☀️ Weather + Seasons
👍 When to go there
🔎 Weather in Months
❓ Questions + Answers
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What is the weather in Chiang Rai in Thailand?
Welcome to Chiang Rai, a hidden gem located in the northern part of Thailand! This beautiful city is renowned for its tropical savanna climate, which is characterized by two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. Overall, Chiang Rai is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, this beautiful city is sure to leave you with lasting memories!
☀️ The dry season in Chiang Rai runs from November to April, while the rainy season runs from May to October. During the dry season, you can expect warm and sunny weather with average daytime temperatures of around 30°C (86°F) and nighttime temperatures of 15°C (59°F). It’s the perfect time to explore the city’s beautiful temples and natural attractions, such as the Mae Fah Luang Gardens and the Kok River.
⛈️ The rainy season in Chiang Rai brings more frequent and intense rainfall, particularly during August and September. While this may put a damper on some of your outdoor plans, it also means that the surrounding landscapes are lush and green, making for some beautiful photo opportunities.
Apart from the weather, there’s so much to see and do in Chiang Rai! For instance, you can visit the world-famous White Temple, which is known for its intricate and ornate architecture, or explore the Black House art museum, which features a collection of unique and eclectic artwork. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also trek through the mountains and jungles surrounding the city, or take a boat ride along the Mekong River to the Golden Triangle region where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge.
What is the best time to visit Chiang Rai?
The best time to visit Chiang Rai is during the dry season, which spans from November to February. The weather during this time is cool and comfortable, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The average temperature ranges from 15 to 29 degrees Celsius, with low humidity levels and plenty of sunshine.
March to May is also a good time to visit Chiang Rai, as the weather is still relatively dry and temperatures begin to rise, peaking in April. However, the heat can be quite intense during the day, so it’s best to plan your outdoor activities during the early morning or late afternoon.
The rainy season, which starts from May and lasts till October, can bring heavy downpours and occasional floods to Chiang Rai. While the countryside becomes lush and green, trekking and outdoor activities become more challenging. However, the rain usually falls in short bursts, and the weather can still be enjoyable in between showers.
If you are planning to visit Chiang Rai during the rainy season, it’s best to pack rain gear and waterproof shoes. The upside of visiting during this time is that there are fewer crowds and prices for accommodation and tours are usually lower. In conclusion, the best time to visit Chiang Rai is during the dry season from November to February, although March to May can also be a good time. What is the current weather in Chiang Rai? ➜ Current weather in Chiang Rai.
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Weather in Chiang Rai throughout the year:
| Month | Weather Description |
|---|---|
| January | In January, Chiang Rai experiences cool and dry weather, making it one of the best months to visit this charming city in northern Thailand. The average temperature ranges from around 12°C (53.6°F) to 26°C (78.8°F), and the humidity is relatively low. Visitors can expect plenty of sunshine and clear blue skies during the day, although it can get quite chilly at night, so it’s important to pack some warm clothing. Rainfall is minimal in January, with an average of only 8 mm spread across the month. Overall, January is a great time to explore Chiang Rai’s natural beauty and cultural attractions without the crowds and discomfort of the hot and humid summer months. |
| February | February is still part of the cool and dry season in Chiang Rai, but temperatures begin to warm up slightly compared to January. The average high temperature is around 28°C (82°F), while the average low temperature is around 13°C (55°F). Rainfall remains low, with an average of only 14 mm spread over 3 days in the month. The skies are generally clear and sunny, making it a great time to explore the temples and natural beauty of the region. Nighttime temperatures can still be chilly, so it’s a good idea to pack some warmer clothes for the evenings. |
| March | As the dry season continues, March sees warmer temperatures with an average range of 19°C to 32°C. The skies remain clear with plenty of sunshine throughout the day, making it an excellent time to visit Chiang Rai’s outdoor attractions, such as waterfalls and hot springs. However, the high temperatures can be uncomfortable for some, so be sure to stay hydrated. |
| April | April marks the start of the hot season in Chiang Rai, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 35°C. The days are hot and sunny, with occasional thunderstorms and rain showers towards the end of the month. While the high temperatures can be challenging, April is an excellent time to experience the local Songkran festival, where visitors can enjoy traditional water fights and other festivities. |
| May | May is the hottest month in Chiang Rai, with an average temperature range of 24°C to 35°C. The humidity starts to rise, making the heat feel even more oppressive. While there are occasional thunderstorms and rain showers, the days are generally sunny and hot. May is also the start of the low season for tourism, so visitors can enjoy smaller crowds and lower prices. However, the high temperatures can make outdoor activities challenging, so it’s best to plan accordingly. |
| June | June marks the beginning of the rainy season in Chiang Rai, with rainfall increasing substantially from the previous months. The average high temperature is around 30°C (86°F), while the average low temperature is around 21°C (70°F). The humidity is high, with an average of 79%, making it feel warmer than it actually is. Despite the rain, there are still plenty of things to see and do in Chiang Rai, including visiting the night markets and temples. |
| July | July is one of the wettest months of the year in Chiang Rai, with an average of 240 mm of rainfall spread over 16 days in the month. The average high temperature is around 29°C (84°F), while the average low temperature is around 22°C (72°F). It’s important to pack rain gear and waterproof shoes if you’re planning to visit during this month. Despite the rain, July can still be a great time to visit as the lush greenery and waterfalls are at their most beautiful. |
| August | August is still part of the rainy season in Chiang Rai, with an average of 190 mm of rainfall spread over 16 days in the month. The average high temperature is around 29°C (84°F), while the average low temperature is around 22°C (72°F). Humidity remains high, with an average of 82%. Despite the rain, August can still be a good time to visit as there are fewer crowds and prices may be lower. |
| September | September is one of the wettest months in Chiang Rai, with an average of 260 mm of rainfall spread over 18 days in the month. The average high temperature is around 29°C (84°F), while the average low temperature is around 22°C (72°F). It’s important to be prepared for the rain, but it’s still possible to enjoy activities like visiting waterfalls and hot springs. The rain can also bring cooler temperatures and fresher air, making it a pleasant time to explore the natural beauty of the region. |
| October | October marks the end of the rainy season in Chiang Rai. While there may still be occasional showers, the rainfall significantly decreases, and the weather becomes cooler and more pleasant. The average high temperature during this month is around 29°C (84°F), while the average low is around 18°C (64°F). Humidity also decreases, making it a good time to explore the city and its surrounding areas. |
| November | November marks the beginning of the cool season in Chiang Rai. The weather is dry and mild, with pleasant temperatures and low humidity. The average high temperature during this month is around 27°C (81°F), while the average low is around 14°C (57°F). This is a great time to visit Chiang Rai and enjoy outdoor activities like trekking, sightseeing, and exploring the city’s many temples and markets. |
| December | December is one of the coolest months in Chiang Rai, with temperatures ranging from around 11°C (52°F) to 25°C (77°F). The weather is dry and sunny, making it a great time to explore the city and its surroundings. December is also the start of the peak tourist season in Chiang Rai, so it’s advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance. The city is decorated with lights and ornaments, making it a beautiful and festive place to spend the holidays. |
The Current weather in Chiang Rai – Thailand:
Max, Min and Average Temperature in Chiang Rai:
The temperature in Chiang Rai varies throughout the year, with hot summers and cooler winters. The average high temperature ranges from 28°C to 34°C, while the average low temperature ranges from 13°C to 21°C. The hottest months are April and May, with average high temperatures reaching 34°C and 33°C respectively. The coolest months are December and January, with average low temperatures dropping to 12°C and 13°C respectively. Overall, the best time to visit Chiang Rai in terms of temperature would be from November to February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
| Month | Max. Temp. (°C) | Min. Temp. (°C) | Aver. Temp. (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 28 | 13 | 21 |
| February | 31 | 15 | 24 |
| March | 34 | 19 | 27 |
| April | 36 | 22 | 30 |
| May | 34 | 22 | 28 |
| June | 32 | 22 | 27 |
| July | 31 | 22 | 27 |
| August | 31 | 22 | 27 |
| September | 31 | 21 | 26 |
| October | 31 | 19 | 25 |
| November | 30 | 16 | 23 |
| December | 28 | 13 | 21 |
Rainfall and Rainy Days in Chiang Rai:
Chiang Rai experiences a monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate with a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. The city has two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to April, and a wet season from May to October. During the wet season, Chiang Rai receives the majority of its annual rainfall, with heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms. The rainy season in Chiang Rai is characterized by frequent rainfall and thunderstorms, with heavy rains occurring in the afternoon and evening. The months of May to September are the wettest months of the year, with rainfall exceeding 200mm per month. On the other hand, the dry season from November to April is marked by a significant decrease in rainfall, with January and December being the driest months of the year.
| Month | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | 9 | 2 |
| February | 18 | 3 |
| March | 43 | 6 |
| April | 97 | 11 |
| May | 205 | 18 |
| June | 243 | 22 |
| July | 275 | 23 |
| August | 298 | 23 |
| September | 254 | 22 |
| October | 106 | 12 |
| November | 29 | 4 |
| December | 10 | 2 |
Max and Average Wind Speed and Wind Gust in Chiang Rai:
Chiang Rai experiences moderate to strong winds throughout the year. The maximum and average wind speeds tend to be highest during the dry season, from November to February, while the wind gusts are strongest during the rainy season, from May to October. The average wind speed ranges from 3.6 to 5.8 meters per second (m/s), with the highest speeds reaching up to 8.5 m/s.
| Month | Max Wind Speed (m/s) | Aver. Wind Speed (m/s) | Max Wind Gust (m/s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7.4 | 4.1 | 12.4 |
| February | 8.5 | 4.5 | 14.8 |
| March | 7.9 | 4.1 | 14.8 |
| April | 7.2 | 3.7 | 12.9 |
| May | 6.9 | 3.6 | 12.8 |
| June | 6.3 | 3.6 | 11.9 |
| July | 6.0 | 3.7 | 12.0 |
| August | 5.9 | 3.8 | 12.5 |
| September | 6.2 | 3.9 | 12.4 |
| October | 6.7 | 4.1 | 12.9 |
| November | 7.1 | 4.1 | 13.1 |
| December | 7.2 | 4.1 | 12.5 |
Cloud and Humidity in Chiang Rai:
Chiang Rai experiences high levels of humidity throughout the year, with an average humidity of around 80%. The months of June through September typically have the highest humidity levels, with July being the most humid month of the year. In terms of cloud cover, Chiang Rai has a significant amount of cloud cover throughout the year. The cloudiest months are typically from May through September, with November through February having the least amount of cloud cover. Overall, Chiang Rai experiences a mix of sunny and cloudy days throughout the year.
| Month | Cloud Cover (%) | Humidity (%) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 31 | 65 |
| February | 33 | 65 |
| March | 38 | 67 |
| April | 53 | 71 |
| May | 68 | 76 |
| June | 81 | 82 |
| July | 86 | 83 |
| August | 86 | 84 |
| September | 80 | 81 |
| October | 61 | 74 |
| November | 42 | 68 |
| December | 31 | 63 |
Sun Hours and Sun Days in Chiang Rai:
Chiang Rai receives an average of 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day throughout the year. The sunniest months are from November to January, where it can reach up to 9 hours of sunshine per day. Meanwhile, the rainiest months have fewer hours of sunlight, with an average of 5 to 6 hours per day. The number of sunny days in Chiang Rai varies greatly depending on the time of year. The months with the highest number of sunny days are from November to February, with an average of 27 to 29 days per month. On the other hand, the rainy season, from May to October, has the lowest number of sunny days, with an average of 10 to 20 days per month.
| Month | Sun Hours | Sun Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | 8 | 28 |
| February | 8 | 27 |
| March | 8 | 27 |
| April | 7 | 26 |
| May | 6 | 20 |
| June | 6 | 18 |
| July | 5 | 15 |
| August | 6 | 16 |
| September | 6 | 19 |
| October | 7 | 26 |
| November | 9 | 29 |
| December | 9 | 29 |
Visibility in Chiang Rai:
The visibility in Chiang Rai is generally good throughout the year, with an average visibility of around 8-10 km. However, during the rainy season from May to October, there may be instances of reduced visibility due to heavy rainfall and fog. It is important to exercise caution when driving or engaging in outdoor activities during times of reduced visibility. Overall, the visibility in Chiang Rai is not a major concern for travelers visiting the city.
| Month | Average Visibility (km) |
|---|---|
| January | 10 |
| February | 10 |
| March | 10 |
| April | 10 |
| May | 10 |
| June | 9 |
| July | 9 |
| August | 9 |
| September | 9 |
| October | 10 |
| November | 10 |
| December | 10 |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Weather in Chiang Rai:
1. When is the best time to visit Chiang Rai?
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- Chiang Rai is best visited between November to February when the weather is cooler and less humid. During this time, the temperature ranges between 15°C to 30°C, making it pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
2. What is the typical temperature range in Chiang Rai throughout the year?
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- Chiang Rai has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C throughout the year. The months of March to May are generally the hottest, while the months of November to February are cooler.
3. What is the rainy season in Chiang Rai?
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- The rainy season in Chiang Rai is from June to October. During this time, the city experiences heavy rainfall, particularly in September and October. It is important to note that flash floods and landslides can occur during this time, so it is important to take precautions and plan accordingly.
4. Is it safe to travel to Chiang Rai during the rainy season?
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- It is safe to travel to Chiang Rai during the rainy season, but it is important to be aware of the risks associated with heavy rainfall, including flash floods and landslides. It is recommended to check the weather forecast before traveling and to follow the advice of local authorities.
5. What is the humidity level in Chiang Rai?
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- Chiang Rai is a relatively humid city with an average humidity level of around 75%. The humidity is highest during the rainy season, particularly in August and September.
6. What is the air quality like in Chiang Rai?
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- The air quality in Chiang Rai can be affected by forest fires, particularly during the dry season from March to May. It is important to check the air quality index (AQI) before outdoor activities, particularly for those with respiratory issues.
7. Does Chiang Rai experience typhoons or hurricanes?
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- Chiang Rai is located in the northern part of Thailand and is not typically affected by typhoons or hurricanes. However, the city can experience heavy rainfall and flooding during the rainy season.
8. What is the UV index in Chiang Rai?
-
- The UV index in Chiang Rai varies depending on the season and time of day. The highest UV index is typically during the summer months from March to May, with values ranging from 10 to 12, which is considered extreme. It is important to use sunscreen and seek shade during peak UV hours.
9. What is the wind speed like in Chiang Rai?
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- The wind speed in Chiang Rai is generally light to moderate throughout the year, with the highest wind speeds occurring during the dry season from March to May. The average wind speeds are typically between 10 to 15 km/h, but gusts can reach up to 30 km/h during the dry season.
10. Can the weather in Chiang Rai affect outdoor activities?
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- Yes, the weather in Chiang Rai can affect outdoor activities, particularly during the rainy season when there may be heavy rainfall and flash floods. It is important to plan activities accordingly and check the weather forecast before heading out.
11. Is it necessary to pack for cold weather when visiting Chiang Rai?
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- While Chiang Rai is generally warm throughout the year, it is recommended to pack some warm clothing if visiting during the cooler months from November to February. Temperatures can drop to around 15°C during this time, particularly in the evenings and early mornings.
12. What is the sea temperature in Chiang Rai?
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- Chiang Rai is an inland city and does not have a sea temperature. The closest body of water is the Mekong River, which can be cooler in the winter months.
13. What is the best way to stay updated on the weather in Chiang Rai?
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- It is also recommended to check the weather forecast on local news channels or by speaking with locals who are familiar with the weather patterns in the area. Additionally, it is always a good idea to pack for different weather scenarios and to have a plan in case of unexpected changes in the weather.
14. Where you can travel from Chiang Rai?
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- From Chiang Rai you can travel to Chiang Mai – the most visited city of northern Thailand. Or you can travel by plane, tourist bus or bus + train to Bangkok – the capital of Thailand.
15. How to travel solo in Thailand?
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- Embark on a solo adventure in Thailand by researching destinations, ensuring personal safety, trying local experiences, connecting with fellow travelers, and savoring the diverse landscapes and attractions the country has to offer. Traveling on your own in Thailand is very popular by travelers. Read this article: Solo Travel in Thailand.
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