Thailand in September: Weather & Is It Good to Thailand in September?

September is a rainy month in Thailand. You can still have a great time there if you know what to expect. There are some excellent opportunities to have a unique experience with careful planning.

This guide explores whether September is a good time to visit Thailand, the weather conditions, crowd levels, costs, top destinations, and additional tips to make the most of your Thailand tour.

Is September a Good or Bad Time to Visit Thailand? How Is the Weather and Temperature?

September tends to be the wettest month of the year, but weather conditions vary significantly in different parts of the country. Whether it’s a good or bad time to visit depends on where you go and what kind of experience you’re looking for.

September is a month of heavy rainfall in Bangkok and the surrounding region. It’s the peak of the southwest monsoon, with high temperatures and humidity that can reach up to 90%. Temperatures are between 25 and 33°c. There are 17-23 rainy days during the month, with a one-hour downpour that usually falls in the afternoon.

The north of Thailand isn’t as rainy as Bangkok, but there are still 15-20 days of rain. Temperatures are between 23 and 32°c. Rain usually falls in short, intense bursts in the afternoon, and the skies are mostly cloudy.

The east coast of the Gulf of Thailand is dryer than most of the rest of the country. Peak rainfall doesn’t come until October, and there are only an average of 11 days with rain. When the rain does fall, it happens more often at night and in the early morning, and there is a good chance of sunny daytime weather. Temperatures average between 25 and 32°c.

September is the peak of the rainy season on the west coast, and the weather tends to be more intense than in other parts of Thailand. There are an average of 17 days of rain throughout the month, and temperatures are between 24 and 30°c. The seas around places like Phuket and Krabi can be very rough during the month.

Visit Thailand's east coast in September with good weather though

Is It Crowded in Thailand in September? Is It Expensive or Cheap to Visit?

September is one of the lowest seasons for tourism in Thailand. The beaches empty out, and the cities are less crowded. Popular attractions in Thailand like the Grand Palace in Bangkok are still busy, but the absence of many international travelers keeps the crowds smaller. Tourist areas will be quieter and more peaceful during the month.

The smaller crowds also make September one of the cheapest months to visit Thailand. Flight ticket prices drop as airlines try to attract more travelers, and hotels can be half the price of peak season rates. Discounts can also be found on tours and activities. Even when prices are the same, you can get a more personalized experience with smaller crowds.

Travel Thailand in September with fewer crowds

Top Places to Recommend for Visiting Thailand in September

Koh Samui is one of the best islands in Thailand to visit during September. Unlike other parts of the country, it’s not the peak of the rainy season. The beaches will be peaceful, with plenty of sunshine between the moderate rains.

Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in northern Thailand can be enjoyable in September. Rainfall is less than in Bangkok, and it is mostly in the afternoon. Mornings are often sunny, making exploring the cities and temples a good experience. The mountain scenery is alive with lush vegetation, and there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy in the afternoon rains, like the indoor parts of Warorot Market or the Museum of World Insects.

Bangkok is a mix in September. Many of the city’s attractions are indoors and unaffected by the weather. The high humidity can feel oppressive, and the rains can be a challenge when exploring the city, but it’s one of the least crowded times to visit. You can enjoy the top-class restaurants and art galleries, and many of the temples and palaces are largely indoors.

Two Weeks In-depth Thailand Historical Tour Package

Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Sukhothai – Doi Inthanon – Chiang Mai – Pai – Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle - Hua Hin - Bangkok

More Tips for Visiting Thailand in September

1. National Parks like Khao Yai are stunning in September. The vegetation will be lush and green, and the waterfalls will be at their peak.
2. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that will keep you cool and dry quickly if you get caught in the rain.
3. Waterproof footwear is a must for staying comfortable when exploring wet city streets.
4. Rain brings mosquitoes, so a good insect repellent with DEET is another must.
5. Stay flexible with your plans to take advantage of the sunny weather when it arrives. 

Conclusion

September rains keep many tourists away from Thailand but also create unique opportunities for other travelers. It’s possible to enjoy the beaches on the east coast and the Gulf of Thailand and have a more peaceful time in places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

We have great tours of Koh Samui and northern Thailand to let you take advantage of the low season while still having a great experience. Get in touch with us and let us know what you’re looking for, or book your tour today.