Thailand weather in October marks the tail end of the rainy season. Heavy downpours ease toward the end of the month, as conditions gradually turn drier. Rain is still common, but showers are shorter than in September.
Temperatures start to decrease, with daytime temperatures ranging between 24–32°C (75–90°F). In northern and central Thailand, mornings and evenings begin to feel cooler.
It’s a shoulder-season sweet spot if you choose the right regions and stay flexible.
Thailand Weather in October: Quick Overview
Thailand in October is hot and humid, but the experience varies greatly by region and timing within the month.
Early October feels more like peak rainy season, while late October brings fewer showers and more reliable dry spells, especially inland.
- Average temperature: 24–32°C (75–90°F)
- Rainfall: Heavy early, easing late (~19–22 rainy days most areas)
- Humidity: High but dropping
- Sea temperature: ~29°C (84°F)
Is October a Good Time to Visit Thailand?
October can be rewarding if you love lush green scenery, low crowds, and 30–50% hotel savings. But skip it if beach islands are your priority.
It's a transitional month: early October carries flood risk from peak rains, while late month improves with clearer mornings, festival buzz (Loy Krathong buildup), and shoulder-season deals.
Here's our tip: We recommend aiming for late October, when mornings are perfect for sightseeing and evenings feel crisp up north. If you're going earlier in the month, just plan some flexibility around those afternoon showers. It's also great for families, lining up nicely with UK half-term (Oct 23-27) and many US fall breaks—plus you'll save 30-50% compared to Christmas prices. Not sure yet? Take a look at our best time to visit Thailand guide or family trip tips.
For more planning guidance, see the best time to visit Thailand.
Weather in Thailand in October by Region
October in Thailand brings sharp regional contrasts. Some areas are on the edge of peak season, while others are just entering their wettest months.
Andaman Coast (West Coast) — Unpredictable Early, Prime Time Late Month
Andaman Coast (west side) is a bit unpredictable at the start of October, but turns into a winner by the end.
Early to mid-month, places like Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta are still shaking off the rainy season, so expect pop-up showers, some heavier rain, and choppy seas that might mess with boat trips.
But here's the good news: by late October, especially that final week, things flip beautifully. Rain eases up, sun sticks around more, seas calm down for better snorkeling, and it starts feeling like peak season without the peak crowds or prices.
Our advice: Go for late October, and you'll snag near-perfect weather at way better rates. The later in the month, the happier you'll be!
Gulf Coast (East Coast) — Rainy Season Begins
The Gulf coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) follows a completely different weather pattern. After enjoying some of its best conditions in September, rainfall begins to increase in October.
October marks the start of the rainy season here, with showers picking up—especially heavier and more frequent in the second half. That doesn't mean it's pouring all day though; you'll still get plenty of sunny breaks to enjoy.
Our advice: This area is no longer the top beach choice in October. If you go, early October is the safer window; late October brings higher weather uncertainty.
Learn more about Phuket vs Koh Samui.
Bangkok & Central Thailand — Drier, City-Friendly
Rainfall drops significantly across central Thailand in October. Showers tend to be short and localized, often in the afternoon. It works very well for city sightseeing and food tours.
While early October might see some flooding in low-lying Bangkok areas, conditions typically clear up by the month's end. Nearby gems like Ayutthaya's lush green ruins and coastal spots such as Hua Hin or Pattaya often improve even sooner, offering a smooth mix of urban and historical adventures. More details in Bangkok in October
Northern Thailand — Cool, Green, and Near-Perfect
By October, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai, and Mae Hong Son have largely left the rainy season behind (around 21 rainy days, ~220 mm). Mornings and evenings turn cooler and fresher, with temperatures around 23–25°C.
The countryside is lush and green, air quality improves, and mountain visibility is excellent. This marks the start of peak season for hiking, temple visits, and outdoor activities. Pack a light jacket for cooler nights. For tips, see Chiang Mai in October.
From our team’s experience: in late October 2024, we traveled through Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Kanchanaburi. Floodwaters had already receded, and evenings in Chiang Mai were cool enough for a light long-sleeve layer. We chose to skip the islands, as Gulf ferries were grounded at the time.
Temperature at the top of Doi Inthanon National Park, 15°C.Where to Go in Thailand in October
October is a great time to explore northern and central Thailand. After the monsoon rains, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Bangkok are cooler, greener, and less crowded. You can enjoy city sights, local food, culture, and short trips to Ayutthaya or Kanchanaburi—they’re at their best as the rains fade.
If beaches are on your list, be cautious—October still brings mixed weather. The Andaman Sea can be rough, while the Gulf of Thailand often sees its heaviest showers. For reliable sunshine and calm seas, hold off until November for the Andaman or December for the Gulf.
Still, if you plan to visit the islands in October, timing matters. Early in the month can be your last chance to enjoy Koh Samui before the storms roll in. But if you’re traveling after October 20, head straight to the Andaman coast—Phuket, Krabi, or the nearby islands. This is when the weather condition improves, and good weather days become much more likely.
Typical October Weather in Key Thai Destinations
| City | Low (°C / °F) | High (°C / °F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy days |
| Bangkok | 25 / 77 | 32 / 90 | ~250 | ~20 |
| Chiang Mai | 23 / 73 | 31 / 88 | ~220 | ~21 |
| Phuket | 25 / 77 | 31 / 88 | ~330 | ~22 |
| Krabi | 24 / 75 | 31 / 88 | ~310 | ~21 |
| Koh Samui | 26 / 79 | 31 / 88 | ~300 | ~19 |
Data Sources: Weather Spark & TMD historical averages
Crowds and Travel Costs in October
October sits in the sweet spot between Thailand’s low and high seasons.
As the rains begin to ease, domestic travel picks up, but most international visitors haven’t arrived yet. This means you can enjoy major sights—like Bangkok’s temples or Chiang Mai’s old town—with more breathing room and shorter queues.
Hotels and flights are still very affordable, often 30% to 50% lower than peak-season prices, especially in the first half of the month. You’ll often find great deals on quality stays or last-minute promotions. Just note that prices start to climb toward the end of October as the weather improves and the tourism season begins to shift into gear.
What to Pack for Thailand in October
For Thailand in October, pack light clothes since it's warm and humid. Get breathable t-shirts, light shirts, and a couple long-sleeve ones to cover shoulders and knees at temples. Quick-dry shorts or pants work well, plus a simple long dress.
Add a small rain jacket or poncho and a fold-up umbrella for short rains. Bring swim stuff and flip-flops if you hit beaches. Sunscreen, hat, bug spray, and comfy shoes are musts, and a light scarf helps with sun or cold AC.
Ready for October Thailand?
Planning a trip but not sure about juggling spots, timing, and weather? Kick off with a customizable Thailand itinerary to make October a breeze. Check our planning a Thailand trip page for extra advice too.
Browse our Thailand tours for some great ideas as well.
- 10-Day Classic Thailand Tour: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui
- 12-Day Thailand Wonders Tour: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, and Krabi
Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Thailand
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