Thailand has three seasons: wet, cool, and hot. While most people prefer to come while it’s cool, each season has its charms.
The wet season runs from May to October, with most of the rain coming in September and October. Typically it will rain every day, almost at the same time of day, but it can be unpredictable. The humidity builds between showers to just under 80% and temperatures reach about 29C. When the rain comes there is a lot of it. Umbrellas are of no use; the roads flood easily. But when it rains, it’s awesome to behold, and the air is clean, clear, and cool when it’s done. Prices on hotels are also more reasonable during this time of year and there are fewer tourists at the local attractions. If you want a quieter vacation and enjoy watching rain, this is the time to come.
The cool season is from November to February, and is the most comfortable time to be in Thailand. Average temps are about 24C, and can drop to 20C at night and the humidity drops to about 70%. If you come from a warm climate, you might even want a light sweater at night. This is the time to do some sightseeing in the city or go on hikes in one of the parks. Thailand also goes all-in for Christmas, celebrating from November to the end of January. You’ll enjoy lots of beautiful decorations and performances at the malls and parks. Because of the relatively mild weather, this is the time when most tourists come to Thailand for vacation. Prices for hotels will go up, and attractions will be more crowded.
The hot season goes from March to May; temperatures average 34C but can go up to 40C and humidity ranges from 70% to 75%. With the increase in temperature and humidity, you are almost guaranteed to sweat through your shirt while sightseeing. This is the ideal time to go south to one of the beach towns or an island. It may be hot and humid, but at least you can cool off in the ocean. Hotel prices are a bit more reasonable, and there are fewer tourists. If you can, try to schedule your trip so you’re here over April 13th-16th for Songkran. This is Thailand’s traditional Thai New Year; a time of symbolic cleansing, reverence, and good fortune. What was once a quiet tradition of pouring scented water over the heads of buddha statues and the hands of monks has now evolved into a nation-wide water fight complete with water guns. Just step outside, and you will be blessed with good fortune by a group of teens with a bucket of water from the back of a passing pickup truck.
