Is July a good time to visit Thailand? July marks the beginning of the rainy season in Thailand. In other words, the weather is rainy in most parts of the country. And flooding can be an issue. But there’s a better chance of sunshine in the country’s East Coast. For adventure seekers, July is a good month to engage in white water rafting. So keep reading to get the full scoop!
In This Post
Weather in Thailand in July
How is the weather in Thailand in July? Is the weather hot in Thailand in July? How rainy is Thailand in July? Finally, how is the humidity in Thailand in July? It really varies from place to place.
Generally speaking, the temperature in Thailand in July drops slightly compared to June. But the amount of rainfall increases. And short daily showers start to get longer.
In fact, the beaches on the West Coast of Thailand have a higher chance of experiencing heavy downpours in July. However, the beaches on the East Coast of Thailand tend to be drier and sunnier in July. However, there are no guarantees.
Translation,: skip Phuket and head to Hua Hin, Koh Samui, or Pattaya instead. You’ll have a better chance of sunny weather.
Events in July in Thailand
Thailand in July is a relatively quiet month. In fact, not a lot is scheduled. A short list of the events is scheduled to take place in Thailand in July follows:
Nan Boat Racing Festival – 11 July 2024
The Nan Boat Racing Festival takes place twice a year during the rainy season when the Nan River is at its fullest.
Nan River at Phrathat Chang Kham Worawihan Temple – Phra Aram Luang.
Changing of the Robes – 20 July 2024 (Tentative)
Because the robes are changed according to the Lunar Calendar, the dates vary each year according to the Gregorian Calendar, which is in universal use around the world.
In addition, the exact date can sometimes change for a variety of reasons.
On the first day of the Eighth Lunar Month, the diamond encrusted golden robes of the summer season are removed the replaced by gold-plated robes with a headdress of the rainy season. This usually takes place in July or August.
On the first day 12th Lunar Month, the gold-plated robes with a headdress of rainy season are removed and replaced by the solid gold robes of the winter season. This usually takes place in November or December.
On the first day of the Fourth Lunar Month, the solid gold robes of the winter season are removed and replaced by the diamond encrusted golden robes of the summer season. This usually takes place in March, April, or May..
The changing of the robes entails an elaborate ritual, which takes place in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), which is Thailand’s most important temple.
The two robes not currently being worn are displayed at the Pavilion of Regalia along with other Royal decorations and Thai coins.
Location: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, which overlooks the Chao Phraya River. It is open daily from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm.
Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival – 20 to 22 August 2024
Candle festivals are held across Thailand at the beginning of the Buddhist Lent. During these festivals, large candles are created and offered at Buddhist temples.
The biggest and most elaborate candle festival is held at Thung Sri Muang Park in Ubon Ratchathani province, Interestingly, the tradition dates back more than 100 years.
Festivities include feasts, games, candle carving competitions, and a procession of giant candles through city streets. In addition, there are smaller processions at several other temples.
In the days leading up to the festival, giant candles are constructed at local temples in villages across the province.
On the evening of the first day of the festival, a lavish light and sound show is put on at Thung Sri Muang Park. On the second day, there is a procession of candles through the provincial capital’s downtown district.
Taking place at the same time is the Festival of Floral Offerings at Wat Phra Phutthabat in the Phra Phutthabat district of Saraburi province.
Asahna Bucha – 20 to 22 July 2024
Buddhists celebrate the Buddha’s teaching of the Four Noble Truths on Asahna Bucha, one of the most important holidays of the year in Thailand, a devoutly Buddhist country.
On Asahna Bucha, devotees visit Buddhist temples. And candlelight processions are held in some cities.
Keep in mind that it is illegal to sell and buy alcoholic beverages on Buddhist holidays in Thailand.
Since the holiday falls on a Saturday, the following Monday (22 July), is an official holiday.
- 2025 – 10 July
- 2026 – 29 July
- Nationwide
Khao Phansa – 20 to 22 July 2024
The first day of the Buddhist Lent is known as Khao Phansa. And it coincides with the beginning of the Rainy Season in the Land of Smiles.
On this day, many teenage boys and young men enter the monkhood for a period of a week to three months.
Meanwhile, resident monks remain in their temples throughout the Buddhist Lent to study and meditate.
Many colourful festivals are held throughout Thailand on Khao Phansa. Some of the largest take place in Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Suphan Buri, Surin, and Udon in Ratchathani province.
Since the holiday falls on a Saturday, the following Monday (22 July), is an official holiday.
- 2025 – 11 July
- 2026 – 30 July
King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday – 29 July 2024
Commemorating the birth of King Maja Vajiralongkorn in 1952, the King’s Birthday is a public holiday in Thailand. To clarify, schools and most businesses are closed. And be advised that the sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.
- 2025 – 28 July
Full Moon Party – 22 July 2024
Ave. High Ave. Low Ave. Rainfall Rainy Days Ave. Humidity Bangkok 34 C / 93 F 26 C / 79 F 17 cm 17 74% Chiang Mai 31 C / 89 F 24 C / 76 F 32 cm 19 86% Hua Hin 33 C / 91 F 26 C / 78 F 11 cm 15 77% Koh Samui 32 C / 90 F 25 C / 77 F 15 cm 17 78% Pattaya 31 C / 89 26 C / 79 26 cm 16 76% Phuket 32 C / 89 24 C / 76 F 26 cm 17 79%
Drinking Restrictions
The sale and consumption of alcohol are legal in Thailand. However, there are a few restrictions. For example, it cannot be sold or consumed (in public at least) between 12 midnight and 11 am and between 2 pm and 5 pm.
So why the mid-day gap between 11 and 2? To allow you to enjoy a tipple with your lunch!
In addition, the consumption of alcohol is not allowed at religious sites, schools, parks, shopping malls (except in food and beverage outlets), hiking trails, gas stations, and train stations. Beaches are a grey area because they might be a part of a park. Look to see if there are any signs restricting its consumption.
Most importantly, the sale and consumption of alcohol are not allowed on either Buddhist holidays or election days. Since there are important Buddhist festivals in July, be forewarned that you will not be able to purchase alcohol on these days.
The Full Moon Party is held on the beach of Haad Rin every month on the night of the full moon. DJs play a variety of musical styles including trance, dubstep, reggae, and techno. Jugglers, fire-eaters, and fireworks add drama to the all-night event.
Haad Rin is crescent shaped beach located on the island of Ko Pha Ngan. It can be reached by boat from Koh Samui, an island off the coast of Southern Thailand.
Koh Samui is 293 miles (471 kilometres) south of Bangkok. Because the drive takes nearly 10 hours, air travel is recommended,. The flight takes just over one hour.
If You Are Visiting Thailand
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