January is one of the best months to visit Thailand—warm days peaking in the low 30s°C (mid-80s°F) with cool, pleasant evenings.
Across the country, rain is minimal: the north and central regions see almost no rainy days (0–1), while the southern islands enjoy a full beach season with only a few short coastal showers (2–5 days).
The trade-off? It is also the busiest and most expensive month, with prices typically 30%–50% higher than the low season. Booking at least 3 months in advance is highly recommended.
Weather in Thailand in January
Weather in Thailand in JanuaryHere's how January plays out across Thailand:
Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand in January
January brings cool, dry air up north—Chiang Mai averages 15–29°C (59–84°F) with barely 0.5 rainy days. Temperatures drop further in the mountains, and evenings can get chilly, so pack a light jacket.
If you love photography, January is perfect. Almost guaranteed sunrises and sunsets stretch from Sukhothai's Historical Park to Chiang Rai's tea plantations.
Trekking season is on. Doi Inthanon, Pai, and Mae Hong Son offer crisp, scenic trails.
For animal lovers, the weather is ideal for meeting elephants. Walking with elephants is comfortable—no slippery trails from rain, no scorching sun.
Our Crowd-Free Elephant Visit in Chiang MaiBangkok and Central Thailand in January
Bangkok and the central plains stay dry with highs around 31°C. Bangkok is as warm as usual, but low humidity and widespread air conditioning keep it comfortable for sightseeing and walking around the city.
Inland cities like Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi can be 1–2°C warmer. Ayutthaya's temple ruins offer little shade, so plan your visit for the cooler morning or late afternoon. Although Kanchanaburi is slightly warmer, its quieter vibe, cool floating bungalows, and Erawan Waterfall make outdoor activities still enjoyable.
Coastal cities like Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Trat are breezier and slightly cooler. If you want a beach day near Bangkok, consider Hua Hin and Trat for a more peaceful vibe.
Taking a Longtail Boat on a Hot Afternoon in Bangkok, ThailandPhuket, Krabi & the Andaman Coast in January
The Andaman coast enjoys 22–32°C (72–90°F) with about 3–5 rainy days, usually short, refreshing showers. The water is calm, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and island-hopping. If you are catching the postcard-perfect beach holiday, this is your best choice.
Crowds are unavoidable. Popular islands like Phuket, Krabi, and Phi Phi can get very busy. For families and couples, you are recommended to visit Koh Lanta, Koh Lak, or Koh Yao Noi for quieter beaches and exclusive boutique resorts.
With the driest weather, Khao Sok National Park is a great place to escape from crowds thanks to its rainforest treks, towering limestone peaks, and floating bungalows.
Karon Beach at Sunset, PhuketKoh Samui, Koh Tao & the Gulf Islands in January
Koh Samui averages 25–30°C (77–86°F) with 6 rainy days and around 59 mm of rain, though showers clear quickly. The Gulf islands are lush and less crowded than Phuket & the Andaman Coast.
Chaweng Beach is lively, but for a calmer stay, head to Lamai or Bophut. For diving, Koh Tao offers quieter waters. Pair a couple of nights here with a small eco-resort or a yoga retreat for a relaxed, green escape.
Snorkeling in Koh TaoFor a clearer idea of a first trip, read about the 10-Day Classic Thailand Tour.
If you are checking the differences between January and other months, you can see our guide: Best & Worst Time to Visit Thailand.
What Are the Best Places to Visit in January?
January is a great time to explore Thailand. A classic first trip usually includes Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and a southern island like Phuket, Koh Samui, or Krabi. They are also the best places to celebrate New Year's Eve.
- In Bangkok, visit temples like the Grand Palace, taste Michelin street foods, and explore floating markets.
- Chiang Mai is perfect for outdoor fun in the hills, like trekking and ziplining, meeting elephants at ethical sanctuaries, and browsing the weekend markets.
Ziplining in Chiang Mai- On a southern island, relax on sunny beaches, snorkel or dive, and take boat trips to nearby islands.
Canoeing through the cave into the lagoon at Phang Nga BayIf you have extra time, add Chiang Rai to see the White Temple and Golden Triangle, Kanchanaburi for riverside lodges and WWII history, or Khao Sok for rainforest treks and overnight stays in floating bungalows. These spots offer a quieter, more immersive side of Thailand.
The Train Ride along the Death Railway, KanchanaburiFor details on top activities in each city and how to connect them smoothly, check out our customizable 14-Day Thailand Adventure Tour.
How Busy is Thailand in January?
January is Thailand's busiest month, so at iconic temples and popular beaches, you may need to wait for photo opportunities or navigate around crowds. Try early visits like Wat Pho before 9 am, or head to quieter beaches and islands such as Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Noi, and Ko Kut.
A spiritual sunset with monk chants at Doi Suthep in Chiang MaiMajor city roads and routes to popular beaches also see heavy traffic, so a private tour with a local driver can save you time and stress.
Even trekking trails in national parks, like Khao Sok, and elephant sanctuaries with limited daily slots see more people, but with early bookings and choosing less-known destinations, you can still enjoy a relaxed experience.
Trekking in Khao SokSmall towns such as Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, and Pai offer a calmer pace while still giving you an authentic taste of Thailand.
What to Pack in January
Bring layers for the cool mornings in the north, swimwear for the sunny beaches in the south, and lightweight clothing for temple visits (modesty required). Don't forget sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
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FAQs about Thailand in January
What's the weather like in Thailand in January?
In January, Thailand is mostly warm and dry—northern cities like Chiang Mai average 15–29°C (59–84°F), central Bangkok around 22–32°C (72–90°F), and southern islands like Phuket or Koh Samui 25–32°C (77–90°F).
Rain is minimal across the country, making it perfect for sightseeing, trekking, or beach days without worrying about showers.
What Are the Best Beaches in Thailand in January?
Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui are classic choices, but for romance and seclusion, try Koh Lipe, Koh Yao Noi, or Koh Lanta. Families will also love Koh Lanta for its space and relaxed atmosphere. Read further about how to choose an island for your first trip to Thailand.
What are the best New Year's Eve celebrations in Thailand？
In Thailand, the top places to celebrate New Year's Eve are Bangkok for the western-style countdown and fireworks, Chiang Mai for the romantic sky lantern ceremony, or one of the islands for beach parties.
Which is better, January or February?
Both months offer excellent weather. January tends to be slightly cooler, while February sees fewer New Year travelers and may be quieter in some areas.
What is the best time to visit Thailand?
Weather-wise, November to February is the best time to visit Thailand. It's also the country's festival season, featuring events like the romantic Yi Peng Lantern Festival, New Year celebrations, and flower festivals.
Temperatures and Rainfall in Thai Cities (January Averages)
| City | Low (°C / °F) | High (°C / °F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok | 22°C/72°F | 32°C/90°F | 6.0 mm | 1.1d |
| Trat | 22°C/72°F | 31°C/88°F | 18.2 mm | 2.1d |
| Pattaya | 22°C/72°F | 30°C/86°F | 7.7 mm | 1.4d |
| Hua Hin | 23°C/73°F | 29°C/84°F | 7.2 mm | 1.3d |
| Ayutthaya | 22°C/72°F | 33°C/91°F | 4.7 mm | 1.0d |
| Kanchanaburi | 20°C/68°F | 32°C/90°F | 3.9 mm | 0.7d |
| Chiang Mai | 15°C/59°F | 29°C/84°F | 5.6 mm | 0.5d |
| Chiang Rai | 13°C/55°F | 28°C/82°F | 7.5 mm | 0.8d |
| Sukhothai | 19°C/66°F | 32°C/90°F | 3.3 mm | 0.5d |
| Mae Hong Son | 15°C/59°F | 29°C/84°F | 5.3 mm | 0.6d |
| Pai | 13°C/55°F | 27°C/81°F | 5.9 mm | 0.6d |
| Krabi | 22°C/72°F | 32°C/90°F | 33.2 mm | 4.6d |
| Ko Phuket | 24°C/75°F | 32°C/90°F | 27.0 mm | 4.0d |
| Ko Lanta | 24°C/75°F | 31°C/88°F | 24.5 mm | 3.4d |
| Phang Nga | 22°C/72°F | 32°C/90°F | 32.4 mm | 4.6d |
| Ban Khao Lak | 23°C/73°F | 32°C/90°F | 28.5 mm | 4.0d |
| Ko Samui | 25°C/77°F | 30°C/86°F | 58.6 mm | 6.1d |
| Koh Tao | 25°C/77°F | 30°C/86°F | 41.2 mm | 5.4d |
| Ko Pha-Ngan | 26°C/79°F | 29°C/84°F | 54.5 mm | 6.2d |
Data source: Weather Spark.
Planning a trip to Thailand in January?
Let us help you build a crowd-free, weather-perfect Thailand itinerary tailored just for you, or get inspired by one of these popular tours:
Celebrate Christmas and New Year along a classic route: Bangkok–Chiang Mai–Koh Samui.
Blend iconic highlights with hidden gems: Bangkok–Kanchanaburi–Chiang Mai–Krabi.
A favorite among active travelers: Bangkok–Chiang Rai–Chiang Mai–Khao Sok–Khao Lak.
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
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