Thailand weather

Thailand is split between two separate climates. The north features a savannah climate with three distinct seasons whereas the south is said to have a tropical monsoon climate and only two seasons. The city of Bangkok in central Thailand is commonly used to represent the boundary between north and south.

The peak season in Thailand is from November to March but July and August are also popular times to visit. During these summer months there is minimal rainfall and temperatures are still bearable in the north and centre. Cool, dry breezes blow across the land courtesy of the northeast monsoon in China whilst the sun shines down for nine hours of the day.

A climate chart showing the weather in Bangkok, Thailand. Featuring monthly temperature forecasts and mean expected rainfall.

The hottest months fall in April and May immediately before the arrival of the southwest monsoon. In the north temperature can reach in excess of 40°C and a good idea might be to retreat to the southern beaches where temperatures are more regular throughout the year.

The rainy season arrives at different times depending upon the region: north, southwest and southeast. The most rainfall tends to occur in the month of October however as a general rule rainfall is usually an hour long affair in the middle of the afternoon. The combination of high temperature and humidity tends to make the rainy season feel oppressive however this can be balanced with fewer visitors, lush green landscape and four to five hours of sunshine per day.

Northern Thailand weather

Rainy season

The southwest monsoon brings rainy weather and storms to the north of Thailand from May – November.

Hot dry season

The hot dry weather affects northern Thailand from March to May.

Cool dry season

November to February brings a cool breeze and lower temperatures to the region. This is the most popular time to visit the northern cities and attractions.