How to avoid the heat? When does the monsoon fall? Many of you ask us, when visiting us, when is the best time to travel to the land of smiles
When to travel to Thailand ? That is a common question among travelers who dream of exploring our country. Thailand is known for its rich culture, beautiful beaches, and tasty food, but it is also famous for its heavy rains and heat. Humidity and high temperatures are two variables to take into account when planning your trip.
Probably the most welcoming country in the world
Traveling to Thailand is a fantastic experience throughout the year, since even during the monsoon season, the rainy season in Thailand, rainfall is intermittent. The days alternate between occasional torrential rains and sunny moments, which allows you to take advantage of clear moments to make your visits.
In general, the ideal months are from the end of November to the beginning of March. During this period, the rains are scarce and the temperatures are quite pleasant. On the other hand, the least recommended months are September and October, when the rains are intense in almost the entire country. But in this article we are going to see in detail the keys to the weather in Thailand to identify when is the ideal time to visit this fascinating country.
Considering the differences between regions and climatic variations in Thailand, it is important to note that the country experiences three seasons in the north: the cool, cold, and wet seasons. On the other hand, in the south, there are only two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
Beyond the embarrassment
Thailand has a tropical climate that is not supported by everyone. It is generally hot all year round and although the weather can vary by region and season: Thailand is a hot country. But it can also be a particularly rainy country! The monsoon season is an important factor to consider when deciding when to travel to Thailand, which is affected by two monsoons: the southwest monsoon and the northeast monsoon, resulting in climatic differences between the different areas of the country.
The monsoons affect mainly between the months of May and October. During the monsoon season, the rain in Thailand falls in strong and windy gusts, especially on the west and south coast, considerably limiting plans such as enjoying the incredible beaches of the country, and making it impossible for many to be the best time to travel to Thailand.
There are some parts of the country of smiles, such as the east and north coasts, which are not as affected by the rains during May and October, and may be the best time to travel to Thailand.
If you want to avoid the rainy season, the dry season in Thailand runs from February to May and marks a transition period between the monsoons. During this time, temperatures are warmer and rainfall is low, with April being the hottest month. During these months, the climate is drier and the temperatures are more moderate. It’s a perfect time to enjoy Thailand’s beautiful beaches and explore the country’s cultural wonders. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak season in Thailand (you can’t have everything), which means there will be more tourists and prices may be higher.
If you’d rather avoid the crowds, consider traveling in the off-season, which is March through April or July through October. During these months, the weather is still warm, but there are fewer tourists and it is possible to find better deals on accommodation and activities. For many it is the best time to travel to Thailand. If you are planning to visit Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, the weather may be a little different.
If you’d rather avoid the crowds, consider traveling in the off-season, which is March through April or July through October. During these months, the weather is still warm, but there are fewer tourists and it is possible to find better deals on accommodation and activities. For many it is the best time to travel to Thailand. If you are planning to visit Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, the weather may be a little different.
The climate of a big city
Bangkok has a hot and humid climate throughout the year. The average temperature ranges between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius. In addition, traffic, air conditioners and the layout of the streets can further increase the sensation of heat, although there are parks and venues where, thanks to the vegetation and water, the thermal sensation is low. Although visiting Bangkok almost always means braving high temperatures, the best time to visit the city is during the coolest months, from November to February. During these months, the weather is more pleasant and there is less humidity in the air.
Sametnangshe, view of mountains in Phangnga bay with mangrove forest in Andaman sea, Thailand
The best time to visit the Andaman Sea
In this region, the rainy season runs from May to October, with August and September being the rainiest months and January the ideal month, with pleasant temperatures and little rainfall. However, the rains tend to be concentrated at certain times of the day. The dry season runs from November to April, so this would be the best time to travel to Thailand and to visit the beaches. And it is that, surely, your trip to Thailand includes the Andaman Sea, with destinations such as Phuket, Phi Phi, Krabi or the Similan Islands.
When to visit the Gulf of Thailand?
To visit this region, you can travel between December and March, coinciding with the dry season. Other favorable months to visit this area are July and August, which, despite being monsoon months, have less rain. If you plan to travel to the Gulf of Thailand coast to visit Koh Tao, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, it is best to avoid the rainy season, which is usually from October to December. Although the rains do not last all day and once they stop, the sun comes out again, but for some tourists the feeling of humidity can be unpleasant.
Green rice terrace field in Chiangmai, Thailand
How to equip yourself for your trip? Our Top 3
The backpack of a traveler determined to get to know the land of smiles in depth must be equipped with the necessary materials to be able to cope with some discomfort from the inclement weather in Thailand and the exotic fauna.
1- Mosquito repellent: IM-PRES-CIN-DI-BLE. When traveling to Thailand, it is essential to choose a mosquito repellent suitable for tropical climates. If you don’t take precautions, mosquitoes will attack you mercilessly.
2- Anti-bite cream: exact, to alleviate the effects of those especially resistant mosquitoes.
3- Some long clothes: it is essential to wear long pants or a skirt that covers the ankles, along with a scarf that covers the shoulders. In certain temples, such as the Royal Palace in Bangkok, a long-sleeved shirt or T-shirt is required as covering the shoulders with a scarf is not allowed.
