Chiang Mai weather in May
May is a good time to visit Chiang Mai but only if you enjoy very hot weather.
You can expect clear blue skies with around six hours of sunshine daily, interspersed with brief tropical downpours that bring some welcome relief to the soaring temperatures.
Frequently asked questions
We answer the most commonly asked questions (FAQs) about Chiang Mai weather in May.
How hot is it in Chiang Mai in May?
Maximum daytime temperatures in Chiang Mai in May reach an average high of 34°C (93°F) with extreme heat and humidity, falling to a night-time low of 24°C (75°F).
Daytime temperatures average 29°C (84°F). Humidity increases throughout May.
How sunny is it in Chiang Mai in May?
There are normally 6.5 hours of bright sunshine each day in Chiang Mai in May – that's around 49% of daylight hours.
Sunrise & sunset in May?
Sunrise is around 5:50am with sunset around 6:50pm.
Does it rain in Chiang Mai in May?
There are usually 15 days with some rain in Chiang Mai in May; the average monthly rainfall is 155mm (6in).
How windy is it in Chiang Mai in May?
May sees an average hourly wind speed of 4 kilometres per hour (2 mph).
What to do in Chiang Mai in May?
While weather conditions in May are not so good for trekking and biking the surrounding mountainous countryside given the excessive heat, May is a good time to explore the cobblestoned sois (alleys) of the Old City and the glittering shrine of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Local holidays?
Labour Day – 2nd May; Coronation of King Maha Vajiralongkorn – 4th May; Coronation Day – 5th May; Royal Ploughing Ceremony – 13th May; Vesak – 16th May.
This is the low season in Chiang Mai, with discounted hotel prices and fewer visitors.
Chiang Mai weather in May
 |
High Temp: 34°C (93°F) |
 |
Low Temp: 24°C (75°F) |
 |
Sunshine: 6.5 hours per day |
13
 |
Daylight: 13 hours per day |
 |
Wind speed: 4 km/h (2 mph) |
 |
Wet Days: 15 days with some rain |
 |
Rainfall: 155mm (6in) per month |
 |
Comfort Level: Extreme heat; 67% humidity |
11
 |
UV Index: Extreme |
| Chiang Mai, Thailand | |
Best time to visit Chiang Mai
The best time to visit Chiang Mai is from mid-November to early-March, when the region is mainly dry and not too hot, typically averaging 28°C (82°F).
Chiang Mai weather by month
Source: Meteorological data for Chiang Mai is based on weather statistics gathered for the 30-year period 1991 to 2020 by the Thai Meteorological Department from the closest weather station: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), located around 5km (3mi) south of the centre of Chiang Mai.
Advice on the best time to visit a particular destination is based on average local weather statistics, when the weather conditions are generally better than at other times of the year. We consider high and low temperatures, risk of rain (and thunderstorms, etc.), amount of sunshine and sea temperature. For general outdoor activities we favour clear, rainless days with a temperature range between 18°C (64°F) and 27°C (80°F); and for hot-weather activities we favour clear, rainless days with a temperature range between 24°C (75°F) and 32°C (89°F). Often, the best times to visit correspond to high season and therefore involve higher prices.
Latest update: Chiang Mai weather in May: 24 August, 2025
Disclaimer: The information on this site is provided as is, without any assurances as to its accuracy or suitability for any purpose. Weather data and conditions at any given location and time are unpredictable and variable. We assume no responsibility and can not be held legally responsible for any decisions made on the basis of the information presented on this site.
Advertising