Thailand is one of those rare places that genuinely works all year round — but "works" and "wow" are different things.
The short answer
For most travellers, November to February is the sweet spot. It's the dry season across most of the country, with daytime temperatures in the late 20s and low 30s, low humidity, and clear skies. It's also peak season — expect higher prices and busier temples, which is exactly why we book our packages early.
March to May brings serious heat (35°C and up in Bangkok and Chiang Mai) before the monsoon rolls in around May. June to October is the green season: dramatic storms, usually in short bursts, but also lush landscapes, lower prices and far fewer people. On the Gulf islands like Koh Samui, the wet season actually arrives later, from October to December.
Month by month
November – February: the golden window
This is Thailand at its most reliable. The Andaman coast — Phuket, Krabi and Phi Phi — is at its best: calm seas, turquoise water, and sunsets that actually happen. Chiang Mai is cooler and perfect for temple mornings and trekking. If you're planning a honeymoon or a first family trip, this is the window we recommend first. The trade-off is cost: flights and hotels run 20–40% higher than the green season, and the popular spots are busy. Book early — our packages for this window sell out first.
March – April: hot, but the north shines
By April, Bangkok is a furnace. The saving grace is Songkran, the Thai New Year water festival in mid-April — a genuinely joyful nationwide water fight that kids and adults both lose their minds over. The heat also makes this a great time for pool-heavy beach packages rather than heavy sightseeing, and the north (Chiang Mai) is noticeably more comfortable than the cities and coasts.
May – October: the green season
Rain here rarely means all-day downpours. You'll get a heavy shower, often late afternoon, then clear skies. The Andaman coast can be rough — some boat trips pause — so we steer travellers toward the Gulf islands, which stay drier. Prices drop, the countryside turns electric green, and waterfalls are full. It's underrated: if you don't mind a bit of humidity, you'll save real money and see the country at its most lush.
Region by region
- Bangkok — driest November to February; hottest March to May; wettest September to October.
- Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi — best November to April; monsoon May to October.
- Koh Samui & the Gulf — best December to April; wettest October to November.
- Chiang Mai — best November to February; burning season (agricultural smoke) peaks March to April.
Which month suits which traveller?
Honeymooners after the classic postcard beaches should lock in November to February. Families tied to the school Easter or summer holidays might find the Gulf islands a smarter bet in July and August, when the Andaman side is wet. And if you're flexible and budget-conscious, the shoulder months of October and late February deliver great value with genuinely good weather.
A note on festivals
Two dates are worth planning around. Loy Krathong (usually November) sees thousands of floating lanterns released on rivers and lakes — Chiang Mai's version is the one in every photo. And Songkran (mid-April) is a full-country water festival that's enormous fun with kids but will soak you to the bone. Both make for memorable timing if they line up with your dates.
Our honest recommendation
We tell our couples and families the same thing: pick your coast first, then pick your dates. If you want the limestone islands and Phi Phi, aim for November to April. If you want lower crowds and don't mind a daily shower, the green season can be magic. Check out our Bangkok to Chiang Mai family trip or the Phuket & Krabi honeymoon — both are timed to the best months. Not sure where to start? Call us on 020 7946 0958 and we'll match your dates to the right coast in about five minutes.
Quick questions, answered
Is Thailand worth visiting in the rainy season?
Often, yes. Rain usually comes in short afternoon bursts, prices drop, and the countryside turns green. If you're set on beach time, we steer you toward the Gulf islands (Koh Samui) between May and October, which stay noticeably drier than the Andaman coast.
What's the hottest month?
April is typically the hottest, particularly inland — Bangkok and Chiang Mai regularly pass 35°C. It's also when Songkran (mid-April) turns the whole country into a water fight, which is a highlight for families.
How far ahead should I book flights?
For the November-to-February peak, six months or more gets you the best fares and room choice. We bundle flights into our packages, so you're locked in from day one.
Can you help me pick exact dates?
Yes — that's what we're here for. Tell us your window and who's travelling, and we'll line your dates up with the right coast. Call 020 7946 0958.
