Chiang Mai Weather, When to Go and Climate Information

(Chiang Mai, Thailand)

The climate is Chiang Mai falls into three main seasons, although throughout the year, temperatures are often above or close to 30°C / 86°F. Many tourists choose to stay in Chiang Mai during December and February, when the weather is at its driest and there is plenty of sunshine. Temperatures at this time of the year hover around 28°C / 82°F or 29°C / 84°F, rising towards the end of February.

Those who worship the sun should consider a visit to Chiang Mai in April, the hottest month. However, for many, the high temperatures during April can be a little hot, since they can reach 40°C / 104°F at times.

Seasonal Climate Variations / When to Go

In general, the climate in Chiang Mai can be categorized as three rather distinctive seasons. From the end of October to February, the 'cool season' is particularly appealing and noticeably cooler at night, when it can feel rather chilly. Those visiting Chiang Mai at Christmas time will need to dress accordingly, wearing jumpers and jackets on the coldest days. March to May sees a sharp rise in temperatures and plenty of sunny weather, while from June to late October, expect to experience frequent rain and thundery showers.

Chiang Mai's rainy season is typical of the weather and climate in Thailand, when monsoons are commonplace, arriving from India. However, even the rainiest days are generally interspersed with fine spells and there is some sunshine on occasion. The precipitation levels in September alone are around 250 mm / 9.8 inches, with rainy weather most likely during the afternoons and occasionally overnight. With lower levels of humidity than more southerly locations in Thailand, Chiang Mai's climate usually feels pleasant and rarely sticky, even during the hottest spells.

Chiang Mai Weather and Climate Chart (Averages)

	Maximum	Minimum
January	29°C / 84°F	13°C / 55°F
February	32°C / 90°F	14°C / 57°F
March	34°C / 93°F	17°C / 63°F
April	36°C / 97°F	22°C / 72°F
May	34°C / 93°F	23°C / 73°F
June	32°C / 90°F	23°C / 73°F
July	31°C / 88°F	23°C / 73°F
August	31°C / 88°F	23°C / 73°F
September	31°C / 88°F	23°C / 73°F
October	31°C / 88°F	21°C / 70°F
November	30°C / 86°F	19°C / 66°F
December	28°C / 82°F	15°C / 59°F