April in Thailand is the hottest month of the year, with temperatures often reaching 38–40°C (100–104°F).
It's great for beach and water activities in the south, but tough for inland sightseeing in central and northern areas. In the north, scorching heat is worsened by smoky skies from crop burning.
Is Thailand in April worth a visit?
Yes, if you love sunny beach days, can handle intense heat, and want to join the world-famous Songkran Festival (April 13–15). A flexible itinerary will help you make the most of it.
No. If you're heat-sensitive or want uninterrupted outdoor sightseeing, it's not ideal.
What's the weather like in Thailand in April?
- Temperature (day/night): 32–36 °C (90–97 °F) during the days, sometimes over 40 °C; 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) at night
- Rainfall: 5–100 mm — mostly dry, with occasional short showers; west coast (Andaman) slightly higher chance of afternoon/evening storms, east coast (Gulf) generally drier
- Humidity: 65–85 % — higher inland and in the north, coastal areas slightly lower but still humid
- Sea Temperature: 28–31 °C — ideal for swimming and snorkeling
Average Temperatures and Rainfall in Thai Cities in April:
| Destination | Min–Max Temp (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok | 27–35 / 80–95 | 55.9 | 7.5 |
| Ayutthaya | 27–36 / 80–97 | 58.4 | 7.9 |
| Kanchanaburi | 27–37 / 80–98 | 50.8 | 6.3 |
| Chiang Mai | 23–36 / 74–97 | 50.8 | 7 |
| Chiang Rai | 22–34 / 71–93 | 58.4 | 7.8 |
| Sukhothai | 27–37 / 80–99 | 50.8 | 6.3 |
| Krabi | 24–34 / 75–93 | 114.3 | 11 |
| Koh Phuket | 25–33 / 77–92 | 119.38 | 11.4 |
| Koh Samui | 27–32 / 81–90 | 76.2 | 7.6 |
Data source: Weather Spark.
Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand in April
The north stays dry in April, similar to March. But temperatures peak here, exceeding 38°C (100°F) for about half the month, with little relief at night.
Besides, the further northern towns (Mae Hong Son, Pai) have fewer air-conditioned places, so escaping the heat can be harder than in bigger cities, like Chiang Mai.
Adding to the challenge, it's burning season. Smoke from crop fires can blanket the region—a Chiang Mai local even said, "Some years, I couldn't see Doi Suthep, our iconic mountain backdrop, for a month."
How to Travel Smart: If you're set on visiting, do outdoor activities only in the early morning to avoid heat stroke. Bring an N95 mask if you have respiratory issues.
Dull Panorama from Doi Inthanon National Park Bangkok and Central Thailand in April
April is hot and dry here, with Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Kanchanaburi often seeing daytime highs above 35°C (95°F). By mid-morning, being outdoors feels like walking on hot plates, and evenings linger around 27°C (80°F)—turning night markets into steamy saunas.
Luckily, Bangkok offers plenty of air-conditioned escapes—from stylish malls to cozy cafés hidden in old shophouses and even some temple halls.
For a break from the city heat, head to mountain escapes like Khao Yai or seaside spots like Pattaya and Koh Chang, where highs are closer to 32°C (90°F).
How to Travel Smart: Sightsee in the morning before the heat peaks, then save your afternoons for river cruises, spa sessions, or exploring air-conditioned markets.
Taking a Longtail Boat on a Hot Afternoon in Bangkok, ThailandSouthern Islands: Phuket VS. Koh Samui
This is Thailand's coolest region in April—but "cool" still means hot. Temperatures are usually 1–2°C lower than inland, and the sea breeze makes it more bearable.
On the Gulf side (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao), you'll get plenty of sunshine, calm seas (around 30°C (86°F)), and almost no rain. It's the safest bet for a classic beach holiday.
On the Andaman side (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, and Lanta), things are a bit trickier. It's hotter, more humid, and short afternoon or evening storms are common. Seas can get rough, so some boat trips might be canceled.
If you want reliable sun and smooth waters, stick to the Gulf islands. The Andaman coast is still fun, just be ready for a few rainy surprises.
Ang Thong National Marine Park, Koh SamuiIf you are seeking the best weather to visit Thailand, you can see our guide: Best & Worst Time to Visit Thailand.
Best Places to Visit in Thailand in April
April in Thailand is all about choosing the right region.
In short: For reliable sunshine, head to Koh Samui. For festivals, go to Bangkok or Chiang Mai. For nature, Khao Sok is a good fit if you're flexible. Phuket is possible, but the weather is less predictable.
1. Best for Sunshine & Beaches: Koh Samui and the Gulf Islands
The sunny weather in Koh Samui in AprilIf you want the most reliable weather in April, the Gulf of Thailand is the safest bet — Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
April is peak dry season here:
- Plenty of sunshine
- Very little rain
- Calm seas are ideal for island-hopping and water activities
Whether you're relaxing at a resort or planning daily boat trips, this region gives you the most stable beach weather in April.
2. Best for Culture & Festivals: Bangkok and Chiang Mai
If you want to experience Thailand's biggest annual celebration — Songkran (around April 13–15) — Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the top choices.
Bangkok
Songkran in BangkokBangkok's Songkran is a full-scale citywide festival: massive water zones, concerts, street parties.
And because the city has endless malls and indoor attractions, you can easily escape the heat when needed.
Important trade-off: expect huge crowds and very high hotel rates; book well in advance.
Chiang Mai
Songkran in Chiang MaiChiang Mai offers the most traditional and ceremonious version of Songkran. The whole Old Town turns into one giant celebration. The mix of temples, mountains, and festival energy is unforgettable.
But take note:
- Accommodations sell out months ahead
- April is extremely hot
- Air quality can drop due to the burning season, especially in early April — some years are mild, others are challenging.
3. Best for Nature & Quiet: Khao Sok National Park
khao Sok Floating HouseKhao Sok is a different kind of April destination — lush, quiet, and immersive.
You get towering limestone cliffs, misty mornings, and deep-green rainforest scenery. Staying at a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake is the highlight for most travelers.
But April also marks the start of the pre-monsoon period, so short rains are part of the deal. They usually pass quickly, but you need to be comfortable with flexible plans. If you enjoy nature more than perfect weather, you'll love it.
4. Think Carefully: Phuket (Andaman Sea)
Phi Phi IslandPhuket still has good days in April, but the weather is less stable than on the Gulf side.
The Andaman Sea enters its early rainy season in April, especially mid- to late-month. The weather can change quickly, and sea conditions may cause boat tours to be cancelled.
If you're set on Phuket, aim for early April and keep expectations loose. It's still fun — just not the most weather-reliable choice this month.
Check out more tips on our page: How to Plan a Trip to Thailand: 7 Easy Steps.
Songkran Festival in Thailand in April
SongkranSongkran, Thailand's traditional New Year, is famed as the world's biggest and most fun water fight. The main celebrations run from April 13 to 15, with April 13 as the peak day.
Bangkok hosts high-energy street parties around Khao San Road and Silom (we were in the middle of it, a wild water fight with thousands), while families seeking calmer vibes can enjoy kid-friendly events on Koh Samui.
Beyond water fights, cities like Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, and Sukhothai hold grand parades and peaceful Buddha bathing ceremonies, offering a glimpse into Thailand's rich traditions.
Crowds & Costs in Thailand in April
April in Thailand is a "mixed" month. Both your experience and your budget depend on whether your trip falls during Songkran (around April 10–16).
During Songkran:
This is one of the busiest times of the entire year. Popular cities and attractions are packed, hotels fill up fast, and prices jump to their highest levels — sometimes even higher than Christmas and New Year. You usually need to book well in advance to get good rooms.
After Songkran:
The situation changes almost overnight. From mid- to late April, the crowds disappear, and hotel prices drop back to normal or even low-season rates. Traveling during this period feels much calmer, and room prices can be 30–50% cheaper than during Songkran.
If you want good value:
Avoid the Songkran peak and plan your trip for late April. It's quieter, cheaper, and overall a much better deal.
What to Pack for Thailand in April
April is very hot, so choose light, breathable clothing that keeps you comfortable.
Cotton and linen work well, and loose fits help you stay cool throughout the day. A hat and sunglasses are useful too, as the sun can be intense. You may also want a light layer for over-cooled indoor spaces.
If your trip overlaps with Songkran, quick-dry outfits are the easiest to wear. Sandals that can get wet are more practical than sneakers. And avoid white clothing — it becomes see-through when soaked.
Keep your outfits simple, cool, and ready for both heat and (if it's Songkran) plenty of water.
FAQ about Thailand in April
1. Is Thailand too hot in April?
April is the hottest month. Average temperatures across the country are around 30–36 °C (86–97 °F). In many places, afternoons can feel scorching, sometimes over 38–40 °C (100–104 °F). Beach destinations are more comfortable thanks to the breezes.
2. Is April a good month to visit Thailand?
Yes, if you enjoy sunny beaches and want to experience the Songkran Festival.
But the heat and humidity can be tough, especially for outdoor travel in central and northern regions. Plan activities for mornings and evenings when it's cooler, and focus on coastal areas if possible.
April is also the last dry month before the wet season begins in May. Learn more about the best time to visit Thailand.
3. Where should I go in Thailand in April — beaches, the north, or islands?
Beaches and islands are generally cooler and breezier, while northern cities like Chiang Mai are hotter and can be smoky in April.
4. What are the best islands to visit in Thailand in April?
April is great for the southern islands. The west coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi) is hot and humid, with short showers possible later in the month. The east coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan) is drier and sunnier, making it a more reliable choice for beach days and snorkeling.
5. Is Thailand busy in April?
It depends on timing. During the Songkran period (around April 10–16), crowds and hotel prices peak. Outside of Songkran, tourist numbers drop, and accommodation is much easier to find at better rates.
Tour Thailand with Us
Thailand in April has so much to offer, but planning it all can be tricky. We can help you design a tailor-made trip that fits your pace and style. Let's plan it together.
Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Thailand
Learn about the weather in Thailand for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
At Highlights Travel, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.
