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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Thailand in April
- What’s the Weather in Thailand during April?
- Getting Around in Thailand in April
- Key Highlights and Things to Do in Thailand in April
- Songkran Festival (Thai New Year)
- Thailand’s Top Destination to Explore in April
- Bangkok
- Chiang Mai
- Phuket
- Krabi
- Pattaya
- Koh Samui
- Ayutthaya
- Must-Try Food and Drink in Thailand in April
- Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
- Som Tum (Papaya Island)
- Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
- Khao Chae
- Cha Yen (Thai Iced Tea)
- Where to Stay in Thailand
- Four Seasons Koh Samui
- The Siam
- Amanpuri
- Rayavadee Resort
- Mandarin Hotel Bangkok
- FAQs about Visiting Thailand in April
Thailand itself is a total vibe. This place is the ultimate mix of laid-back island living and lively city chaos, and no matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s something here for you!
Plus, Thai people are some of the kindest and most welcoming folks you’ll ever meet—trust me, it’s impossible not to fall in love with this country. Now, about visiting in April—it’s kind of perfect, if you play it right.
Sure, it’s one of the hotter months (hello, tropical climate!), but it’s also when Songkran, the Thai New Year, happens! Streets turn into splash zones, and everyone is just out there having a blast.
What’s the Weather in Thailand during April?
The weather in Thailand in April is a scorcher, but don’t let that scare you off. We’re talking hot and humid vibes with temperatures averaging around 33°C (91°F) during the day, and it doesn’t cool down much at night.
Rain? Not so much in this month, especially in places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, but down south near the islands, you might get the occasional quick shower. Either way, the heat is real, so think ice-cold coconuts, shady spots, and ocean dips kind of weather.
Getting Around in Thailand in April
By grab: In the cities, Grab is your friend—it’s basically Thailand’s Uber, super convenient and way easier than haggling for prices with local taxis.
By tuk-tuks: If you’re up for an extra bit of fun, tuk-tuks are everywhere, especially in spots like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. They’re fast, a little chaotic, and perfect for short trips (just agree on the fare before you hop in!).
For longer trips between cities, you’ve got trains and buses, both of which are budget-friendly and cover pretty much every corner of Thailand. However, if you want to save time, domestic flights are the way to go—Bangkok Airways and AirAsia often offer seat sales.
Key Highlights and Things to Do in Thailand in April
Songkran Festival (Thai New Year)
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When: April 13 to 15
Songkran, the Thai New Year, is the heart of April in Thailand and probably the most fun cultural celebration you’ll ever experience. It typically kicks off on April 13 and lasts for three days (though some places take the party well beyond that).
If you want to dive into the action, Bangkok is a top spot with streets like Silom and Khao San Road turning into full-on splash zones. Chiang Mai is another favorite, known for its mix of traditional ceremonies and epic water battles near the moat area.
For a more beachy vibe, head to Pattaya or Phuket, where the main strips go wild with water guns, live music, and dancing. Wherever you go, be ready to get soaked—and trust me, in that April heat, you’ll love it!
Thailand’s Top Destination to Explore in April
Bangkok
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Bangkok is the epicenter of Songkran madness, and April is when it really comes alive. If you’re into full-blown street water fights, hit Khao San Road or Silom—these are hotspots where locals and tourists alike arm themselves with water guns, buckets, and hoses.
Beyond the splash fest, Bangkok’s got so much to explore. The Grand Palace and Wat Pho are must-sees, and April’s long sunny days are also great for a Chao Phraya River boat ride to discover Bangkok’s temple-lined shores.
Mornings are great for exploring Chatuchak Market if you’re into shopping, and once the heat kicks in, you can hop into an air-conditioned mall like Terminal 21 or ICONSIAM for both shopping and a food court that’s ridiculously cheap.
Chiang Mai
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Chiang Mai is the place to be for Songkran if you want to experience both the cultural and festive sides of the celebration. The moat area, in particular, is where the water battles really shine, with everyone dumping buckets of water on each other.
But it’s not all chaos—there are also traditional parades, cultural performances, and monk blessings here. You can explore Chiang Mai’s temples, starting with Wat Phra Singh, and the hilltop Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for its sweeping views of the city.
If you’re into nature, April can be dry, but you can still enjoy a trip to nearby Doi Inthanon National Park. April is also a great time to hit the night markets, like the Sunday Walking Street Market, loaded with snacks, crafts, and unique souvenirs.
Phuket
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Phuket during April is all about beaches, water, and chilled-out vibes. For Songkran, the celebration here leans more toward a beach party style, especially if you’re around Patong.
If you prefer to skip the Songkran chaos, plenty of quieter beaches like Kata, Karon, or the incredible Nai Harn Beach are the places to go. You can also opt to take a boat trip to the Instagrammable Phi Phi Islands or go snorkeling and diving around Coral Island.
April is also a great time to try local seafood since it’s super fresh—you’ll easily find grilled prawns, crab, and Thai-style fish at places like Rawai Seafood Market. For something unique, visit the Big Buddha and explore the Old Phuket Town.
Krabi
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Krabi is a paradise wrapped in towering limestone cliffs and turquoise water, making it an amazing destination in April. For Songkran, Ao Nang Beach becomes the center of water fights and celebration, though it’s a bit more laid-back than the chaos of Bangkok.
Island-hopping is the thing to do in Krabi. Most head to Railay Beach—famous for rock climbing—or take a boat trip to the Four Islands, Hong Island, or the stunning Phi Phi Islands.
Once you’re done with the beach stuff, check out the Emerald Pool—a natural hot spring in the jungle—or hike up to the Tiger Cave Temple for epic views. Food-wise, Krabi is famous for its fresh seafood and local southern dishes like Gaeng Som.
Pattaya
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Pattaya may be known for its nightlife, but during Songkran, it transforms into a massive water party. The Wan Lai Festival happens a little later in April (around the 19th), giving you an extra chance to celebrate.
Walking Street turns into a lively splash zone, and if you’d rather mix it with tradition, check out Naklua’s parade and cultural displays near sanctuaries. Beach time is a must in Pattaya—spots like Jomtien Beach are perfect for trying out water sports.
For family-friendly fun, places like the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden or the Sanctuary of Truth are worth checking out. The city’s street food scene is worth exploring too—find skewered meats, noodle soups, and coconut-based desserts.
Koh Samui
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Koh Samui in April is all about breezy island vibes paired with Songkran excitement. Chaweng Beach is the Songkran hotspot, with water fights spilling onto the streets and beachfront bars hosting live music and parties.
But if you’re looking for something calmer, there are plenty of quiet beaches like Lamai or Bophut to escape the action. Nature lovers should make time for a hike to Na Muang Waterfalls or a visit to Ang Thong National Marine Park for snorkeling and kayaking.
Koh Samui is also home to cultural attractions like Big Buddha Temple and Wat Pai Laem, both of which are beautiful and tranquil. April, by the way, is perfect beach weather, so make time to just laze on the sand.
Ayutthaya
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Ayutthaya is a great escape in April if you’re looking for history, culture, and a break from the big city crowd. Songkran is celebrated more traditionally here, so you’ll find locals participating in ceremonies, offering food to monks, and gently sprinkling water over Buddhas at temples.
The UNESCO-listed ruins are, of course, Ayutthaya’s main attraction. From Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots, to the grand Wat Chaiwatthanaram, this ancient city is packed with history.
Renting a bike is a fun way to get around since everything’s pretty close. It’s quieter compared to other cities in April, making it a perfect cultural stop during your Thailand trip.
Must-Try Food and Drink in Thailand in April
Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
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Mango Sticky Rice is the dessert to try in Thailand, and April is the absolute best time for it because mangoes are at their sweetest and juiciest during this season. You can find it pretty much everywhere—from street food stalls to fancy restaurants.
Markets like Or Tor Kor in Bangkok consistently serve up high-quality versions. Curious about a twist? Some places add durian or seasonal fruits to mix things up, so stay open-minded—it won’t disappoint!
Som Tum (Papaya Island)
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Som Tum is one of Thailand’s signature dishes that hits all the right notes—spicy, crunchy, tangy, and slightly sweet. Made with shredded green papaya, it’s mixed with lime juice, garlic, chilies, fish sauce, palm sugar, and sometimes dried shrimp or peanuts.
It often comes with a mortar-and-pestle preparation, so you can ask the vendor to adjust the spice level to your liking (but fair warning: they don’t hold back when it comes to chilies!). You can grab it at any roadside vendor during Songkran festivities.
Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
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Tom Yum Goong is a hot-and-sour soup that features plump shrimp swimming in a flavorful broth made with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and lime juice. Coconut milk is sometimes added, though the clear version is the more traditional style.
It’s spicy, tangy, and fragrant, and truly addictive. April is a great time to try it because seafood tends to stay fresh thanks to Thailand’s coastal access.
Khao Chae
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Khao Char is a dish that feels tailor-made for April because it’s not only delicious but also super refreshing. It’s essentially rice soaked in jasmine-scented cold water, served with side dishes like stuffed peppers, fried shrimp paste balls, or sweet pork.
Traditionally served during Thailand’s hottest months, Khao Chae is a royal-inspired dish dating back centuries. Although not as commonly seen as Mango Sticky Rice, certain restaurants and markets—such as those in Bangkok’s Old Town—offer it seasonally.
Cha Yen (Thai Iced Tea)
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Cha Yen, or Thai Iced Tea, is an absolute lifesaver for anyone battling Thailand’s heat in April. Made with brewed black tea mixed with sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and evaporated milk, it’s poured over crushed ice to create a creamy yet refreshing drink.
The flavors are distinctly Thai, with hints of tamarind and smoky undertones from the tea. You’ll find it everywhere—from street-side drink vendors to fancy coffee shops—and it’s shockingly affordable no matter where you grab it.
Where to Stay in Thailand
Four Seasons Koh Samui
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Address: 219 Moo 5 Surat Thani Angthong
Phone: +66 7724 3000
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is an excellent pick if you’re after luxury, privacy, and an unbeatable beachfront experience. Tucked away on the island’s northwest coast in Ang Thong, this resort is perched on a hillside offering breathtaking views of the sea.
Each villa and residence here is designed with a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. For activities, the resort has plenty to offer—a Muay Thai boxing ring, a luxurious spa, and a fun kids’ club to keep young guests entertained.
The Siam
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Address: The Siam 3, 2 Khao, Vachirapayabal, Dusit District, Bangkok
Phone: +66 2206 6999
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Siam is one of Bangkok’s most unique and luxurious boutique hotels, located in the Dusit District, right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. It only has 39 suites and villas, which makes the entire experience feel exclusive and personalized.
Staying here lets you enjoy a unique offering: a 98-foot private boat that can take you to the Chao Phraya River. You also get access to Bangkok’s only dedicated Thai-style teakwood house for wellness, where The Siam’s Opium Spa offers a variety of treatments.
Amanpuri
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Address: 118, 1 Srisunthon Rd., Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket
Phone: +66 7632 4333
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Amanpuri is renowned for its timeless design and its location on a private peninsula with access to beautiful Pansea Beach. The pavilions and villas here exude serenity, offering private pools, outdoor dining areas, and panoramic views of the surrounding tropical landscape.
The resort’s wellness offerings are among the best in the country. For those seeking adventure, Amanpuri has water sports like paddleboarding, sailing, and scuba diving, and they even offer private yacht charters for exploring Phuket’s magnificent coastline.
Rayavadee Resort
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Address: 214 Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District
Phone: +66 2301 1861
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Rayavadee Resort, located in Krabi’s Ao Nang region, is surrounded by a dramatic backdrop of limestone cliffs and lush greenery. The resort’s pavilions and villas mimic a tropical village, blending into the environment, yet come equipped with high-end comforts.
Their Grotto, a seaside dining venue tucked under a limestone cliff, is famous for its barbecue dinners and provides the best dining experience. For those who love water, snorkeling and diving spots are easily accessible, and the resort offers guided tours.
Mandarin Hotel Bangkok
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Address: 662 Rama IV Rd, Maha Phruttharam, Bang Rak, Bangkok
Phone: +66 2238 0230
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Mandaring Hotel Bangkok is a classic and reliable choice for those wanting comfort and accessibility during their stay in the capital. Its location in Bang Rak puts you close to Bangkok’s bustling nightlife, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks.
Here, you’ll find multiple dining options, like Rodchana Restaurant, which serves a mix of Thai and international dishes, and the Southeast Buffet. The Sam Yan MRT Station is just a short walk away from here, too, so it’s easy to explore the city efficiently.
