hand-made using banana tree trunks, bread or styrofoam and floated along a river as locals make a wish.

Visiting Thailand in December

Thailand's west coast beaches prepare for the Christmas rush and it's best to book far in advance to secure your preferred option. With good weather all round, it's peak time to visit Thailand. Perhaps the only exception being Koh Samui, which often sees high levels of rainfall at this time of year. We recommend going at the beginning of the month to avoid the hotel surcharges over Christmas.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Times to Visit Thailand: Weather and Events

Are you planning a trip to Thailand? Wondering when is the best time to visit? Well, you’re in luck! In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through the best times to visit Thailand based on weather and events, so you can make the most of your trip. Whether you’re a beach lover, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, this guide has got you covered!

Thailand experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasons. The weather can vary greatly depending on the region you plan to visit. From November to February, the weather is pleasantly cool and dry, making it the peak tourist season. This is the perfect time to explore the stunning islands of Phuket and Krabi, lounge on the picturesque beaches of Koh Samui, or dive into the vibrant nightlife of Bangkok.

If you’re a nature lover and want to witness the beauty of Thailand’s waterfalls in full flow, then consider visiting during the rainy season from May to October. Yes, it does rain a lot during this time, but it usually doesn’t last all day. Plus, the lush green landscapes and fewer tourists make it a peaceful and budget-friendly time to visit. Just make sure to pack your raincoat and umbrella!

Thailand is known for its vibrant festivals and cultural events that will leave you in awe. Plan your trip around these events to immerse yourself in the local culture. The most famous one is the Songkran Festival, which takes place in mid-April and celebrates the Thai New Year with water fights and street parties. Other must-see events include the Loy Krathong Festival in November, where floating lanterns light up the night sky, and the Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai, where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky for good luck.

So, whether you’re a sun seeker, a rain lover, or a festival goer, Thailand has something to offer all year round. In this guide, we’ll delve deeper into each season and highlight the best activities and destinations to make your trip to Thailand unforgettable. Keep reading to find out the best times to visit Thailand based on the weather and events!

Table of Contents

Thailand, known for its tropical climate and stunning landscapes, offers a range of weather conditions throughout the year. From humid summers to cool winters, each season brings its own charm to this Southeast Asian playground. Whether you’re seeking a beach getaway, a cultural adventure, or an exploration of nature, understanding Thailand’s climate and the best times to visit will ensure you make the most of your trip.

Thailand’s Climate

Thailand boasts a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity levels year-round. The country experiences three distinct seasons: hot, cool, and rainy. The hot season, which lasts from March to May, is when temperatures can reach their peak, often exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). Humidity can be stifling during this time, making it less than ideal for outdoor activities.

The cool season, which spans from November to February, is considered the best time to visit Thailand. Temperatures during this period range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), providing a pleasant and comfortable environment for travel. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the country’s attractions without the discomfort of excessive heat.

Finally, the rainy season, which extends from June to October, brings monsoon rains to different regions of Thailand. While some travelers avoid this time of year due to the increased rainfall, it can also offer unique experiences such as lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and discounted rates on accommodations.

Different Seasons in Thailand

Thailand’s different seasons offer a variety of experiences depending on your interests and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during each season:

Hot Season (March to May): This season is characterized by scorching temperatures and high humidity levels. If you can handle the heat, you’ll find fewer tourists and discounted prices on flights and hotels. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces.

Cool Season (November to February): With milder temperatures and lower humidity, the cool season is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit Thailand. It’s the perfect time to explore the country’s bustling cities, cultural sites, and national parks. Don’t forget to pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.

Rainy Season (June to October): While the rainy season may not be everyone’s first choice, it has its own unique appeal. The rainfall can vary across regions, with some areas experiencing short, intense showers and others seeing more constant rainfall. However, the natural beauty of Thailand is amplified during this time, with vibrant flora and flowing waterfalls. Just be prepared with rain gear and flexible travel plans.

Best Time to Visit for Cool Weather

If you’re looking for cooler weather and a respite from the scorching heat, plan your trip during Thailand’s cool season, from November to February. During this time, temperatures are milder, making it comfortable to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok, immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of Chiang Mai, or relaxing on the beaches of Phuket, the cool season provides the ideal conditions for your adventures.

Best Time to Visit for Beach Activities

Thailand’s stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters are a major draw for travelers. Whether you’re an avid swimmer, a sun worshipper, or an underwater explorer, timing your visit to coincide with the best beach conditions is essential.

For the Andaman Coast, which includes popular destinations like Phuket and Krabi, the best time to visit for beach activities is during the dry season from November to April. This period offers clear skies, calm waters, and optimal conditions for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. However, keep in mind that these beaches can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. If you prefer a quieter beach experience, consider traveling in the shoulder months of November and April.

On the Gulf of Thailand side, where you’ll find popular destinations like Koh Samui and Koh Tao, the dry season spans from December to August. The months of January to March are particularly favorable for beach activities, with calm seas and pleasant temperatures. During these months, you can soak up the sun, swim in the warm waters, and indulge in the relaxed beach lifestyle that Thailand is famous for.

Thailand’s vibrant culture is reflected in its countless festivals and events throughout the year. These celebrations offer a unique insight into Thai traditions, customs, and spirituality. Attending these festivals can be an unforgettable experience, giving you a deeper understanding of the country’s rich heritage.

Popular Festivals in Thailand

Thailand is renowned for its colorful and lively festivals, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here are a few of the most popular festivals that you should consider experiencing during your trip:

Thai New Year (Songkran): Celebrated in mid-April, Songkran marks the traditional Thai New Year. It is known for its water fights, where locals and tourists alike engage in friendly water battles on the streets. This festival symbolizes a fresh start and is a fun way to cool off from the scorching heat.

Loi Krathong Festival: Taking place on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month (usually in November), the Loi Krathong Festival is a magical celebration of lights and water. Participants release floating lanterns (krathongs) into rivers or lakes, symbolizing the release of negativity and the welcoming of good fortune.

Monkey Buffet Festival: Held annually in Lopburi, the Monkey Buffet Festival pays homage to the monkeys that inhabit the town. Locals prepare a feast for them, with over 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds) of food, including fruits, vegetables, and desserts. This quirky and unique festival attracts animal lovers and curious travelers alike.

Thai New Year (Songkran)

One of the most exciting and beloved festivals in Thailand is Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year. Lasting for three days in mid-April, this festival marks the transition from the dry season to the rainy season, bringing relief from the scorching heat.

The highlight of Songkran is the water fights that take place throughout the country. It’s a time when Thais and tourists come together to douse each other with water, using water guns, buckets, and even elephants carrying giant water cannons. The streets turn into a battlefield, with laughter, joy, and camaraderie filling the air.

Songkran is not only about water fights, but it also holds strong cultural and spiritual significance for the Thai people. It’s a time for cleaning and purifying both the home and the self, with families visiting temples to make merit, offering food to monks, and bathing the Buddha images. The festival also involves traditional rituals such as the pouring of scented water over the hands of elders to seek their blessings.

Loi Krathong Festival

Imagine a night filled with soft candlelight, the sound of gently flowing water, and the beauty of thousands of floating lanterns illuminating the night sky. This enchanting scene is what awaits you at the Loi Krathong Festival.

Celebrated on the night of the full moon in the 12th lunar month (usually in November), Loi Krathong is a nationwide event that pays homage to the goddess of water. The festival involves releasing small, decorative vessels made of banana leaves (krathongs) into rivers, canals, and lakes. These krathongs are adorned with flowers, incense sticks, and a candle, symbolizing the release of negative energy and the welcoming of good fortune.

The sight of the floating krathongs, along with the mesmerizing display of lit lanterns drifting into the night sky, creates an atmosphere of tranquility and spiritual reverence. The festival is also known for its fireworks displays, traditional dance performances, and beauty pageants, adding to the festive ambiance.

Monkey Buffet Festival

For a truly unique and offbeat experience in Thailand, make sure to schedule your visit during the Monkey Buffet Festival. Held annually in Lopburi, a town known for its monkey population, this festival combines Thailand’s love for monkeys with a grand feast fit for these mischievous creatures.

During the festival, locals create an extravagant buffet, consisting of over 4,400 pounds of food, ranging from fruits and vegetables to desserts. The feast is then laid out on tables and offered to the monkeys that roam freely in the town. The sight of hundreds of monkeys indulging in the buffet is a spectacle like no other, creating an atmosphere of wonder and amusement.

The Monkey Buffet Festival not only celebrates the monkey population but also serves as a way to promote tourism in Lopburi. Visitors can witness the unique bond between the people and the monkeys, while also enjoying cultural performances, live music, and traditional Thai food.

Northern Thailand

###[Chiang Mai region]

Located in the mountainous region of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a captivating blend of ancient temples, lush landscapes, and vibrant street markets. This cultural hub provides a perfect gateway to explore the country’s rich heritage and immerse yourself in local life.

Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season, from November to February. With milder temperatures and clear skies, this period offers comfortable weather for exploring the city and its surroundings. The cool season also coincides with the famous Yi Peng Festival, where thousands of lanterns are released into the night sky, creating an ethereal spectacle.

Highlights of Northern Thailand

Doi Suthep: Perched on a mountain offering panoramic views of Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep is a must-visit temple. The intricate golden spire and the serene atmosphere make it a sacred and awe-inspiring place.

Elephant Nature Park: If you’re passionate about ethical tourism and animal welfare, a visit to the Elephant Nature Park is a must. Here, you can observe and interact with rescued elephants in a natural and humane environment.

Chiang Rai: A day trip from Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai is famous for the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). This unique architectural masterpiece is adorned with intricate carvings and mirrors, creating a dazzling effect.

Thai Cuisine: Northern Thailand is renowned for its flavorful and aromatic cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to try regional specialties like khao soi (curried noodle soup), sai ua (spicy sausage), and sticky rice with mango.

Southern Thailand

###[Phuket and Krabi]

Located on the Andaman Sea, Phuket and Krabi are two of the most popular beach destinations in Thailand. With their pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning limestone cliffs, they offer a tropical paradise for sun-seeking travelers.

Best Time to Visit Phuket and Krabi

The best time to visit Phuket and Krabi for beach activities is during the dry season, which stretches from November to April. During this time, you can enjoy clear skies, calm waters, and ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Exploring the Islands

Phuket and Krabi are excellent bases for exploring the nearby islands, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Here are some of the must-visit islands in this region:

Phi Phi Islands: Known for their breathtaking beauty, the Phi Phi Islands are a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” is a highlight, along with the vibrant marine life for snorkeling and diving.

James Bond Island: Made famous by the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun,” this iconic island in Phang Nga Bay is characterized by its towering limestone karsts. A boat tour around the bay will allow you to admire these stunning geological formations.

Koh Lanta: With its laid-back vibe and pristine beaches, Koh Lanta is a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The island offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly bungalows.

Railay Beach: Accessible only by boat, Railay Beach is a hidden gem known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. It’s a paradise for rock climbing enthusiasts, with many challenging routes available.

Snorkeling and Diving Opportunities

Southern Thailand, with its extensive coastline and abundant marine life, offers exceptional opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The underwater world in this region is teeming with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and even the occasional encounter with majestic marine creatures such as sea turtles and reef sharks.

Some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Southern Thailand include:

Similan Islands: Located off the coast of Phang Nga Province, the Similan Islands are a renowned diving destination. The clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning coral reefs make it a paradise for both beginners and experienced divers.

Koh Rok: Situated in the Mu Koh Lanta National Park, Koh Rok is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, colorful corals, and abundance of marine life. Snorkelers can explore the vibrant reefs just a few meters from the shore.

Surin Islands: Another pristine archipelago in the Andaman Sea, the Surin Islands offer untouched beauty and exceptional snorkeling opportunities. The islands are home to a variety of coral species and an abundance of marine creatures, including the rare and elusive dugong.

Exploring the Capital City

As Thailand’s bustling capital city, Bangkok offers a mix of traditional heritage and modern attractions. From ornate temples and impressive palaces to vibrant markets and a buzzing nightlife scene, this city has something to offer for every type of traveler.

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

The best time to visit Bangkok is during the cool season, from November to February. With milder temperatures, lower humidity, and clear skies, the weather is perfect for exploring the city’s cultural sites and outdoor attractions. It’s also a pleasant time to cruise along the Chao Phraya River and savor the flavors of Thai street food.

Temples and Cultural Sites

Bangkok is home to numerous temples and cultural landmarks that reflect the country’s rich history and deep spirituality. Here are some must-visit sites in the city:

Wat Arun: Known as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Its towering spires and intricate design make it a sight to behold, especially when illuminated at night.

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: The Grand Palace complex is a mesmerizing architectural wonder, with its ornate buildings and meticulously manicured gardens. Within the palace grounds, you’ll find Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which houses Thailand’s most sacred Buddha image.

Wat Pho: Home to the famous Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. The 46-meter-long golden statue is a sight not to be missed, and the temple complex itself is a tranquil oasis in the bustling city.

Jim Thompson House: The former home of American silk merchant Jim Thompson has been converted into a museum showcasing Thai art and architecture. Explore the traditional teakwood house and learn about Thompson’s contributions to the revival of the Thai silk industry.

Nightlife and Shopping

Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife and bustling markets are a testament to its reputation as a city that never sleeps. From rooftop bars offering panoramic views to night markets brimming with local delicacies and trendy shopping malls, there’s something to suit every taste:

Khao San Road: A backpacker’s haven, Khao San Road is famous for its lively atmosphere, street food stalls, and budget-friendly accommodations. Enjoy the energetic nightlife, soak in the vibrant street scene, and pick up souvenirs at the bustling market stalls.

Asiatique The Riverfront: Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Asiatique offers a unique shopping and entertainment experience. With a mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and a Ferris wheel, it’s a great place to spend a relaxing evening.

Rooftop Bars: Bangkok is renowned for its rooftop bars, providing breathtaking views of the city skyline. Sip on a cocktail while enjoying panoramic vistas at popular spots like Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower and Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar.

Chatuchak Weekend Market: One of the largest markets in the world, Chatuchak Weekend Market is a shopaholic’s paradise. With over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to handicrafts and home decor, it’s a treasure trove for unique finds.

Isaan Region

Experiencing the northeastern part of thailand.

If you’re looking to venture off the beaten path and experience the authentic side of Thailand, head to the Isaan Region in the northeastern part of the country. This less-explored region offers a unique cultural heritage, distinct traditions, and delicious cuisine.

Unique Cultural Heritage

Isaan is known for its strong Lao and Khmer influences, which are reflected in its architecture, language, and traditions. While the region may not boast the same level of tourism infrastructure as other parts of Thailand, it offers a glimpse into the country’s rural way of life and a chance to interact with locals on a deeper level.

Best Time to Visit Isaan Region

The best time to visit the Isaan Region is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather for exploring the region’s historical sites, national parks, and local markets. The cooler temperatures ensure a comfortable experience, especially when visiting attractions such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Khmer temple complex of Phimai Historical Park.

Local Cuisine and Traditions

Isaan is not only known for its unique cultural heritage but also for its distinctive cuisine. Spicy and bold in flavor, Isaan food features staples such as sticky rice, grilled meats, fermented fish, and a variety of herbs and spices. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor dishes like som tam (green papaya salad), larb (spicy minced meat salad), and pla ra (fermented fish).

In addition to its culinary delights, the region also celebrates a number of vibrant festivals such as Bun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival) and Phi Ta Khon (Ghost Festival). These lively events offer a chance to witness traditional dances, music performances, and processions, accompanied by colorful costumes and elaborate masks.

Andaman Coast

Phang nga bay.

Located between the island of Phuket and the mainland, Phang Nga Bay is famous for its dramatic limestone karsts jutting out of emerald-green waters. This stunning natural phenomenon, featured in movies like “The Man with the Golden Gun” and “Avatar,” attracts visitors from around the globe.

Exploring the bay by boat is the best way to fully appreciate its beauty. Take a leisurely cruise, kayak through hidden lagoons, and swim in secluded coves. Visit iconic spots like James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan) and the floating village of Koh Panyee, where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Similan Islands

For diving enthusiasts, the Similan Islands are a must-visit destination. Located in the Andaman Sea, this archipelago is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Snorkelers and divers can explore the underwater wonderland, encountering colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.

The Similan Islands are a protected marine national park, ensuring that the underwater ecosystem remains pristine and untouched. The best time to visit for diving is during the dry season, from mid-October to mid-May, when visibility is at its best.

Best Time to Visit the Andaman Coast

The best time to visit the Andaman Coast is during the dry season, from November to April. During this period, the weather is generally sunny with calm waters, making it ideal for island hopping, water sports, and exploring the region’s natural wonders. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so popular destinations may be crowded.

Water Sports and Activities

The Andaman Coast offers a wide range of water sports and activities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or serene moments of relaxation, there’s something for everyone:

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life that thrive in the clear waters of the Andaman Sea. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner snorkeler, there are options for all skill levels.

Kayaking and Canoeing: Discover hidden caves, lagoons, and mangrove forests by kayak or canoe. Paddle your way through limestone karsts and immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.

Boat Tours and Island Hopping: Hop on a boat tour to explore the stunning islands of the Andaman Coast. Visit iconic spots, swim in secluded coves, and enjoy breathtaking views of the turquoise waters.

Rock Climbing: Krabi, in particular, is a mecca for rock climbing enthusiasts. With its towering limestone cliffs, it offers a range of routes suitable for climbers of all levels, from beginners to experts.

Gulf of Thailand

Koh Samui, the second-largest island in Thailand, is a popular destination for beach lovers and luxury seekers. With its palm-fringed beaches, upscale resorts, and vibrant nightlife, it offers a mix of relaxation and entertainment options.

Known as a diving paradise, Koh Tao is a smaller island in the Gulf of Thailand. With its crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and abundant marine life, it attracts divers and snorkelers from around the world. The island also offers stunning viewpoints, hiking trails, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit the Gulf of Thailand

The best time to visit the Gulf of Thailand is during the dry season, which runs from December to August. The months of January to March are particularly favorable for beach activities, with calm seas, sunny weather, and pleasant temperatures. This is the ideal time to enjoy the sandy beaches, swim in the warm waters, and soak up the tropical atmosphere.

Relaxing Beach Destinations

The Gulf of Thailand boasts idyllic beach destinations perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. Here are some of the must-visit beaches in this region:

Chaweng Beach (Koh Samui): With its powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters, Chaweng Beach is the most popular and developed beach on Koh Samui. It offers a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and beachfront bars.

Lamai Beach (Koh Samui): Located south of Chaweng, Lamai Beach offers a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for couples and families looking to enjoy a peaceful beach vacation.

Haad Rin Beach (Koh Phangan): Famous for its full moon parties, Haad Rin Beach on Koh Phangan is known for its vibrant nightlife. Outside of the party scene, the beach offers stunning sunsets and a relaxed beach vibe.

Sairee Beach (Koh Tao): Sairee Beach is the longest and most popular beach on Koh Tao. It’s the hub for divers and snorkelers, with easy access to nearby dive sites and a range of beachfront accommodations and restaurants.

Culture and Etiquette

Respecting thai customs.

When visiting Thailand, it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions. Thais place great importance on politeness, respect, and harmony. Here are some cultural tips to keep in mind:

Wai Greeting: The traditional Thai greeting, known as the “wai,” involves pressing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly. It is a sign of respect and should be reciprocated when greeted in this manner.

Dress Modestly in Temples: When visiting temples or other religious sites, it’s crucial to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders, chest, and knees. Remove your shoes before entering temple grounds and avoid pointing your feet at Buddha images.

Remove Your Shoes: It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, certain shops and restaurants, and places of worship. Look for cues, such as a row of shoes outside, to determine if you should follow this custom.

Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Thais are reserved when it comes to public displays of affection. It’s important to respect local customs and refrain from excessive displays of affection in public spaces.

Etiquette in Temples

When visiting temples in Thailand, it’s essential to observe proper etiquette to show respect for the religious sites and the local culture. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Dress Modestly: As mentioned before, dress modestly when entering temples. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing, and ensure your shoulders, chest, and knees are covered.

Be Quiet and Respectful: Temples are places of quiet reflection and spiritual worship. Keep your voice low and avoid disruptive behavior such as running or shouting.

Don’t Touch Monks or Their Robes: It is considered disrespectful to touch monks or their saffron-colored robes, as they are symbols of their religious devotion. Maintain a respectful distance when in the presence of monks.

Remove Your Shoes: As with entering someone’s home, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple grounds. Look for signs or observe local customs to determine if this is necessary.

Traditional Thai Greetings

Thais are known for their warm and friendly nature, and understanding traditional greetings can help you connect with locals on a deeper level. Here are some common greetings used in Thailand:

Sawasdee (Hello): This is the most common greeting in Thailand and is typically accompanied by the wai gesture, as mentioned earlier.

Khob Khun (Thank You): Express your gratitude by saying “khob khun” and following it up with a slight bow or the wai gesture.

Sawasdee Pee Mai (Happy New Year): During the Thai New Year (Songkran) in April, people wish each other a “sawasdee pee mai” to celebrate the occasion.

La Kon (Goodbye): To bid farewell, you can say “la kon” and bow slightly or say “la gon” to a group of people.

Dos and Don’ts in Thailand

To ensure a positive and respectful experience in Thailand, it’s important to be aware of certain cultural norms and practices. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do Carry Cash: While credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, having cash on hand is useful for small transactions and in more remote areas.

Do Use Your Right Hand: In Thai culture, the left hand is considered unclean. It’s polite to use your right hand for gestures such as handing money, receiving objects, or giving and receiving souvenirs.

Don’t Point with Your Feet: Thai people consider the feet the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Avoid pointing your feet at people, especially monks or Buddha images.

Don’t Disrespect Buddha Images: Buddha images are sacred to Thai people. Treat them with reverence and avoid climbing, touching, or posing disrespectfully in their presence.

Don’t Disrespect the King or Royal Family: The Thai monarchy is highly revered, and it is illegal to criticize or make disrespectful comments about the king or the royal family.

Thailand offers a wealth of experiences, from its vibrant festivals and cultural heritage to its stunning beaches and natural wonders. By considering the weather patterns and local events, you can plan a trip that aligns with your interests and preferences.

Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of Chiang Mai, unwind on the beaches of Phuket and Krabi, or explore the bustling streets of Bangkok, Thailand is sure to captivate you. Respect the local customs, embrace the warmth of the Thai people, and make the most of your visit to this diverse and enchanting country.

By erez1333

erez1333 is the author behind ThailandDude.com - the ultimate digital companion for exploring Thailand. With the tagline "Thailand Traveling," this website provides comprehensive and up-to-date information about traveling in the Land of Smiles. From destinations and culture to adventure and activities, every aspect of the Thai travel experience is covered. They prioritize sustainable tourism and offer practical tips for smooth journeys. The website also fosters a community of fellow travelers. Let ThailandDude.com be your gateway to experiencing Thailand in all its glory. Plan your trip or reminisce about past travels with their expert guidance.

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The Best Time to Visit Thailand: A Season-by-Season Breakdown

With tropical beaches, lush islands, and dramatic mountain ranges rounding out vibrant cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Southeast Asia is at its best in this self-dubbed Land of Smiles. Instead of having a spring, summer, fall, and winter, however, Thailand experiences three marked seasons: hot, cool, and wet. Any time of year is a good time to sample its spicy eats and fresh seafood, tour the gorgeous temples, and book blissful massages—but if you're hoping to avoid the heat or crowds, it's worth knowing which season suits your visit best.

See recent posts by Terry Ward

Hot Season (March through June)

If you find yourself touring around Bangkok during Thailand’s hot season, prepare for a serious sweat fest. April and May are the most sweltering months, when temperatures can easily push into the the upper 90s and even past 100, and humidity is over 75 percent. At times, you might feel like one of those steamed dumplings being hawked from the city’s abundant street food stalls. Still, no visit to Thailand is complete without a turn around the capital. So check off a few temples, score some shopping bargains, and bask in the city’s sophisticated hotels, then get out of dodge and retreat to the more refreshing ambiance of island life .

RELATED: Island-Hopping in Thailand: 7 Perfect Days in the Lesser-Known Kohs

While spots like Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Samui tend to steal the limelight, it’s worth considering less-crowded islands to escape the heat like Koh Chang, in the Gulf of Thailand. Hire a scooter for a few dollars a day and spend your time visiting the island’s sweeping bays and many beaches. (We love White Sand Beach for its wide sands and calm waters protected by the island’s national park status.) For something even more off the beaten path, Koh Mak, just south of Ko Chang, has more coconut plantations and mangroves than tourists and a mostly flat terrain perfect for exploring by bicycle. For an idyllic stay, consider the Seavana Beach Resort Koh Mak , a romantic beachfront property with private outdoor spa bath tubs fronting a long and utterly deserted beach.

Explore More: See all Trat Province, Thailand hotels

Rainy Season (roughly mid-June through mid-October)

The weather is at its most unpredictable in Thailand during the rainy season, when the southwest monsoon dominates the forecast and rainfall can be heavy across much of the country. Peak monsoon months occur at different times during this period in the country’s varying regions. By mid-October, north and northeast Thailand start to see less rain, while the southern reaches of the country can experience strong rainfall into December. However, while it can rain for several days on end at times, if you’re lucky, you can just as easily score week-long stretches of sunny weather. Fewer travelers are willing to make that gamble—which means you might just have notoriously crowded spots like Krabi and Phuket to yourself.

RELATED: 5 Honeymoon-Worthy Hotels in Phuket You Won’t Want to Leave

All of this is to say: unless you’re allergic to rain, don’t let it deter you from visiting Thailand—especially when there are hotel bargains to be found.

A wonderful place to vacation during the rainy season is Northern Thailand, where the hills, rice terraces, and mountains turn brilliant shades of green. Flights to the mountainous city of Chiang Mai are also at their least expensive, and hotel deals are some of the best you’ll find all year.

Book Hotels in Chiang Mai

Cool Season (November through February)

Far and away, Thailand’s cool season is the most comfortable time to visit temperature-wise, with the most pleasant weather happening between November and mid-February. This is when the northeast monsoon blows in cool and dry air, which offers a much-needed reprieve from the heat. In the south, temperatures tend to be in the low to mid 80s during the day, while at higher altitudes in the mountains of Northern Thailand, the mercury can even drop below freezing at night.

RELATED: 9 Thai Beaches We LOVE

Naturally, the lessened heat and lower rainfall during the cool season means islands are crowded and rates for flights, hotel, and excursions are expensive. Bangkok makes the prices worthwhile, though, with the celebration of the King’s birthday on December 5—one of the city’s biggest festivals of the year. Temperatures in Bangkok around this time are also at their most bearable—perfect for spending time outside at its many temples and markets.

Book Hotels in Bangkok

From Pattaya in the north to Phuket and Trang down south, beaches and islands across the country are also booming because the weather is so darn perfect. Koh Samui has particular appeal during the fete called Loy Krathong (the Thai lantern festival, or festival of lights). During the night of the full moon every November, locals by the thousands use candles and incense to light offerings made from banana leaves and send them afloat—in the sea, in hotel pools—under the night sky.

For a magical alternative, this is also a good season to consider heading to Chiang Mai, where sea mists lend a real mystique to the surrounding mountains and hill towns, and winter flowers weave in color at every turn. Otherwise, head north to Chiang Rai, where clear blue skies and relatively cool temperatures encourage ticking outdoor adventures off your list, from cruising down the Mekong River to joining a guided trek to visit hill tribes in the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

Book Hotels in Chiang Rai

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The Best Time To Visit Thailand For Great Weather, Low Prices, And Fun Festivals

Discover the best times to visit thailand for great weather, low prices, fun festivals, and island-hopping among other activities..

By: Anne Olivia Bauso Published: Dec 04, 2023 08:00 AM UTC

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 if you’re looking to hit the beach, you’ll want to book a trip for some time during the dry, sunny season between November and early April. Weather can vary throughout the year, and crowds and prices fluctuate accordingly.

“Thailand is a tropical country with two distinct seasons,” said Jack Tydeman, a member of T+L’s A-List of travel advisors and the Southeast Asia senior specialist at 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.”

These are Thailand’s three travel seasons:

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

One caveat is that Thailand is a big country stretching more than 1,000 miles (1,609.34 km) from north to south, so conditions will also depend on where you are. For example, November marks the beginning of the sunny high season on the Andaman coast, but also the start of the monsoon season on the Gulf side.

So, before you book your jungle tree house and island boat tour, read on for the best times to go to Thailand.

The best times to visit Thailand

The best times to visit thailand for great weather.

For ideal weather, visit Thailand during the dry season, which for most of the country kicks off in November and lasts through March or even into April and May. A major exception is the Lower Gulf — home to the island paradises of Koh Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Koh Tao — which is rainiest from September through December.

On the Andaman coast, November to February has the coolest, most comfortable weather, with average temps in the 80s and little chance of rain. This means clear, blue waters and gorgeous scenery that’s lush from the previous monsoon season. On top of perfect weather, this time of year sees major Thai festivals and the Western Christmas and New Year holidays, so you’re also looking at Thailand’s biggest crowds and highest prices. Time your trip for early November and you might just beat the throngs.

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,” he said. “As the east coast of Thailand has its own unique weather patterns, summer is actually the drier season there.”

The best times to visit Thailand for low prices

Thailand is a relatively affordable destination throughout the year, though travellers may find the steepest discounts on flights, accommodations, and tours during the low/monsoon 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 ,” said Tydeman. “However, some months are hotter and some are wetter. As Thailand is in a tropical region, the rains tend to be short, sharp showers for most of the country. Summer is now commonly referred to as ‘green season’ due to the rains turning the countryside green and filling the rivers and waterfalls.”

Naturally, visiting during the wet season is a gamble. Rains could come in brief cloudbursts, or they could come in days-long downpours that affect boat service and island access. July brings more summer tourists and August tends to see cloudy skies and regular heavy rainfall. September is the wettest and least crowded month. To split the difference, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April through June, or October), when rains are generally of the brief afternoon storm variety.

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The best times to visit Thailand for festivals

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, for which Thais create banana-leaf baskets, fill them with flowers and burning candles, and release them onto lakes, rivers, and canals. Chiang Mai is the Yi Peng epicentre (tourists can participate with ticketed entry, starting at around USD 130) 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 culminates with a parade of elaborate floats painstakingly decorated with chrysanthemums, damask roses, and other varieties.

Songkran (a.k.a. Water Splashing Festival) ushers in the Thai New Year in mid-April with parades, parties, and performances across the country. “Songkran turns Thailand turns into one big water fight,” said Tydeman. “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 honour of the Nine Emperor Gods of Taoism.

The best times to visit Thailand for scuba diving

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.

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The best times to visit thailand for island-hopping.

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 are even closed 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,” said 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. Ko Lanta is effectively closed during the monsoon season — you may be able to get there, but accommodation options are seriously limited. Conversely, Gulf of Thailand idylls Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Ko Pha-Ngan are at their rainiest and windiest between October and December.

If you want to avoid the crowds, keep in mind that students from Australia and Europe flock to Thailand’s islands in June and July to work and party during their summer breaks.

The best times to visit Thailand for shopping

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 , open from 9 am – 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. In fact, most of the stalls are covered, so you can visit even on a rainy day.

Tydeman also recommended 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 hundreds of 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 artisans, food vendors, and massage stations.

Book your stay at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River via Booking.com

Book your stay at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River via Agoda.com

(Hero and feature image credit: Tuul and Bruno Morandi / Getty Images) 

This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

All currency conversions were done at the time of writing

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The Best Time to Visit Thailand

TripSavvy / Greg Rodgers

In a climate like that of Thailand, which is influenced by monsoons, it's best to give some thought to what time of year you go. The best time to visit Thailand is during the dry season, which lasts roughly from November to April. December through February, in particular, typically have the coolest temperatures and lowest humidity. Unsurprisingly, this is the country's busiest time, and masses of visitors arrive to take advantage of dry weather.

The Weather in Thailand

Rain during Thailand's monsoon season can be as manageable as a passing afternoon shower, or on the other end of the spectrum, it can rage for days and cause flooding. It all depends where you are and when. It's important to note that rain pops up unexpectedly during Thailand's dry season, too. A benefit of traveling during Thailand's low season is that you'll have to fight fewer crowds and can get better deals on accommodation in popular destinations.

• When to Visit Bangkok: Bangkok is busy year-round, so you're going to have to fight crowds no matter what. The best time to visit, weather-wise is during the high season, particularly November and early December when monsoon season is ending and the holidays have yet to begin. September is typically the wettest month in Bangkok. Low areas around Bangkok near the Chao Phraya River are prone to flooding during very wet monsoon seasons, while the pollution in Bangkok keeps humidity very high year-round.
• When to Visit Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): Being set in the mountains, the climate of Chiang Mai differs from the rest of Thailand. Chiang Mai enjoys slightly cooler and lower humidity. The cool season, from November to February, when rainfall is low, is the best time to visit. Dust and uncontrolled fires cause poor air quality in March and April around Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand . People with asthma or allergies to smoke or dust will be better off visiting at a different time of year when the air is cleaner.
• When to Visit the Islands: An unofficial busy season hits the islands in Thailand around June as many university students from Europe and Australia head out to party on islands such as Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Phi Phi. The islands quiet down again slightly after the students finish their summer breaks. The weather in the Thai islands is affected by more than just the time of year; storms at sea can bring rain even during the dry months. On the west coast for islands in the Andaman Sea such as Koh Lanta and Phuket , rain begins around April and tapers off in October. The islands such as Koh Tao and Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand see the most rain between October and January. Some islands such as Koh Lanta practically close down during the monsoon season. While you'll still be able to arrange transportation there, your eating and accommodation choices could be very limited. 

Peak Season in Thailand

The dry season is also the busiest time of year to visit Thailand, so expect to pay premium rates for flights and hotels. The Christmas and New Year holidays tend to attract large crowds to Bangkok, then the busy season climbs steadily from January onward. Chinese New Year  (which takes place in January or February) is another busy time as many people travel to Thailand for the 15-day holiday.

The largest festivals in Thailand tend to make accommodation prices skyrocket, and transportation fills up before and after the celebration.

The Haad Rin area of Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand attracts enormous crowds of revelers each month bound for the famous Full Moon Party ; accommodation around Haad Rin hits maximum capacity. Be sure to plan your visit around the Full Moon Party dates . For more information, read our full guide on traveling in Thailand during the high season .

Rainy Season in Thailand

The rainy season starts in May and goes through October, with August and September being the wettest months. Rain may fall in short and intense storms or last for days, so be prepared to get wet. If you don't mind the weather, you're most likely to find travel deals during this time. Traveling during the monsoon season is hit or miss, but you'll be able to enjoy some places in Thailand with little rain or only occasional thunderstorms. The north of Thailand typically receives less rain than the south during the monsoon season.

Key Holidays and Festivals in Thailand

Festivals in Thailand range from sacred religious holidays to full-blown water gun fights in the streets. Most holidays are based on the seasons or lunar calendar, so the exact dates change from year to year and it's a good idea to verify what's going on while trip planning. The biggest event of the year is Songkran, also known as the Water Festival , which takes place across the whole country in mid-April. Yi Peng, or the Lantern Festival, is a magical event along the riverbank in Chiang Mai every November.

A trip to Thailand during one of the many cultural events throughout the year is an especially exciting time to visit, but make sure to plan ahead. With an influx of travelers from around the country and the world, prices for hotels all go up while trains and buses are likely to sell out.

As monsoon season moves on, the crowds move in. Winter is a great time to visit , but expect more crowds and higher prices throughout the country.

Events to check out:

• December 5 is the King of Thailand’s Birthday, which is celebrated throughout the country.
• Don't miss the Christmas Full-Moon Party at Haad Rin on the island of Koh Phangan.

Spring is among the hottest times in Thailand, but it's also quite dry. Expect large crowds in most tourists attractions, as well as higher prices.

• Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year's holiday, takes place on April 13. It's trademarked by a huge water fight in the streets—a great way to cool off.
• Chiang Mai is the epicenter for Songkran. Accommodation and transportation are entirely booked both before and immediately following the festival.

If you don't mind rain and heat, you might be able to find a deal by visiting Thailand during the summer . In Chiang Mai, the monsoon season peaks in August, while in Bangkok temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Still, summer is a popular time for university students to visit the islands.

• The Amazing Thailand Grand Sale takes place each summer and is sponsored by the country's tourism authority. Stores slash prices by more than 80 percent.
• The Queen’s Birthday is August 12, which also serves as Mother’s Day in Thailand. A candlelight ceremony is held in the evening.

Fall in Thailand can be quite wet, but crowds are less, temperatures are a bit cooler, and low-season discounts can make a trip more affordable. Beware that fall flooding continues to be an issue in most cities!

• During Loi Krathong and Yi Peng fire-powered lanterns are released into the sky in Chiang Mai.
• Visit the bizarre Phuket Vegetarian Festival in September. The unique event is actually part of the Taoist Nine Emperor Gods Festival.
• The Loi Krathong and Yi Peng festivals (dates change; usually in November) attract considerable crowds to Chiang Mai; transportation gets completely bogged down.

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Best Time To Visit Thailand: Complete Guide on When To Go

• Last updated: February 29, 2024

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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 .

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 ..

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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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.

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.

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 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: 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.

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.

Looking for more travel guides and Thailand travel inspiration?

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When to go to Thailand

When is the best time to visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand is during high season which takes place between November to February, when the weather is generally at its best throughout the country.

In northern Thailand dry season is between November & May; June to October is characterised by heavy rainfall and temperatures are cooler between October & January.

The south can be split into two: the wettest months on the west coast are between April & October; whilst the east coast experiences heavy rainfall from September to December. During the rest of the year, dry and sunny weather is the order of the day.

Thailand weather & when to go

Pick a month below.

Weather seasons are becoming less predictable but peak visitor months remain more certain.

Unfollow the herd - avoid the peak months to enjoy fewer crowds, better availability, often lusher countryside and help to spread the economic benefits of tourism.

Weather overview

Known throughout the world for its welcoming people, spicy cuisine and outstanding beaches, Thailand offers the complete holiday package . The weather's not bad either, with much of the country experiencing a typically tropical climate consisting of two seasons: dry and wet.

The exception to the rule is the southern regions, with either side of the Thai Peninsula experiencing a typically monsoon climate, although to complicate things a little further, the two sides are out of synch with each other.

This however does usually mean there is sun to be found on a beach somewhere.

You can visit Thailand throughout the year, however more rural parts become less accessible at the peak of the rainy season and winter weather brings higher seas which has its baring on those idyllic beach days.

North & Central

Bangkok, chiang mai, chiang rai, nan, chiang kham, kanchanaburi, issan.

In the north of Thailand, the dry season runs from November to May/June, with little if any rain expected throughout the region for much of this time. After the cooler winter months, from mid-January temperatures start to rise, peaking between March and May when it is not unusual for the mercury to break into the high 30’s and even 40°C+ especially in the central regions. These sky-high temperatures can last well into the rainy season, however with the rain comes cloud cover and a rise in the humidity, making travel less comfortable.

The south-west monsoon usually arrives between May and July. Initially the rain usually comes in the form of short downpours, lasting an hour or two, clearing the way for warm, clear skies. As the rainy season progresses, the rain can becomes heavier and more constant, traditionally reaching peak levels in August and September. In the early wet season (June to August) temperatures generally remain high (avg daily temp: 28 °C-34°C), although they drop dramatically in the winter months of October and November. 

By November, the rainfall and hot, sticky weather will have decreased significantly, with dry weather returning for the next six months. From October to January, temperatures can be relatively cool, especially in the north of the country at higher altitude (avg daily temp: 17°C -26°C). Throughout the region at this time of year, evenings can be chilly due to the lack of cloud cover and the temperatures relatively low.

Andaman Sea, Khao Sok

Phuket, krabi, koh phi phi, khao lak, koh lanta, koh kood, koh chang, khao sok national park.

Thailand’s west coast has three defined seasons. From November to March, many consider conditions to be at their best with a cooling wind keeping the sky-high summer temperatures at bay and making the daytime more comfortable (avg daily temp: 26°C -32°C). Thanks to the breeze, the humidity levels are lower than later in the year.

From March through to May the temperatures rise (avg daily temp: 30°C-36°C) as the cooling winds depart and the humidity rises. Come late May, monsoonal weather will usually have arrived, which is expected to last through to October. Peak rainfall levels are usually experienced between mid-September and mid-October. Outside of these months, the rain will often come in a short, heavy downpour, usually in the afternoon.

Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand follows the same weather patterns as the Andaman Sea coastline, experiencing most rainfall between May and October, although being one of the wettest areas of the country, rain showers can be expected year round. Wet season is actually a good time of year to visit the National Park as average temperatures are a comfortable 25-26°C, the rainforest is green & lush, and there is more chance of spotting wildlife.    

Gulf of Thailand

Koh samui, koh phan ngan, koh tao, khanom, hua hin & cha am.

Thailand’s east coast has three defined seasons. From December to February you can expect good weather, with little if any rain, and refreshing winds helping to keep temperatures more moderate. Because of the winds, the sea can be a little ‘dynamic’ creating ideal conditions for water sports enthusiasts.

From March, temperatures will start to rise (avg daily temp: 29°C - 35°C), usually reaching peak levels in April and May.

Whilst initially rainfall remains unlikely, by June a little rain becomes is expected, usually in the form of an hour-long afternoon downpour, clearing the way for more blue skies and bright sunshine. In late-August/September the monsoon is expected, bringing with it plenty of rainfall and a rise in humidity. Temperatures are still in the 30ºC's however and you can expect sunny spells interspersed with rainy periods.

Rainfall usually peaks between October and November. Despite being on the Gulf of Thailand coastline, Hua Hin & Cha Am experience slightly different rain patterns with serious rainfall only occurring in September and October. Another slight anomaly are the islands of Koh Chang and Koh Kood that sit on the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand and experience similar weather patterns to the beaches along the Andaman Sea coast with wet season occurring between May and October.    

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The best time to go to Bangkok

Apr 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Bangkok is an incredible destination year-round – don't miss the beautiful Loy Krathong festival in November © Johnce / Getty Images

It used to be that Bangkok ’s weather was defined by three clearly demarcated seasons: the “cool,” the hot, and the wet, but these days locals like to joke that there is only hot, hotter and hottest. While it may be true that the Thai capital runs on a sultry high-flame sizzle most days, there are definitely seasonal differences, as well as compelling reasons to visit year round.

You’re never going to have to worry about it being cold here, and if you like to travel with just shorts and t-shirts, you’ll be in your element, but your ability (or not) to handle the hot season heat or the high season crowds might influence just when you plan your visit. Here’s a breakdown of the three different Thailand seasons and how each can be best for planning a trip to Bangkok. 

November to February is the best time for comfortable weather

November marks the start of both Bangkok’s most comfortable weather as well as tourist high season, which runs until the end of February. While some refer to this period as the “cool” season, note that this is just a relative term. Temperatures still will be close to 30°C (86°F) or higher and there will be plenty of sunshine, while evenings can be quite pleasant, with lots of outdoor beer gardens opening up with no need for air conditioning. During this time you’ll even get a few cold snaps where the temperature will drop to 20°C (68°F) and all the locals will be bundled in down jackets and other winter-associated garb! This is also the one time of year when you have a chance to go sightseeing without being drenched in perspiration. 

Not only is this the most pleasant time of year weather-wise, it’s also a season of some of the top Thai holidays, like Loy Krathong, when everyone floats illuminated banana-leaf boats on the canals and Chao Phraya River. Loy Krathong is held during the November full moon, and is followed up by the large Christmas and New Year festivities. While not traditionally Thai, all the shopping malls are decorated with large trees and there are countless shopping sales and restaurant holiday promotions. All the holiday energy is capped off by a massive New Year’s Eve celebration that features fireworks across the city, buzzing outdoor beer gardens and countdown parties. Towards the end of this season is Chinese New Year, usually taking place in February, where you can see traditional Chinese opera performances and watch the streets of Chinatown come to life with fantastic food, dragon parades and other colorful happenings. 

While the weather at this time of year may be the ideal winter escape, you’ll be in fierce competition with plenty of other sun worshippers, as this is considered high season in Thailand. Hotels will be at a premium and often need to be booked well in advance, especially around Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year. Tourist attractions and shopping malls will be packed, and all of the nearby beach escapes such as Pattaya or Ko Samet will be overrun. One pleasant exception to this is that during the days leading up to and after New Year, Bangkok empties out, with most people returning home or going on vacation for a week, meaning that you’ll get to experience the capital without gridlock, taxi queues or the usual crowds.

March to May is the hottest time of year

The beginning of March marks the start of the hot and dry season in Bangkok. It almost never rains during this stretch and temperatures soar, in recent years staying above 40°C (104°F) for prolonged stretches. It’s a challenging time to be sightseeing and traveling, although visiting from March to May does have some rewards. This is tourist low season, with far fewer visitors than at other times of year. If you’re into shopping and elegant stays, this can be an excellent time to come, as you’ll find plenty of ice-cold air conditioning in all the malls, hotels, and skytrain, plus some great promotions on accommodation. 

Coming here in mid-April (13-15) also means you can experience Songkran, the Thai New Year and world’s biggest water fight, where everyone takes to the street for a large water carnival. Wear some old clothes, wrap your wallet and cellphone in plastic, buy a squirt gun, and go out and join the fun. It’s another way to beat the heat and see Bangkok at its best. While Songkran accommodation reservations need to be made well in advance, you can pretty much just show up and still find great deals for the rest of the hot season, one of the perks of traveling during the heat.

June to August is the onset of the monsoon season

While the temperatures drop back down far below the April-May sizzle, the humidity goes up, so it can be pretty sticky. On the plus side, the rainstorms clean out the smoggy Bangkok air, and this can be the least-polluted time of year to experience the capital. As this is the summer for Europeans and North Americans, there will be more tourists than during the hot season, but nowhere near the crowds of November to February, and you’ll still be able to find great deals on hotels and travel, especially at nearby beach resorts like Hua Hin or Pattaya.

September to October is the rainiest period, great for budget travel

While the initial onset of the monsoon season tends to see short heavy rains, the end of the monsoon is when it gets really wet. September and October are the rainiest months in Bangkok, the only time when you will really see some days when it rains consistently or all day long. The area around the Chao Phraya River is often flooded, although hotels and restaurants put up sandbags to mitigate the damage and assist guests with getting in and out, but prepare for traffic to be at full gridlock and you’ll need an umbrella with you throughout your stay.

On the plus side, if you don’t mind the wet you’ll be here at the quietest time of year for tourism, with no need to book in advance and plenty of deals to entice, which is great for budget travelers. Older travelers may appreciate this season, as September marks the return to school in Europe and North America, meaning less young visitors in Thailand. Additionally, there are several really excellent festivals in September and October; the Vegetarian Festival, a 9-day celebration where people refrain from meat-eating, wear white and throng the Chinatown temples where there are opera performances, parades and plenty of vegetarian food, followed by the Moon or Mid-Autumn festival, where families carry lanterns through Chinatown and exchange mooncakes.

Despite the rain, for many visitors, the cleaner air, green countryside and few tourists makes this the optimal time of year to plan a trip to Bangkok.

Keep planning your trip to Bangkok:

Keep things thrify with the  Top 10 best free things to do in Bangkok Plan a big night out with  The best bars and clubs in Bangkok Explore more of Thailand with  The 6 best day trips from Bangkok

This article was first published March 2021 and updated April 2024

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Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Bangkok 2024

• Best Times to Bangkok
• Worst Times to Visit Bangkok
• Peak Season in Bangkok
• Shoulder Season in Bangkok
• Low Season in Bangkok

Bangkok Weather and Travel: Month by Month

Bangkok has a tropical monsoon climate and generally remains hot and humid throughout the year. Bangkok has three seasons: hot, rainy, and "cool" and dry.

The coolest and driest months are December and January, with almost no rainfall and an average low of 22°C (72°F) and high of 31°C (88°F), so still warm, but not so hot.

The hottest month is April, with an average high of 35°C (95°F) and low of 27°C (80°F). The high rainfall starts around mid-May and reaches its maximum in September.

Best Times to Visit Bangkok

Though Bangkok is a year-round destination, the best time to visit Bangkok weather-wise is from November to February. The weather is not-so-hot and mostly sunny, which is very suitable for sightseeing.

You will find big discounts if you travel between June and October due to the rainy season. It is usually the cheapest time of year to go to Bangkok.

If you want to experience Thailand's top festivals, then come in April or November, which are the months for Thai New Year (a.k.a. Songkran Festival) and Loy Krathong respectively.

In the middle and end of the year, Bangkok, the shopping paradise, offers attractive discounts at major shopping malls.

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The Worst Times to Visit Bangkok

Located in the tropics, Bangkok can be scorching and humid on some days, which would be the worst time to visit if you can't stand that sort of weather.

• April and May are times to avoid if you don't like scorching heat and a muggy feeling.
• September to early October is the rainiest time. If you don't like the rain, then this is the period you should avoid.

However, at those times you can find the most favorable prices and enjoy less-crowded attractions.

The heat can also be avoided as much as possible by organizing your schedule wisely.

Although rain is a bit of a nuisance, it usually rains in the late afternoon or early evening. So, it wouldn't affect your whole visit.

>>> Thailand's Rainy Season: When It Is and the 5 Best Places to Go

Peak Season in Bangkok (November to February)

The most popular time to travel to Bangkok is from November to February with its comfortable weather. However, it also brings higher trip costs and large number of travelers.

Bangkok in November — Comfortable with Little Rain

• Average low/high temperature: 24°C/32°C (76°F/89°F)

With nice weather conditions, November is a good time to go anywhere in Bangkok, like visiting the Grand Palace, local markets, and temples.

There is a big festival in November — Loy Krathong . There are lively celebrations in parks, temples, and on rivers all over Bangkok.

Bangkok in December — Coolest Month

• Average low/high temperature: 22°C/31°C (72°F/88°F)

December is the driest and coolest month of the year in Bangkok. It is also the most touristy month.

The end of December brings a festive atmosphere. There are celebrations on Christmas and New Year's Eve in Bangkok. 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.

>>> Best Places to Spend Christmas in Thailand

Bangkok in January — Sunny

• Average low/high temperature: 22°C/32°C (72°F/89°F)

January is still cool with bright sunshine.

Temples in Bangkok, Maeklong Railway Market, floating markets, and historical parks around Bangkok are all good choices to visit.

>>> Best Local Markets in Bangkok

Bangkok in February — Still Nice Weather

• Average low/high temperature: 24°C/33°C (75°F/91°F)

Although the temperature has risen a bit in February, it is still a good time to visit Bangkok because of the lack of rain.

Bangkok's China Town is a good place to visit when it coincides with Chinese New Year.

Shoulder Season in Bangkok (March to June)

Temperatures in Bangkok begin to rise sharply from March, and rains arrive in May.

Although not as many as in the peak season, there are still many tourists for the Songkran Festival in April.

Bangkok in March — Heat Up

• Average low/high temperature: 26°C/34°C (78°F/93°F)

Temperatures heat up in March, especially in late March. However, early March is still suitable for sightseeing. You still can expect more sun and less rain than at other times of the year.

Bangkok in April — Hottest Month

• Average low/high temperature: 27°C/35°C (80°F/95°F)

April is the hottest month of the year in Bangkok. It is also wetter than March.

Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) falls on April 13–15. Though April is not a peak season, the festival still attracts many travelers.

Visiting temples or arranging a morning/night outdoor tour, like a night cruise could avoid the heat as much as possible.

Bangkok in May — Rains Start

• Average low/high temperature: 27°C/34°C (80°F/94°F)

The rainy season in Bangkok begins in May. The combination of rain and heat inevitably creates a muggy feeling.

Relaxing by the pool or in an air-conditioned café can alleviate such feelings.

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 promotions.

Shopping in an air-conditioned shopping mall is a good choice in June. Bangkok's many shopping malls will have discounts in the middle of the year.

Low Season in Bangkok (July to October)

July to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Increasing rainfall makes July to October less touristy. Some travelers take advantage of the opportunity to gain a quiet experience with less costs, though.

Bangkok in July — Moderate Rain

• Average low/high temperature: 26°C/33°C (79°F/91°F)

Traveling in July is not bad. The temperature in July drops a little. Rainfall is at moderate levels.

Rain showers usually come in the afternoon or at dusk. Just plan your trip around this knowledge. Don't worry too much about the impact of rain on your trip.

Bangkok in August — Rain Increases

Temperatures in August are the same as July's, but rainfall begins to increase at the end of August.

Taking a Thai cooking class, getting a Thai spa/massage, and watching a wonderful cultural performance (e.g. Muay Thai kick boxing) are all good activities for the rainy season.

Bangkok in September — Rainiest Month

• Average low/high temperature: 26°C/32°C (78°F/90°F)

In September, you would see heavy rain/thunderstorms very regularly. Monsoonal rainfall is at its peak in Bangkok.

It is probably the month to get the most favorable prices.

Bangkok in October — End of the Rainy Season

• Average low/high temperature: 25°C/32°C (78°F/89°F)

Finally, in October, Bangkok's rainy season comes to an end. In mid-October, the rainfall starts to decrease.

So, late October is actually quite a good time to visit Bangkok: there's less rainfall, and you could avoid the upcoming peak season, starting in November.

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Best Time to Visit Thailand

• Jan Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 21 ° C
• Feb Avg Daily: 33 ° C Avg Nightly: 23 ° C
• Mar Avg Daily: 34 ° C Avg Nightly: 25 ° C
• Apr Avg Daily: 35 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• May Avg Daily: 34 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Jun Avg Daily: 33 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Jul Avg Daily: 33 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Aug Avg Daily: 33 ° C Avg Nightly: 26 ° C
• Sep Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 25 ° C
• Oct Avg Daily: 32 ° C Avg Nightly: 25 ° C
• Nov Avg Daily: 31 ° C Avg Nightly: 24 ° C
• Dec Avg Daily: 31 ° C Avg Nightly: 21 ° C
• 3.75K views
• ~ mins read

Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations around the world, and for a good reason. It is a country for adventurers and culture enthusiasts. It is a country for party animals, and also for those who want to meditate. No matter what kind of traveler you are, Thailand has something special waiting for you! All you have to do is find out what is the best time to visit Thailand , and you’re good to go! Here are the facts, so you can make the right decision!

• Nina Galpin
• From Scotland

Quick Facts

• Best Time to Visit Thailand : November - March, September - October
• High Tourist Season : November - March
• Low Season : July - August
• All Seasons : November - March (spring), April - June (summer), July - October (monsoon)
• The best time to visit Thailand is between November - March, when the weather is cool and dry, following the monsoons.
• September - October is also a good time to visit the northern part of Thailand (like Chiang Mai), or the gulf coast (islands like Ko Samui).
• The months of September and October are not ideal to travel to Phuket or Bangkok, as these areas will experience a lot of rainfall, which might interfere with your beach plans.
• April to May is a good time to travel to the coastal areas like Krabi, as well as Bangkok and Phuket.

Thailand is an endless adventure. You can party the night away in Bangkok , or go scuba diving in the west coast. You can enjoy the finest five course meal in a fancy restaurant, or have local seafood in a shack near your hotel on a beach - you can be assured that it will still taste delicious! Thailand offers an endless amount of adventure for those who seek to explore its labyrinth. You just have to find out when you should visit!

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and March, which is the winter season. The monsoons are over, leaving the country lush and green, with an incredibly pleasant weather. This is the best season, and the high season to travel in Thailand. If you travel during this period, you will be able to visit all parts of the country with ease.

Besides this, Thailand has two shoulder seasons. April - May is when to visit Thailand if you want to stick to the coastal areas and the beaches, as the warm summer climate will be bearable in these regions. September - October is another shoulder season, and during this time, the weather is ideal in the gulf coast and in the north. The shoulder seasons see much less tourist footfall, so that is a definite plus point as well!

Seasonal Overview

1. november to march — spring / high season.

After the monsoon season, the sun returns to the country during these months. The weather in Thailand becomes dry and warm, making this the ideal season for some beach fun. There is little rain throughout the season (most of the rainfall happens in November). This is the high season, so there will be a lot of tourists around, especially during Christmas time. It is highly recommended that you book your tickets well in advance, as there will be a sharp rise due to the high season.

• Avg. Temperature : 92 – 98° F / 33 – 39° C (in Bangkok)
• Rainfall : 5 – 115 mm
• Season : Spring
• Highlights : This is when to visit Thailand for some premium beach fun. Head over to Krabi, Khao Lak, Ko Samui, and Phuket, where you can enjoy the warm waters, and the crisp breeze. If you travel towards the beginning or end of the season, you can escape the tourist crowd as well. There are a couple of festivals for you to enjoy during this season as well, including Loy Krathong, a local Thai festival celebrated in November; the Chinese New Year celebrated in January/February; and the one of a kind Chiang Mai flower festival in February.

2. April to June — Summer / Shoulder Season

The weather in Thailand in these months is pleasant, but it slowly starts to heat up. The summer heat begins to rise, especially towards end of April, and it will be quite hot inland. Towards the coastal regions, the ocean breeze will keep the climate in check. This is the shoulder season following a peak season, so you will be able to get good discounts, and enjoy the country bereft of tourists.

• Avg. Temperature : 98 – 101° F / 37 – 38° C (in Bangkok)
• Rainfall : 10 – 81 mm
• Season : Summer
• Highlights : This is the best time for you to head to popular tourist destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, etc. as the crowds would have reduced, thereby making the stay and tickets cheaper. The dry weather makes this the ideal time to explore Ayutthaya, the Khmer ruins, etc. as you will be able to walk without having to worry about the rains! If you’re in Thailand during this period, you can enjoy the beautiful New Year’s celebrations from 13th to 5th April, also known as Songkran.

3. July to August — Monsoon / Low Season

This is the low season in Thailand, as the incessant rains drives tourists away. The summer temperatures wane, and the rainfall starts to increase. August experiences the heaviest rainfall of the year, especially in the Golden Triangle, and Chiang Mai . There will be lots of rainfall in the islands and the southern beaches as well. This is a low season, so you can enjoy good discounts on accommodation and travel prices.

• Avg. Temperature : 95 – 96° F / 35 – 37° C (in Bangkok)
• Rainfall : 71 – 87 mm
• Season : Monsoon
• Highlights : This is the best time to visit Thailand, if you know which parts of the country to visit. The east coast beaches (like Koh Samui, Khanom) will be dry during this season, and enjoy a lot of sunshine, so you can head to these beaches, and enjoy a much cheaper vacation. You can even go diving at Koh Tao - and this is the high season for that! You can also explore the less known parts of Hua Hin, Cha Am, etc.

4. September to October — Fall / Shoulder Season

September and October are still wet months, but in different parts of the country. Now, the monsoons shift to the east, making Koh - Samui and the south-east coast rather wet. Phuket, Krabi , etc. also experience a lot of rainfall during this period. This season is much better in North and the gulf coast - so if you want to head to Chiang Mai, now is the time!

• Avg. Temperature : 93 – 94° F / 34 – 34° C (in Bangkok)
• Rainfall : 179 – 247 mm
• Highlights : This is when to visit Thailand for vegetarians - as the 9 day long Vegetarian Festival in Phuket takes place in October! This is also a wonderful time to visit Khao Sok National Park , where there will be a lot of rain, but the entire area will look lush and green, giving you a splendid view. Wildlife enthusiasts will have a greater chance of spotting wildlife during this period as well!

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Best Time To Visit Phuket: Weather By Month & Season

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Not sure what is the best time to visit Phuket? Generally, the best time to visit Phuket is the between January and March , as these months have the driest, warmest weather.

However, these months are also within peak tourist season, which may not be the right time to visit for those who want a quieter vacation.

After spending time in Phuket during different seasons, have figured out when is the best time to visit Phuket for different types of travelers.

In this guide, we explain what each month brings, so you can make an informed decision about when to visit Thailand’s largest island.

Climate and Weather in Phuket

Phuket has a tropical climate and doesn’t vary in temperature much throughout the year. It’s also consistently humid, with an average humidity rating of 77%.

August is the most humid month at 82% humidity, whereas January is the least humid at 70% humidity.

During the monsoon season from June to September, you can also expect wind speed to increase to highs of 3 meters per second, whereas November is the least windy month with averages at 1 meter per second.

While most of Thailand has a rainy season from June until September, Phuket experiences a longer rainy season because of its coastal position. The rain is likely to begin in May and continue into October and November. In fact, September and October are the wettest months of the year in Phuket.

During the rainy season in Phuket, you can experience dark and gloomy days with lots of cloud cover.

The driest months in Phuket are January and February which receives very little rainfall throughout the months.

Phuket in Summer (June to August)

The summer months in Phuket are from June until August, which is the wettest time of the year and is well into the rainy Monsoon Season. You can expect a lot of wet weather, strong winds, and even flooding on an almost daily basis.

Those visiting Phuket this time of year should prepare for wet weather and flooding at all times. In fact, flash flooding occurs almost every September, causing widespread devastation throughout the region.

It can also impact flights landing and leaving from Phuket International Airport.

The flooding not only disrupts tourism but also causes problems for the locals, since the rain can bring down power lines, cut off roads and make them impossible to use, and cause power outages.

It’s unsurprising then that this is the quiet season in terms of tourism, and you’ll also find that tours and hotels will close during this time of year, especially when the weather is bad.

Phuket in Fall (September to November)

While September and October continue to see wet weather, it will start to ease off into November. It’s possible to have sunny days come late October and into November, but rain showers may happen sporadically.

From our experience, the rain showers in the Autumn season are far less intense than the summer, and usually only occur in short bursts, allowing you time to get out and enjoy the periods of dry weather. We also noticed rain storms happen more at night.

November is a popular time to visit Thailand, so you will find that from late October and early November, more hotels and tours who closed during the rainy season will open again – often at reduced rates.

That makes November a good time to visit Phuket, since it’s the shoulder season and when you can find cheaper deals after the Monsoon Season. That being said, you do still have to put up with some rainy days.

Autumn is also a good time of year to visit Phuket for the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, which happens on the 9th lunar month of the Chinese calendar.

During this time of year, you’ll find many parades, festivities, and of course, street food markets pop up in Phuket Old Town.

Phuket in Winter (December to March)

Winter is peak tourist season in Thailand, and is so it’s one of the most popular times of year to visit Phuket. You can expect Phuket to be busy with tourists during the months of December until February.

While the weather is hot, it’s not unbearably hot, and these months have very little chance of rain.

It’s also when Chinese New Year happens, which is quite a big deal in Phuket. While Thai people don’t celebrate Chinese New Year , Phuket has a large population of Chinese immigrants and they love to celebrate this annual event.

Phuket in Spring (March to May)

Spring is not a great time to visit Phuket because it starts to get rainy again, and it’s also incredibly busy.

This is because March until May is when the Burning Season in Chiang Mai happens, causing the locals and expats to flock to Southern Thailand to escape the pollution – and you can guess where they go!

Phuket is packed with people this time of year and hotels get booked up in advance, not to mention at higher rates.

While March and April are drier months compared to the rest of the year, May brings with it the Monsoon Season.

Read More: Bangkok vs Phuket: Which Is Better?

Best Time to Visit Phuket For Festivals

If you are visiting Phuket to join in with the local festivities, then you’re going to want to visit in September or October when the annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival takes place.

It’s the most famous thing Phuket is known for besides its beaches, and is the most vibrant event of the year.

Some other popular festivals that take place in Phuket are Songkran, otherwise known as Thai New Year, which happens all over the country, but the water fights on Bangla Road in Patong Beach are somewhat of a legend.

Another iconic festival is the Lantern Festival, which is usually more famous in Chiang Mai, but is also celebrated all over the country. Sapan Hin Lake in Phuket Old Town, as well as any of the beaches, are a good place to see the releasing of Loy Krathongs.

There are also lantern releases on the main beaches, such as Patong Beach and Karon Beach .

Best Time To Visit Phuket TO Escape The Crowds, Thailand

If you want to avoid the crowds, then you may want to visit Phuket in late October or November. This is when the rainy season has come to an end but it hasn’t fully opened up for the busy tourist season.

Though these are the quieter months in terms of tourism, it’s worth noting that Phuket is one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand for first timers , which is estimated to receive 14 million visitors by the end of 2023.

Needless to say, there isn’t really a quiet period in Phuket, but you will find it considerably less packed in October and November than in January and February.

Best Month to Visit Phuket, Thailand

Now you know what to expect from visiting Phuket in each season, below is a month-by-month analysis of what you can expect from the weather in Phuket!

Phuket in January

• Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) Lows, 30°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 56 mm in 6 Days
• Sunlight hours: 235 hours

January is in the peak tourist season in Phuket because it receives the best weather of the year. It remains hot throughout the days and nights, and has little chance of rain, with an average of just 6 days of rain throughout the month.

It also has cloudless skies, gracing the island with 235 hours of sunshine throughout the month. This is perfect weather for island hopping, snorkeling, swimming, or just exploring the island’s numerous outdoor attractions.

However, do be sure to wear sun protection and drink plenty of water to remain

Phuket in February

• Rainfall: 34 mm in 4 Days
• Sunlight hours: 220 hours

The weather in Phuket in February is much like the weather in January, and receives very little chance of rain, cloudless skies and warm temperatures.

February is still peak tourist season, which sees thousands of visitors across the island throughout the month.

If you plan to visit Phuket in February, although it’s a great time of year in terms of weather, note that hotels often get booked up in advance, and prices for tours and accommodation may also be higher than during the winter months.

February is also when you may start to see locals and expats from Chiang Mai flock to the island to escape the burning season, and is when Chinese New Year takes place.

Phuket in March

• Average Temperature: 27°C (80°F) Lows, 31°C (87°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 94 mm in 5 Days
• Sunlight hours: 210 hours

March continues to see warm, sunny days with cloudless skies and little rain. However, it’s also one of the busiest months in terms of visitors.

Those visiting this time of year may want to book well in advance as it’s likely a lot of places will already be booked by those escaping the burning season in Chiang Mai.

Phuket in April

• Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F) Lows, 31°C (87°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 143 mm in 12 Days
• Sunlight hours: 183 hours

As the Chiang Mai residents start to make their way home, April gets a little quieter, but still maintaining decent weather throughout the month.

It’s possible to see more rainy days towards the end of the month, but these showers tend to be in bursts throughout the day, rather than torrential down pour.

During April, you get to witness the festive Songkran celebrations, with water splashing and events taking place across the island.

Phuket in May

• Rainfall: 263 mm in 22 Days
• Sunlight hours: 151 hours

Phuket in May sees the start of the rainy season and it comes in with full force. Witness the clouds roll in, plunging the island into darkness, as it experiences only 151 hours of daylight throughout the month.

With 22 days of rain, you can be sure that it will rain at least a couple of times during your visit.

May is also considered the off season, which means many hotels and tour companies (particularly island tours) will close during this time of year.

If you are visiting Phuket in May, it’s a good idea to check if these tours are still operating before booking.

Phuket in June

• Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F) Lows, 30°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 255 mm in 20 Days
• Sunlight hours: 150 hours

June is another wet month in the monsoon season and is when you will see temperatures start to drop (although only slightly), and rainy days continue.

In terms of weather, it’s pretty much the same as May, with dark, cloudy days and lots of precipitation on the forecast.

Like May, it’s likely that some hotels will remain closed for the duration of the monsoon season, so do check in advance before visiting.

Phuket in July

• Rainfall: 243 mm in 20 Days
• Sunlight hours: 152 hours

July is another wet and miserable month in Phuket, with dark clouds, lots of rain, and is also when the wind speed increases.

Since it’s peak monsoon season with some of the wettest weather, you can expect the island to be quiet in terms of tourism, with many hotels and tour companies closing.

Phuket in August

• Average Temperature: 26°C (80°F) Lows, 30°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 265 mm in 20 Days

August and July are very similar in terms weather. It’s a dark month with only 150 hours of sunlight.

August is the most humid month, with humidity reaching 82% on average. It’s also one of the windiest months, which can make the weather feel cooler than it is.

Those visiting in August may find the weather to be miserable, and the chances of getting out to do some island exploration very slim.

Phuket in September

• Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) Lows, 29°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 318 mm in 23 Days
• Sunlight hours: 100 hours

September is the wettest month of the year and flooding is to be expected, since it’s the fifth month of the monsoon season.

September is also the darkest month with only 100 hours of sunlight throughout the month. Temperatures will remain cool, although the strong winds can make it feel cooler still.

Like August, September is also a relatively humid month.

Phuket in October

• Average Temperature: 26°C (78°F) Lows, 29°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 316 mm in 23 Days
• Sunlight hours: 140 hours

October is also very rainy and can also see flooding continue, especially at the start of the month.

However, from mid-October, you will start to see more hotels and tour companies operating again, as they prepare for the busy tourist season ahead.

From mid-October, it’s possible to have some dry days with sunshine, though squally showers may still happen throughout the days and nights.

The temperatures are warm but not too hot, and is also when the Phuket Vegetarian Festival often takes place.

Compared to September, there will be more tourists in Phuket in October.

Phuket in November

• Rainfall: 202 mm in 16 Days
• Sunlight hours: 175 hours

As November rolls in, you can start to kiss goodbye to the rain and the dark days are officially over, with 175 hours of sunlight throughout the month.

While there is still plenty of rain expected, you will find that the showers will be more in bursts than continuous downpours which happen in June to September.

November is when more tourists come to Thailand to escape the cold weather in Europe. It’s the time when all hotels and tours are fully running again and the island gets busy.

Phuket in December

• Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) Lows, 30°C (86°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 92 mm in 9 Days
• Sunlight hours: 200 hours

December is one of the busiest months in Phuket for tourism as people flock to Thailand to experience a tropical Christmas.

The weather is often warm with very little chance of rain, and there is also minimal cloud cover which means 200 hours of bright and sunny days.

December is one of the best months to visit Phuket, though you will need to plan your visit early as hotels often get booked up, especially if your planning to spend Christmas in Thailand !

Best Time to Visit Phuket FAQs

What is the best month to visit phuket.

We would recommend January as the best month to visit Phuket as the weather is warm, dry, and less humid.

What is the rainy season in Phuket?

The official rainy season in Phuket starts in June and ends in September, though you can expect the rain to begin in May and continue well into October.

What month is the hottest in Phuket?

The temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year, but March – May is slightly warmer than other months by 1°C.

Final Verdict

Without a doubt, January and February is the best time to visit Phuket if you’re looking for good weather.

However, if you want to escape the crowds and find better deals on hotels and tours, October and November are good times to visit, as long as you are ok with some rainy days.

March until May is a bad time to visit Phuket since it’s busy with all the Chiang Mai locals and expats escaping the burning season.

May until October is the rainy season, which sees hotel and tour closures, flooding, and power outages, and so are not the best times to visit Phuket.

We hope this guide has helped plan when to visit Phuket and given you a good idea of what to expect in each season.

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The Best Time to Visit South Thailand for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit South Thailand for ideal weather are

January 29th to March 4th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

South Thailand Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other South Thailand Travel Info

Weather in south thailand.

Average temperatures in South Thailand vary very little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot all year with a chance of rain throughout most of the year. The area is far less temperate than some — in the 5th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit South Thailand, the hottest months are May, June, and then April. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid June where highs are regularly around 93.9°F (34.4°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 76.4°F (24.7°C) at night.

South Thailand Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

South thailand temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

South Thailand Perceived Temperature (F)

South thailand perceived temperature (c), average south thailand temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in South Thailand are February, June, and then July. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early February. For example, on the week of February 5th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in mid to late November with an average of 5 days of significant precipitation the week of November 19th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in South Thailand.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in South Thailand (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

South Thailand has some extremely humid months, and high humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is June (76.5% relative humidity), and the most humid month is November (88%).

Wind in South Thailand is usually extremely calm . The windiest month is July, followed by June and August. July’s average wind speed of around 2.7 knots (3.1 MPH or 4.9 KPH) is considered “light air.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early August where average top sustained speeds reach 9.4 knots, which is considered a gentle breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in South Thailand.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to south thailand.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for Thailand; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 27, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in South Thailand is January, followed by August and July. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit South Thailand in May. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall south thailand travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 93.5°F (34.2°C) and 89.2°F (31.8°C) with similar temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 6 to 11 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the slowest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the least precipitation with 6 to 11 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the second busiest season for tourism in South Thailand, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly more.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 92.1°F (33.4°C) and 84.3°F (29.1°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a great amount: 8 to 20 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in South Thailand to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 89.2°F (31.8°C) and 84.2°F (29°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 3 to 15 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Thailand › South Thailand

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Passing Thru Travel

Discover Thailand: Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Incredible Destinations in 2024

Posted: March 5, 2024 | Last updated: March 5, 2024

Thailand, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and renowned hospitality, offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the south and the lush mountains of the north, this guide will take you through the diverse facets of Thailand, ensuring a journey filled with discovery and wonder.

Bangkok, a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modernity, offers an experience like no other. As you navigate its bustling streets, you’ll encounter magnificent temples such as Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun, standing as serene sanctuaries amidst the urban chaos. The Grand Palace, a former royal residence, highlights the city’s rich history and architectural grandeur.

For shopping enthusiasts, the sprawling Chatuchak Weekend Market presents a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to local handicrafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Bangkok’s renowned street food, where dishes like Pad Thai and Som Tam are served with authentic flavors.

The city’s vibrant nightlife, from rooftop bars to lively street markets, pulsates with energy, offering a glimpse into the contemporary lifestyle of Bangkok’s residents. Navigating Bangkok explores contrasts, where each turn presents a new facet of this dynamic city.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the lesser-known but equally impressive Wat Benchamabophit for a more tranquil temple experience.

How To Get There: Bangkok is accessible by its two main airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. The city has an extensive public transport system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season from November to February is ideal, with pleasant weather and numerous festivals.

2. Chiang Mai

In Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Northern Thailand, you’ll find a more laid-back atmosphere than Bangkok’s frenetic energy. The city is replete with historic temples, the most famous being Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, each offering a peaceful retreat and a look into the spiritual practices of the locals. The Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street Market are hubs for artisanal crafts and street food, reflecting the city’s artistic flair and culinary richness.

Just outside the city, the lush landscapes of Doi Inthanon National Park await, with trekking trails leading to waterfalls and hill tribe villages. Chiang Mai’s charm lies in its blend of history, culture, and nature, providing a holistic experience of Thailand’s northern region.

Whether you’re exploring its ancient temples, engaging in a traditional Thai cooking class, or wandering through its vibrant markets, Chiang Mai captivates with its serene beauty and rich cultural tapestry.

Insider’s Tip: Take a Thai cooking class to delve deeper into the region’s unique flavors.

How To Get There: Chiang Mai has an international airport and is also accessible by train or bus from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit during the cool season, particularly in November, for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival.

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a blend of experiences catering to those seeking relaxation and adventure. The island’s beaches, like Patong, Kata, and Karon, offer a range of atmospheres, from bustling shores with water sports activities to more tranquil retreats. Beyond its stunning beaches, Phuket’s Old Town reveals a different side of the island, with Sino-Portuguese architecture and a burgeoning arts scene.

A visit to the Big Buddha is a must for a panoramic view of the island. The surrounding waters of Phuket, particularly the Phi Phi Islands and Similan Islands, are a paradise for divers and snorkelers, boasting vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.

Phuket’s nightlife, especially in Patong, pulsates with energy, offering many entertainment options. The island’s diversity, from its natural beauty to cultural richness, makes Phuket a microcosm of Thailand’s allure.

Insider’s Tip: Take a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands for some of the best snorkeling and diving.

How To Get There: Phuket is accessible by its international airport or by bus and ferry from the mainland.

Best Time To Travel: The best weather is from November to February, with calm seas and sunny skies.

4. Ayutthaya

The ancient city of Ayutthaya, once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, stands today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a journey through Thailand’s storied past. As you wander through the historical park, you’ll encounter the ruins of temples and palaces, each telling a tale of the city’s former glory and subsequent destruction.

The site’s most iconic structures, such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, showcase the sophisticated art and architecture of the Ayutthaya period. Exploring Ayutthaya is not just a historical excursion; it’s an immersive experience that transports you back to when the city was a major trading hub of Asia.

The juxtaposition of ancient ruins against a backdrop of modern life underscores the enduring legacy of Ayutthaya’s historical and cultural significance in Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

How To Get There: Ayutthaya is a short train or bus ride from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, offers comfortable exploring conditions.

In Krabi Province, you’ll find yourself amidst some of Thailand’s most picturesque landscapes, marked by dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and clear blue waters. The province is renowned for destinations like Railay Beach, which is accessible only by boat. It offers world-class rock climbing and stunning beachscapes.

The Phi Phi Islands, with their iconic beaches and vibrant marine life, are perfect for day trips, offering opportunities for snorkeling and diving. For a more tranquil experience, the lesser-known Koh Lanta provides a laid-back atmosphere with its long, sandy beaches. Krabi’s natural beauty extends beyond its coastline, with inland attractions like the Emerald Pool and the Tiger Cave Temple, each offering unique experiences.

Whether you’re seeking adventure on the cliffs of Railay or tranquility on the beaches of Koh Lanta, Krabi presents a diverse array of natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the mangroves and limestone caves by kayak for a unique perspective.

How To Get There: Krabi has an airport, and it’s also accessible by bus and boat from other parts of Thailand.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to March for the best beach weather.

Pai, nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, is a haven for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. With its relaxed atmosphere, this small town attracts travelers looking to escape the hustle of city life. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, Pai is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring hot springs.

The Pai Canyon offers stunning views, especially at sunset, and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The town’s charming cafes, night markets, and art galleries reflect a unique blend of local Thai culture and bohemian influences.

Renting a scooter to explore the surrounding countryside is a popular way to discover the area’s hidden gems, but be cautious on the winding roads. Pai’s natural beauty, laid-back vibe, and cultural richness make it a refreshing stop in your Thailand journey.

Insider’s Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the surrounding countryside, but be cautious on the winding roads.

How To Get There: Pai is accessible by bus from Chiang Mai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, particularly from October to February, is ideal for comfortable temperatures.

7. Sukhothai

Sukhothai, the first capital of Thailand, is where Thai art, architecture, and language began to develop and flourish. The Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an archaeological delight with well-preserved ruins and majestic Buddha statues set amidst scenic lakes and gardens.

Exploring this ancient city on a bicycle offers a leisurely and intimate experience of the park’s vast grounds. Highlights include Wat Mahathat, with its impressive central stupa, and Wat Si Chum, known for its gigantic seated Buddha.

The historical significance of Sukhothai, coupled with its serene and picturesque setting, provides a profound insight into the origins of Thai culture and the nation’s early history.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the Loy Krathong festival in November, when the park is beautifully lit with lanterns.

How To Get There: Sukhothai is accessible by bus or plane from Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season is the best time to visit, especially around the Loy Krathong festival.

Hua Hin, once a quiet fishing village and now a popular beach resort town, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural experiences. Known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and the summer palace of the Thai royal family, Hua Hin exudes an air of sophistication and tranquility.

The night markets in Hua Hin, particularly the Cicada Market, are great for experiencing local crafts and cuisine. Nearby natural attractions like Sam Roi Yot National Park, with its limestone mountains and mangrove forests, provide opportunities for nature exploration.

Hua Hin’s combination of beachside leisure, royal heritage, and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a more laid-back experience in Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local seafood at the night market, known for its freshness and variety.

How To Get There: Hua Hin is about a three-hour drive from Bangkok and is also accessible by train.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to February for the best beach weather and fewer rain showers.

9. Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi, known for the Bridge over the River Kwai and its World War II history, offers a poignant reminder of the past, set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery. The Death Railway, war cemeteries, and museums provide a deep understanding of the region’s wartime history.

Beyond its historical significance, Kanchanaburi is also home to beautiful national parks like Erawan and Sai Yok, offering trekking, waterfalls, and river rafting. The province’s blend of history and natural beauty provides a multifaceted experience, making it a destination that appeals to history buffs and nature lovers.

Insider’s Tip: Take a train ride on the Death Railway for a scenic and historical journey.

How To Get There: Kanchanaburi is accessible by bus or train from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: The cool and dry season from November to February is ideal for exploring and outdoor activities.

10. The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge, offers a unique cultural and geographical experience. This area, once notorious for its opium production, now provides insights into the region’s history with attractions like the Hall of Opium Museum.

A boat ride on the Mekong River is a serene way to experience the beauty of this area and the confluence of the three countries. The ancient city of Chiang Saen nearby, with its ruins and temples, adds a historical dimension to your visit. The Golden Triangle’s cultural influences and stunning landscapes make it a fascinating destination in Northern Thailand.

Insider’s Tip: For a panoramic view of the three countries, visit the viewpoint at Wat Phra That Pu Khao.

How To Get There: The Golden Triangle is accessible by bus or car from Chiang Rai.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, offers comfortable weather for exploring.

11. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands in the Andaman Sea are a pristine archipelago renowned for their exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. These islands, part of a protected national park, boast some of the clearest waters in Thailand, with visibility often extending up to 30 meters.

The underwater landscape of coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and a myriad of colorful fish species. Above water, the islands are equally stunning, with powdery white sand beaches and lush tropical forests. The Similan Islands are perfect for a retreat for anyone seeking unspoiled natural beauty.

Whether you’re exploring the depths of the ocean or simply relaxing on a secluded beach, the Similans offer a tranquil escape from the world, where nature’s wonders are on full display.

Insider’s Tip: Book a liveaboard diving trip for an immersive experience in the islands’ underwater world.

How To Get There: The Similan Islands are accessible by boat from Khao Lak or Phuket.

Best Time To Travel: The diving season runs from November to April, with the best conditions from February to April.

12. The Isaan Region

The Isaan region, located in northeastern Thailand, is a land steeped in tradition and history, offering a stark contrast to the country’s more tourist-centric areas. This region is the heartland of Thai culture, where ancient customs and lifestyles are preserved. Isaan’s rural landscapes, dotted with rice paddies and traditional villages, provide a glimpse into a simpler way of life.

The region is also home to some of Thailand’s most significant archaeological sites, including the prehistoric Ban Chiang and the Khmer ruins of Phanom Rung. Isaan’s cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spiciness, is a highlight, with dishes like som tam (spicy papaya salad) and larb (minced meat salad) being local staples

A journey through Isaan is a journey through the soul of Thailand, where the richness of the country’s heritage and the warmth of its people are palpable in every experience.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local dishes like som tam (spicy papaya salad) and larb (minced meat salad) for an authentic taste of Isaan.

How To Get There: Isaan is accessible by bus or train from Bangkok, or by plane to regional airports like Udon Thani.

Best Time To Travel: Visit during the cool season, from November to February, for comfortable travel conditions.

13. Koh Samui

Koh Samui, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, is a tropical paradise combining natural beauty, luxury, and relaxation. The island is renowned for its idyllic beaches, such as Chaweng and Lamai, which offer crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands. Beyond its stunning coastline, Koh Samui has various attractions, from the majestic Big Buddha statue to the enchanting Na Muang Waterfalls.

The island’s interior is a lush landscape of coconut groves and rainforests, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring. Koh Samui’s culinary scene is a blend of traditional Thai flavors and international cuisine, with a plethora of dining options ranging from beachside shacks to upscale restaurants.

The island’s vibrant nightlife, centered around Chaweng Beach, provides entertainment well into the early hours. Koh Samui caters to all types of travelers seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a luxurious retreat.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Ang Thong National Marine Park for stunning landscapes and snorkeling opportunities.

How To Get There: Koh Samui has an airport with flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and international destinations.

Best Time To Travel: The best time to visit is from December to February, with dry weather and calm seas.

14. Railay Beach

Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, is a hidden gem offering a serene escape from the more crowded tourist spots. This peninsula, known for its stunning limestone cliffs and pristine beaches, is a haven for rock climbers and beachgoers.

The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and kayaking, while the viewpoints and caves provide opportunities for exploration. Railay maintains a laid-back atmosphere, with a small selection of bars and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for adventure and relaxation in a tranquil setting.

Insider’s Tip: Take a rock climbing course if you’re a beginner to safely enjoy the sport under expert guidance.

How To Get There: Railay Beach is accessible by boat from Ao Nang or Krabi Town.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to April when the weather is dry, and the seas are calm.

15. Udon Thani and the Red Lotus Sea

Udon Thani, a vibrant city in Thailand’s northeastern region, is the gateway to the mesmerizing Red Lotus Sea (Lake Nong Han). It’s best visited in the cool season, as it transforms into a breathtaking expanse of pink and red lotuses stretching as far as the eye can see. A boat ride through the serene waters, dotted with these vibrant blooms, offers a truly unique and tranquil experience.

Beyond the lake, Udon Thani boasts a rich cultural heritage, with various temples, museums, and markets reflecting the local Isan culture. The Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Udon Thani, provides fascinating insights into the region’s ancient history.

This area’s blend of natural beauty and cultural depth makes it a compelling destination for those exploring beyond Thailand’s typical tourist paths.

Insider’s Tip: Visit early in the morning when the lotuses are fully bloomed and the lake is less crowded.

How To Get There: Udon Thani is accessible by plane from Bangkok, and the Red Lotus Sea is a short drive from the city.

Best Time To Travel: The lotuses bloom from December to February, making it the ideal time to visit.

16. The Ancient City of Sukhothai

The ancient city of Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a journey back in time to the roots of Thai civilization. As the first capital of Thailand, it holds a special place in the nation’s history. The Sukhothai Historical Park, with its well-preserved ruins set amidst lush greenery and tranquil ponds, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the 13th-century Sukhothai Kingdom.

Exploring the park, you’ll encounter majestic Buddha figures, towering stupas, and intricate carvings, all evocative of the city’s past splendor. Cycling through the park’s vast grounds allows for an intimate exploration of its numerous sites, including Wat Mahathat, the park’s largest temple, and Wat Si Chum, famous for its gigantic seated Buddha. A visit to Sukhothai immerses ancient Thailand’s artistic and spiritual legacy.

Insider’s Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the extensive grounds of the historical park at your own pace.

How To Get There: Sukhothai is accessible by bus or plane from Bangkok, and the historical park is a short ride from the city center.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season from November to February offers pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor ruins.

17. The Floating Markets Near Bangkok

The floating markets near Bangkok, such as Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa, offer a vibrant and colorful glimpse into traditional Thai life. These bustling waterways, lined with boats laden with fresh produce, local delicacies, and handicrafts, present a lively and picturesque scene.

A visit to these markets is a sensory experience, with the sights, sounds, and smells of authentic Thai commerce and cuisine. Damnoen Saduak, the most famous of these markets, provides a more tourist-focused experience, while Amphawa offers a more local atmosphere and is primarily known for its evening seafood vendors.

Exploring these floating markets by boat or along the canalside walkways is a unique way to experience the local culture and indulge in some of Thailand’s most delicious foods and charming souvenirs.

Insider’s Tip: Take a boat tour to fully experience the market and try local snacks from the floating vendors.

How To Get There: The floating markets are accessible by bus or organized tours from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.

18. Erawan National Park and Waterfalls

Erawan National Park, located in the Kanchanaburi Province, is a natural oasis known for its stunning seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, named after the three-headed elephant of Hindu mythology. Each tier of the waterfall offers a different shape and character, with natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxation.

The park’s lush forests are home to plentiful wildlife and provide numerous hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. Beyond the waterfalls, the park’s caves, such as Tham Phra That and Tham Ta Duang, offer further exploration opportunities.

Visiting Erawan National Park is a chance to witness one of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls and connect with the country’s rich natural landscapes.

Insider’s Tip: Bring swimwear and trek to the upper tiers of the waterfall for a more secluded and serene experience.

How To Get There: The park is located in Kanchanaburi Province and is accessible by bus or car from Bangkok.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to April when the water levels are ideal for swimming and the trails are dry.

19. Pattaya

Pattaya, once a quiet fishing village and now a bustling coastal city, is known for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and many tourist attractions. While Pattaya’s reputation is often tied to its entertainment and nightlife, the city offers much more. The Sanctuary of Truth, a stunning all-wood structure filled with intricate carvings, highlights traditional Thai craftsmanship.

For nature lovers, Pattaya offers the Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, a beautifully landscaped park with themed gardens and cultural shows. The nearby Coral Island (Koh Larn) provides a quick escape to quieter beaches and clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and water sports. Pattaya’s diverse offerings make it a destination that caters to various interests, from cultural exploration to beachside relaxation.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Pattaya Floating Market for a cultural experience and to sample local Thai dishes.

How To Get There: Pattaya is a two-hour drive from Bangkok and is also accessible by bus or taxi.

Best Time To Travel: Visit from November to February for pleasant weather and to avoid the rainy season.

20. The Hill Tribes of Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand’s hill tribes offer a unique cultural experience, distinct from the rest of the country. These ethnic groups, including the Karen, Hmong, Akha, and Lisu, each have their own customs, languages, and traditional dress. Visiting these hill tribe villages, often nestled in the picturesque mountains and valleys of the region, provides insight into their traditional ways of life, which remain largely untouched by modernization.

Responsible and respectful tourism is key when visiting these communities. Many villages welcome visitors to learn about their culture, participate in traditional crafts, and even stay overnight for a more immersive experience. Engaging with the hill tribes of Northern Thailand offers a deeper understanding of the country’s ethnic diversity and rich cultural tapestry.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a community-based tourism program that benefits the tribes directly and respects their culture.

How To Get There: Hill tribe villages are accessible from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, often as part of guided tours.

Best Time To Travel: The cool season, from November to February, is comfortable for visiting the highland areas.

The Bottom Line

Thailand’s magic lies in its diversity – from bustling cities and ancient ruins to serene beaches and lush jungles. As you explore this enchanting country, embrace its history, indulge in its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Remember, Thailand offers an experience beyond the ordinary, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

While exploring Thailand, take the time to learn a few phrases in Thai. A simple “hello” (sawasdee) or “thank you” (khob khun) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture and enhancing your travel experience.

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The post Discover Thailand: Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Incredible Destinations in 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pikoso.kz.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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‘Conan O’Brien Must Go’ Is a Keeper: TV Review

Legendary talk show host and hot wing evangelist returns to television with hilarious new Max travel show

By Stephen Rodrick

Stephen Rodrick

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The key to understanding Conan O’Brien’s comedy is knowing that it comes from a point of kindness. Yes, I know in this age of comics punching down , this kind of compliment may leave you with a neon “Must Avoid!” sign flashing in your bleary eyes — but stay with me.

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Conan’s three-decade run as a talk show host ended in 2021 under less-than-optimal circumstances , as he wound down his TBS show during the pandemic year. He talked to longtime sidekick Andy Richter , who sat among dozens of cardboard cutout fans. O’Brien quipped that they were last in line for the vaccine because the CDC had looked at the shows and “they said ours is the least essential of pretty much all the non-essential shows.”

There was some truth in that, but Conan had already started his move to other outlets , starting with his “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” podcast in 2018.

The podcast is funny and sweet, especially the pre-interview segments with longtime associate Sona Movsesian and producer Matt Gourley. Conan mocks Sona’s legendarily bad work habits. and Gourley’s flea market predilections, but any kind of comedic acid is reserved for the self-lacerating O’Brien. (On a recent episode, Conan runs down his own looks, and it is cruel and hilarious, but part of me is thinking, “Dude, cut yourself a break.”). The only time things get contentious is when Conan visited by longtime friend Kevin Nealon — perhaps the podcast’s best episodes.

The podcast had an offshoot called “Conan O’Brien Needs a Fan,” on which O’Brien would talk to a fan, often in a faraway land. That led to O’Brien traveling to Norway, Thailand, Ireland and Argentina to meet them. Why? Well, a dour and ominous narrator, aka Werner Herzog, offered this rationale at the beginning of each episode: “Once a proud talk show host, he’s been driven by a changing ecosystem to a drier and harsher climate: the weekly podcast. Here , without the nourishment of his studio audience, this clown with dull , tiny eyes, the eye of a crudely painted doll , is forced to feed on that meagerest of morsels: the random call-in fan. Unhinged by the feral scent of their mild enthusiasm. He scavenges in distant lands uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition , and the occasional selfie.”

It’s a self-deprecating bit, but it’s also the truth. Conan has been doing travel shows for years, most notably one to Movsesian’s native Armenia , as well as a chaotic trip to Finland where O’Brien is treated as a god because of his physical resemblance to the Finnish president who happens to be a woman. He clearly loves the journey. And he loves the comedy set piece–see his classic “Old Timey Baseball” opus — which has always been an essential part of his appeal.

The encounters work because O’Brien doesn’t treat his new friends as fools — rather , he revels in the fact that he is the fool. (See his instant-classic appearance on “Hot Ones,” the show where interviews are conducted while the celebrity consumes increasingly acidic chicken wings. Conan rhapsodizes on comedy being all around us as green-yellow mucus drips down his nose.) Of course, there are exceptions made for old friends. Conan goes out for asada in Buenos Aires with the effete and erudite Jordan Schlansky, a longtime producer and frenemy. Schlansky and Conan are the Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon of American cable , and on his TBS show and podcast the two have tangled over Japanese customs, Conan hosting Schlansky’s bachelor party in his own office, and Schlansky hiding an expensive Espresso machine in an inaccessible part of their offices. (As with the Courtney Thorne-Smith segment, Conan’s visceral malice toward Schlansky works because it is so out-of-character).

During the Argentina episode, they get into a fierce argument about the proper pronunciation of the word “tango,” Conan then licks Schlansky’s favorite cut of meat — wait, that came out wrong. After, they go on an ill-fated trip to the Pampas, where both fail spectacularly at gaucho life.

Not everything works. O’Brien does a self-referential bit about the expensive drone he is using on the first show , and for the next four episodes I am distracted every time I see a beautiful shot thinking about the drone’s specifications and capabilities. Some of the stuff goes on a bit long, but so does my writing.

These are minor quibbles. If you’re a Conan fan, you’ll treasure the trips, just like his completists treasure encounters with a masturbating bear. The series ends with Conan tracing his family’s roots in Ireland. He comes across his ancestor’s land, makes a few jokes, but then looks at the land, clearly moved. Conan O’Brien has played the fool long enough; we grant him this moment of humanity with all our hearts.

All four episodes of “Conan O’Brien Must Go” are now available on Max.

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

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Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

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14 Western-inspired Travel Clothes That Actually Go With Everything in Your Suitcase — From $15

Keep reading for our favorite cowboy boots, hats, denim, and more.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Western wear, cowboy aesthetic, country couture — whatever you'd like to call it — has taken the fashion world by storm, but it's not just a mere passing trend. As a New York City-based travel writer , it's hard to go a block without seeing studded belts and vintage washed jeans , and the trend has spread far beyond Manhattan; I've even spotted it on recent trips up and down the East Coast. Though its resurgence in pop culture features new spins on the traditional fashion genre, Western wear obviously has roots dating back centuries, but there's something about the classic look that will forever exude cool. With celebrities like Beyoncé and Bella Hadid showcasing the best of the Americana lifestyle, this latest resurgence is beckoning everyone (including myself) to give their travel clothes a refresh. 

Beyond looking sharp, the Western wear trend embraces easy-wearing, high-quality basics inspired by country living, making it a must-have for your travel wardrobe. It prioritizes timeless pieces like maxi denim skirts and cowboy boots that can be worn and reworn in a plethora of ways to maximize your travel outfit possibilities. These pieces are typically denim-, cotton-, leather, and suede-heavy, making them the ideal transitional garments that can be worn throughout spring (and some of our favorite finds can even be rocked in the summer). 

Don’t know where to start transforming your wardrobe to embrace a Western aesthetic? I’ve curated a selection of pieces that I’m absolutely loving this season that will look great anywhere, be it a serene getaway in Wyoming , an exciting rodeo, or even to a "Cowboy Carter" listening party.  

Tecovas The Annie Cowgirl Boots

Cowgirl and cowboy boots are undoubtedly one of the most prominent items emerging from the Americana fashion movement, and if you’re looking to embrace this shoe trend, then you should do so with the best: a pair of Tecovas . The Austin-based brand prioritizes authentic craftsmanship to make its top-quality, already-worn-in-comfy boots that are made to last. I’m utterly obsessed with this Annie style, the brand’s best-selling cowgirl boot, and am eager to add them to my collection because I know that they’ll be my comfortable go-to pair of boots that’ll last me years to come. Plus, they'll look equally wonderful with a pair of jeans as they would with a flowy dress. 

If you’re looking for a more affordable option to achieve the same look, consider shopping the Soda Reno Women's Cowboy Boots that boast a $50 price tag at Amazon.  

Madewell The Santiago Western Ankle Boots

Not quite ready for full-on cowboy boots? Or, maybe you're headed somewhere warm. Either way, if you want to dip your toes into the style, these Madewell ankle booties are the perfect way to start. Beyond their alluring 82 percent discount (thanks to an on-site double deal — just use the code SPRING30 to unlock an extra 30 percent off at checkout), they’re absolutely adorable. Country styles embrace shiny hardware and durable materials like suede, as seen on these boots, which’ll elevate any look that you have planned. And, because they’re crafted with elastic and a low block heel, they go on-and-off seamlessly and will be easy to walk in. Hurry, they're selling out. 

J.Crew Maxi Denim Skirt

Maxi denim skirts, and denim in general, are totally country-approved thanks to their utility style that is a bit more polished and put together than a mini skirt. I’m all in for embracing more maxi denim skirts into my wardrobe. They can be styled with T-shirts, blouses, vests, and more, making them a welcomed, versatile staple in your suitcase. In fact, denim skirts are among the first garments that I look for when preparing for a trip, because of the way that they can seamlessly elevate any look. If you want to test the waters on this trend, do so with this stunning, on-sale skirt from J.Crew while it’s 46 percent off. 

Wrangler Women’s Cowboy Cut Jeans 

Wrangler is among the original cowboy couture brands, selling high-quality denim that parallels the rise of country since the 1940s. Needless to say, you can’t go wrong with anything from the cowboy fashion pioneer to adapt your wardrobe to Western style, but I recommend starting with these Cowboy Cut jeans. They effortlessly blend classic aesthetics with contemporary details for unmatched comfort. Crafted with 98 percent denim and 2 percent spandex, these jeans exude vintage charm with the modern ingenuity of a comfortable pair of travel pants. And at just $50, they’re the perfect garment to wear on your spring adventures. 

Amour Vert Violette Organic Cotton Eyelet Dress

Amour Vert 

Flowy, flirty dresses add a feminine touch to an otherwise rather masculine trend. And this prairie-style dress not only embodies the essence of country living, but it also serves as the ideal white sundress for the vibrant seasons of spring and summer. Crafted with 100 percent cotton, adorned with delicate details, and featuring a fashion-forward corseted bust, this dress is a timeless and breathtaking addition to your wardrobe. And to complete the look, I recommend pairing with a pair of cowboy boots — duh! 

Sézane Women’s Amerie Shirt

This Western-style embroidered chambray snap shirt is an incredibly versatile choice that radiates versatility. With its long-sleeve design, this shirt offers year-round comfort while shielding you from the elements (without causing overheating). It’s also a stunning option to add to your collection of Americana-inspired garments, inviting endless styling options, whether paired with a denim skirt, jeans, or classic boots. 

Unfortunately, this stunning top is about to sell out. If you have your heart set on the look, check out the newly dropped Grosy Women's Embroidered Plain Tunic Shirt for $40 at Amazon.  

Free People Wilder Embellished Sling Bag

Free People 

Conchos are the focal points of any Western look. Instead of wearing the classic disc around your waist, you can sport it on your travel bag. Here, the historically rich accessory decorates the belt bag's strap to add that cowboy flair to any outfit. It also offers the spacious, hands-free functionality of a great belt bag; wear it as a crossbody, off the shoulder, or as a belt bag, and will confidently safeguard all of your items as you explore new destinations this year.  

Wrangler Western Shoulder Bag

For a larger option, this adjustable shoulder bag is winning over shoppers for boasting the " perfect size " and a " sturdy feel that feels well-made ." That also happens to be the ethos of Western fashion, prioritizing items that both look and feel good — just check out that stunning embroidery! And starting at just $52 and available in an impressive 50 different colors and prints, the Montana-styled bag is just waiting to be added to your cart. 

Mavi Venus Denim Vest

Denim is widely recognized as a premium and long-lasting fabric, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities and country living. Western wear is known for its practicality, and as such, many denim styles are adorned with functional pockets and comfortable cuts that are perfect for all-day wear. Take this stunning denim vest from Mavi, which features front pockets and a straight fit that can be styled in various ways (and will look great in each of them). Whether you choose to store your lip balm in one of the frockets (front pockets) or utilize them for your ID and cards, you will never regret adding this versatile top to your collection.

Quince Women’s Suede Trucker Jacket

It would be wrong to share a list of high-quality Western wear to add to your travel wardrobe without including a buttery soft suede jacket, and this one from Quince is just what your transitional wardrobe needs right now. It’s warm enough to wear as the temperatures continue to dip and rise, but remains lightweight and soft for hot days ahead. And since the trademark of this style is practicality, you can bet that this jacket is equipped with a few functional pockets to hold onto some of your small belongings. 

Livingston Straw Cowboy Hat

Saddle up travelers! To bring your entire Western ensemble together, you need a cowboy hat. This iconic accessory not only exudes a relaxed and cool vibe, but it also serves a practical purpose. Originally designed to protect cowboys from the scorching sun while working outdoors, these hats have now become a versatile (and useful) fashion statement. This utility also lends them as the perfect accessory to shield your face from the sun at the beach, festivals, and beyond. 

This lightweight hat can also travel like a dream with the help of a convenient hat clip . Plus, it gives your outfit more style points than any old baseball cap or sun visor would. 

Steve Madden Women’s Recent Gladiator Sandals

Modern takes on Western wear draw inspiration from classic country accessories like the studded (and classic) concho belt — which are on full display in these Steve Madden sandals. I personally love a strappy gladiator for travel, as I find that they have more support and grip compared to other styles on the market. This pair caught my eye for its stunning look that I know would be a standout at any festival or vacation that I have planned this season.  

Superdown Robyn Strappy Back Top

Plenty of these styles possess a classic and timeless appeal due to their simple yet classy look. However, the recent revival of this style has inspired retailers to think outside of the box and explore incorporating Americana prints, like cowhide, to give a fresh twist to this country craze. For instance, try out this stylish cow print top from Superdown, which will surely make a statement at any music festival or evening event that you have on the schedule. 

Werforu Leather Belt

A true Western-inspired outfit is never truly complete without a concho belt. This $15 one from Amazon is embellished with beautifully etched hardware that’ll effortlessly pull together any look, while remaining understated enough to not cause too much attention. Style it with a pair of vintage wash jeans or wear it with a dress to give yourself some extra waist-cinching magic. 

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‘Conan O’Brien Must Go’ Is the Best Version of Conan

The comedian’s new travel show proves he’s at his best away from the rigid confines of late night

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After hundreds of episodes of Hot Ones , there’s little a guest can do to shake up the reliable formula of thoughtful questions combined with increasingly spicy chicken wings. But Conan O’Brien isn’t just any guest. Conan is someone who arrives with “Dr. Arroyo,” his personal physician, who, when asked where he went to medical school, answers “1998”; he deposits the remains of each wing into his jacket pocket; seemingly unfazed by the heat, he chugs hot sauces like they’re in tiny liquor bottles from a hotel minibar; he rubs the drumsticks on his hands, mouth, and, yes, nipples. Even as Conan’s pale complexion begins to resemble a ripe tomato, he remains committed to the bit, raising his body temperature by two degrees in a state of delirium. (According to Dr. Arroyo, of course.) Behold, the comedy GOAT:

Aside from being one of the funniest people on the planet, Conan seems to operate at the peak of his powers when surrounded by chaos. He was, for a time, our longest-tenured late-night host: He had a career on the airwaves that spanned nearly three decades, not unlike his icon, Johnny Carson. But while Conan could do the usual late-night beats in his sleep—the opening monologue, the celebrity interviews—he was never better than when things went completely off the rails. Consider: Conan used his last week as the short-lived host of The Tonight Show to waste NBC’s money on bringing a Kentucky Derby–winning horse to set; trolled his interns and staff in remote segments; introduced the world to his associate producer Jordan Schlansky, who gamely played a pretentious foil ; found an actual Tinder date with Dave Franco.

But some of Conan’s best work has been when he’s left the rigid confines of late night altogether. In 2015 Conan began a spinoff travel series, Conan Without Borders , in which he explored other countries armed with little more than his self-deprecating wit. “[Travel shows are] completely outside the realm of anything I do,” he explained to The New York Times in 2019. “They can be frightening because they take away a lot of control. I’m out there, I don’t often know what I’m going to encounter.” More often than not, it’s led to comedy gold. For instance, while he was taking a Japanese etiquette lesson, Conan’s instructor said that he wasn’t her type. The reason: “Face.”

Face . You could never script something so casually brutal; therein lies the magic. Most important, Conan never mocks other cultures to induce laughs—instead, he makes himself the butt of the joke, leaning into the bit of an ignorant tourist. But what truly elevated Conan Without Borders was how he could deftly weave in educational components and approach dark periods of a country’s history with genuine sensitivity. (Conan’s visit to the Armenian Genocide Memorial with his longtime assistant, Sona Movsesian, is among the most emotionally resonant moments of his career.) Thankfully, even though Conan has bowed out of the late-night scene, he’s doubling down on the travelogues.

On Thursday—Conan’s birthday, no less—Max released Conan O’Brien Must Go , a four-part series that takes him to Norway, Argentina, Thailand, and Ireland. These destinations were inspired by his podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend , which, in addition to celebrity interviews, features conversations with fans from around the globe. (The fans frequently invite Conan to come visit their neck of the woods; few would ever imagine he’d take them up on the offer.) While Conan O’Brien Must Go doesn’t rely on celebrity cameos, every episode opens with Werner Herzog voice-over narration about the grandeur of Mother Earth and how, to fully appreciate its natural wonders, we must sometimes “defile it.” Rest assured, Conan the Defiler is more than up to the task.

What separates Conan O’Brien Must Go from his first travel show is the incorporation of those fans, including a Norwegian fish farmer, an Irish medical student, and an Argentine painter. The fans understandably react to Conan showing up at their front door with a mixture of shock and glee, but before they even get a chance to compose themselves, he playfully roasts their respective living situations. Nobody gets it worse than Jarle, a young Norwegian rapper who still sleeps with soccer-themed bedsheets from childhood and has bread so stale it lands with an audible thud when Conan drops it. “I’ll wipe the floor with you,” Conan tells Jarle, “which actually might be a good idea, because I think you’d pick up a lot of lint.”

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But while it’s enjoyable in its own right to see Conan surprise fans, Conan O’Brien Must Go is never better than when he throws all caution to the wind mingling with the locals. One standout bit in Argentina involves a soccer team that invites Conan to its stadium, where he proceeds to take the sport’s reputation for theatrical diving to another level, with fake blood spurting out of his mouth. Argentina is also where Conan reunites with his archnemesis, Schlansky, who repeatedly corrects him on the proper pronunciation of tango over dinner. (Schlansky insists he’s right, even when the chefs disagree with him.) And while some comedians might have second thoughts if nobody seems entertained by their shenanigans, Conan always doubles down—if only for his own amusement. (The Argentine gauchos did not enjoy his singing talents.)

Despite all the silliness that’s part of the Conan experience, Conan O’Brien Must Go also manages to have moments of real profundity. For one, Conan uses the Ireland episode to explore his own heritage, culminating with a visit to the patch of rural farmland that belonged to his ancestors. It puts everything into perspective: His forebears fled the Irish famine for America, and their descendant returned with a camera crew and decades of fame and success under his belt. Truly, what are the odds? But what really tugs at the heartstrings is a brief video from the Norwegian fish farmer Kai, who explains how Conan’s visit to his small town completely changed his life. It’s genuinely heartwarming stuff, proving that comedy can achieve more than just laughs when it’s approached with curiosity and empathy.

It’s been three years since Conan last graced our screens, and his absence really underlined that he’s one of one. You can’t imagine anyone else showing up to a foreign country and reacting to situations on the fly without everything falling apart at the seams. But as Conan proved time and again during his late-night tenure, that’s where great comedy can be found: among the people, whether it’s in the streets of Harlem or a Civil War reenactment . Conan’s late-night career went through many phases , all of them worthy, but in retrospect, it feels like the format was holding him back. Conan O’Brien Must Go isn’t just a hilarious return to form: It’s one of the best things he’s ever done. Let’s hope the show’s Season 2 renewal will be a matter of when, not if. With Conan at the helm, there are so many more countries worth exploring—and defiling.

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'Family Guy' Season 22 Is Cancelling Christianity in Epic Time Travel Finale

Brian is using Stewie's time machine for nefarious purposes again.

The Big Picture

• Jesus returns in an epic time-travel finale for Family Guy Season 22.
• Brian falls for a religious woman and tries to go back in time to cancel Christianity so she'll sleep with him.
• The Family Guy finale promises the show's trademark offensive humor and some unexpected twists.

Our dear lord and savior returns to Family Guy in the Season 22 finale. At this point, Jesus has made so many appearances that he might just move in with The Griffins . It's been a while since he's appeared to clarify some things or respond when he's called upon, but tonight he returns in an epic time-travel episode. In an interview with TV Insider , showrunners Richard Appel and Alec Sulkin previewed the season finale, which airs tonight on Fox, and what Jesus has to do with it all.

This time around, he doesn't appear to the characters, and like when he was crucified all those millennia ago, he is seemingly innocent. His only crime is being associated with a religion that puts a damper on Brian's (voiced by Seth MacFarlane ) plans. In the "Faith No More" episode, the official episode synopsis (below) teases another one of Stewie (voiced by MacFarlane) and Brian's classic adventures.

"Brian becomes romantically interested in someone and it inspires him to use Stewie's time machine. Strange consequences result from their journey"

Brian Falls In Love With A Religious Woman

The dog is in love again. He falls in love with a devout vet technician (voiced by Mae Whitman ) and pretends to be religious himself to score with her. However, things don't play out in a neat rom-com manner, something Sulkin calls a mislead. "You go a little bit down a road with something that seems like it could be a Family Guy story, and then it turns into something else," he said.

What does a dog have to do to get frisky when his girlfriend has decided she's not having sex until marriage because she doesn't want to go to hell? For Brian, however, the answer is obvious. The dog will use Stewie's time travel tech . The goal? To cancel Christianity. How? By stopping Jesus before religion was invented and evolved to ruin his chances in the present. Stewie is not one to be left behind during a time-travel adventure, so the duo will jump back in time together.

They find themselves in medieval Israel circa A.D. 30, and they've already messed up. What can go wrong in a place and time they don't understand? And all this just so the dog can get lucky? The last time Jesus was on the show was in Episode 10 of Season 19, as Peter faced off with his mortal enemy: The Giant Chicken. It seems that we should be ready for another round of humor that will most definitely be deemed offensive , with Appel saying, “I never thought I’d hear myself say this as a writer, but the Standards and Practices department at Fox is easy to work with and pretty good with us.”

Catch the Family Guy Season 22 finale tonight on Fox. Stream past episodes on Hulu.

WATCH ON HULU