Thailand is known for its hot weather, but in reality, there are some cool comfortable months which most locals regard as “winter”. The end of the rainy season starts a transition into winter, which runs from November to February – one of the best times of the year to visit Thailand. Getting around is more comfortable and it also coincides with the prime holiday season with lots of activities and events around the country.
Here are 4 places you must visit during the winter season in Thailand.
#1 Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai
Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s tallest mountain and home to some of Thailand’s most spectacular waterfalls and landscapes, including Thailand’s highest point at 2565m above sea level, where there is cold weather all year round. This is one of the compulsory spots on the mountain too. Do not worry about having to overcome high treacherous steps as the ascent has been known to be relatively straightforward.
After visiting The Highest Spot in Thailand, go for a boardwalk at Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail, just below the summit. It is only 400m in length and the moss-covered forest makes you feel as if you stepped into another dimension. To complete the whole Doi Inthanon experience, visit the Twin Royal Pagodas of Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Naphapholphumisiri and also Wachirathan Waterfall.
#2 Phu Chi Fah, Chiang Rai
Phu Chi Fah is a hidden gem in Chiang Rai which you must visit. Close to the border of Laos, it is home to one of the most beautiful sunrises you will ever see in your life. Though Phu Chi Fah is well-known among Thais, it is still considered off-the-radar for most international travelers. You will not want to be the one who missed out.
Phu Chi Fah translates to “the mountain that points to the sky” and the best time to catch its magnificent view is during sunrise. Once you have climbed to the summit, you could find yourself standing above the famous sea of fog, where you will be catching sunrise above the clouds!
#3 Khao Kho, Phetchabun
Known as the enchanting misty town of Thailand, Khao Kho is the perfect vacation spot for those longing for a respite away from the bustling city. With scenic mountainous views and chilly weather all year-round, the peaceful ambience of clouds overlooking the lush green landscape sets the scene for visitors to capture stunning pictures and enjoy scrumptious meals with a view. To get to Phetchabun via plane, the nearest airport for Phetchabun is Phitsanulok Airport.
#4 Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima
Closer to Bangkok and just a 2.5-hour drive away is Khao Yai – the ultimate go-to weekend getaway for many locals because of the numerous Instagram-worthy photo spots. With a long list of chic and iconic cafes, lodges and eateries, it’s obvious that Khao Yai knows the way to the hip millennials’ heart.
Khao Yai is also famous for its National Park. Established in 1962 as Thailand’s first National Park, it is currently the third largest National Park in Thailand and attracts regular visitors due to the relative ease to spot a number of interesting animals. Khao Yai is part of Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, a World Heritage Site declared by UNESCO, covering 5 protected areas from Khao Yai to the Cambodian border.
We hope you have been inspired to visit Thailand during the winter season. For more recommendations on what to do around Thailand, visit https://tourismthailand.sg/ or follow us on Facebook and Instagram!