Thailand's tropical climate brings distinctive rainy seasons that usually last from May to October. Although the monsoon rains deter some travellers, visiting during this atmospheric time of year has advantages. Learn when and where the wet seasons occur and how to make the most of travel in Thailand when the lush landscapes come to life. With fewer tourists and lower prices, the rainy months can be ideal for experiencing the authentic charms of Thailand.
When is rainy season in Thailand?
Thailand’s wet season typically lasts from May to October, but because monsoons are literal forces of nature, they arrive on their own schedule and depend on several factors, including topography, location, and annual wind patterns.
It starts with lighter rains that become heavier as the season carries on, and the rains tend to come in concentrated bursts throughout the day and night rather than a consistent light rain all day. Travellers tend to visit Thailand from November to February, the country’s peak season, for the best weather.
Thailand’s rainy season affects different regions of the country at various times and in different ways, and the conditions vary from place to place. Most of the country’s wet season is caused by a southwest monsoon, but a few areas are also affected by a northeast monsoon.
In northern regions, such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pai, the rains usually begin in June before gradually ending in October. Chiang Mai’s rainy season features heavier pours in September and October, and flooding might occur in some places.
Southern Thailand – including Phuket, Koh Phangan, Krabi, Koh Tao, and Koh Samui – gets two different monsoons from May through October and from October through December.
In central Thailand, including Bangkok and the ancient capitals of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, the monsoon tends to bring constant high humidity and dramatic thunderstorms in late mornings and afternoons. However, Bangkok's rainy season is not as intense as in other parts of the country.
In Thailand’s eastern regions, including popular vacation spots like Pattaya, Koh Chang, and Rayong, the monsoon usually begins in May, and rainfall can be heavy before tapering in October.
Monsoon season travel tips
If you plan on visiting Thailand over the monsoon season, it helps to keep an open mind as your plans depend on the weather. While it's raining, getting transport including ferries and flights is tougher. Pre-booked outings like tours might get paused until the rain stops.
1. Understand that the rain is intermittent
Unlike what some travellers envision, monsoon season in Thailand does not mean all-day downpours. In most parts of the country, short and intense storms might last a few hours, but the weather is pleasant and sunny for the rest of the day.
In Bangkok, for example, the rains tend to concentrate in the late afternoon and early evening, with occasional storms in the late morning. When it rains, take time to explore the city’s museums or book a leisurely Thai massage and save outdoor destinations, such as river cruises and temple visits, for midday when the weather usually clears.
2. Prepare for high humidity
Across most of the country, the monsoon is accompanied by high humidity around the clock. The country's northern regions, including Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, are the exception. These areas receive less overall rain, and their higher elevations make them drier than the rest of Thailand.
3. Pack rain gear
Travel in Thailand during the rainy season often requires raincoats, umbrellas, boots, waterproof phone cases, and plenty of bug spray, but those items are easily (and cheaply) purchased just about anywhere including the ubiquitous 7-Elevens.
4. Savour the greenery
Thailand’s rainy season is when plants and flowers are in full bloom, and rice paddies are green and thriving. Embrace the rains and book a bungalow in the middle of a rice paddy or a treehouse in the jungle. When it pours, sit on your balcony with a book and a cup of tea and revel in the renewal happening around you.
5. Enjoy lower prices and smaller crowds
Some travellers avoid visiting Thailand during the monsoon season and opt for the high season months when beaches, attractions, flights, and trains are filled to capacity. But planning your visit during the rainy season has many advantages including the chance to discover this beautiful country at a slower pace. Prime attractions and top-rated hotels often offer unbelievably low prices during Thailand's monsoon season to encourage bookings. Likewise, you might find yourself the only guest on a tour or the only person on a deserted beach.
Overall, don't let the wet months dampen your spirit as Thailand’s rainy season can be magical. With fewer visitors, it’s easier to linger and enjoy popular attractions as well as get off the beaten track and discover the country’s green and authentic heart. See you monsoon!
