By Kylian DevNorth
RainyChiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai
Peak of the rainy season: frequent downpours, swollen rivers and some trekking routes closed.
Thailand in September
Thailand in September: the rainiest month, with a Gulf exception
September is often the wettest month in Bangkok, the north and on the Andaman coast. The Gulf islands usually hold on to decent weather, and low-season prices make it the cheapest time to travel.
- Rainy month
- Low season
- 3 ideal destinations
Rainy month
Our verdict for September
September is for flexible, budget-minded travellers. Heavy rain is common across most of the country and flooding is possible in low-lying areas. The exception is the Gulf of Thailand: Samui, Phangan and Tao usually still have good weather until the rains move in around October. If you go, base your beach time there.
Bangkok & centre
RainyBangkok, Ayutthaya, Hua Hin
Often the wettest month in Bangkok; short-lived street flooding after storms is common.
Andaman coast
RainyPhuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, Lanta
Monsoon continues with rough seas; many boat trips and marine parks are on reduced service or closed.
Gulf islands
GreatKoh Samui, Phangan, Tao
Usually still good: mostly dry, with the better weather on Koh Tao and Koh Samui before the October change.
Region by region
Weather in Thailand in September, by region
The bar shows how many of our destinations in each region are in their ideal season. The strip shows the whole year, with this month outlined.
North
Rainy
0 of 6 destinations ideal
Central & Bangkok
Rainy
0 of 5 destinations ideal
Gulf of Thailand
Great
3 of 3 destinations ideal
Andaman Sea
Rainy
0 of 9 destinations ideal
East (Koh Chang)
Rainy
0 of 5 destinations ideal
Method: each destination has a list of ideal months in our data; a region is rated from the share of its destinations in their ideal window. It is a planning guide based on typical seasons, not a forecast.
Where to go
Best places to visit in Thailand in September
In September, the Gulf islands are the only destinations in their ideal window according to our data.
Gulf of ThailandKoh Tao
The mecca of scuba diving and sea turtles
29°C€28 - 50 / day
Gulf of ThailandKoh Phangan
Two faces: legendary parties and zen yoga sanctuaries
29°C€30 - 65 / day
Gulf of ThailandKoh Samui
The island of coconut palms, exceptional spas and Ang Thong marine park
30°C€50 - 120 / day
Doable, off peak (0)
None: every destination is either ideal or rainy this month.
Outside their ideal window but usually fine to visit: expect some showers, heat or rougher seas.
Rainy season (25)
BangkokChiang MaiChiang Rai & the Golden TrianglePaiSukhothaiAyutthayaKanchanaburi & ErawanHua HinKoh ChangKhao SokPhuketKrabi & RailayKoh Phi PhiKoh LantaKoh LipeKoh KoodKoh MakKoh SametPattayaKhao YaiKhao LakKoh Yao NoiTrang IslandsMae Hong SonNan
In their rainy season according to our data. Still possible if you are flexible, but plan indoor options and check boat schedules.
Typical conditions
What the weather is like in September
Expect warm, very humid weather with frequent and sometimes prolonged rain in the north, the centre and on the Andaman coast. Sunny breaks still happen. On the Gulf islands, rain is lighter and less frequent, and the sea is usually calm.
What to pack in September
- A reliable rain jacket and a dry bag
- Waterproof sandals and one pair of closed shoes
- Mosquito repellent and a long-sleeved top for evenings
- Travel insurance that covers weather disruption
Crowds & prices
Crowds and prices in September
Low season
The quietest and cheapest month of the year in most places, with discounts on hotels and few crowds at major sights. Some smaller island resorts close for maintenance.
Tourist season through the year
JFMAMJJASOND
Taller bar = busier and usually pricier. Based on typical tourist seasons, not live prices.
Festivals
Festivals in Thailand in September
Lunar festivals shift from year to year: check the exact date before you book.
Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Nine days in late September or October (lunar)
Nine days of vegan food, firecrackers and spectacular (sometimes gruesome) street processions in Phuket Town.
Phuket Town (Chinese shrines), also Bangkok's Chinatown
Full Moon Party
Every month, on or around the full moon
The monthly all-night beach party at Haad Rin, Koh Phangan.
Haad Rin beach, Koh Phangan
FAQ
Thailand in September: your questions
Should I avoid Thailand in September?
Not necessarily. It is the rainiest month for most of the country, but the Gulf islands (Samui, Phangan, Tao) often stay fine, and prices are at their lowest. Our guide to the rainy season in Thailand has more tips.
Where is the best weather in Thailand in September?
On the Gulf of Thailand, especially Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, which receive much less rain than the Andaman coast or Bangkok at this time.
When is the Phuket Vegetarian Festival?
It runs for nine days from the start of the ninth Chinese lunar month, which usually means late September or October. Check the exact dates each year.
Keep planning