Weather in Thailand in September

Is September a good time to visit Thailand?

The Gulf coast islands, such as Koh Samui,  Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao, are the best destinations for a holiday in Thailand in September, being drier and cooler than the rest of the country. This does not mean, however, that these islands are not subject to the heavy monsoon rains which prevail during this period, and the constant heat prevalent in Thailand all year round – the conditions are just tempered here because of the geographical location.

Central Thailand and Bangkok receives the worst of the rains during September, and the Andaman coast is extremely wet with rough seas. Elsewhere in Thailand September sees the monsoon rains begin to tail off in volume, if not frequency. Rain falls mainly in the late afternoon or at night, and seldom lasts more than an hour or two.

It is a good time to visit Thailand to take advantage of budget accommodation rates and cheap flights, and there should  be plenty of hot, tropical sunshine between the showers. A great time for gorgeous sunsets and rainbows.

Climate in Thailand in September

Thailand enjoys an average temperature of 28°C (82.4°F) in September, but in many regions the mercury rises to 30°C (86°F) and beyond, dropping only marginally at night. The main characteristic of the weather in Thailand in September is the rain – which falls heavily in tropical showers in the late afternoon and evening across the country. Some regions are wetter than others, but everywhere the downpours are relatively short-lived, with sunny intervals between. Bangkok has 306mm of rain on average during September, with rain every second day of the month. 

The popular resort island of Koh Samui off of the Gulf coast receives a little less rain volume at 200mm on average for the month, with the frequency and duration of rain showers tending to be shorter than elsewhere in Thailand. In Phuket on the Andaman coast, however, it is exceedingly wet in September with an average of 410mm of rain for the month.

What’s on in Thailand in September

A colourful Thai cultural event, the Long Boat Races in Phichit, are held on the Nan River in September with the King presenting the trophy to the winning boat, while spectators can enjoy stalls selling local delicacies and handcrafts. 

Another event with Royal patronage is the unique elephant polo tournament played out at the Anantara Resort in Hua Hin in early September in quest of the coveted King’s Cup.

Gourmets will be queuing to book in and dine at Bangkok’s exclusive Four Seasons Hotel in September when the world’s top chefs gather to show off their craft for the World Gourmet Food Festival.

What to pack for a holiday in Thailand in September

Consider the likelihood of being caught in the rain when packing for Thailand in September. Regular rain-coats are probably too hot for searing Thai temperatures, so opt for a waterproof poncho to slip on over thin, cotton clothing. Shorts and shirts in natural fibres are your mainstay, and of course a selection of bathing suits. Sandals are fine, but you may want to use more substantial footwear to prevent your feet becoming muddy if you plan to do a lot of walking.