Cycling in Thailand: Which Season is Best?
- mazarineodile
- Aug 27, 2025
- 3 min read
Many travelers wonder what is the best time to explore Thailand by bike. In reality, every season comes with its own advantages… as well as its challenges. With a bit of preparation and the right advice, each time of the year can offer a unique and rewarding experience, shaped by the diversity of the landscapes and the country’s rich culture.
The Green Season: the Rainy Season
Months: July to September/October
From July to October, Thailand enters what is known as the green season. Contrary to popular belief, this period is particularly pleasant for cycling. The showers, often brief and localized, refresh the air and make the heat much more bearable. The scenery transforms dramatically: glowing rice fields and lush green forests create a unique backdrop for cyclists. It’s also the ideal time to enjoy a more authentic, less touristy side of Thailand.
Note that June comes right before the rainy season, but after peak heat waves - also a good month to ride!
The Period Between the Rains and Winter: Nature at Its Peak
Months: September/October to November
Just after the rainy season, before winter arrives, the Thai countryside is at its very best. Fields are still soaked with water, the vegetation is dense, and roads lined with greenery invite exploration. It’s a privileged moment to admire the country’s natural beauty in full vitality, with landscapes that look like they’ve come straight out of a postcard.
For photography enthusiasts or cyclists in search of spectacular views, this season offers striking scenes: lush green mountains, abundant waterfalls, and vibrant fields in full bloom.
Winter: Perfect Cycling Conditions
Months: November to February/March
From November to February-March, the Thai winter brings cool, dry weather, making it arguably the most comfortable season for cycling. In the North, especially around Chiang Mai, mornings can be surprisingly fresh, providing an invigorating feeling as you ride. During the day, the sun is still shining, but temperatures remain pleasantly mild ideal for long routes.
Meanwhile, in the South, the warmth is still present but much more comfortable than in summer. Rides are easier and less tiring, allowing you to fully enjoy coastal roads, small islands, and tropical scenery. For many travelers, this is the dream season to tour the country by bike.
The Toughest Season: April and May
Months: April and May
If there is one period we advise against for people concerned about the heat, it’s April and May. Temperatures rise sharply, making rides more demanding, especially for those not used to such extreme conditions. Of course, passionate cyclists can still ride (and we do love that, it's mango season and you'll find them all along your route!) but it’s essential to stay hydrated, choose shorter and more adapted routes, and take regular breaks in the shade.
Note that June comes right after peak heat waves and before the rainy season - usually a great month to ride!
Every season in Thailand has its own charm and can offer a great cycling experience. The key is to adapt to the climate and anticipate the specific challenges of each period. Whether it’s the glowing greenery of the rainy season, the refreshing coolness of winter with almost perfect riding conditions, or the intense heat of April, every time of year reveals a different side of the country always with the same sense of freedom that bicycle travel brings.
