Thailand Weather in January

Millions of tourists from all over the world flock to Thailand in January, making it the peak of high season. Hardly a coincidence of course; no matter where you travel to in Thailand in January, it’s always nice weather. Relatively cool temperatures and cloudless skies go hand in hand with plenty of sunshine!

Bangkok and the surrounding area

The weather in Bangkok is ideal this time of year. It very rarely rains and with an average temperature of 26 degrees, it’s nice and cool as well. It’s still warm of course, but it’s a lot more agreeable and less suffocating than it is during summer. These weather conditions are perfect for temple visits, jungle hikes, and boat trips.

Ayutthaya – Soak up the culture and visit historical temples.
Bangkok – Thailand’s capital blends old temples with ultra modern skyscrapers.
Kanchanaburi – Town brimming with nature and history.
Khao Yai National Park – The oldest nature reserve with wild elephants.
Koh Samet – White sandy beaches, only three hours from Bangkok.

Koh Samui and the southeastern Gulf of Thailand

Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, situated in the Gulf of Thailand, off the southeastern coast, are the only islands where you might encounter some intense showers. Weather conditions are prone to dramatic changes; there will be sunny days but expect a few drab and rainy ones as well. Don’t let that scare you away from Thailand. There are better options when it comes to island-hopping in the month of January.

Koh Phangan – Serene island that hosts large beach parties.
Koh Samui – Popular island with long beaches and luxury accommodation.
Koh Tao – Thailand’s number 1 island for snorkeling and diving.

Chiang Mai and the North of Thailand

The weather in the north of Thailand is lovely at the start of the year. It’s sunny and it very rarely rains. Keep in mind, however, that it can get surprisingly chilly in the morning and in the evening. Consequently, you might want to consider bringing a warm cardigan with you. In the far north especially, you will require blankets to sleep under!

Chiang Mai – A great city surrounded by nature and rich in culture.
Chiang Rai – Gorgeous natural surroundings and best known for the white temple.
Mae Hong Son – Mountain tribes and rice fields near the Burmese border.
Pai – Hippie-at-heart mountain village nestled in Thailand’s most beautiful valley.

Phuket and Krabi

January is one of the best months of the year to go island-hopping in the Phuket/Krabi area. Though there’s a small chance of rain, the weather will be mostly sunny with clear blue skies. However, you will be sharing the islands with many other tourists, also enjoying the nice weather.

Khao Sok National Park – Wake up in a straw cabin on a clear blue lake.
Koh Jum – Small-scale tourism near Koh Phi Phi.
Koh Lanta – Laid-back atmosphere and nice beaches.
Koh Phayam – Gorgeous but underdeveloped island.
Koh Phi Phi – Thailand’s number 1 tropical party island.
Koh Yao Yai – Big island with long and empty beaches.
Krabi (Ao Nang) – The perfect place to start your island-hopping adventure.
Phuket – Thailand’s largest island, best known for its beaches.

Koh Chang and the Eastern Gulf of Thailand

Thailand’s eastern islands are great places to spend the month of January. Expect lots of sunshine and the occasional spot of rain. Perfect if you would like to go snorkeling or would just like to spend your days on a tropical island in a hammock. Why not explore some other Koh Chang Archipelago islands as well? Koh Wai, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood are absolutely breathtaking!

Koh Chang – Pleasant island with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
Koh Kood – A gorgeous, and partially unspoiled, island.
Koh Mak – Small-scale tourism, laid-back atmosphere.
Koh Wai – Snorkeling island between Koh Chang and Koh Kood.

Koh Lipe and the Trang islands

Unlike the rest of the country, Thailand’s deep south knows only two seasons: the dry season and the wet season. January falls under the dry season. So expect lots of sunshine and agreeable temperatures. Chances of rain are slight. If it does rain, however, it will feel like a welcome diversion. A great time to explore this area of Thailand.

Koh Lipe – Tropical island, home to Thailand’s most beautiful beaches.
Koh Mook – Small-scale tourism and a spectacular cave.
Koh Ngai – Long golden beaches and no roads.
Koh Tarutao – National park, a former prison island, and camping site.

Isan region

January is one of the best months to visit Thailand’s undiscovered eastern parts. Temperatures around this time are still agreeable, meaning it’s reasonably comfortable to walk around during the day. The landscape is green and lively as well. We particularly recommend visiting the Red Lotus Sea near Udon Thani in January.

Pha Taem National Park – Ancient murals along the Mekong River.
Phimai – Thailand’s most beautiful Angkor Wat temples.
Ubon Ratchathani – Large city in Isan region with many sights.
Udon Thani – Large city near the Lao border, but famous mainly for its Red Lotus Sea.

Monthly weather overview