Weather in Chiang Rai

Planning your time in Chiang Rai? Here you will find the most up-to-date weather information, including detailed forecasts and visual charts, to ensure your trip or walk is as comfortable as possible.

The climate in the city of Chiang Rai, located in Thailand, is characterized as tropical monsoon. This means it is warm here all year round, but with clearly defined seasons differing in rainfall and humidity. Temperature fluctuations throughout the year are moderate, with an average annual temperature of about 25°C, making the city attractive to visit at various times.

Three main seasons can be distinguished. The cool dry season lasts approximately from November to February, when average temperatures range from 20°C to 23°C, and rainfall is minimal (only about 1 mm per month). This is the most comfortable time for a visit. Then comes the hot dry season, from March to April or early May, when temperatures can rise above 34°C, and rainfall is still rare. From May to October, the rainy season dominates in Chiang Rai. This period sees the highest amount of precipitation, especially in July and August (10-12 mm), and the maximum number of rainy days (up to 28 days per month). The temperature in the rainy season remains high, averaging 26-28°C, but the increased humidity may be felt more strongly.

Thus, when planning a trip to Chiang Rai, it is worth considering these seasonal features. If you prefer dry and not too hot weather, the best time to visit is from November to February. Lovers of lush tropical greenery and fewer crowds of tourists might enjoy the rainy season, despite the frequent but usually short-lived downpours.

Chiang Rai experiences a tropical climate with noticeable temperature fluctuations throughout the year. The hottest months are traditionally considered April and May. In April, the average temperature is 28.1°C, and maximum daytime highs can reach 34.4°C. May is also very warm, with an average temperature of 28.2°C. The coolest period falls in December and January, when the average temperature hovers around 20.7-20.8°C, and minimum nighttime temperatures can drop to 14.5°C in January (and 15.5°C in December), creating a pleasant freshness.

The conventionally summer, or hot season, in Chiang Rai covers the period roughly from March to October. The beginning of this season, especially March and April, is characterized by dry heat, when daytime temperatures confidently exceed 30°C (up to 33.5°C in March and 34.4°C in April). From May to October, the weather remains hot, but significant humidity is added to the high temperatures, as this time coincides with the rainy season. Average maximum daytime temperatures in these months range from 28.8°C to 32.9°C, and nights remain warm, with minimum temperatures in the range of 21.5°C to 23.9°C.

The winter period, from November to February, brings cooler and drier weather to Chiang Rai. During the day, the air temperature is usually comfortable, varying from 26.1°C (in December) to 29.9°C (in February). Nights at this time of year can be quite cool, especially in January, when the thermometer drops on average to 14.5°C. A characteristic feature of the climate of Chiang Rai, especially in the dry and cool season (from November to March), is noticeable diurnal temperature variations. The difference between the maximum daytime and minimum nighttime temperature in these months can be from 9.5°C to 14.7°C, while in the wet season, these fluctuations smooth out.

The city of Chiang Rai sees a distinct change in rainfall seasons. The dry season usually lasts from November to April. During this period, rains are extremely rare, and the total amount of precipitation is minimal. For example, in January, February, March, November, and December, only about 1 mm of precipitation falls per month. February stands out as the driest month in terms of rain frequency, counting on average only 2 rainy days.

The rainy season in Chiang Rai falls on the period from May to October. At this time, the amount of precipitation and the number of rainy days increase sharply. The peak of precipitation is observed in August, when an average of 12 mm falls, and it rains for about 28 days a month. July is also very wet, with 10 mm of precipitation and 28 rainy days. Significant amounts of precipitation (8-9 mm) are also recorded in June and September, with more than 20 rainy days registered.

The nature of precipitation in the rainy season likely consists of intense tropical downpours, typical of a monsoon climate. In the dry season, if precipitation does occur, it will most likely be short-lived and insignificant. Thus, when planning a trip, it is worth considering that from May to October the probability of catching rainy weather is significantly higher, while from November to April, dry and sunny weather prevails.

When planning a trip to Chiang Rai, it is important to consider its tropical climate with distinct seasons. From November to February, relatively cool and dry weather settles here. Daytime temperatures are comfortable (averaging 20-23°C), while nights can be cool (around 14-16°C). For this period, light trousers, t-shirts, as well as a sweater or light jacket for evening walks are suitable. There is little precipitation at this time, so an umbrella will most likely not be needed, but sunscreen and a hat remain relevant.

From March to April, the temperature begins to rise, reaching a peak in April (average maximum temperature up to 34.4°C). This is the hottest period, so choose the lightest and most breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Do not forget a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF cream. The amount of precipitation in April begins to increase slightly, but the main rainy season is still ahead.

The rainy season in Chiang Rai lasts roughly from May to October. At this time, temperatures remain high (averaging 26-28°C), but humidity and rainfall increase significantly, especially from June to September, when there can be more than 20 rainy days per month. Be sure to take a light raincoat or waterproof jacket, as well as a compact umbrella. Shoes that dry quickly or are not afraid of moisture are recommended. Despite the cloudiness, sunscreen is still necessary. Insect repellent may also be useful during this period. Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are your best companion in exploring Chiang Rai and its surroundings.