Things to Do in Thailand in April

April Weather in Thailand

36°C (97°F) High Temp

26°C (79°F) Low Temp

85 mm (3.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Songkran Festival (April 13-15) - Thailand's most exhilarating celebration with nationwide water fights, temple ceremonies, and cultural events. Streets transform into water battle zones, offering genuine cultural immersion impossible any other time of year
Similan Islands open their final month before monsoon closure (close mid-May) - visibility reaches 30 m (98 ft) for world-class diving and snorkeling. Water temperature perfect at 29°C (84°F), and April sees 40% fewer tourists than February-March
Mango season peaks with nam dok mai and ok rong varieties at their sweetest. Roadside stalls sell ripe mangoes for ฿40-60/kg versus ฿120-150/kg other months. Khao niao mamuang (mango sticky rice) tastes demonstrably better with peak-season fruit
Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai) offers genuine relief from heat - temperatures 4-6°C (7-11°F) cooler than Bangkok at 800-1,400 m (2,625-4,593 ft) elevation. Hill tribe trekking conditions ideal before rainy season begins in May

Considerations

Hottest month of the year with 'feels like' temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) in Bangkok and central regions between 11am-3pm. Heat exhaustion is real - outdoor sightseeing requires strategic planning around early mornings (6-9am) and late afternoons (4-7pm)
Songkran week (April 10-17) causes accommodation prices to surge 150-300% in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Pattaya. Transportation books solid, and many businesses close for 3-5 days. If you're not participating in Songkran, this week is frustrating
Air quality in northern Thailand deteriorates from agricultural burning - Chiang Mai's AQI frequently exceeds 150 (unhealthy) in early April. Burning typically reduces after April 15, but those with respiratory issues should monitor real-time AQI and consider southern destinations instead

Best Activities in April

Similan Islands Diving and Snorkeling Expeditions

April is your final opportunity before the Similans close for monsoon season (mid-May to October). Underwater visibility peaks at 25-30 m (82-98 ft) with water temperature at comfortable 29°C (84°F). Whale shark sightings increase in April as they migrate through the Andaman Sea. Crowds thin significantly after Songkran week - you'll have dive sites substantially to yourself compared to the February-March rush. Liveaboard trips offer the most comprehensive experience with 3-day/2-night itineraries covering Richelieu Rock and Koh Bon.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead for day trips (typically ฿3,800-5,200 including transfers, lunch, equipment) or 4-6 weeks for liveaboards (฿18,000-28,000 for 3 days). Verify operators hold PADI certification and provide travel insurance. Depart from Khao Lak or Phuket - Khao Lak transfers are 30 minutes shorter. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Songkran Water Festival Participation

April 13-15 is Thailand's traditional New Year and the world's largest water fight. Chiang Mai hosts the most intense celebrations with a 4 km (2.5 mile) moat circuit where water battles rage for 72 hours straight. Bangkok's Silom and Khao San Roads transform into water war zones. Beyond tourist water fights, witness genuine cultural traditions: merit-making at temples at dawn, pouring scented water over Buddha images, and rod nam dam hua ceremonies where younger people respectfully pour water over elders' hands. The spiritual aspects happen 7-9am before water battles begin around 10am.

Booking Tip: Book accommodation 6-8 weeks ahead - prices triple during festival week and sell out in popular areas. Waterproof pouches for phones (฿150-300) and reef-safe sunscreen are essential. Join organized cultural tours for context beyond water fights (typically ฿1,800-2,800 for half-day experiences including temple visits and traditional ceremonies). See current Songkran tour options in the booking section below.

Bangkok Temple and Street Food Tours (Early Morning)

April's extreme afternoon heat makes early morning (6-10am) the only comfortable window for outdoor exploration. This timing actually enhances temple visits - you'll witness monks' morning alms rounds at 6:30am, see locals making merit before work, and photograph Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and Grand Palace in soft morning light without tour bus crowds that arrive after 9am. Street food vendors serve breakfast specialties like jok (rice porridge) and patongo (Thai donuts) that disappear by 10am. The Chao Phraya River breeze provides natural cooling.

Booking Tip: Book walking and food tours that start at 6-7am (typically ฿1,200-2,200 for 3-4 hours including food tastings and temple entries). Verify tours include bottled water and rest stops in air-conditioned spaces. Temple dress codes strictly enforced - shoulders and knees covered. Independent visitors should arrive at Grand Palace when gates open at 8:30am to avoid heat and crowds. See current Bangkok morning tour options in the booking section below.

Krabi and Railay Beach Rock Climbing

April offers ideal rock climbing conditions on Railay's limestone karsts - low rainfall (only 6-7 rainy days versus 15-20 in monsoon months) and consistent weather windows. Morning climbs (7-11am) avoid peak heat while afternoon thunderstorms (when they occur) typically hold off until 4-5pm, giving you 8-9 hours of climbing time. Over 700 bolted routes from beginner 5a to expert 8b+. Railay's famous Tonsai Wall and Ao Nang Tower provide spectacular Andaman Sea views. Water temperature at 29°C (84°F) makes post-climb swimming perfect recovery.

Booking Tip: Half-day beginner courses typically cost ฿1,800-2,500 including instruction, equipment, and insurance. Multi-day packages (3-5 days) offer better value at ฿4,500-7,000. Book 7-10 days ahead through certified climbing schools. Verify guides hold UIAA or IFMGA certification. Bring climbing shoes if you have them (rentals available but well-worn). Access Railay only by longtail boat from Ao Nang (฿100-150 per person, 10 minutes). See current Railay climbing tour options in the booking section below.

Chiang Mai and Northern Hill Tribe Trekking

April is the final month before rainy season transforms trails to mud - paths remain dry and accessible while temperatures at elevation (1,000-1,800 m / 3,281-5,906 ft) stay 5-7°C (9-13°F) cooler than lowlands. This is peak season for multi-day treks visiting Karen, Hmong, and Lahu villages in the mountains surrounding Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pai. Rice terraces show bright green new growth, and waterfalls still flow from winter rains. April's heat at lower elevations means fewer trekkers than February-March, so villages see less tourist traffic.

Booking Tip: Two-day/one-night treks typically cost ฿2,200-3,500 including meals, village homestay, guide, and transfers. Three-day treks range ฿3,800-5,500. Book through licensed agencies (verify TAT license) 10-14 days ahead. Verify what percentage of fees goes to villages - ethical operators provide transparency. Basic fitness required - expect 4-6 hours hiking daily. Bring quick-dry clothing and good hiking boots. See current Chiang Mai trekking options in the booking section below.

Air-Conditioned Indoor Cultural Experiences

April's afternoon heat (2-5pm when it's genuinely dangerous to be outside) makes this the perfect month to explore Thailand's world-class indoor attractions. Bangkok's Grand Palace inner buildings, Jim Thompson House, Museum of Siam, and MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) offer 2-3 hours of air-conditioned cultural immersion. Chiang Mai's museums and art galleries provide respite while maintaining cultural engagement. Cooking classes (typically 3-4 hours in air-conditioned kitchens) let you learn Thai cuisine without heat exposure. Traditional Thai massage and spa treatments fill hot afternoon hours productively.

Booking Tip: Cooking classes range ฿1,000-2,500 depending on market visit inclusion and class size. Book 3-5 days ahead for popular classes. Museum entries typically ฿100-300. Thai massage courses (half-day to week-long) start at ฿2,500 for basic introductions. Schedule outdoor activities for 6-10am, indoor experiences for 11am-4pm, then return outside for 5-8pm. This rhythm matches how locals structure their days in April's heat. See current Bangkok cultural tour options in the booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

April 13-15 (official), extended celebrations April 10-17

Songkran Festival (Thai New Year)

Thailand's most important festival combines sacred Buddhist traditions with the world's largest water fight. The official dates are April 13-15, but celebrations extend April 10-17 in major cities. Mornings begin with temple merit-making, bathing Buddha images, and rod nam dam hua ceremonies. By 10am, streets become water battle zones with super soakers, buckets, and hoses. Chiang Mai hosts the most intense celebrations along the moat circuit. Bangkok's Silom and Khao San Roads draw massive crowds. Ayutthaya offers more traditional celebrations with cultural performances. Expect businesses to close April 13-15, and some restaurants/shops stay closed through April 17.

Late April (specific 2025 dates TBA)

Pattaya International Music Festival

Free three-day music festival held on Pattaya Beach featuring Thai and international artists across multiple stages. Genres span rock, pop, EDM, and Thai traditional music. Draws 100,000+ attendees with beach atmosphere and food vendors. Typically held late April (specific 2025 dates announced 6-8 weeks prior). Hotels in Pattaya book solid for this weekend, so reserve early if attending.

Mid-to-Late April (specific 2025 dates TBA)

Phuket Bike Week

Southeast Asia's largest motorcycle festival bringing 40,000+ bikers to Patong Beach. Features custom bike shows, live music, stunt performances, and beach parties. Even non-motorcyclists enjoy the spectacle and festival atmosphere. Typically held mid-to-late April. Patong accommodation prices increase 50-100% during the event.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) - UV index reaches 12 and you'll reapply every 90 minutes. Thai convenience stores sell it but at ฿400-600 versus ฿150-200 at home

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon thunderstorms hit 60% of days, lasting 20-40 minutes. Locals use umbrellas for both rain and sun shade

Loose-fitting cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid polyester which traps heat in 70% humidity. You'll sweat through clothes by 10am regardless, so pack 1.5x your normal clothing quantity

Wide-brimmed hat or cap - essential for 11am-3pm when UV index peaks. Baseball caps don't protect ears and neck where tourists typically burn

Waterproof phone pouch (IPX8 rated) - mandatory for Songkran week, useful for beach days and sudden rainstorms. Buy in Thailand for ฿150-300 if you forget

Temple-appropriate clothing - at least one outfit covering shoulders and knees. Lightweight cotton pants and a breathable long-sleeve shirt work. Scarves don't satisfy Grand Palace dress code

Electrolyte powder or tablets - heat exhaustion prevention is serious in April. 7-Eleven sells electrolyte drinks but packets from home are more convenient

Quality walking sandals with arch support - you'll default to sandals in the heat. Flip-flops cause foot pain after 2-3 hours of walking. Chacos or Tevas work well

Insulated water bottle - staying hydrated requires 3-4 L (101-135 oz) daily in April heat. Room temperature water from plastic bottles becomes unpleasantly hot

Light merino wool or synthetic socks - if doing any hiking or extended walking, these prevent blisters better than cotton in humid conditions. Bring 3-4 pairs

Insider Knowledge

Locals adjust daily schedules around April heat - outdoor activities happen 6-9am and 5-8pm only. Markets, parks, and temples are genuinely empty 11am-3pm. Adopt this rhythm instead of fighting it. Use midday for air-conditioned museums, malls, massages, or hotel pool time

April is mango season and the difference in fruit quality is remarkable. Nam dok mai (yellow), ok rong (green-yellow), and kaen oan (fiber-free) varieties peak now. Roadside vendors sell premium mangoes for ฿40-60/kg - hotel fruit plates use inferior fruit at 4x the price. Buy from markets and eat in your room

Book accommodations with strong air-conditioning and verify it works before accepting the room. April heat makes AC failures miserable. Check that units cool to 20°C (68°F) and aren't just fans. Budget guesthouses often have undersized AC units that struggle in April

Songkran week (April 10-17) is either the best or worst time to visit depending on your personality. If you're not participating in water fights, this week is genuinely frustrating - businesses close, transportation is chaotic, and you'll get soaked walking to 7-Eleven. Book around it or embrace it fully, no middle ground

Northern Thailand's burning season typically ends mid-April when rains begin, but early April can have hazardous air quality (AQI 150-200+) in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Check real-time AQI on aqicn.org before booking northern trips. After April 15, air quality usually improves dramatically

The Similan Islands close mid-May for monsoon season, making April your last chance until November. But this also means marine operators offer 20-30% discounts in April compared to February-March peak season. Book directly with dive shops in Khao Lak for better rates than Phuket-based operators

Avoid These Mistakes

Attempting full-day outdoor sightseeing 10am-4pm - tourists end up with heat exhaustion, sunstroke, and miserable experiences. April requires strategic timing: outdoor activities 6-9am and 5-8pm only