Some of the greatest routes to explore Thailand in May are recommended in this post. With our Thailand travel packages, you can embrace the unusual and escape the routine. Thailand is a mix of natural beauty, abundant cultural diversity, and never-ending adventure.
Here is the complete guide on Thailand in May
Weather in Thailand in May
Thailand has warm, humid weather in May. Though still rather warm, the temperature is not as high as it was in April. The change from summer to the rainy season occurs in May. Rainfall is thus heavy and irregular throughout this month. In Thailand, May temperatures typically range from 25 to 34 degrees Celsius.
There are notable variations in the local climate throughout this month. Three main zones may be distinguished from the overall diversity seen in different parts of Thailand.
Northern Thailand: Warm and less humid, with greenery beginning to appear as May goes on.
Central Thailand: Shockwaves and increased humidity toward the end of May
Southern Thailand: Near the Gulf of Thailand, there is pleasant weather and more rainfall in the vicinity of the Andaman Coast.
May Season in Thailand
May marks the conclusion of summer and the start of the rainy season. Because of this, there’s a chance that certain areas of Thailand may have strong, irregular thunderstorms in the second half of May. Although the humidity is a little greater in May in Thailand than it was in April, the temperature is still slightly lower. The weather in Thailand in May has to be regularly monitored in order for us to more efficiently organize our schedule.
- Rainfall and strong winds from the Southwest monsoon are present in Phuket’s May weather.
- There will be less rain and more sunlight in Pattaya in May.
- Chiang Mai has pleasant, muggy May weather that is cooler than other places.
- Lower precipitation in Koh Samui’s May weather. It is worthwhile to see the sun-kissed environment.
Places To Visit in Thailand in May
Koh Samui
One of the greatest places to visit in Thailand in May is Koh Samui, the country’s second-largest island. Because of its position, the southwest monsoon winds have little effect on it in May. It receives a lot of sunlight, has a large selection of tourist attractions, and something for everyone.
May is a fantastic month to visit the city due to its temples, beaches, and other attractions. There were many different kinds of rocks on this island, such as elephant rocks and grandpa and grandma rocks. You can combat the heat by going on a climb in the morning and doing beach activities in the afternoon.
Also Read: Thailand in June
Pattaya
Situated 140 kilometers south of Thailand’s capital, Pattaya is a bustling beach city with a luxurious lifestyle. Pattaya has to be on your list of places to visit in Thailand with friends because of its reputation for partying, nightlife, and beaches.
Because there are so many alternatives for both indoor and outdoor activities, Pattaya is one of the greatest destinations to visit in May in Thailand. Pattaya’s most glamorous side is seen during the holidays when tourists from all over the globe flood the city. Adventure and water sports around the beaches in Pattaya are quite popular and often attract visitors.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, is the biggest city in the area. This city has mostly kept its traditional values, unlike other popular tourist sites in Thailand. Chiang Mai is situated between dense woods and mountains on the mainland. Here, the cost of living is less expensive than in competing cities like Bangkok and Phuket.
Recently, Chiang Mai has gained popularity for its agri-tourism, which takes guests to local farms and tribes to educate them about the customs and traditions of the area. Because it has a somewhat lower temperature than other parts of Thailand and has less rain, Chiang Mai is one of the finest destinations to go to in May.
Chiang Rai
Northern Thailand’s Chiang Rai is well known for its stunning scenery and unspoiled beauty. In addition to being surrounded by lush tropical trees and mountains, it is less costly. One of the greatest spots to take advantage of the calm weather is Chiang Rai. The White Temple and Blue Temple are Chiang Rai’s two most visited temples. Singha Park, located in Chiang Mai, is a family-friendly tourist attraction that has an integrated zoo and farm.
The festival of hot air balloons is another feature of Singha Park. Aside from this, Chiang Rai is part of the “Golden Triangle” state, which also includes Laos and Myanmar. In the past, the Golden Triangle was well-known for its opium trafficking. There’s an opium museum nearby as well.
Also Read: Thailand in July
Things to do in Thailand in May
Visit the Gulf of Thailand shoreline
One of the best locations to go and enjoy the weather is the Gulf of Thailand islands. Because the monsoon breeze arrives later in the eastern portion of Thailand, May is a bright and beautiful month to visit the Gulf of Thailand’s coastal districts.
The islands in the Gulf of Thailand are home to magnificent snorkeling locations, white sand beaches, and pure water. In addition, the islands provide the ideal backdrop for water activities like rafting, parasailing, and kayaking. Some of the best islands in Thailand for you to visit include Koh Samui, Pattaya Beach, and Ko Phangan.
Enjoy the city’s attractions
Exploring Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Krabi’s metropolitan attractions is one of the greatest things to do in Thailand in May. These urban attractions, which are ideal to visit in May’s mild weather in Thailand, include shopping centers, zoos, ancient towns, temples, museums, and other recreational facilities.
Because crowd activities tend to taper down at this time, accommodation costs and rent are reduced. For a more affordable way to explore Thai culture, it is thus recommended that you visit the country’s cities in May.
Average Trip Cost for Thailand in May
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Airfare (Round Trip from the UK) | 42000/- – 75000/- INR |
| Accommodation | 1600/- – 3200/- per night (guest houses) |
| Public Transportation | Economical (e.g., tuk-tuks, local buses) |
| Dining Out | 200/- – 500/- per meal (street food/local restaurants) |
Festivals in Thailand in May
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
Also known as Wan Phuet Mongkhon or Farmer’s Day, this public holiday in Thailand is intended to celebrate the start of the rice-growing season.
The event is held at Bangkok’s Sanam Luang, a public area in front of the Grand Palace that sometimes attracts royal guests.
Also Read: Thailand in August
Rocket Festival
The provinces of Ubon Ratchathani, Yasothon, and Nong Khai take part in a celebration when people launch handmade rockets, known as bang fai, into the air. The event is held in the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isan.
The deeply ingrained Laotian custom event takes place in May to officially usher in the rainy season. The purpose of the rockets is to promote precipitation prior to planting season.
Buddha Day (“Visakha Bucha”)
is a Buddhist celebration honoring the Buddha’s birthday and enlightenment. It comes on the sixth lunar month’s full moon day. On this official holiday, devotees visit temples and take part in a procession with candles, incense sticks, and flowers.
Chanthaburi Fruit Day
This vibrant celebration, which takes place in late May or early June, honors the durian and other local fruits. This version, which was formerly known as the World Durian Festival, included fruit competitions and a parade including floats adorned with fruit.
Also Read: Thailand in September
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a good time to visit Thailand in May?
In Thailand, the warm season lasts from March until May. This is the best time of year for beach lovers to visit coastal destinations like Phuket and Krabi since these areas become more and more popular during this season. But it’s important to remember that the heat may be quite strong, particularly in the north and center of the country.
Is it OK to visit Bangkok in May?
It’s not the most popular month in Bangkok to visit in May. Nonetheless, this will be a simple adjustment if you’re accustomed to a tropical summer. Bangkok has hot, muggy weather in May, with highs of thirty to twenty-six degrees. There’s a little warmth in the air and minimal likelihood of rain.
Is Pattaya good in May?
May is an ideal time to visit Pattaya since the city is full of fascinating festivals and events. The Pattaya Music Festival is one of the most well-liked May events; it features world-class performers for three days of nonstop entertainment and music.
Is May dry in Thailand?
In Thailand, especially in the south and center, May is the start of the rainy season. The weather varies across the nation, even if it is not completely dry. The southern beaches get stronger downpours, while the northern and central regions have moderate rainfall.
Showers are frequent, although they usually last for a short while and are rather strong, with sunny intervals in between. Though there are fewer tourists and more verdant surroundings, visitors may still have a great time, but be ready for the possibility of rain during their visit.
