May is a transition month in Bangkok, Thailand and offers both pros and cons as a time to visit.
Pros:
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Fewer Tourists: May marks the end of the high tourist season, leading to fewer crowds and shorter lines at popular attractions. This can result in more enjoyable experiences and greater access to facilities.
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Pleasant Weather: While May is considered the beginning of the rainy season, rainfall tends to be sporadic and short-lived. Temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C), making it generally comfortable for outdoor activities.
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Cultural Events: May is home to several significant cultural events and festivals. Visakh Bucha Day, which typically falls in May, is a public holiday that celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha, marked by religious ceremonies and processions.
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Affordable Prices: As the low season begins, travelers can often find lower prices on flights, accommodation, and activities. This can be an advantage for those seeking a budget-friendly trip.
Cons:
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Hot and Humid: Bangkok is known for its tropical climate, and May can be particularly hot and humid. Temperatures regularly reach the mid-80s Fahrenheit (29°C) and humidity levels can be high, making it uncomfortable for some visitors.
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Increased Risk of Rain: May is the start of the rainy season, and while rainfall tends to be brief, it can still disrupt outdoor activities and cause occasional flooding. It is advisable to pack an umbrella or raincoat and be prepared for unexpected showers.
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Reduced Hours and Closures: Some businesses and attractions may have reduced hours or even close temporarily during the low season. It is advisable to check operating times before making plans.
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Less Vibrant Nightlife: With fewer tourists in town, the nightlife scene may be less vibrant compared to other times of the year. Some bars and clubs may operate on reduced schedules or close earlier.
Ultimately, whether May is a good time to visit Bangkok depends on individual preferences and priorities. Those seeking fewer crowds and lower prices may find May to be a suitable time, while those preferring cooler weather and a more vibrant atmosphere may want to consider other months.
Weather In Bangkok During May
In May, Bangkok is in its hottest season, with average temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (32 to 34 degrees Celsius). The humidity is also very high during this time, making it feel even hotter. There is little rainfall in May, and the skies are usually clear.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the weather conditions in Bangkok during May:
- Average temperature: 30°C (86°F)
- Average high temperature: 35°C (95°F)
- Average low temperature: 26°C (79°F)
- Average humidity: 80%
- Average rainfall: 100 mm (4 inches)
It is important to note that the weather in Bangkok can be unpredictable, so it is always best to pack for both hot and rainy weather.
Here are some tips for staying cool and comfortable in Bangkok during May:
- Wear light, loose clothing made from natural fibers, such as cotton or linen.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Avoid spending too much time outdoors during the hottest hours of the day, typically between 11am and 3pm.
- Take advantage of the air conditioning in shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels.
- If you do have to be outdoors, wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Things To Do In Bangkok In May
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Buddha Day (Visakha Bucha): (May 15-16, 2023) This national holiday commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. Temples throughout Bangkok are adorned with colorful decorations, and there are processions and candlelight ceremonies.
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Bang Pa-In Royal Summer Palace: This beautiful palace, located about 60 kilometers north of Bangkok, is a popular tourist destination. In May, the palace grounds are in full bloom with colorful flowers, making it an ideal time to visit.
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Loy Krathong Festival: (November 8, 2023) This festival, which takes place on the full moon of the 12th lunar month, is a celebration of the end of the rainy season and to pay respect to the water spirits. People make small floats, called krathongs, out of banana leaves and decorate them with flowers, candles, and incense. The krathongs are then floated down rivers and canals.
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Bangkok Food Festival: (usually held in May) This popular festival showcases a variety of Thai and international cuisine. There are cooking demonstrations, food stalls, and live music.
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Chatuchak Weekend Market: This massive market is open every weekend and is a great place to find everything from clothes and souvenirs to food and furniture. In May, the weather is usually hot and humid, so be sure to wear light clothing and drink plenty of water.
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Chao Phraya River Festival: (Usually held in May) This annual festival celebrates the Chao Phraya River, which is the main waterway in Bangkok. There are boat races, cultural performances, and fireworks.
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King Chulalongkorn Memorial Day: (October 23, 2023) This national holiday commemorates the death of King Chulalongkorn, who is considered to be the father of modern Thailand. There are ceremonies and parades held in Bangkok and other cities throughout the country.
Tourism In Bangkok, Thailand During May
Weather:
- Temperature: 86°F (30°C) average, with highs reaching 95°F (35°C) and lows dropping to 77°F (25°C)
- Humidity: High, around 75%
- Rainfall: May is the beginning of the rainy season in Bangkok, with an average of 6 inches (150 mm) of rain
- Overall, the weather in Bangkok in May is hot, humid, and rainy
Crowds and Prices:
- Crowds: May is a shoulder season for tourism in Bangkok, so there are fewer tourists than during the peak season from November to February. However, the city is still busy, especially during the weekends and public holidays.
- Prices: Prices for flights, hotels, and activities are generally lower in May than during the peak season. However, prices may still be higher than during the low season from June to October.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, two of Bangkok’s most iconic temples.
- Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River.
- Visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world.
- Visit the Siam Paragon shopping mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Southeast Asia.
- Enjoy the nightlife in Bangkok, which is known for its vibrant bars and clubs.
Tips:
- Be prepared for the heat and humidity by wearing light, loose clothing and drinking plenty of water.
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat in case of rain.
- Be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants.
- Learn some basic Thai phrases, such as “hello” (“sawasdee”), “thank you” (“khop khun ka”/“khop khun khap”), and “goodbye” (“la gòn”).
- Be respectful of Thai culture and customs. For example, it is considered rude to point your feet at someone or to touch someone’s head.