There are lots of advantages to visiting Thailand in July. This is the low season so there are good deals available on accommodation and internal flights. With July being one of the green season months, you can expect to see some rain but the showers are often over quickly. The fresher weather makes it a great month to explore the Thai countryside and see why this is known as the green season. For a beach holiday, take a look at the Gulf Coast and the islands of Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Tao.
July weather
Although July is officially classed as one of the rainy season months in Thailand, it’s still a good time to visit. Throughout the country, temperatures remain warm in July. Tropical downpours are usually brief and there is still lots of blue skies and sunshine to be enjoyed.
Where to visit in July
If you’re planning to book a beach holiday in Thailand for the month of July, keep in mind that the Gulf Coast of Thailand receives less rainfall compared to the Andaman Coast. This means that for a July beach holiday, you may want to consider the islands of Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Tao. On the mainland, the beaches of Chumphon, Hua Hin, Pranburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Khanom are good alternatives.
If you’re a repeat visitor to Thailand and would like to visit somewhere different on your next trip, head south to Phatthalung and the serene beauty of the Thale Noi wetlands. Or head north-east to Isaan to see the spectacular Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival which is usually held in July.
Although the weather is mostly settled on the Gulf Coast in July, the weather on the Andaman Coast can be unpredictable with some boat services to the smaller islands not running.
On the East Coast, rainfall levels vary depending on the location. Pattaya, Ko Samet, and Rayong are sheltered areas that tend to receive relatively low rainfall. However, further east, Ko Chang and the nearby islands tend to experience high levels of rainfall during July.
July is an ideal month to explore the northern provinces of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son. While you’re there, make sure to visit some of the lesser-known yet equally beautiful provinces such as Nan, Phrae, and Phayao.
If you’re interested in history, take advantage of the low season and cycle around the ancient temples and ruins of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya. No matter what time of year you visit Thailand, Bangkok is always a must-see destination, offering a unique and exciting experience. For a change of pace, head down south to the breathtaking Thale Noi wetlands in Phatthalung or the equally beautiful Khao Sok National Park.
Events and festivals in July
One of the most important Buddhist holidays in Thailand usually falls in July. Asahna Bucha Day commemorates the day on which the Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.
The day after Asahna Bucha Day is another significant day for Buddhists. Known as Wan Khao Phansa, it marks the beginning of the rains retreat period that is sometimes referred to as ‘Buddhist Lent’. It’s a time when many young Thai men make merit for their family by temporarily ordaining as Buddhist monks.
The arrival of the Buddhist Lent period is also a time when it’s customary for Thai people to donate candles to their local temples. In some areas of the country what was originally a simple act of donating candles has grown into elaborate parades and candle festivals. The biggest and most famous of these events takes place in the north-east of Thailand at the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival.
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