This Is The Very Best Time To Visit Thailand

Has The White Lotus season 3 got you dreaming of a Thailand trip? As the climate crisis shifts seasonality, this perennial winter sun destination is becoming more of a year-round option – meaning Thailand is literally always a good idea. So when are the very best times to visit? Here’s what you need to know.

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand is winter, typically stretching from November to March. This is when Thailand is in its dry season, and though it may be winter, temperatures are at their best. Think toasty temperatures in the early 30s, clear blue skies and around nine hours of sunshine per day – perfect for the beach lounging, island hopping and temple exploring Thailand is known for.

As winter moves into summer, these temperatures soar and start getting pretty uncomfortable – so while Thailand isn’t at its hottest in winter, this season is the best time to visit. This is also when all tourist attractions will be open; some shut during the monsoon season when visitor numbers are lower. One example is the breathtaking Similan Islands, a UNESCO world heritage site comprising 11 islands in the Andaman Sea. A fragile nature reserve, the Similan Islands are closed to visitors from May to October, with some islands – those home to precious sea turtle populations – closed year-round.

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Thailand’s Seasons Explained

Unlike much of the northern hemisphere, a calendar year in Thailand is roughly split into three seasons:

• Rainy season (aka southwest monsoon season): Running from May to October, expect heavy rains and high humidity, with rainfall peaking in September
• Winter (aka cool season): Running from November to February or March, when temperatures are cooler and the rains have stopped, making for sunny and dry weather
• Summer (aka hot season): From March to May, this is when temperatures peak. It’s still relatively dry, but the heat is uncomfortable and intolerable for many.

How Does The Climate Differ From North To South?

The north of Thailand experiences more distinct seasons, while the south is more tropical. Here, the main distinguishing feature is whether the weather is wet or dry; the temperature is relatively consistent. In the north, however, winters can be much cooler, with temperatures dropping into single digits, especially in more mountainous regions.

The north and south are also known for different things. People typically visit the north for culture, history and nature trekking, while the south is known for its beaches, island hopping and the parties that come with it.

Doi Inthanon, Ban Luang, Thailand

Is It Worth Visiting Thailand During The Rainy Season?

Don’t discount the rainy season immediately – especially if you’re looking to avoid the crowds. As climate change shifts weather patterns and money-saving tourists seek discounted holidays, visiting Thailand during its rainy season is increasingly popular.

Stretching from May to October, Thailand’s monsoon season sees temperatures in the late 20s and early 30s – perfect holiday weather. As for the rain, it descends in short, heavy bursts, typically in the late afternoon. This means you can have beautiful sunny mornings and lunchtimes, while the rain provides an excuse for a siesta, cutting through the muggy climate and refreshing the weather for an evening excursion. Popular east coast islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao also generally get less rain than the rest of Thailand, so this is a great time to visit.

The rainiest months are July, August and September, meaning visiting Thailand in May or June can yield relatively dry weather, balmy temperatures, fewer crowds and lower prices.

Which Months To Avoid In Thailand?

March to May, Thailand’s summer – known simply as its hot season – should generally be avoided. This is still the dry season, but temperatures soar into the early 40s and are pretty intolerable, especially in the capital, Bangkok.