Thailand in April, Here Comes a Tropical Paradise!

Thailand is a destination that captivates travelers all year round. However, the month of April offers a particularly rich experience to discover this fabulous country. Between tropical heat, shivery traditional festivals, and lush nature, Thailand in April will delight your senses. Exalted temples, dreamy beaches, or the festive atmosphere of Songkran, there is something for everyone! Discover in this article the many facets of Thailand in April.

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 12-06-2024

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The climate in Thailand in April

General overview: end of the hot season

In April, the Thai climate generally marks the end of the hot season. Temperatures are high across the country, with averages approaching 35°C and peaks reaching almost 39°C in some regions. Humidity is also present, increasing the sensation of heat.
While the climate may vary by region, April is generally characterized by intense heat and sudden showers. However, these precipitations are brief. It is therefore recommended to bring an umbrella or raincoat during your stay.

The hottest regions are located in the North and Northeast of the country. Coastal areas benefit from refreshing sea breezes. To cope with the heat, it is advisable to wear lightweight and breathable clothing.
Although the climate can be challenging, April remains a good time to explore Thailand and its unique festivities.

Regional Weather

To plan your trip effectively, it is essential to understand how the climate varies by region.

• Bangkok and the center

Bangkok experiences hot and humid weather in April. Average temperatures hover around 30°C with frequent highs exceeding 35°C. The atmosphere can be stifling. Occasional showers help cool down sunny days. It is advisable to pack lightweight clothing and plenty of water to avoid discomfort due to the heat.

• Chiang Mai and the North

In Northern Thailand, the climate in April is hot with cool nights. In Chiang Mai, the average temperature is around 22°C at night and up to 36°C during the day. Some sporadic showers are possible. It is recommended to bring a light jacket for evenings and sunscreen for sunny days. Outdoor activities remain entirely feasible with these pleasant temperatures.

• Gulf Islands

On the Gulf islands of Thailand such as Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, April is synonymous with heat and good weather. Temperatures average around 30°C. With little risk of rain, it is the ideal season to enjoy the superb sandy beaches and numerous water activities under a radiant sun. A 100% relaxing stay in a paradisiacal setting.

• Andaman Coast

On the Andaman coast with Phuket and Krabi, the climate in April is conducive to relaxation. Pleasant temperatures, between 24°C and 34°C on average, as well as a low risk of rain, allow for full enjoyment of the beautiful white sandy beaches and nearby paradisiacal islands. It is the perfect time for swimming, boat trips, and discovering the splendid tropical landscapes.

Main Festivals and Events

Songkran - Thai New Year

Songkran is the Thai New Year festival, celebrated from April 13th to 15th. During these three days, the streets are the scene of gigantic water battles. Thais douse each other abundantly, a purification ritual believed to bring luck and prosperity for the months to come.

Songkran is also an opportunity to visit relatives and make offerings to monks in temples. It is one of the biggest festivals in the country, attracting crowds of locals and tourists eager to immerse themselves in this joyful and noisy atmosphere.

Chakri Day - Dynasty Day

On April 6th, Thais celebrate Chakri Day, which commemorates the founding of the Chakri dynasty in 1782. This day is a public holiday in Thailand and is marked by official ceremonies, military parades, and cultural activities. Thais pay homage to King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri dynasty, and express gratitude to the royal family for their role in the country's history.

Poy Sang Long - Ordination of young monks

Poy Sang Long is a unique festival held in Northern Thailand between March and April. It celebrates the ordination of boys aged 7 to 14 as Buddhist novices.

Dressed in elegant costumes, the boys parade with their families before being presented to the monks for the initiation ceremony. They then live in the temple for a period, learning Buddhist precepts. Poy Sang Long is a traditional festival full of colors, spirituality, and sharing.

Phanom Rung Festival

The Phanom Rung Festival is an annual celebration that showcases the magnificent Phanom Rung temple, located in the province of Buriram, in northeastern Thailand. This temple is considered one of the most important in the country and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

During the festival, which usually takes place around April, the temple is illuminated and traditional performances are organized to entertain the crowds. Visitors can also enjoy traditional dance performances, taste local dishes, and buy handicrafts. The Phanom Rung Festival is a unique opportunity to discover Thai history and culture in a spectacular setting.

Phra Phutta Sihing - Procession of the sacred relic

Phra Phutta Sihing is a religious procession held annually in Thailand, mainly in Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, during important Buddhist festivals such as Songkran or Loy Krathong. The specific date may vary from year to year.

The procession showcases a sacred relic of the Buddha, known as Phra Phutta Sihing, which is carried through the city in a richly decorated carriage. Thousands of devotees gather to witness this procession and pay homage to the sacred relic. It is an important spiritual event that also attracts many tourists every year.

Where to go according to your desires?

North: Chiang Mai and its surroundings

With the arrival of spring, April turns out to be the ideal month to explore Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand. Mild temperatures and clear skies create perfect conditions to enjoy the many activities and attractions of the region, whether it's the splendid Buddhist temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and its exceptional panorama, the lively and colorful night market, elephant rides, or hikes in rice fields and waterfalls.

For nature lovers, Doi Inthanon National Park and its lush jungle also hide many treasures. And the icing on the cake: April is perfect for participating in Songkran festivities and its joyful water battles, a highlight of the Thai New Year. An authentic and refreshing experience! Chiang Mai emerges as a top destination in April.

If you are planning your trip to visit this beautiful country, you might love: Mastering Your Budget in Thailand 2024: Prices and Tips

Bangkok - the festive capital

In April, Bangkok offers travelers an unforgettable experience, combining cultural richness and festive atmosphere. It's the month of Songkran, the Thai New Year, which allows you to discover the capital in its most authentic form.
April is also the opportunity to visit remarkable temples like Wat Phra Kaew and its magnificent flowers, as well as the Grand Palace which houses the precious Emerald Buddha. It is also time to indulge in gourmet markets, where you can taste local specialties and Songkran sweets. Between culture, party, and gastronomy, Bangkok in April holds many surprises and unique discoveries, in a relaxing atmosphere.

After the joy of the streets, nothing beats a traditional Thai massage to relax. The city then reveals itself in a new light, away from the usual tourists.

Southern Islands and Beaches

Under a radiant sun, Southern Thailand reveals its finest in April, inviting travelers to a journey rich in discoveries and relaxation. Between sandy beaches lined with palm trees and turquoise waters, the region has many gems to explore.
Khao Lak seduces with its absolute calm while Koh Lanta enchants with its postcard landscapes ideal for swimming and water sports. Koh Samui offers its share of dream beaches for sunbathing and relaxation, while Krabi impresses with its stunning cliffs and secret coves to explore by boat. Phuket, an island that combines life and culture, has a lively nightlife and peaceful spaces to relax.

Learn more about: Thailand Islands: Guide to Choosing the Best One in 2024

These destinations will delight all travelers in search of escape, sun, and change of scenery, in summer weather. Between lazing on the beach, swimming, hiking, or cultural visits, Southern Thailand opens up entirely to tourists in April.

Pattaya, Sukhothai: Private alternatives

Pattaya

With its pleasant climate and magnificent beaches, Pattaya is a prime destination for successful holidays in April. You can relax on the beaches of Jomtien or Pattaya, enjoy the clear waters for swimming, or try various exciting water sports.
In addition to lazing around, many activities are available: visit the sumptuous Sanctuary of Truth or the splendid Nong Nooch Park, boat trips to the neighboring islands,... And for partygoers, the famous Walking Street guarantees lively evenings. With its wide range of accommodations, Pattaya is suitable for all travelers' budgets in search of sun, dream beaches, and party.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai, an ancient capital listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a cultural and historical getaway of choice in April. You will discover centuries-old temples containing fabulous architectural treasures, such as Wat Mahathat with its monumental Buddha statue.

The park also houses the grandiose remains of the ancient royal city. Its surrounding nature invites peaceful walks on foot or by bike.
In April, Songkran, the Buddhist New Year, is celebrated with joyous water battles. Sukhothai is the ideal place to combine historical discovery with immersion in local customs.

Combined itineraries with neighboring countries

Thailand is an excellent starting point for discovering its magnificent neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. These destinations share many similarities with Thailand in terms of landscapes and culture, while also having their unique identity.
Vietnam will charm travelers in search of idyllic bays like Halong Bay, endless rice fields, or historical sites in cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, or Hue. Cambodia will delight lovers of Khmer temples in Angkor, but also nature enthusiasts with its national parks or sunbathers on its superb beaches. As for Laos, it will marvel at the beauty of sites such as Kuang Si Falls or the Plain of Jars, and its peaceful atmosphere conducive to wellness.

These three countries experience hot and dry weather in April, which is ideal for outdoor activities. However, temperatures can be high, requiring some precautions. Moreover, major traditional festivals like the Buddhist New Year are celebrated in style at this time in Cambodia under the name Chol Chnam Thmay and in Laos under the name Bun Pi May, much to the delight of tourists.
So if you're visiting Thailand in April, don't hesitate to take advantage of the opportunity to also discover the best of its fabulous neighbors! Contact us to immerse yourself in the Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand trip!

Conclusion

Your trip to Thailand in April promises to be rich in discoveries and emotions. From the lush North to the paradisiacal South, you will certainly find the destination of your dreams. And what about the fabulous neighboring countries waiting for you! Whatever your traveler profile, Thailand and its surroundings will meet your expectations in April. All you have to do is pack your bags and embark on the adventure!

Source: Thai Meteorological Department, Wikipedia, Tourism Authority of Thailand

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