Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Chiang Mai.

Climate overview of Chiang Mai

The hot (summer) Season in Chiang-Mai extends from March through May. Daytime temperatures around 36°C (97°F) can be unbearably hot during this period. The rainy season occurs from May through October and "the cool" (winter) season finds place from November through February. Now, let’s break down all the climate details for a clearer picture.

Chiang Mai Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Chiang Mai - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Chiang Mai

The climate in Chiang Mai experiences moderate temperature changes, with mild shifts between seasons. Average daytime temperatures reach a very hot 38°C (100°F) in April. In December, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a comfortable 30°C (86°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 25°C (77°F) in April to 15°C (59°F) in December.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1197 mm (47 in) of rainfall annually. Chiang Mai can be quite wet during August, receiving approximately 260 mm (10 in) of precipitation over 21 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (February), you will experience much drier conditions, with 4.8 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation spread across a single rainy day. For more details, please visit our Chiang Mai Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of March under a blue sky, with approximately 9.8 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in August, with only 3.9 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Chiang Mai by Month

Wind Speed in Chiang Mai

Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai

The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Chiang Mai is usually found in January, November and December. Conditions are generally least comfortable in February, March, April, May, June, July, August and September.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: January, November and December
  • Warmest weather: April
  • Most sunshine: March
  • Fewest rainy days: January, February, March and December
  • Wettest months: May, June, July, August, September and October, when rainfall is highest.
  • Seasonal pattern: Distinct dry (November to April) and wet (July to September) seasons

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Chiang Mai

What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

January, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Chiang Mai. In contrast, February, March, April, May, June, July, August and September tend to have less optimal conditions. Chiang Mai has distinct dry (November to April) and wet (July to September) seasons.

What temperatures can I expect in Chiang Mai?

Daytime highs range from 30°C (86°F) in December to 38°C (100°F) in April. Nighttime lows range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F).

How much rain does Chiang Mai get?

Annual rainfall is around 1197 mm (47 in). August is the wettest month with 260 mm (10 in), while February is the driest with 4.8 mm (0.2 in).

How sunny is Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai receives around 2,525 hours of sunshine per year. March is the sunniest month with 295 hours, while August is the cloudiest with just 116 hours. Overall, Chiang Mai enjoys abundant sunshine.

Chiang Mai 3-Day Forecast

Chiang Mai on the map

Chiang Mai is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

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