Thailand route (July or August): 14 and 21 day itinerary

Updated: 27 August, 2024

This is an alternative route through Thailand if you are traveling during the European summer to avoid the monsoon in some areas of the country.

The most popular months among Spaniards to travel to Thailand are the summer months, specifically, July and August.

The biggest drawback is that coincides with the rainy months of much of the country and especially one of the most visited beach areas.

Therefore, July and August are not the best months to do the Classic Thailand route What most travelers do the first time they visit the Land of Smiles.

But, the good thing about Thailand having beaches on the Andaman and the Gulf of Thailand is that monsoon season does not coincide exactly and you can enjoy some wonderful days at the beach.

On this free tour of Thailand, I will tell you what you can do to avoid the monsoon as much as possible, this is based on my experience living in the country for 3 years.

When is the monsoon in Thailand?

Broadly speaking, the monsoon in Thailand is from May to October and with a few transition months it usually rains, but less.

In the north and center of the country, as well as the coasts bathed by the Andaman Sea during July and August are usually months of a lot of rain.

In particular, the Andaman area (Krabi, Phuket, Phang Nga, Phi Phi Islands) in both July and August are months when you can have sunny days, but it will rain at some time of the day and Some visits can be ruined by boat cancellations.

The only advantage of this time is if you want to surf in Phuket, which is the main destination for this sport. Below I tell you more about this.

On the other hand, on the islands of the Gulf of Thailand, that is, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, Heavy rains begin in October and November is usually the worst month.

This does not mean that it can also rain during other months in the Gulf, because Thailand is ultimately a tropical country.

What month is better to travel to Thailand, July or August?

The Best months to travel to Thailand are between December and March, which is the time of the dry season throughout the country.

But if you have your vacation in July or August and you have the option to choose, I would say that July is a little better, because the average rainfall is less than that of August.

Of course, the monsoon is not something predictable and until the last minute you will not know what is going to happen.

Also, keep in mind that the rains don't usually last all day, but rather it rains for a few hours and then it clears and you can enjoy the rest of the day.

Sometimes the rains are at night and during the day you have a beautiful day to enjoy.

Annual rainfall in Thailand – by city and month

If you want more precise information on the subject of rain in Thailand, below I leave you the mm and days for the different areas of the country.

Bangkok	Jan	Feb	Sea	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Set	Oct	Nov	Dec
mm of rain	6,0	9,6	25,5	55,8	113,8	111,1	105,1	128,0	218,2	176,1	45,3	4,7
Rainy days	1,1	1,8	3,9	7,5	14,2	14,4	14,6	16,9	20,1	16,0	4,9	0,9
Chiang Mai	Jan	Feb	Sea	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Set	Oct	Nov	Dec
mm of rain	5,6	5,6	16,0	51,6	133,8	109,5	120,4	177,1	181,1	88,1	35,8	9,5
Rainy days	0,5	0,8	2,2	7,0	14,5	13,3	14,9	18,0	16,4	10,0	3,4	1,0
Ao Nang	Jan	Feb	Sea	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Set	Oct	Nov	Dec
mm of rain	31,5	22,9	60,9	114,7	205,9	208,8	212,1	245,8	310,5	280,8	189,2	88,6
Rainy days	4,5	2,8	6,3	10,9	16,7	15,2	15,8	16,3	19,1	20,5	16,1	9,9
Phuket	Jan	Feb	Sea	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Set	Set	Nov	Dec
mm of rain	25,5	20,9	58	113,8	207,9	209,5	213,2	249,6	315,5	274,8	170,4	74,2
Rainy days	3,8	2,6	6,3	11,0	17,0	15,5	16,4	16,9	19,6	20,6	15,4	9,0
Ko Samui	Jan	Feb	Sea	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Set	Oct	Nov	Dec
mm of rain	58,6	36,6	56,7	76,6	132,4	133,0	128,1	125,9	157,5	233,0	314,0	172,8
Rainy days	6,1	3,1	4,5	7,6	15,4	15,1	15,7	15,5	17,3	19,1	17,3	11,4

Important recommendation

If you travel during the months of July or August to Thailand, I would recommend that travel as flexibly as possible to change plans if necessary.

Whether changing activities you have planned or even changing areas.

I take this opportunity to leave you links to some articles of Thailand practical information that may interest you:

• Vaccines for Thailand: mandatory and recommended
• 23 Tips for traveling to Thailand
• 11 Tips for Traveling Alone to Thailand
• How to get around Thailand: all transportation
• How to Rent and Drive a Motorcycle in Thailand

Route through Thailand (July and August)

1.Bangkok

The months of July and August are not good months to visit the capital of Thailand, that's why I would recommend only making a quick visit to see the main places.

– What to see in Bangkok?

In Bangkok some of the places that you cannot miss are Wat Pho with its grandiose reclining Buddha and the Royal Grand Palace.

Then he Bangkok Chinatown It is an excellent place to stroll in the evening and taste the culinary wonders.

Another good visit during the rainy season is Jim Thompson's house, which is an oasis of peace in the middle of this mega city.

Of course, you have to go shopping, in Bangkok you will find many shopping centers, although the best is the Chatuchak weekend market.

If the weather is good, I also recommend going to a sky bar or skyscraper with a viewpoint, The best of all is the Mahanakhon viewpoint although the upper floor can be closed in case of a storm.

– How many days to spend in Bangkok?

Normally, I usually recommend a minimum of 3 days to visit Bangkok, but during the rainy season it is better to avoid the city or dedicate just enough time to it.

That's why, maybe 1 night there will be enough to rest a little from the trip and make the essential visits.

– Recommendation for visiting Bangkok during the rainy season

Likewise, It is important that you watch the weather and the news because a problem that exists in the city is that Sometimes the streets flood.

The most frequent floods are in September or early October, but some years there have also been floods in the months of July or August.

⭐ Here you can read in detail about What to see in Bangkok: 21 must-sees

2.- Excursions near Bangkok

Near Bangkok There are many interesting 1-day visits, but most of them are better done in the dry season.

Depending on the weather, maybe you can do the combined tour of the Floating Market and the Market on the Train Tracks, in this article you can read all the details of the visit and how to get there.

However, I think that The best excursion you can do in July or August is to Ayutthaya, it is a place that even if it rains you can enjoy it.

Likewise, you will have to bring some shoes that you don't mind getting dirty or wet and a raincoat.

⭐ In this article I tell you What to see in Ayutthaya: 8 essentials and all transportation alternatives.

3. Chiang Mai and northern Thailand

Chiang Mai is one of the most authentic cities in the country that you cannot miss visiting.

However, I only included northern Thailand in the 21-day Thailand itinerary, because there are also many visits that are best done in the dry season.

Another good option is to replace Bangkok with Chiang Mai in the 14-day itinerary.

– What to see in Chiang Mai?

Some of the most beautiful places in the city are in the old town or within walking distance, such as the temples Chedi Luang and Phra Singh.

Then, in the old town you will find several markets where try delicious northern thai food, which for many (including me) is the best in the Land of Smiles.

Another interesting place is Chiang Mai's Chinatown, which although small, is worth a visit and its famous Warorot market.

Finally, on a visit to Chiang Mai you cannot miss Visit to Wat Doi Suthep, the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand where pilgrims from nearby countries come.

You can get there by road or do the Monks Path, but if it has rained, keep in mind that in one of the sections of the trail there will be a lot of mud and the climb will be more difficult.

⭐ Here you can read more What to see in Chiang Mai: 14 best plans

– What to see in northern Thailand in July and August?

In the north of Thailand you can do many excursions near Chiang Mai that include hiking, waterfalls and other visits, such as Pai, which are best done in the dry season.

The best visit during the rainy season is to Chiang Rai with its temples, this is usually a 1-day excursion. But if you are going to drive, it is best to stay in Chiang Rai for at least 1 night.

⭐ In this other article you can read about the 11 Best Day Trips from Chiang Mai.

– How many days to dedicate to it?

To Chiang Mai You will have enough to dedicate 2 or 3 days to it, to that you have to add the days of visits you make to the area.

4. Ko Samui

Koh Samui is the main island in the Gulf of Thailand, with a great offer of luxury resorts at a good price and the the only one that has an airport.

– What to do in Koh Samui?

The beaches of Koh Samui are good, but they are not the most beautiful in the country, even so the island has many things to do, such as Visit its temples, its fishing village and the beautiful waterfalls.

Also near Koh Samui is the Ang Thong Marine Park, one of the most beautiful places in Thailand that you cannot miss seeing it and the unique Isla de los Cerdos.

– How Many Days to Spend in Koh Samui?

Koh Samui is a large island where it will take a long time to get around and if we add the nearby visits I would say that in total The minimum you have to dedicate is 5 days.

Additionally, many travelers use Koh Samui as a base to visit the other two islands.

However, in the Thailand itineraries below, I suggest you visit each island independently, because ultimately in this area of Thailand it is where you will have better weather.

⭐ You may also be interested in this article about What to see in Koh Samui: 14 best plans.

5. Ko Tao

Koh Tao is the smallest of the Gulf Islands, however, it is the one that It has the most beautiful beaches and abundant marine life. Hence, it is so famous among divers and sea lovers.

– Koh Tao Diving Guide

One of the best things you can do in Koh Tao is get your diving qualification or at least do some diving.

Koh Tao is an island of barely 21 km² and has the record for the most diving qualifications per year, that says a lot.

The reasons are several:

• Have good prices, even if you only want to do specific dives;
• the water temperature is very pleasant and remains fairly constant between 29 and 26 degrees;
• a very rich seabed.

👍 Friend's tip: if you want to do the Open water diving course, I recommend this course with a PADI qualification, which now has a discount and is in Spanish.

– What to do in Koh Tao?

If diving is not your thing, its waters are also perfect for snorkelling, kayaking and other water sports.

Another of the best plans is explore its magnificent beaches, which are between the best in Thailand, where you can also relax, see beautiful sunsets and fire shows.

Also, you can do climbing and hiking to its viewpoints.

Finally, An essential visit is to the famous Koh Nang Yuan with its postcard-perfect viewpoint and an incredible coral background known as the Japanese Garden.

Although many people go to Koh Tao on a day trip from the other islands, after living there for 6 months I can tell you that there is a lot to do, although many of the activities are water-based.

If you are a lover of the sea and the beach you will love this beautiful little island.

– How many days to dedicate to Koh Tao?

To enjoy Koh Tao well I recommend go at least 3 days, but if you are going to do the diving course you will need more days.

⭐ In this article you can read in details about the What to do in Koh Tao: 11 Epic Plans

6. Koh Phangan

Popular Koh Phangan is known for its impressive Full Moon Parties, that is, the parties that take place during the full moon on the beach.

But in recent years its popularity has grown with two very different groups, the community of digital nomads and that of yogis, being one of the top destinations for yoga retreats.

In case you want to make a withdrawal, I recommend this yoga retreat in Koh Phangan 1 week that is super cheap because it includes everything: accommodation, meals, yoga classes, pranayama (breathing exercises) and dance.

– What to do in Koh Phangan?

If you can match your travel dates, go during the full moon to enjoy a party full of color and light, with its fire shows on the beach.

Koh Phangan also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, among them is the famous Bottle beach, with a viewing point nearby, which you can reach with an easy hiking route to have the best views of the beach.

Other of the most paradisiacal beaches of Koh Phangan are Sri Thanu Beach with a hippie atmosphere, the nudist Zen Beach and Haad Rin that in addition to being the place where the Full Moon Party It's a pretty nice beach.

Many of these beaches have a rich seabed for snorkeling and scuba diving.

You can too explore the island's waterfalls and take a good dip.

– How many days to dedicate to Koh Phangan?

To explore the island well and at the same time have time to relax, I recommend that you dedicate at least 3 days.

7. Phuket

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and has a very varied offer of accommodation, activities and landscapes where you will surely find interesting things to do.

Another advantage of Phuket is that it is well connected both with its airport and by road because it is connected to the mainland with a bridge.

Phuket International Airport has direct flights from other countries without the need to stop in Bangkok and also has domestic flights at a good price.

Although July and August are rainy months in Phuket, it is also the surfing season and it is the best destination to do this sport in Thailand and almost the only one.

For this reason, I have included Phuket in the 21-day Thailand itinerary to surf and take advantage of seeing other interesting places on the island.

Phuket is an island famous for its nightlife and mass tourism, but after living there for almost 2 years I can tell you that there are many corners to explore that are worth it away from that environment.

As it is a large island, it attracts a wide variety of tourists, including more expensive tourism with more exclusive activities.

Besides, July and August are low season months in Phuket, there are not so many tourists and you will find more affordable prices.

– What to do in Phuket?

If you are going to Phuket in July or August you will find a lot of waves, especially on the beaches on the west side, which is the perfect area for surfing and especially on Kata beach.

Keep in mind that the beaches on the east side are usually calmer and without waves, but the sea level is usually too low for swimming.

Then the old town of Phuket Town is very interesting with its Sino-Portuguese buildings, that is, of Chinese and Portuguese influence.

One of the most emblematic buildings is The Memory at On On Hotel where some scenes of the movie The beach with Leonardo DiCaprio.

⭐ This article may interest you about 7 Movies filmed in Thailand.

Another thing you can't miss doing is visit the Big Buddha on top of the mountain to have the best views of the island or see the sunset from the iconic Cape Promthep.

In case you like the idea of rent a boat in Thailand, Phuket is the best place where there are sailboats, catamarans and motorboats at a very good price. To rent a sailboat or a catamaran I recommend this search engine, with boats in good condition and serious people.

– How many days to spend in Phuket?

Phuket is a large island that can be a destiny in itself and in fact many people only go to Phuket without visiting the rest of Thailand, or they make occasional excursions to nearby areas.

I would recommend you At least spend 3 or 4 days on it to see the most beautiful places and if you also want to take advantage of surfing.

⭐ In this other article you can read in detail about What to do in Phuket: 22 best plans.

14-day Thailand itinerary

This itinerary is mainly focused on visiting the islands of the Gulf of Thailand, where you will have better weather in July or August, with plenty of time to enjoy the paradisiacal beaches of Thailand.

Day	What to do?	Place to stay overnight
1	Arrival in Bangkok. Public transport to the center or with a transfer with fixed price which is very useful if you travel with more people. First contact with the city, then pamper yourself with a well-deserved Thai massage like this one.	Bangkok
2	Visit the Temples and Royal Palace, you can make a excursion with guide in Spanish. Visit at sunset to the Mahanakhon viewpoint to enjoy its views. End the day with a Bangkok food tour.	Bangkok
3	Flight to Koh Samui. Enjoy Coral Beach where you can eat at the restaurant there. Visit Wat Plai Laem and the Big Buddha at sunset. You can take advantage of making a island tour like this.	Ko Samui
4	Full day tour to the spectacular Ang Thong Marine Park, I recommend the link tour that takes you by speedboat.	Ko Samui
5	Ferry to Koh Tao. Day to explore the beaches, head to Tanote, then Shark Bay in search of turtles and reef sharks. You can also do this Koh Tao beach tour, this way you save yourself from complications with transportation. End the day at Sairee Beach with a sunset and fire shows.	Ko Tao
6	1-Day Tour to Koh Nang Yuan to snorkel in the Japanese Garden and climb the most photographed viewpoint in Thailand.	Ko Tao
7	Take advantage of doing something diving dive in one of the most beautiful seabeds on the planet or do a sea baptism if you don't have experience. Explore the island's viewpoints, such as Two View Points.	Ko Tao
8	Ferry to Koh Phangan. Visit to Botella beach and its beautiful viewpoint. Ends the day in Full Moon Party.	Koh Phangan
9	make a ATV jungle adventure ride with a visit to one of the best viewpoints on the island with panoramic views. Visit and dinner at the night market.	Koh Phangan
10	Beach and relaxing day. Treat yourself to another Thai massage. 😉 Ferry to Koh Samui.	Ko Samui
11	Visit to Coral Island and Pig Island. End the day with a fun Lady Boys show.	Ko Samui
12	Day to explore the beaches and the fishermen's market. Flight to Bangkok.	Bangkok
13	Ayutthaya 1-Day Tour, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, a must-see place in Thailand.	Bangkok
14	Transfer from Bangkok to the airport. Return flight.

21 days Thailand itinerary

This Thailand itinerary is similar to the previous one, but I have added visits to northern Thailand and Phuket.

As I said above, When traveling in the rainy season you will have to be aware of the weather, especially those in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket.

Day	What to do?	Place to stay overnight
1	Arrival in Bangkok. Public transport to the center or with a transfer with fixed price which is very useful if you travel with more people. First contact with the city, then pamper yourself with a well-deserved Thai massage like this one.	Bangkok
2	Visit the Temples and Royal Palace, you can make a excursion with guide in Spanish. Visit at sunset to the Mahanakhon viewpoint to enjoy its views. End the day with a Bangkok food tour.	Bangkok
3	Flight to Chiang Mai. Visit Chiang Mai Old Town and have dinner at the night market.	Chiang Mai
4	Visit the Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh temples in the old town. Visit Chinatown, Warorot Market and dine at the night market or make a Chiang Mai food tour with a place.	Chiang Mai
5	Full-Day Chiang Rai Tour, with a guide in Spanish to see the curious White Temple, the Black House and the wonderful Blue Temple.	Chiang Mai
6	Visit to Doi Suthep and Wat Umong, the temple built in the tunnels. Flight to Phuket.	Phuket
7	Tomorrow to surf at Kata beach or Kata Noi if you have an advanced level. Afternoon visit to Phuket Town and dinner at the night market.	Phuket
8	Visit to the island's waterfalls and the swings on Nui beach. End the day with a sunset at Cape Promthep.	Phuket
9	Tomorrow to surf. In the afternoon visit Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha, which you can go with a Phuket excursion that takes you to the most beautiful places.	Phuket
10	Flight to Koh Samui. Enjoy Coral Beach where you can eat at the restaurant there. Visit Wat Plai Laem and the Big Buddha at sunset. You can take advantage of making a island tour like this.	Ko Samui
11	Full day tour to the spectacular Ang Thong Marine Park, I recommend the link tour that takes you by speedboat.	Ko Samui
12	Ferry to Koh Tao. Day to explore the beaches, head to Tanote, then Shark Bay in search of turtles and reef sharks. You can also do this Koh Tao beach tour, this way you save yourself from complications with transportation. End the day at Sairee Beach with a sunset and fire shows.	Ko Tao
13	1-Day Tour to Koh Nang Yuan to snorkel in the Japanese Garden and climb the most photographed viewpoint in Thailand.	Ko Tao
14	Take advantage of doing something diving dive in one of the most beautiful seabeds on the planet or do a sea baptism if you don't have experience. Explore the island's viewpoints, such as Two View Points.	Ko Tao
15	Ferry to Koh Phangan. Visit to Botella beach and its beautiful viewpoint. Ends the day in Full Moon Party.	Koh Phangan
16	make a ATV jungle adventure ride with a visit to one of the best viewpoints on the island with panoramic views. Visit and dinner at the night market.	Koh Phangan
17	Beach and relaxing day. Treat yourself to another Thai massage. Ferry to Koh Samui.	Ko Samui
18	Visit to Coral Island and Pig Island. End the day with a fun Lady Boys show.	Ko Samui
19	Day to explore the beaches and the fishermen's market. Flight to Bangkok.	Bangkok
20	Ayutthaya 1-Day Tour, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, a must-see place in Thailand.	Bangkok
21	Transfer from Bangkok to the airport. Return flight.

Route map through Thailand in July or August

I mark the cities on the map, if you want to see the specific visits for each place I recommend that you visit my specific articles where you will find many details.

If you are preparing your route through Thailand on your own and have questions, Leave me a comment below and I will help you in any way I can.

* To check the legend for each place, click the button in the top left corner of the map. To view this map on your phone or computer, tap the star on the right side of the title. Then go to Google Maps, select "Your Places" and "Maps" from the menu.

What to bring to Thailand during the monsoon?

• Water resistant footwear and if possible more than one pair in case you get wet.
• Oilskin like this one from the link that is reusable.
• travel dryer, or choose hotels that have a hair dryer that will get you out of trouble drying clothes or shoes.
• Dry bag for mobile, so you can take photos and keep it safe at the same time. It is also useful if you are going to snorkel or kayak.
• GoPro camera, this camera is excellent and the new models are all waterproof and therefore monsoon proof. 😅
• Mosquito repellent, because in the rainy season the number of mosquitoes skyrockets. In Thailand you can buy repellent at a good price, but there is none as effective as Relec Extra Forte that contains DEET.

These are specific things if you travel to Thailand during the rainy season, and in this other article you can read more about What to bring to Southeast Asia? – 47 Essentials in your Backpack.

Final Thoughts

These are my proposals Thailand tour to enjoy the most beautiful beaches and Avoid the monsoon as much as possible.

The itineraries They can serve as a basis for you to prepare your own route through Thailand for free, depending on what you like.

After living in Thailand for several years, I can tell you that It is a country that, even with rain, is very enjoyable..

I also take this opportunity to leave the link to the Thailand Travel Guide,, with the main articles I wrote to travel independently.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and if you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip!

More about Thailand and Southeast Asia

• Classic Thailand route: 15 and 21 day itinerary
• 7 Best Koh Tao Beaches for Snorkeling
• 11 Tips for Traveling Alone to Thailand
• 7 Best Retreats in Thailand: Yoga and Meditation
• 12 Best Restaurants in Bangkok: Good and Cheap