As the city transitions from hot to rainy season, Bangkok in May offers a vibrant mix of culture, traditional rituals and seasonal charm, making it an exciting time to visit this bustling capital. A trip to Bangkok in May will provide a dynamic and unforgettable experience whether you are enjoying tropical fruits, discovering hidden gems or relaxing at a rooftop bar.
Bangkok weather in May
May is the transition between the dry and rainy seasons in Bangkok, with high humidity and occasional showers. The average temperature ranges from 26°C to 34°C, and the days are still warm and sunny, but there may be sudden showers in the late afternoon or evening.
Despite the rain, Bangkok has a lot to explore, such as indoor activities, cultural relics, vibrant nightlife, etc. May is the low tourist season in Bangkok, so the number of tourists is also less crowded. Services such as airfare, food, and accommodation are also cheaper, helping you save on travel costs.
Bangkok weather in May
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Main festivals and events in Bangkok in May
Royal Plowing Ceremony
The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is a ritual that dates back to around the 15th century, to officially declare a new agricultural year. The ceremony is held annually in the square near The Grand Palace. During the ceremony, while plowing 9 furrows around the field, the Minister of Agriculture will scatter seeds around. After finishing, the cows will be fed, and what the cows choose to eat is a sign of the weather, such as whether the crop will be bountiful that year, heavy rain or drought, etc.
The ceremony attracts a large number of people to attend and is broadcast live every year. After completing the Ha Dien ritual, people rush to grab the rice grains scattered in the sand yard, as a blessing to hope for a favorable harvest, favorable weather, etc. Thai people also gather in large numbers at the Square to witness and receive the seeds scattered that day to bring home for good luck.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
Visakha Bucha
Visakha Bucha, or Vesak, is one of the most important Buddhist festivals in Thailand. It celebrates three major events in the life of the Buddha and is a great time to experience the rich culture and religion of Bangkok. All shops, restaurants, and bars are prohibited from selling alcohol on this day as a mark of respect. Most government offices and banks are also closed on this day.
People and tourists often visit famous temples such as Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun to participate in prayer ceremonies, offer flowers, candles, and make offerings. Some places organize cultural and educational programs to raise awareness about Buddhism, including exhibitions, lectures, and solemn ceremonies.
Visakha Bucha Day
Attractive things to do in Bangkok in May
Celebrate Visakha Bucha
In Bangkok, the Visakha Bucha festival is celebrated with exciting activities and special ceremonies at the city’s iconic temples, offering a meaningful experience for anyone interested in learning about Thai culture and religion. Visit iconic temples such as Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun and participate in the Wian Tian ceremony, where devotees walk in a candlelit procession around the temple three times, holding candles, flowers and incense. This beautiful and symbolic ritual reflects devotion, mindfulness and gratitude, creating a serene atmosphere for both participants and observers.
Making merit is also another activity of the day. Locals and visitors can donate food and money to monks or release animals such as birds and fish. For those seeking inner peace, join the meditation sessions to reflect and embrace mindfulness.
devotees walk in a candlelit procession around the temple
Experience famous floating markets
The weather in May can be hot and humid with frequent showers but this makes experiencing the famous floating markets in Bangkok an exciting and memorable experience, providing a different look into the traditional life of the people of Bangkok.
Some floating markets include the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the Amphawa Floating Market, and the Taling Chan Floating Market. When visiting, you will see vendors selling everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, handicrafts and street food directly from their boats. Visitors can rent a long boat to cruise the canals, shop or immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the markets.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Day trip to Ayutthaya
A day trip to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya is an exciting journey that takes you back to the glorious Thai history. Ayutthaya is a popular destination for history and culture lovers, featuring ancient ruins of temples, palaces and Buddha statues. This was once the ancient capital of Thailand, bringing a sense of peace and tranquility and in 1991, it was recognized by UNESCO as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The area of Ayutthaya is quite small, so visitors can easily explore all the beauty in just half a day, from the secluded alleys to impressive historical structures such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, …. In addition, you can also join river cruise tours to see the ancient temples from a different perspective.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet in Ayutthaya
Taste seasonal delights
May in Bangkok marks the tropical fruit season, bringing a bounty of fresh delicacies to the city’s markets and street stalls. Visitors can enjoy some of Thailand’s most iconic fruits, refreshing desserts and unique local dishes that are perfect for the warmer weather. In addition to fruit-based desserts like mango sticky rice, coconut ice cream and tub tim krob, Bangkok also incorporates seasonal ingredients into savory dishes, from spicy salads to grilled seafood.
Mango sticky rice
Relax with Thai spa treatments
Thai spa treatments are renowned for their traditional massage techniques combined with herbs and tranquil surroundings to create an unforgettable relaxing experience. Bangkok is home to many world-class spas, from high-end resorts like Divana Spa and Anantara Spa to authentic and affordable options like Health Land Spa or Wat Pho Traditional Thai Massage School, considered the birthplace of Thai massage. Many spas also offer treatments such as aromatherapy, foot reflexology and body scrubs, to suit your needs. Be sure to book in advance to get the most out of your treatment.
Thai spa treatments in City of Massage
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What to Bring for a Trip to Bangkok in May
Packing smart for your trip to Bangkok in May ensures a comfortable and smooth trip, especially when the weather is hot and humid with occasional showers. Here is a list of things to pack:
- Bring clothes suitable for Bangkok’s weather. Light clothing and a pair of walking shoes are essential for a more comfortable visit, especially if you need to move around a lot and can be easily removed when entering temples.
- When visiting religious sites or participating in ceremonies, wear modest clothing that does not expose the shoulders and knees to show respect.
- To protect yourself from the harsh sun, bring essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and a bottle of water to stay hydrated. Consider bringing a cooling towel or a portable fan.
- May is the start of the rainy season, so bring an umbrella or a light raincoat to avoid sudden showers. Waterproof bags or plastic bags help protect your electronics and important papers in case of rain.
- Make sure to keep important documents such as passports, visas and travel insurance if you have them. In addition to your visa card, exchange some cash as many street vendors only accept cash payments.
From the sacred Visakha Bucha festival at iconic temples to the bustling floating markets, Bangkok offers something special for every visitor, combining cultural richness, vibrant energy and unique seasonal experiences. Contact us today to plan your perfect trip and discover the magic of Bangkok.
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