Destination
Chiang Mai is a walled old city surrounded by temples, markets, cafés and mountains. Its season matters more than most: November to January is cool and clear, February to April brings smoke from seasonal burning, and May to October is the green, rainy season. Here is how all twelve months compare for weather, crowds, prices and events.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
My recommendation
January
January brings cool, dry weather and clear skies before the smoky season, with the holiday crowds of December easing. It suits temples, markets and mountain trips.
Best weather
November–January
Cool, dry and clear.
Best for lantern festivals
November
Yi Peng and Loy Krathong; dates follow the lunar calendar.
Best for water festival
April
Songkran, with heat and smoke.
Best value
June–September
Green and quiet, with daily rain.
January scores
Plan around
February–April
Usually November
Mid-April
Chiang Mai travel tip
Check the air quality index before you book anything between February and April; smoke can be severe and can affect health. The cool season from November to January is the safest bet for clear skies and mountain views.
Founder note
“My tip for Chiang Mai is to head up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep early in the morning. The air is cooler, the gold chedi catches the first light and the city lies below you.”
Experience Chiang Mai
Travel around
The old city is walkable and easy by bicycle. Red songthaew shared trucks and ride-hailing apps cover most journeys, including the road up to Doi Suthep.
Best period
November–January (comfortable for walking)
Agree the fare before you board a songthaew, or use a ride-hailing app.
CFV founder tip
Visit Doi Suthep and the old-city temples at opening time. The air is cooler, monks are chanting and the tour buses are still on their way.
Month by month
Tap any month for full scores, temperatures and planning notes.
Book accommodation ahead and carry a light layer for cool mornings.
Check the air quality index before outdoor plans.
Check air quality daily; many travellers avoid March and April.
If you come for Songkran, stay in the old city and bring waterproof gear.
Carry a rain jacket for afternoon showers.
Plan outdoor activities for mornings.
Bring a light waterproof layer.
Keep a flexible plan for rain.
Check road conditions before travel.
Book Yi Peng accommodation early if you plan to visit in November.
Book accommodation months ahead; the festival dates move with the lunar calendar.
Book Christmas and New Year stays early.
Climate
| Month | High | Low | Precipitation | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 30°C / 86°F | 16°C / 61°F | 11 mm | 1 |
| February | 33°C / 91°F | 17°C / 63°F | 10 mm | 1 |
| March | 35°C / 95°F | 20°C / 68°F | 20 mm | 2 |
| April | 37°C / 99°F | 23°C / 73°F | 54 mm | 5 |
| May | 35°C / 95°F | 24°C / 75°F | 168 mm | 12 |
| June | 33°C / 91°F | 25°C / 77°F | 118 mm | 12 |
| July | 32°C / 90°F | 24°C / 75°F | 149 mm | 14 |
| August | 32°C / 90°F | 24°C / 75°F | 223 mm | 17 |
| September | 32°C / 90°F | 24°C / 75°F | 207 mm | 15 |
| October | 32°C / 90°F | 23°C / 73°F | 124 mm | 9 |
| November | 31°C / 88°F | 20°C / 68°F | 41 mm | 3 |
| December | 29°C / 84°F | 17°C / 63°F | 14 mm | 1 |
Climate data: World Meteorological Organization. Temperatures are averages of daily highs and lows.
Keep exploring
Other places I’d time carefully — and when I’d go.
If you want…
…clear skies and cool air
Go in December or January.
…the lantern festival
Go in November and book months ahead.
…to avoid smoke
Skip February to April.
FAQ
January is the best overall choice, with cool, dry and clear weather. December and February are close alternatives.
Roughly February to April, peaking in March.
Yi Peng and Loy Krathong usually fall in November and follow the lunar calendar.
