THAILAND RAINY SEASON – ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Thailand’s rainy season is wet and unpredictable but it can be much cheaper and quieter – so we share tips for the rainy season in Thailand.

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of visiting a tropical country? Chances are you want to check the weather to find out when would be the best time to travel. The last thing you want is to spend your vacation stranded inside a hotel because there’s a storm alert in your area.

Thailand, with its idyllic coastline, ethereal temples, bustling street markets, and sprightly nightlife is the ideal spot for enjoying a tropical escapade. There’s a reason why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.

What’s the Best Time to Visit Thailand?

Ideally, you’d want to plan your vacation between December and March, when the weather in most parts of Thailand is bright and sunny. But this doesn’t mean you can’t travel to this tropical paradise at any other time of the year.

With a bit of planning and foresight, it’s possible to enjoy the most memorable vacation even in the rainy season in Thailand. Better still, there are many perks to visiting Thailand during this time of the year. 

But if this is going to be your first trip to the country, then it’s natural to wonder about things going wrong. What if it rains throughout your holiday and you end up spending most of your time inside the hotel? What if you get stranded on one of the islands during your excursions?

The good news is that visiting during the rainy season is safe for tourists. The worst thing that can happen is that you’d have to make a few modifications to your itinerary. But as long as you keep an eye on the weather and plan your day excursion accordingly, you’re going to have a memorable trip.

In this blog, we’ve compiled all the information you need about visiting Thailand during the rainy season. Let’s take a look.

When is Rainy Season in Thailand?

The rainy season in Thailand stretches from June to October. But if you’re visiting in June or July, you’re only going to experience occasional spells of shower and light drizzle. It isn’t until August that the rain gods unleash their benevolence on the Thai landscape.

But the weather is still erratic in August. The entire month is interspersed with dry spells followed by a couple of days of heavy rainfall. The skies are usually overcast but you can still manage a few outdoor excursions.

September is one of the wettest months in Thailand. The southern part of the country receives ample rainfall throughout the day. But regions in northern Thailand, such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, are prone to frequent showers during the early morning and evening. 

This means you can still go out sightseeing and shopping during the day. But you should prepare for light showers whenever you’re going out. Also, the weather can be pretty humid during this time of the year.

The first few weeks of October are strewn with heavy downpours, particularly in the morning and evening. In some parts of the country, including central and southern Thailand, the rainy season could stretch till the beginning of November.

Should You Travel to Thailand During the Rainy Season?

The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as “yes” or “no”. It depends on your travel preferences. If you’re someone who enjoys the spontaneity and impulsiveness of travel, then you’re going to love Thailand during the rainy season.

While you may not be able to indulge in touristy activities, such as adventure sports and swimming, you can still have a culturally enriching experience with Thailand’s myriad museums, temples, aquariums, and other indoor attractions.

The good thing about traveling during this time is that you can steer clear of the crowds. Considering that it’s considered the off-peak season in Thailand, you can also expect great deals on accommodation and flights.

Also, this means you can explore the local markets and eateries at your pace. You don’t have to worry about reaching every place at the right time to grab a good spot. Plus, it’s during the rainy season that Thailand’s rural landscape comes to life with lush greenery and meandering rivers.

But you should be prepared to make some adjustments to your itinerary based on the day’s weather. Also, expect to carry your poncho, umbrella, and other waterproof accessories during all your excursions.

Tips for Braving the Rainy Season in Thailand

Thailand is one of those destinations where you don’t need to do much to enjoy a memorable holiday. But if you’re traveling between August and October, it’s a good idea to watch out for the weather. Use a reliable weather app or website to check the forecast in Pattaya, Phuket, Bangkok, and other parts of the country. There are many ways you can choose to travel from Bangkok to Pattaya or other destinations in Thailand, but during the rainy season, avoid ferries and boats; these can be canceled or delayed.

Make sure you leave ample wiggle room in your itinerary to accommodate any changes due to inclement weather. Explore indoor recreation opportunities wherever you visit. Don’t forget to pack clothes that dry easily.

Also, make sure you wear non-slip footwear and carry an umbrella. Bring waterproof bags for your camera, smartphone, and important documents. Lastly, don’t forget to keep a waterproof rucksack handy whenever you go sightseeing.

Have you ever visited Thailand during the rainy season? Share your experience in the comments section below.