Country guide

Thailand Travel Guide: Golden temples, island beaches and the world’s favourite street food

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country famous for Bangkok’s temples and street food, Chiang Mai’s old-city temples and night markets, and southern islands like Phuket and Koh Samui. The best time to visit is the cool, dry season from November to February.

Thailand travel guide — golden Thai temple roofs under a tropical sunset
Thailand — golden temples, island beaches and the world’s favourite street food | original AmazingAsia artwork

Thailand at a glance

TimezoneICT (UTC+7)
CurrencyThai Baht (THB)
LanguagesThai
Population71 million
Coordinates15.8700, 100.9925

Why visit Thailand

Thailand remains Southeast Asia’s most-visited country because it works for every kind of traveller: temple-hopping culture in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, jungle and elephants in the north, and some of the world’s best islands in the south — all at prices that still surprise.

When to visit Thailand

Thailand’s cool, dry season (November–February) is the comfortable peak. The hot season (March–May) scorches the interior, while the monsoon (June–October) brings short, heavy afternoon downpours — and the year’s best hotel deals.

Northern Thailand’s burning season (Feb–Apr) brings haze to Chiang Mai — sensitive travellers should favour Bangkok or the islands then. Read the full month-by-month guide to the best time to visit Thailand.

Destinations in Thailand

Thailand travel questions

What is the best month to visit Thailand?

November to February is the best time to visit Thailand, with cool, dry weather averaging 26–31°C and minimal rain. December and January are peak season with higher prices. For deals, the green season (June–October) offers short afternoon showers and 30–50% hotel discounts.

Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.