Why You Should Visit Thailand in the Off-season

With its rich culture, renowned cuisine, and warm hospitality, Thailand has become a top-tier destination for all types of travelers. Many of the country’s beautiful sights and unique experiences can be enjoyed year-round, and some are even enhanced by the slower season of June through October.

The words “monsoon season” may not inspire the average traveler to hop on a plane halfway around the world, but they would be mistaken and a bit short-sighted. With scattered showers and sunny skies, especially at the start of the rainy season, Thailand is far more approachable than your imagination would lead you to believe.

Thai communities in the north appreciate the effect the rain has on waterfalls and fields, relabeling these months the “Green Season.” Rather than trying to avoid the rain, this mentality can encourage all of us to lean into the unique ways these showers can add to our experience.

Many parts of Thailand are only more impressive during this time of year. Learn the Thais’ resilient and positive perspective, and you’ll see all of the beauty this country has to offer, rain or shine.

What to Expect in the Off-season: Crowds, Prices, and Weather

Even between June and August, odds are it won’t rain most of the time you are in Thailand. It may rain for an hour or so at a time, frequently in the afternoons, but the showers are often short-lived and followed by sunshine. In fact, in recent years the rainy season has been more sunny than ever before.

Additionally, with many steep discounts on flights, accommodations, and tours, June through October is one of the most affordable times to visit Thailand. Even with a smaller budget, you can still immerse yourself fully into the culture, enjoy gorgeous scenery, and explore new destinations. And with Thailand’s increasing popularity, you may prefer to tour the country with fewer crowds. Thai people are so warm and friendly, and it is even easier to connect with locals during the quieter season. Learn more about some of the unique sights and festivals that are available to off-season travelers.

Best Things to Do in Thailand July Through October

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival

The Buddhist Candle Festival is a spectacular event that is celebrated every year in the middle of July, marking the beginning of Vassa (sometimes described as Buddhist Lent). This holiday is celebrated throughout Thailand, but the most famous candle festival is held in Ubon Ratchathani, a town in the Northeast.

During the festival, the community celebrates with dancing, music, markets, and boxing matches. However, the highlight is the intricately carved and painted wax sculptures that are paraded through the streets on elaborately decorated floats.

The tradition of offering candles to the monks dates back to before the invention of electricity. Communities of Thai Buddhists would collect and donate candles to keep temples illuminated for the monks’ studies during the three months of Vassa. Local artisans have taken these art pieces to the next level, with grander and more majestic sculptures each year.

Scuba Diving in Koh Phi Phi

Experts including members of the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) regard Thailand as one of the best countries for scuba diving. With fewer people in the water and on the islands, the rainy season can make for an even more fulfilling experience for both novice and professional divers.

You can dive in Koh Phi Phi year-round, and it is home to rugged limestone walls, colorful soft coral, and stunning rock formations. Away from the crowds, you are more likely to interact with marine life like blacktip reef sharks. Also, manta ray and whale shark sightings are more likely from June through September.

For those interested in advancing their love of scuba diving, Thailand is also known for having some of the most affordable PADI Open Water Diver certification courses in the world. While these courses are more likely to fill up during the peak season, during the low season you are likely to get more personal attention from instructors and better rates on accommodation.

Green Season in Northern Thailand

The rain of the “Green Season” means Northern Thailand blossoms between June and October. To celebrate this time of year, many northern provinces host special events and festivals including June’s Uttaradit Durian Festival, the Nan Food Festival, and the Pai Jazz & Blues Fest.

Those who are more interested in soaking in the peace and quiet can also enjoy picturesque rice fields, amazing national parks, and mist-shrouded mountains and valleys. Highlights include Ban Huai Hom’s terraced rice fields, Doi Sa Ngo (Sa Ngo mountain), and Phu Sang Waterfall. Wherever you choose to explore during the off-season, you are sure to connect to the country’s beautiful sights, kind people, and vibrant culture.