Are you looking for a bit cooler season to visit Thailand? Then you can consider going there in April. April marks the end of hot and dry season of the country. As a result, you can expect some rain during this month. But the good news is that you will not experience rains in full force. Hence, you can continue to explore the country with a comfortable weather. There aren’t many tourists in Thailand during April as well. This will help you to avoid crowds and save money. Here’s more details on what to expect in Thailand during April.
The Weather in Thailand in April
April marks the transition from Thailand’s hot, dry season to the wet season. Temperatures start to drop across the country, humidity levels rise, and rainfall increases steadily throughout the month.
In Bangkok and Central Thailand, average highs are around 93°F with increased humidity. Overnight lows dip to the mid-70s. Rainfall averages 2-3 inches over 5-6 days in April, mostly coming in short afternoon thundershowers.
Northern Thailand sees temperatures from 77-86°F and about an inch of rain in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. The hill tribe regions can be a bit cooler with overnight lows around 65°F.
Beach areas like Phuket down south average highs of 90°F dropping to the mid-70s overnight. Rainfall increases to around 4 inches over 4-5 days in April.
The Gulf coast around Koh Samui and Koh Phangan sees daily high temperatures around 90°F with a light breeze off the water keeping things comfortable. Rain picks up to 5-6 inches over 8-10 rainy days.
So, in general, temperatures are hot but not scorching like March with slightly increased humidity and rainfall. The weather is ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and water activities.
Regional Weather in Thailand
Thailand stretches over 1,000 miles from north to south, so the weather can vary across different regions. Here’s a closer look at April weather by region:
- Bangkok and Central Thailand: Hot and humid with highs of 90-95°F. Afternoon thunderstorms bring 2-3 inches of rain over 5-6 days.
- Northern Thailand: Warm and dry with highs of 80-85°F in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Around 1 inch of rain, mostly in the afternoon. Cooler in the mountains.
- Northeast Thailand: Very hot and dry with highs up to 100°F in Nakhon Ratchasima. Less than an inch of rain.
- Gulf Coast: Hot and humid with highs around 90°F in Koh Samui and Krabi. 4-5 inches of rain over 6-8 rainy days. Mostly sunny other than afternoon storms.
- Andaman Coast: High temperatures around 92°F in Phuket and Phi Phi. Increased humidity with 4 inches of rain over 4-5 rainy days.
Overall, April offers warm, mostly dry weather ideal for exploring Thailand’s cities, jungles, and beaches. Just bring an umbrella for occasional storms.
Best Places to Visit in Thailand in April
With the comfortable weather, lower crowds, and lower prices than high season, April is a great time to visit popular spots across Thailand. Here are some of the best places to visit:
Bangkok – Thailand’s bustling capital has warm weather with some afternoon storms in April. Enjoy sightseeing at temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, browse markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market, sample street food at night markets, check out clubs on Khao San Road, and more.
Chiang Mai – The cultural capital of northern Thailand has pleasant weather in April, great for exploring temples like Doi Suthep, walking the old city walls, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and hiking in the surrounding hills.
Phuket – Thailand’s largest island still sees warm weather and possible showers in April, but with fewer crowds and lower prices than winter. Hit up powdery beaches, snorkel and dive around Phi Phi Island, party in Patong, take day trips to secret spots, or indulge in soothing Thai massage in Phuket.
Koh Samui – Prices drop and crowds thin out in April on this Gulf Island. Laze on beaches, check out Big Buddha and Hin Ta Hin Yai, hike to waterfalls, kayak, and more.
Khao Yai National Park – One of Thailand’s most accessible and diverse parks, Khao Yai National Park is located between Bangkok and Khorat. April’s a great time for jungle trekking, waterfall swimming, and wildlife spotting.
Kanchanaburi – Base yourself among beautiful landscapes to visit Erawan Falls, ride elephants at camps, walk the Death Railway, and more in this region west of Bangkok.
Thailand Crowds and Travel Costs in April
April falls in between Thailand’s busy high tourist season and the wet low season. You’ll encounter fewer tourists and often lower hotel rates and airfare compared to late fall through early spring.
In popular destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, hotel rates can be 20-40% cheaper than winter months and flights are less likely to sell out. Resorts and tour operators often run promotions to entice visitors. However, Songkran celebrations mid-month can draw big domestic crowds.
Restaurants and attractions will be less packed except during Songkran. You won’t have to plan as far in advance or deal with sold out activities. Overall, April offers a great mix of ideal weather with lower crowds and prices.
Best Activities and Experiences in Thailand in April
1. Celebrate Songkran in the Streets
Songkran is Thailand’s traditional New Year and one of the major celebrations in the country. Many major cities in Thailand, like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket become a water battleground on a national scale. It is noisy, damp, as well as immensely energetic, but in addition to the rowdiness, you will find simple moments such as a temple visit and water blessings.
2. Swim in Waterfalls
April weather is hot, which means the waterfall will look like a paradise in the cool shadows here. Visit attractions like Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi or Huay Mae Khamin. The water current is still strong, before the rains come, and the area is already looking lush and green.
3. Ride the Canals in Bangkok
April in Bangkok feels like a ball of sweat, but it’s a delight to catch the breeze on your face from a longtail boat carving up the canals. You will see wooden houses, quiet temples, and floating markets that look like a dream from all the chaos of Sukhumvit.
4. Go Night Market Hunting
The daytime can be horrendous, but nights are best spent walking the streets with a cold drink in hand and some grilled skewers on top. The must-visit night markets include Jodd Fairs in Bangkok, the Saturday Walking Street in Chiang Mai, and Chillva Market in Phuket.
5. Watch a Muay Thai Fight
The best way to witness a fight is by seeing it live, and Muay Thai matches are no exception. In the biggest metropolis, you can expect them in every other stadium. Pick a local stadium instead of the big ones for a more authentic experience.
6. Visit Ancient Ruins at Sunrise
Ayutthaya and Sukhothai get very hot by noon, so you should explore them in the morning. Old temples can be explored, and you need to rent a cycle before the sun is up. It’s quiet, the lighting is beautiful, and there’s no midday heat.
Recommended Places to Stay During Your April Trip
⚙︎ Big City Stays
Bangkok’s Riverside is quiet and scenic, close to the Grand Palace and major temples. Sukhumvit is central, modern, and packed with shopping, dining, and nightlife. Ari and Phaya Thai are laid-back, cafe-rich areas with a local vibe yet still near downtown.
⚙︎ Northern Culture Hubs
Chiang Mai’s Old City is walkable, temple-filled, and ideal for first visits. Nimman is trendy, with cafes, boutiques, and digital nomads. The Riverside offers peaceful guesthouses and sunsets. Pai’s center is social and walkable, while its countryside offers quiet bungalows and mountain views.
⚙︎ Southern Beach Hotspots
Phuket’s Kata Beach is relaxed, family-friendly, and great for swimming. Patong Beach is nightlife-heavy, full of hotels and restaurants. Kamala and Surin beaches are quieter, mid-range to upscale, and popular with couples or families looking for a calmer coastal stay.
⚙︎ Island Escapes
Koh Samui offers lively Chaweng for nightlife, quieter Lamai for balance, and Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village for charm and shopping. Koh Tao’s Sairee is the social diving hub, while Ao Leuk and Shark Bay offer quiet coves, snorkeling, and a peaceful atmosphere.
⚙︎ Coastal Adventure Bases
In Krabi, Ao Nang is a convenient base with hotels, restaurants, and day trip access. Railay Beach, reached only by boat, features dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and a remote feel — perfect for rock climbing or unwinding in nature.
Essential Packing Checklist for April Travel in Thailand
- Lightweight cotton or linen tops, shorts or light pants, long-sleeved for temples, and a sarong.
- One or two swimsuits, a light rain jacket or poncho, and a quick-dry towel.
- Sandals or flip-flops for easy removal, and sneakers or light walking shoes.
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+), mosquito repellent, and after-sun gel or aloe.
- Mini toiletries, meds (packing in pillboxes is preferable), and a small emergency kit that includes Neosporin.
- Passport plus copies, travel insurance, cards, and Thai baht cash.
- Phone with charger, power bank, universal adapter for charging, waterproof pouch, daypack or a lightweight bag to use as personal carry-on, sunglasses and suntan lotion, and a reusable bottle can be helpful.
Must-Try Thai Dishes During April Travels
1. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
April is peak mango season. Ripe, sweet mango served with coconut-scented sticky rice and a drizzle of salty-sweet coconut cream. You see it from street carts to high-end restaurants.
2. Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad)
The broth is tangy, spicy, and mildly sweet. Green papaya, chilis, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts. It is light, refreshing, and would be perfect for a hot day.
3. Pad Thai
Thailand’s most famous noodle dish. Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, tofu or shrimp, tamarind sauce, and peanuts. Street vendors often make it better than the tourist restaurants.
4. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
Hot, sour, and full of lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, chili, and prawns. It’s a bold dish that still feels light. Good for when you want something with a kick.
5. Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken)
Smoky marinated chicken, grilled over charcoal and often served with sticky rice and spicy dipping sauce. Common in the north and northeast. Great with a cold beer.
6. Larb (Spicy Meat Salad)
Minced meat (often pork or chicken) tossed with lime juice, chili, herbs, and toasted rice powder. Popular in Isaan cuisine. Strong, tangy flavor.
7. Khao Soi
A northern Thai curry noodle soup made with crispy and boiled egg noodles, a rich coconut curry broth, and usually chicken or beef. If you’re in Chiang Mai, don’t skip it.
8. Pad Kra Pao (Basil Stir-Fry)
Stir-fry meat (mainly pork or chicken) with holy basil, garlic, and chili. Typically served over rice with a sunnyside-up egg. It’s spicy, fast, and addictive.
9. Gaeng Keow Wan (Green Curry)
Coconut-tomato paste with green chile, Thai eggplant, and sweet basil, and is usually cooked with chicken or fish balls.
10. Khanom Buang (Thai Crispy Pancakes)
Street snacks featuring a baked shell, meringue interior, and sweet or savory toppings. They are available in the markets, especially during festivals like Songkran.
What to Wear in Thailand This April
April’s increased humidity and rain call for a slightly different wardrobe than Thailand’s dry season. Here are some packing tips:
- Breathable, lightweight fabrics: Cotton, linen, rayon
- Light pants and skirts: Capris, midi skirts
- Shorts and short sleeve shirts
- Sweat-wicking tees for activity days
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Walking sandals: Tevas, Chacos
- Water shoes for waterfalls
- Bathing suit
- Sun protective hat & sunglasses
- Bug spray with DEET
- Small umbrella
Pack layers you can add or remove as unpredictable April weather shifts. A light jacket or hoodie for air-conditioned spaces is a good call. Overall, you can leave the heavy gear behind and pack for warm tropical weather, while adding protection from sun and rain.
In summary, April brings ideal weather to Thailand as the hot season winds down and before the major monsoon rains hit. Temperatures are still warm but more comfortable for exploring the country’s top destinations among fewer tourists and lower costs than other months. With occasional afternoon thunderstorms, be prepared with an umbrella and light rain jacket to enjoy Thailand in April.
