Planning a trip to Nakhon Si Thammarat or considering making it your new home? Understanding its unique tropical climate is key to making the most of your time in this beautiful southern Thai province. Whether you’re eyeing properties in Sichon or just want to know the best time for a beach holiday, this guide will walk you through what to expect from the weather year-round.
Nakhon Si Thammarat’s position on the Gulf of Thailand gives it a distinct weather pattern compared to other parts of the country. Instead of a simple wet and dry season, the climate is shaped by different monsoon winds. This results in three main periods: a cool/dry season, a hot season, and a long wet season, with the heaviest rains arriving between November and January.
This guide breaks down the weather month by month, helping you plan everything from temple visits to scouting the real estate market in Sichon.
An Overview of the Seasons in Nakhon Si Thammarat
Nakhon Si Thammarat’s climate can be divided into three distinct seasons. Knowing the differences will help you decide the best time to visit or invest in property.
• Cool/Dry Season (December – February): This is the most popular time to visit. Temperatures are pleasant, humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. It’s perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the region comfortably.
• Hot Season (March – May): Temperatures rise significantly, and so does the humidity. While March and April are still relatively dry, May marks the beginning of the monsoon, with a sharp increase in afternoon rain showers.
• Wet/Monsoon Season (June – November): This long season is defined by the southwest monsoon. Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts rather than all-day downpours. The rain peaks in October and November, which are the wettest months of the year.
Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown in Nakhon Si Thammarat
Here’s a closer look at what you can expect each month in Nakhon Si Thammarat.
January: Cool and Pleasant
• Temperature: 22-31°C (72-88°F)
• Rainfall: 87mm
• Humidity: 75%
January offers ideal weather. Days are warm and breezy, while mornings are refreshingly cool. With only about seven rainy days in the month, it’s a great time for exploring temples, visiting local markets, or hiking in the mountains. The pleasant conditions make it an attractive time for those looking at properties in Sichon.
February: The Driest Month
• Temperature: 23-29°C (73-84°F)
• Rainfall: 68mm
• Humidity: 75%
February is the driest month of the year, making it perfect for beach lovers. The lower temperatures and minimal rainfall create perfect conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful coastline at places like Khanom Beach. The famous Hae Pha Khuen That Festival also takes place this month.
March: The Heat Begins
• Temperature: 25-33°C (77-91°F)
• Rainfall: 106mm
• Humidity: 75%
March signals the start of the hot season. Temperatures begin to climb, making early morning or late afternoon the best times for outdoor activities. The weather remains relatively dry, offering a good balance before the heavy heat and rain of the coming months.
April: Hot and Humid
• Temperature: 25-33°C (77-91°F)
• Rainfall: 114mm
• Humidity: 77%
April is one of the hottest months, with high humidity making it feel even warmer. Brief afternoon showers become more common. If you are visiting or exploring the area, plan to be outdoors before 10 am or after 5 pm to avoid the intense midday sun.
May: Welcome to the Monsoon
• Temperature: 26-31°C (79-88°F)
• Rainfall: 242mm
• Humidity: 78%
May marks the official start of the wet season. Rainfall more than doubles compared to April, but it also brings the landscape to life. The lush greenery is vibrant, and waterfalls are at their most powerful. It’s a great time for nature lovers, but be sure to pack a raincoat.
June to August: Mid-Monsoon Variations
• Temperature: 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Rainfall: 130-320mm
• Humidity: 78-82%
These months see varied conditions. June is quite wet, but the calm seas are ideal for pink dolphin tours in Khanom. Surprisingly, August is one of the drier months of the monsoon season, with only 130mm of rain. This offers a great window for exploring caves and inland attractions with fewer crowds.
September to November: The Peak Wet Season
• Temperature: 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Rainfall: 340-631mm
• Humidity: 80-87%
Rainfall becomes progressively heavier during this period. November is the wettest month of the year, receiving a massive 631mm of rain on average. The high humidity and frequent downpours can make outdoor activities challenging. However, the dramatic monsoon landscapes offer stunning photo opportunities for brave travellers.
December: Cooling Down
• Temperature: 24-29°C (75-84°F)
• Rainfall: 150mm
• Humidity: 80%
December is a transition month. While there is still some leftover rain from the monsoon, the weather starts to become cooler and drier. This signals the start of the peak tourist season, as conditions become more comfortable for travel and outdoor exploration.
Activities for Every Season of Nakhon Si Thammarat
Cool/Dry Season (Dec – Feb): This is the best time for almost any activity.
• Explore the stunning Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan temple.
• Visit Kiriwong Village, considered the place with the purest air in Thailand.
• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Khanom and Sichon.
Hot Season (Mar – May): Focus on water-based or early-morning activities.
• Take a boat tour to see the rare pink dolphins in Khanom Bay.
• Visit the province’s many waterfalls, which are powerful from the early rains.
• Explore indoor attractions like the Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum.
Wet Season (Jun – Nov): Enjoy the lush nature and fewer crowds.
• Take advantage of the drier spell in August for hiking and exploring caves.
• Enjoy peaceful visits to temples and markets between the rain showers.
• Capture dramatic photos of the moody, rain-soaked landscapes.
Planning Your Perfect Trip Nakhon Si Thammarat
Nakhon Si Thammarat has something to offer year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.
If you want sunny beach days and comfortable sightseeing, December to February is your best bet. The pleasant weather makes it the ideal time to explore the region, including the growing real estate market in Sichon.
For those who love lush landscapes and don’t mind some rain, the shoulder months of May, July, and August offer a great balance. You’ll find fewer tourists and a vibrant, green environment perfect for exploring waterfalls and rainforests.
While the peak wet season from September to November can be challenging, it rewards visitors with dramatic scenery and a truly local experience. Just be sure to pack your rain gear and maintain a flexible schedule. No matter when you choose to go, understanding the weather in Nakhon Si Thammarat will help you have a memorable and enjoyable stay.
