Forget what you’ve heard about avoiding Thailand in June. South East Asia in the rainy season is a secret paradise most tourists miss.

What if I told you the best time to visit Thailand isn’t during the picture-perfect high season, but when the monsoon rains begin? Imagine having Phuket’s beaches almost to yourself, or watching mist rise from Chiang Mai’s mountains after a refreshing rain shower. This becomes reality in June.

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Thailand in June means rain in much of the country. It’s the second month of the rainy season which typically runs from May to October. Don’t let this stop you from planning a visit because, as we have written before, a visit in the wet season has many benefits.

June is better than May because the early rains can bring chaos, and the heaviest falls are in September and October. Let’s go through what you need to plan a fantastic June trip to Thailand.

How crowded are tourist spots in Thailand in June?

June brings a sense of peace to Thailand’s tourist spots. The rain means fewer tourists, offering a quieter experience for those who prefer less crowded places.

Attractions like the Grand Palace in Bangkok, the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, and the idyllic beaches of Phuket are usually crowded, offering a tranquil experience.

Though intermittently prone to cloudy skies and rains, Thai islands offer extraordinary value with fewer people around. Stick to the east coast islands like Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan, where the rain isn’t as heavy.

Street markets, known for their sensory overload, become easier to navigate, allowing for more comfortable exploration. The drawback is that some shops and stalls might be closed due to reduced visitor numbers. On the flip side, a more authentic experience awaits through friendly interactions with local vendors, who have more time to share their stories with you.

June is not the most popular time to visit Thailand, but it holds an understated beauty and charm for those who prefer less crowded destinations and don’t mind some afternoon rain.

Understanding Thailand’s June Weather

June in Thailand signals the commencement of the monsoon season, an experience that warrants a deeper understanding. The monsoon season does not entail days filled with non-stop rainfall, contrary to popular belief. Thailand’s weather in June is far more complex, but interestingly variable.

As the first rains of June fall, Thai farmers breathe a sigh of relief and locals prepare for vibrant festivals. This is Thailand as the Thai people love it best.

Unscheduled showers are common in June weather, between periods of sunshine. Thunderstorms usually happen in the afternoon or evening.

Rain is intense but brief, providing a refreshing retreat from the heat and adding a soothing, relaxing ambience to the serene landscape. Don’t let the ‘rainy season’ deter you – it offers unique experiences.

In June, the lush vegetation blooms, making Thailand an emerald paradise. The orchards offer ripe tropical fruits like mangoes, lychees, and durians in good supply. Rain showers cool down the hot and humid weather, making daily excursions more comfortable.

You can still enjoy Thailand’s beach life during this period with pre-planning and flexibility. It’s about picking the right places to go. Phuket on the Andaman coast experiences 21 days with some rain in June. The Koh Samui and the other islands in Gulf of Thailand stay drier.

Location	Avg. Temperature (°C)	Avg. Temperature (°F)	Avg. Rainfall (mm)
Bangkok	26 – 33	79 – 91	150
Chiang Mai	24 – 33	75 – 91	135
Phuket	25 – 31	77 – 88	170
Koh Samui	25 – 32	77 – 90	90
Pattaya	26 – 31	79 – 88	105
Hua Hin	26 – 32	79 – 90	80

Travel tips for visiting Thailand in June.

Navigating Thailand at this time requires a strategy to get the most out of your trip.

Consider the availability of local transport. A significant aspect to remember during your June travel is the that boats are prone to cancellation this time of year. Keep an eye on the weather forecast as services may be cancelled due to safety concerns in rough weather. Having flexible hotel bookings is worth the extra cost for peace of mind.

Avoid booking a ferry ride or boat transfer and a flight on the same day in the wet season.

Pack for rain – It’s essential to pack smart for a rainy season holiday. June in Thailand means sporadic rain, but high temperatures. Pack a light waterproof jacket that folds up and sturdy sandals. You may be advised to carry an umbrella, but I never bother. Just duck into a bar or cafe till it passes.

Leverage the low season to find deals. You can negotiate better prices on accommodation and local tours with fewer tourists.

We suggest a balance of preparation and spontaneity to make travelling to Thailand in June unforgettable. It can be a fabulous time to see Thailand differently, as long as you are prepared for rain showers and muggy weather.

Best Places to Visit in Thailand in June

June in Thailand is an experience that should not be missed. Here are a few places that stand out for their unique character and charm during this time:

Chiang Mai

You’ll encounter some rain, but it comes in short, intense bursts that clear up quickly. The rain brings out the lush green of Chiang Mai‘s jungle landscapes and waterfalls flow freely.

Bangkok

Bangkok is always buzzing with energy. Your enjoyment of Thailand’s capital city remains unaffected by the weather in June. You can explore street markets and temples as you would at any time of year.

Try the local street food – it’s an experience not to be missed! Visit the night markets, Grand Palace, canals on a long-tail boat, or unwind at a rooftop bar with a city view – it’s up to you.

Phuket

We spent June 2023 in Phuket, and I thought the beautiful coastal landscapes looked even more dramatic and inviting in June. The beginning of the monsoon means it’s the start of the surfing season, making it an ideal time to hit the waves.

Rain comes in short, intense bursts, leaving plenty of time for sunbathing and exploring.

Ayutthaya

If you’re into history, Ayutthaya is a must-visit and June is ideal. The tourist crowds are thinner, and you can explore the ancient ruins and temples in peace. We only experienced rain on one of our three days earlier in June last year.

So expect showers, but as a trade off you will enjoy greener landscapes, cleaner air and cooler temperatures than peak tourist season.

Koh Samui

In June, Koh Samui is a top destination for tourists. It’s in the Gulf of Thailand and has less rainfall than other parts of the country at this time of year. The island’s beaches and boutique hotels are reserved well in advance, so book early for the best deals.

Hua Hin

Hua Hin shines in June, offering a mix of city life and beach relaxation. It’s less crowded, perfect for a peaceful getaway.

The night markets are a must-visit for local food and handicrafts, and you’ll find good deals on hotels.

Best National Parks to Visit in June

The monsoon season makes the waterfalls most spectacular. Erawan Falls in Erawan National Park is a must-visit. Its seven-tiered waterfall is unforgettable.

The waterfalls in Chiang Mai Province are breathtaking this time of year and a better option than later in the season when they are overflowing and often turn a shade of muddy brown as we experienced in 2022 on a September visit.

Island-Hopping in June

If you want to go island hopping in June, consider the Gulf Islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. They have less rainfall than other areas.

Insider’s Guide to Thailand’s June Festivals and Events

In June, Thailand hosts events and festivals that offer insight into the country’s culture and traditions.

• June kicks off the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale, a two-month shopping extravaganza. During this period, you can enjoy discounts of up to 80% on clothing, electronics, and traditional Thai handicrafts.
• The Inthakin City Pillar Festival is held in Chiang Mai in June. This eight-day event involves locals making merit and offering flowers, incense, and candles to the city pillar spirit for protection and prosperity.
• The Phi Ta Khon Festival, also known as the Ghost Festival, is a notable event in Loei province where locals wear colourful ghost masks, sing, dance, and parade through the streets.

Considerations when traveling to Thailand in June

The weather will cause some disruption. June travel requires flexibility and a lightweight raincoat.

June brings high humidity, which can make sightseeing and outdoor activities uncomfortable. So, balance your time indoors (malls and museums are great midday activities) and plan your sightseeing early or late in the day.

Heavy rain in northern Thailand may cause flash floods, disrupting travel plans and making certain areas inaccessible. It’s important to monitor local weather reports and prepare for disruptions.

The rainy season increases the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever. It’s advisable to take precautions to avoid bites, like using insect repellent and wearing light long-sleeved clothing at dusk and in the evening.

Find more great things to do in Thailand by joining our Facebook Group Thailand Obsessed, where you can ask questions or share your own tips and love of Thailand.

Is a June Trip to Thailand for you?

A trip to Thailand in June is a good choice. You’ll find cheaper prices, fewer crowds, and a country bursting with new life after the dry season. It’s also a vote for sustainable tourism. Visiting in the low season helps support local communcities and gives you a greater chance of connection.

Not everyone will want to forgo the full blue sky and sunshine experience in favour of a less travelled road. You’ll need to be flexible and ready for some rain. But I think there is every chance you will come to love it as much as I do.