When is the Best Time to Visit South East Asia?

South East Asia’s Monthly Climate Guide

The best time to travel to South East Asia’s mainland countries, including Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam is between November and February, when it is not too hot, and the weather is dry with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C. Northern regions, like Chiang Mai and Hanoi, are cooler, sometimes dropping to 15°C at night. Indonesia and the Philippines also experience their dry season between January and March, with temperatures between 25-30°C, while Malaysia and Singapore experience sporadic rains at this time of year.

South East Asia’s weather heats up from April to June when it starts to get hot and humid, often exceeding 35°C and above. It can be sweltering in cities like Bangkok, making beach destinations on Thailand’s coast more appealing. This is when Malaysia and Singapore start to see increased rainfall too.

Generally speaking, the rainy season in South East Asia lasts from May to October, when there can be heavy rains and high humidity. Flooding can occur, especially in Cambodia and Vietnam, and temperatures stay around 25-30°C. Monsoon rains dominate the Philippines and Malaysia from July to October, with heavy showers and occasional typhoons.

However, the rainy season can be the best time to travel to South East Asia, when the countryside is green and lush, there are fewer crowds and hotel prices are better value. What’s more, the rains will start at different times in each country and within different regions in each country.

As the rains ease off in November and December in most of South East Asia, Malaysia and Singapore remain wet. Temperatures are consistently warm though, hovering between around 25°C and 30°C, so you're likely to see a mix of sun and occasional showers.

Understanding South East Asia’s Seasons

South East Asia’s climate is tropical, largely split into rainy and dry seasons. Find out what each month brings with our guide to South East Asia weather by month.

Best Time to Visit South East Asia for…

Some of the best reasons to go to this beautiful, colourful continent include its beaches and cultural celebrations, read on to find out the best time to go to South East Asia to soak up its highlights.

Events & Festivals

South East Asia is a melting pot of cultures, all celebrated with energy and enthusiasm, whether that’s through festivals and events, or in the architecture or food. The best time to visit Southeast Asia for events and festivals is between November and April.

Starting off the festival calendar is Diwali, the festival of light, celebrated in Bali and other parts of Indonesia in November, while Cambodia’s Water Festival marks the end of the monsoon season in October or November. This is the same time of year that you can experience Thailand's enchanting Loy Krathong and Yi Peng lantern festivals.

Next up is Vietnam’s Tet Lunar New Year celebrations, which typically fall in late January or early February. Alternatively, Thailand’s New Year festival is in mid-April, celebrated throughout the country with water fights symbolising the cleansing of the past year and a fresh start. Meanwhile, in Malaysia, powdered paint is thrown to celebrate the spring festival of Holi, held annually in March or April.

During these months cooler, drier weather in South East Asia is perfect for enjoying the cultural festivities and culinary feasts that make the continent such a captivating holiday destination.

Beach Holidays

For the ultimate beach holiday, the best time to go to South East Asia is from November to April. Thailand's islands like Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui offer crystal-clear waters and sunny skies, perfect for lounging and water sports. Vietnam's stunning coastline, especially Phu Quoc and Hoi An is ideal during these months for warm, pleasant weather and picture-perfect beach scenes. In Malaysia, the pristine beaches of Langkawi and the Tioman Island beckon with their turquoise waters and lush landscapes. Indonesia's Bali is a year-round favourite, but it's particularly delightful from May to September when the weather is dry and sunny. All of these South East Asia beach destinations promise breathtaking beauty and endless relaxation for the perfect tropical getaway.