The climate in Thailand

Influenced by the seasonal monsoon winds, Thailand enjoys a tropical climate that varies from one region to another. On one hand, its climate experiences the southwest monsoon starting in early May, bringing in hot and humid air from the Indian Ocean. On the other hand, the northeast monsoon affects its climate in August, blowing cold and dry winds from the anticyclone over mainland China. Generally, the Thai climate can be summarized into two distinct seasons: a dry season and a rainy season. The country lies within a tropical zone, just 15 degrees from the equator, resulting in thermal stability throughout the year. The average annual temperature ranges between 19°C and 38°C.

General characteristics of two climate seasons

Rainy season

With the southwest monsoon, the rainy season begins in May and lasts until October. The movement of air brought by the monsoon causes significant rainfall over most parts of the country. Rainfall disparities are considerable and depend on the geographical location and relief of each region. Rainfall is abundant on the western coast and decreases as you move north and toward the Korat Plateau in the east.

Dry season

Driven by the northeast monsoon, the dry season occurs from mid-March to early June. It is shorter in the south due to its proximity to the sea, while it is longer in the northeast. The heat can be oppressive, so it's essential to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated regularly. During this season, it's preferable to visit the coasts to enjoy the sea. You can also head to the highlands of Chiang Mai, where you can find some coolness in the evenings.

The regional climate in Thailand

Northern part

The northern part of Thailand, especially Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, and Chiang Mai, experiences a long dry and cold season due to high mountains. Between December and January, nighttime temperatures drop to 5 °C. In Mae Hong Son, temperatures can drop to 2 °C at night. This part of the country experiences an intermediate season known as the cool season.

Central part

In the central part of the country, such as in the Nakhon Sawan region, Sara Buri, or Bangkok metropolis, the dry season starts in mid-November and ends in mid-February. It brings clear, bright weather, relatively warm temperatures, but cool mornings and evenings. Between April and May, the region experiences a hot season, with temperatures sometimes rising up to 40 °C.

Southern part

The regions in the south experience only two climate seasons. However, it is divided into two: the southeast and the southwest, which do not experience the rainy season at the same time. The monsoon extends to the west between June and August, while rains reach the eastern part from mid-October to mid-December.