Verdict: Tough month
Chiang Mai Weather in May
May is seriously hot in Chiang Mai — days average 34°C (93°F), so plan mornings out and afternoons in the shade or the water. It's also the wet side of the calendar: rain falls on about 21 days, so build flexibility into plans. If your dates are flexible, most travelers will have a better time in Chiang Mai outside May.
Average high
34°C / 93°F
Average low
24°C / 75°F
Rain days
~21
Precipitation
232 mm
What to pack for Chiang Mai in May
- Light, breathable clothing — linen and technical fabrics earn their keep
- High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle
- Rain gear is non-negotiable — expect rain on roughly 21 days
- Comfortable walking shoes — every guide on this site assumes you'll use them
May against the rest of the year
Warmest in Chiang Mai: Apr (36°C / 97°F) · Coolest: Jan (28°C / 82°F) · Wettest: Aug (~30 rain days)
28°
17°
Jan
30°
18°
Feb
35°
21°
Mar
36°
24°
Apr
34°
24°
May
32°
24°
Jun
31°
24°
Jul
30°
24°
Aug
30°
23°
Sep
29°
22°
Oct
29°
20°
Nov
28°
18°
Dec
Daily highs / lows in °C · bars show rain days per month · ERA5 climate normals (2020–2024)