Spring in Bangkok brings a mix of heat, humidity, and ever-changing skies that really shape your experience in the city. You’ll usually see daily highs around 34–35°C, and nights don’t cool off much—temperatures rarely drop below 26°C.
March kicks off drier and clearer, but by May, the air feels heavy. Clouds start to take over, and rain showers become a regular thing.
As spring rolls on, daylight stretches a bit longer. Winds calm down, and muggy conditions creep closer to 100%. Rainfall picks up fast, and those quick showers in early spring become steady downpours by late May.
These shifts don’t just affect the weather—they change the daily rhythm of life in Thailand’s capital.
Knowing what’s coming can help you plan. April’s afternoons get scorching, and May brings sudden storms that can throw off your schedule.
If you’re hoping to catch cultural festivals or just want to be ready for the weather, it pays to get familiar with Bangkok’s spring climate.
Overview of Spring Weather in Bangkok
Spring in Bangkok is basically the hottest time of year. Humidity rises, and rainfall patterns shift quickly.
Expect long daylight hours, warm sea breezes, and dry spells that eventually give way to the early monsoon.
Typical Temperature Ranges
During spring, Bangkok’s daily highs often hit 34–36°C (93–97°F), with April usually the hottest. Nights stay balmy, averaging 26–28°C (79–82°F), so there’s barely any relief after sunset.
The heat doesn’t waste time—it ramps up from March to May. March is already hot, but April sometimes pushes up to 38–40°C (100–104°F). By May, temperatures stay high, but the seasonal rains start to take the edge off.
Bangkok sits near sea level and close to the Gulf of Thailand, so the heat feels even more intense than inland. The city’s urban heat island effect traps warmth, which keeps things hotter than in the countryside.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Humidity climbs fast through spring, especially in April and May. In March, you’ll see about 68% relative humidity, but by May it often hits 70–75%.
This thick air makes afternoons feel sticky and uncomfortable. Even at night, the humidity sticks around, and with the warm temps, sleeping without AC can be tough.
The sticky conditions peak right before the monsoon rains, when the air just feels heavy and still.
You’ll probably notice the heat index really going up. For instance, if it’s 35°C, it might feel more like 42°C. Staying hydrated and sticking to outdoor activities in the morning or evening is usually your best bet.
Rainfall Patterns and Precipitation
Rainfall jumps up fast as spring moves along. March averages about 40 mm of rain over a couple of days, but April bumps up to 90 mm, mostly from short thunderstorms.
By May, you’re looking at 250 mm—that’s when monsoon season really starts.
Storms in April and May usually don’t last long, but they hit hard with heavy rain and strong winds. These downpours can cool things off for a bit, but they also crank up the humidity.
Here’s how the rainy days break down:
- March: ~4 rainy days
- April: ~7 rainy days
- May: ~16 rainy days
So, March stays mostly dry, April brings more showers, and May is pretty wet. Even with the rain, you’ll still get a lot of sunshine, especially earlier in the season.
Monthly Breakdown: March, April, and May
Spring in Bangkok means rising temps, more humidity, and a shift from hardly any rain to frequent downpours. April is usually the hottest, and May brings heavier showers.
March Weather Highlights
March signals the start of Bangkok’s hot season. Daytime highs reach 33–35°C (91–95°F), and nights hover at 25–27°C (77–81°F).
Humidity starts to rise, making things feel hotter than what the thermometer says.
Rainfall is still pretty low, averaging 30–40 mm, so most days stay dry. You get long sunshine hours, which is great for sightseeing.
But that heat and humidity can wear you out if you’re outside too long.
If you want to explore temples, markets, or the riverside, go early or later in the day. Drink plenty of water and wear light clothes.
March is a good time for day trips outside the city since heavy rain hasn’t started yet and roads are clear.
April Weather Highlights
April is usually the hottest month of the year in Bangkok. Afternoon highs often top 35°C (95°F), sometimes reaching 38–40°C (100–104°F).
Nights barely cool down, staying above 27°C (81°F).
Humidity’s up, making the air feel thick. Rainfall increases to around 60–80 mm, but storms are usually quick and scattered.
You still get lots of sun, though haze and humidity can mess with visibility.
April brings the Songkran Festival, Thailand’s traditional New Year. Water fights across the city offer both cultural fun and a way to cool off.
If you visit now, expect crowds and lots of energy everywhere.
May Weather Highlights
May marks the start of the rainy season. Daytime highs stick around 33–35°C (91–95°F), but frequent rain showers start to cool things down a bit.
Nights stay warm at 26–28°C (79–82°F).
Rainfall jumps to 200–250 mm for the month. Storms usually hit in the late afternoon or evening, and while they’re heavy, they don’t last long.
Humidity remains high, so it stays sticky between the showers.
Tourist crowds thin out, so you’ll find shorter lines and better hotel deals. If you plan around the rain, sightseeing is still doable.
Indoor spots like museums, malls, and aquariums get more appealing this month.
Temperature Trends and Extremes
Spring in Bangkok means hot days and warm nights, and honestly, there’s not much relief from the heat. Temperatures climb steadily through late spring, and humidity just makes it feel warmer.
Extreme highs can happen, but even the lows stay pretty warm.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
In spring, you’ll usually see daytime highs around 94°F (34°C). It rarely drops below 89°F (32°C) and sometimes gets close to 99°F (37°C).
The hottest stretch usually falls in mid-April, with average highs near 95°F (35°C).
At night, things don’t cool off much. Overnight lows average about 79°F (26°C), with early May bringing the warmest nights at 81°F (27°C).
Even the coolest spring nights rarely dip below 73°F (23°C).
So, don’t expect big swings between day and night. The heat lingers after sunset, and with high humidity, evenings can feel really muggy.
You’ll want air conditioning or at least a fan if you hope to get comfortable indoors.
Record Highs and Lows
Bangkok doesn’t really see wild temperature swings like some places. The highest daily averages in mid-April reach about 95°F (35°C), which is as hot as it usually gets.
Sometimes, temps briefly hit 99°F (37°C), but it’s rare to go higher.
On the other end, spring lows stay mild. The lowest averages are around 73°F (23°C), and it’s unusual for it to drop below that.
Unlike northern climates, Bangkok doesn’t get surprise cold snaps in spring.
The steady heat means you should get ready for sustained high temperatures, not dramatic ups and downs.
There’s a certain predictability to it, which can help with planning, but don’t expect much natural relief, especially later in the season.
Rainfall, Sunshine, and Cloud Cover
During the spring months of March to May, Bangkok sees rainfall rise fast while temperatures stay high. Sunshine hours remain pretty steady, but clouds become more common as the wet season creeps in.
Average Rainy Days and Precipitation
Spring rain in Bangkok starts with light showers in March and builds to heavy downpours by May.
March brings about 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain over a few days. By April, you get 90–100 mm (3.5–4 in), usually in short, intense bursts.
May is when the real monsoon kicks in, with 240–250 mm (9.5–10 in) across 15–16 rainy days.
Outdoor plans can get interrupted by sudden storms, so flexibility is key.
The pattern can shift a bit year to year, but the steady rise in both rainy days and total rainfall is a springtime staple in Bangkok.
You’ll want to prep for wet weather, especially in late spring.
Sunshine Duration and Cloudiness
Even as rain picks up, Bangkok still gets a good amount of sun in spring. March offers about 8.5–9 hours of sunshine each day, gradually dropping to 7 hours by May.
Clouds become more of a fixture as the season goes on. March skies are partly cloudy, April brings more overcast spells, and May is often cloudy with only brief sunny breaks between showers.
Even on rainy days, the sun pops out between storms, so outdoor time isn’t lost. Still, the humidity and thicker cloud cover in late spring can make the air feel heavy and cut down on visibility sometimes.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Spring in Bangkok isn’t just about the weather—it’s also festival season. You’ll deal with high heat, rising humidity, and the first hints of the rainy season, all while the city buzzes with celebrations.
Most events happen outdoors, so keeping an eye on the weather is a smart move.
Songkran Festival and Its Weather
The Songkran Festival, Thailand’s traditional New Year, runs every April 13–15. In Bangkok, it’s a massive celebration—think water fights, parades, and temple rituals.
During Songkran, daily highs usually hit 94–95°F (34–35°C), and nights hover near 79–81°F (26–27°C). The air is humid, so it can get uncomfortable if you’re not ready.
Luckily, the water splashing tradition makes the heat more bearable. You can cool off while joining in, but it’s smart to wear light clothes, protect your electronics, and use sunscreen.
Rainfall picks up a bit in April, but showers are short. If you’re moving between temple events and street parties, expect crowds and slow traffic.
Other Springtime Celebrations
Besides Songkran, you might stumble across smaller cultural or religious festivals. Local communities put on temple fairs with food, music, and performances.
These are less crowded than Songkran but still show off Bangkok’s festive spirit.
Spring is also a time for Buddhist observances. Many residents visit temples to make offerings, usually early or late in the day to avoid the worst heat.
Outdoor markets and neighborhood festivals keep going through March, April, and May.
With humidity rising and rain more likely later in spring, bringing an umbrella and drinking plenty of water will make things easier.
Travel Tips for Visiting Bangkok in Spring
Spring in Bangkok means warm to hot temperatures, moderate humidity, and mostly dry conditions—though you’ll get the occasional short shower. These months are great for outdoor sightseeing, cultural visits, and evening adventures when the heat lets up a bit.
Best Activities for the Season
Start your day by checking out major landmarks like the Grand Palace or Wat Pho. Mornings work best since the sun isn’t as harsh then.
These sites let you dive into Thailand’s history and religious traditions. Plus, you’ll find some shaded spots to cool off.
Hop on a river cruise along the Chao Phraya River if you’re looking for something relaxing. The breeze on the water really helps with the heat.
You’ll catch a new angle of temples like Wat Arun from the boat, which feels pretty special.
Evenings are perfect for wandering through markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market or Chinatown’s Yaowarat Road. Temperatures dip a bit, and the atmosphere just comes alive.
Street food tours at night? Absolutely worth it. The cooler air makes everything more enjoyable, and you can sample all kinds of local dishes.
If you’re up for a quick escape from the city, check out nearby beaches like Pattaya, Hua Hin, or Koh Samet. They’re easy to reach and usually offer dry, sunny spring weather.
Packing and Preparation Advice
Honestly, you’ll want light, breathable clothes if you’re heading to Bangkok in the spring. Cotton or linen is your best bet for beating the heat. Loose shirts, shorts, and dresses make a big difference when you’re out exploring.
If you plan to visit temples, remember to pack something modest that covers your shoulders and knees. It’s easy to forget, but they really do care about dress codes.
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The sun can be relentless, and you’ll thank yourself later. Toss in a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket, just in case you get caught in one of those quick showers.
Walking around the city takes some effort, so comfortable shoes or sandals are a must. The heat gets intense—often in the mid-30s °C (upper 80s–90s °F)—so carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
A small backpack comes in handy for stashing water, sunscreen, and maybe a map or two as you wander through the city.