Does it snow in Thailand? Thailand in Winter
Unfortunately the answer to “Does it snow in Thailand?” is no.
I’ve visited Thailand in Winter, and I’m sorry to report that there isn’t any snowfall.
Visiting Thailand is on the bucket list of many backpackers, budget travellers, families and couples alike. It’s got a reputation for good weather, beautiful islands and an abundance of cultural activities.
If it could snow, it would be a country that would look amazing covered in snow and icicles- it truly would be a Winter Wonderland.
Does it snow in Thailand?
Unfortunately, it does not snow in Thailand.
Being a tropical country, it’s EXTREMELY unlikely, if not impossible to have snow here.
This means that sadly, your dreams of ice skating along the Chao Phraya River won’t be happening. Bad news, right? 🙁
It’s worth noting that there is not much snow in Vietnam or any other nearby countries either.
Is there a Winter Season in Thailand?
Yes, Thailand does have a Winter season.
And it’s actually the best months to visit Thailand.
It is the best time due to temperatures being not too warm but not too cold, avoiding the monsoon season (the rainy season which sees heavy rains and floods) and of course, it’s prime time for backpackers as it’s peak tourist season
Backpacking Thailand is an incredible experience, even if there is no snow.
When is Winter in Thailand?
Winter in Thailand is from November until March. Their Winter Solstice is the 22nd of December, one day later than in Western countries.
As I said, this is a great time to avoid the monsoon season, when it rains a lot more, which is between July and October.
Thailand’s tropical climate is so fun, right? The seasons are a bit odd here, as Summer would be classed as March until June.
So Summer comes directly after Winter, pretty much skipping Springtime altogether.
How cold is it in Winter in Thailand?
Although Winter is generally viewed as a cold time of year, in Thailand this isn’t exactly the case.
It’s definitely the cooler months in Thailand, but compared to other parts of the world, it’s a pretty warm place to spend Winter.
Imagine how cold it is in New York in Winter, you won’t get this in Thailand. Take a look for yourself…
| Month | Average Temperature |
|---|---|
| November | 27°C / 82°F |
| December | 28°C / 83°F |
| January | 27°C / 82°F |
| February | 28°C / 83°F |
| March | 30°C / 86°F |
Weather in Thailand in November
Per the temperature chart above, the average temperature in Thailand in November is in the low 80s (which for all the Americans out there, is so nice for this time of year!). What’s more, the rains are less frequent this month, and because the sun is out most of the time, it feels even warmer.
This is great for beach sports and dare I say, ideal for sunbathing because you don’t have that blistering heat you might in other months. Mind you, I still recommend a good SPF sunscreen, because we all know how sneaky UV rays work.
Weather in Thailand in December
As you can see, it’s ever so slightly warmer in December in Thailand. Again, this is unthinkable compared to most travellers’ home country. Being able to sunbathe in Winter?? What??
If you visit Thailand in December, make sure to spend it in northern Thailand, maybe Chiang Mai for example. It’s much cooler up north, but it’s much rainier in southern Thailand. So I suppose it depends on which you prefer.
Weather in Thailand in January / February / March
It’s a new year in Thailand and over the course of these three months, temperatures begin to rise. Reaching 30°C for the first time! Coincidentally, rain becomes less and less frequent but it does become sunnier and drier as Thailand moves towards the end of its dry season.
Sun lover? You’re going to want to be on the west coast, for example, in Phuket. The west coast is always a tiny bit warmer than the east coast at this time of year. You’ll definitely get a sun tan in this weather, that’s for sure!
What to wear in Thailand in Winter
Seeing as Thailand is pretty warm during Winter (even though it’s the cool season), you don’t exactly need to wrap up warm.
Your normal clothes for Summer should suffice. I normally wear shorts and a T-shirt.
You’ll also want to bring stuff for swimming, yes, that’s right, it’s warm enough in the Thai Winter to go swimming. It’s literally like being on holiday in the Summer!
Top Tip: Remember to bring appropriate clothing for visiting temples. As a general rule of thumb, ensure you can cover your shoulders and knees.
3 Best Places to Spend Winter in Thailand
You can spend Winter in Thailand pretty much anywhere, as it’s not exactly “Winter weather”. That being said, the most popular spots to visit in Thailand are Bangkok obviously, Phuket and Chiang Mai. Of course, if you are visiting Thailand on a longer trip like I did, you’ll want to see a lot more of the country.
1. Bangkok
The chances are high that you will fly into Bangkok when visiting Thailand, but it’s also a city filled with hundreds, if not thousands, of fun things to do. From the floating market to Wat Arun Temple, and everything in between, you’ll want to spend some time in Bangkok.
Backpacking Bangkok is incredibly popular too. It’s somewhat considered a “rite of passage” as it’s one of the most popular cities for backpacking in the world.
📍Budget Option- When staying in Bangkok, I recommend the Niras Bankoc Cultural Hostel. It’s right in the centre of Bangkok and has an amazing backpacking community, not to mention the low price. Book your stay by clicking here.
📍 Mid-Range Option- When staying in Bangkok, I recommend the Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok. It’s within easy reach of all the main attractions and is rated very highly. Book your stay by clicking here.
2. Phuket
Since it doesn’t snow in Thailand, you’ll want to take advantage of being by the sea and enjoying the sun in the Winter months. Where better than Phuket? (It’s pronounced Poo-Ket). On top of the sandy beaches, there are an array of things to do and temples to visit. But the beaches are definitely the main attraction, it’s an island at the end of the day. Phang Nga is the most popular beach.
📍Budget Option- When staying in Phuket, I recommend Phuket Sunny Hostel. As with all my suggestions, it’s such great value for money. Only $7 a night but for an amazing hostel (with a working AC!). Book your stay by clicking here.
📍 Mid-Range Option- When staying in Phuket, I recommend Island Escape by Burasari. It’s the highest-rated hotel on booking.com but it’s also very affordable, a pleasant stay, and includes a free breakfast! Book your stay by clicking here.
3. Chiang Mai
Ever imagined jungle trekking in Thailand in the Winter? Chiang Mai is the place to be. This part of Thailand is filled with outdoor adventure, with hundreds of hiking routes. Not to mention the beautiful scenery and temples in the area. Wat Sri Suphan is a great example which combines both the temples and the mountainous landscape. There are so many reasons to visit Chiang Mai.
📍Budget Option- When staying in Chiang Mai, I recommend the Potae’s House hostel. I swear by this hostel, it’s definitely one of the best. Located right in the centre of Chiang Mai too. Book your stay by clicking here.
📍 Mid-Range Option- When staying in Chiang Mai, I recommend the Smile Lanna Hotel. This hotel manages to perfectly balance the luxury of a hotel, with the feeling of being in the jungle. It’s unreal. Book your stay by clicking here.
Has it ever snowed in Thailand?
Now, we did say it’s practically impossible to snow in Thailand. But there is one reported case of the Thai people spotting snow. On the 7th of January 1955, there was snowfall in Chiang Rai. This is the only officially recorded case of snow in Thailand. It lay for around 14 hours before melting and snow has yet to return to Thailand, 67 years later.
Funnily enough, this is the same month in which the lowest temperature in Thailand was ever recorded at 10°C / 50°F.
Does it get Cold in Thailand?
While Thailand is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and warm climate, it’s a little-known fact that yes, it does get cold in Thailand, especially if you’re venturing to the northern regions of the country.
During the winter months, from November to February, temperatures in places like Chiang Mai and the mountainous areas can dip as low as 5°C (41°F) at night. This cooler weather provides a refreshing contrast to the typically hot and humid conditions, making it an ideal time for you to explore the great outdoors.
You might be surprised to find out that even in Bangkok, the bustling capital known for its steamy atmosphere, the temperatures in the cooler months can feel quite brisk in the early mornings and late evenings.
While you won’t need the heavy winter gear that you’d pack for a snowy destination, bringing along a light jacket or a cosy sweater is a smart move and one which I recommend.
FAQs
Unfortunately, as it does not snow in Thailand, you will be unable to go skiing on real snow slopes, as there is no proper snowfall. Alternatively, you can go surfing, or you can go to an indoor ski slope such as Ski365 in Bangkok.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, an in-depth answer to “Does it snow in Thailand?”
Unfortunately, there is no chance of snow – it’s sun all year more or less.
Thailand is definitely a country worth visiting, especially in Winter when it’s the coolest temperatures (but not really cold, right?!) and best weather conditions.
It’s also one of the cheapest seasons to visit Thailand – although Thailand is always cheap to visit year-round.
