Weather in Thailand in July

Is July a good time to visit Thailand?

Heavy rain turns Thailand muddy with increasing frequency during July, but there are still plenty of sunny interludes and the heat is unrelenting as the monsoon season becomes entrenched.  The Andaman coast is particularly wet, but even here there is enough tropical sunshine to catch a tan. This is a good time of year for viewing waterfalls which are in full spate because of the wet weather, or taking on the swollen rivers with white-water rafting. Beware of landslides and flash flooding. The west coast of Thailand can experience some rough seas in July.

Up north in Chiang Mai the forest grows increasingly lush as rainfall increases, and trekking becomes muddy and difficult. 

Ferry services  to the islands are reduced as the number of tourists decreases, and some tourist facilities close down for the wet season.

 

Climate in Thailand in July

With an average rainfall for the month of 178mm, and heavy rain showers experienced in most areas on every second day of the month, Thailand is wet, wet, wet during July. Relative humidity levels of an average 83% add to the discomfort, but the rain brings only little relief from the heat – the average temperature remains constant at 28°C (82.4°F). The Gulf Coast and offshore islands are probably the driest places in Thailand in July. The town of Hua Hin, for example, receives only 100mm of rain for the month, and the island of Koh Samui 123cm – well below the national average.

 

What’s on in Thailand in July

The month of July marks the beginning of the Buddhist Lent (“Phansa”), when the monks retreat to their temples for the rainy season. This event is celebrated particularly well in the towns of Ubon Ratchathani province, which arrange “candle festivals”. Massive elaborate wax sculptures, described by most as “truly amazing”  are paraded through the streets. The best of these parades is held in the city of Isan. In Phuket there is an annual film festival in July, and in Pattaya a marathon along a pleasant beach route.

There is a public holiday in Thailand on 15th July (Asahna Bucha day).

 

What to pack for a holiday in Thailand in July

A swimsuit is vital for a holiday in Thailand in July – doubling as swimwear and rainwear during the wet monsoon season. When shopping or sight-seeing you will need cool, loose, comfortable clothing, with an umbrella in the event of a shower. For jungle-bashing bring a waterproof poncho and footwear that will give you a good grip in the mud. Keep your important documents in a waterproof pouch in case you and your luggage get caught in a deluge.