Are you looking for a bit cooler season to visit Thailand? Then you can consider going there in April. April marks the end of hot and dry season of the country. As a result, you can expect some rain during this month. But the good news is that you will not experience rains in full force. Hence, you can continue to explore the country with a comfortable weather. There aren’t many tourists in Thailand during April as well. This will help you to avoid crowds and save money. Here’s more details on what to expect in Thailand during April.

The Weather in Thailand in April

April marks the transition from Thailand’s hot, dry season to the wet season. Temperatures start to drop across the country, humidity levels rise, and rainfall increases steadily throughout the month.

In Bangkok and Central Thailand, average highs are around 93°F with increased humidity. Overnight lows dip to the mid-70s. Rainfall averages 2-3 inches over 5-6 days in April, mostly coming in short afternoon thundershowers.

Northern Thailand sees temperatures from 77-86°F and about an inch of rain in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. The hill tribe regions can be a bit cooler with overnight lows around 65°F.

Beach areas like Phuket down south average highs of 90°F dropping to the mid-70s overnight. Rainfall increases to around 4 inches over 4-5 days in April.

The Gulf coast around Koh Samui and Koh Phangan sees daily high temperatures around 90°F with a light breeze off the water keeping things comfortable. Rain picks up to 5-6 inches over 8-10 rainy days.

So, in general, temperatures are hot but not scorching like March with slightly increased humidity and rainfall. The weather is ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and water activities.

Regional Weather in Thailand

Thailand stretches over 1,000 miles from north to south, so the weather can vary across different regions. Here’s a closer look at April weather by region:

• Bangkok and Central Thailand: Hot and humid with highs of 90-95°F. Afternoon thunderstorms bring 2-3 inches of rain over 5-6 days.
• Northern Thailand: Warm and dry with highs of 80-85°F in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Around 1 inch of rain, mostly in the afternoon. Cooler in the mountains.
• Northeast Thailand: Very hot and dry with highs up to 100°F in Nakhon Ratchasima. Less than an inch of rain.
• Gulf Coast: Hot and humid with highs around 90°F in Koh Samui and Krabi. 4-5 inches of rain over 6-8 rainy days. Mostly sunny other than afternoon storms.
• Andaman Coast: High temperatures around 92°F in Phuket and Phi Phi. Increased humidity with 4 inches of rain over 4-5 rainy days.

Overall, April offers warm, mostly dry weather ideal for exploring Thailand’s cities, jungles, and beaches. Just bring an umbrella for occasional storms.

Best Places to Visit in April

With the comfortable weather, lower crowds, and lower prices than high season, April is a great time to visit popular spots across Thailand. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Bangkok – Thailand’s bustling capital has warm weather with some afternoon storms in April. Enjoy sightseeing at temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, browse markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market, sample street food at night markets, check out clubs on Khao San Road, and more.

Chiang Mai – The cultural capital of northern Thailand has pleasant weather in April, great for exploring temples like Doi Suthep, walking the old city walls, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and hiking in the surrounding hills.

Phuket – Thailand’s largest island still sees warm weather and possible showers in April, but with fewer crowds and lower prices than winter. Hit up powdery beaches, snorkel and dive around Phi Phi Island, party in Patong, take day trips to secret spots, or indulge in soothing Thai massage in Phuket.

Koh Samui – Prices drop and crowds thin out in April on this Gulf Island. Laze on beaches, check out Big Buddha and Hin Ta Hin Yai, hike to waterfalls, kayak, and more.

Khao Yai National Park – One of Thailand’s most accessible and diverse parks, Khao Yai National Park is located between Bangkok and Khorat. April’s a great time for jungle trekking, waterfall swimming, and wildlife spotting.

Kanchanaburi – Base yourself among beautiful landscapes to visit Erawan Falls, ride elephants at camps, walk the Death Railway, and more in this region west of Bangkok.

Crowds and Costs in April

April falls in between Thailand’s busy high tourist season and the wet low season. You’ll encounter fewer tourists and often lower hotel rates and airfare compared to late fall through early spring.

In popular destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, hotel rates can be 20-40% cheaper than winter months and flights are less likely to sell out. Resorts and tour operators often run promotions to entice visitors. However, Songkran celebrations mid-month can draw big domestic crowds.

Restaurants and attractions will be less packed except during Songkran. You won’t have to plan as far in advance or deal with sold out activities. Overall, April offers a great mix of ideal weather with lower crowds and prices.

What to Wear in April

April’s increased humidity and rain call for a slightly different wardrobe than Thailand’s dry season. Here are some packing tips:

• Breathable, lightweight fabrics: Cotton, linen, rayon
• Light pants and skirts: Capris, midi skirts
• Shorts and short sleeve shirts
• Sweat-wicking tees for activity days
• Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
• Walking sandals: Tevas, Chacos
• Water shoes for waterfalls
• Bathing suit
• Sun protective hat & sunglasses
• Bug spray with DEET
• Small umbrella

Pack layers you can add or remove as unpredictable April weather shifts. A light jacket or hoodie for air-conditioned spaces is a good call. Overall, you can leave the heavy gear behind and pack for warm tropical weather, while adding protection from sun and rain.

In summary, April brings ideal weather to Thailand as the hot season winds down and before the major monsoon rains hit. Temperatures are still warm but more comfortable for exploring the country’s top destinations among fewer tourists and lower costs than other months. With occasional afternoon thunderstorms, be prepared with an umbrella and light rain jacket to enjoy Thailand in April.