Thailand's climate is tropical with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The weather in Thailand tends to be defined by three seasons:
cool season (November to February)
hot season (March to May)
wet season (May to October)
Cool Season in Thailand
The cool season in Thailand normally runs from November through February. The cool season brings cooler temperatures, more comfortable humidity and less rainfall. It makes the cool season the best time of the year to visit much of Thailand. It will still feel hot, unless you are coming from another tropical country. In December northern part of the country experiences a short cold period and it can get quite chilly in the North and Northeast of Thailand.
During the cool season the west coast of Thailand has the best weather and the Andaman Sea is also calm that makes it a perfect time to visit places such as Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak and Koh Phi Phi islands.
The cool season sees the east coast of Thailand (the gulf coast) getting consistent rain between October and January, peaking in November. That makes places such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Ko Tao not that attractive for a beach vacation.
Hot Season in Thailand
The hot season in Thailand normally runs from March through May. The hot season is most notable in the North of Thailand. Temperatures are more changeable throughout the year in places like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai where average temperatures peak at around 37oC in April. This part of the country experiences minimal breeze and very little rainfall in the hot season.
The hot season is less felt in the South of Thailand.
Wet Season in Thailand
The wet season in Thailand normally runs from May through October (except of the east coast). During the wet season warm humid air comes and it results in abundant rain throughout these months. The rain isn't constant in the early months of the season as usually it rains just for one or two hours. The heaviest rain is falling in September and October. When the rain is at it's heaviest and most persistent, flash flooding can occur.
On the west coast of Thailand the wet season usually starts at April or May and lasts until late November. Places in the Andaman Sea region such as Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak and Koh Phi Phi islands are a risky choice if you are expecting perfect beach vacation.
On the east coast of Thailand the wet season usually starts at October and can last until January. Places in the gulf coast region such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Ko Tao get more than enough rain during the period so you should avoid them if getting wet isn't included in your trip plan.
Weather of Thailand Regions
Thailand is big and at the same time the weather may vary a lot in different regions of the country. If specific part of Thailand is in your trip plan, check the weather of Thailand regions.
Thailand Weather by Month
Thailand weather changes quite drastically throughout the year. Check Thailand weather by month and get an idea what weather should be expected at the time of your visit to Thailand.
Best Time to Visit Thailand
When is the best time to visit Thailand? The peak tourism season of Thailand is the cool season lasting from November to February when the weather is coolest and driest. Visiting the country during the peak tourism season has it's pros and cons so you better check what is the best time for you to fulfil your own trip itinerary!
THAIest Last Updated: 01 May 2020