Last updated: August 27, 2025
January in Chiang Rai, Thailand marks a transition into the cooler, drier season, offering a delightful escape for travelers. The maximum temperatures often reach up to 33°C (91°F), while evenings can cool down to a refreshing 7°C (46°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 20°C (69°F). Rainfall is minimal, with only 39 mm (1.5 in) recorded over approximately 4 days, maintaining a pleasant atmosphere. With humidity levels hovering around 51%, January provides an ideal climate for exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of this enchanting region.
In Chiang Rai, Thailand, January offers a refreshing blend of temperatures that appeal to both locals and visitors alike. The month kicks off with cool nights, dipping to a minimum of 7°C (46°F), while daytime highs reach a warm 33°C (91°F), culminating in an average temperature of 20°C (69°F). This pleasant climate is a delightful contrast to the sweltering heat that follows in the subsequent months. As January transitions into February, the temperatures gradually rise, heralding the onset of a more tropical climate. Overall, January serves as a sweet spot for outdoor activities and exploration, making it an ideal time to enjoy all that Chiang Rai has to offer before the heat intensifies in the coming months.
In January, Chiang Rai, Thailand experiences relatively low precipitation, with a total of 39 mm (1.5 in) spread over just four days. This marks the end of the dry season, where the region enjoys mild weather before the rains intensify in the following months. As February rolls in, the rain decreases even further, bringing only 16 mm (0.6 in) over a single day. However, by April, the atmosphere becomes charged, leading to a dramatic increase in rainfall, culminating in 171 mm (6.7 in), and setting the stage for the wet season that dominates the months of May through August. The data illustrates a clear trend of gradually escalating precipitation as the year progresses, reflecting the typical transition from dry to wet conditions in Chiang Rai.
In January, Chiang Rai experiences a comfortable humidity level of 51%, making it an inviting time to explore the region's lush landscapes and vibrant culture. As the month progresses into February, humidity dips slightly to 46%, offering a crisp atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities. However, a trend toward increasing humidity begins in March and continues, peaking dramatically during the rainy season from May to August, where levels soar to a sticky 91% in August. As the year winds down, humidity starts to recede again, with October seeing a drop to 67% and December concluding the year at 56%, offering a refreshing contrast to the sweltering, high-humidity months. This intriguing pattern showcases Chiang Rai’s seasonal shifts, highlighting its inviting January climate while preparing visitors for the humid embrace of the monsoon.
In January, Chiang Rai experiences a very high UV Index of 9, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. This trend of elevated UV exposure continues into February, peaking in the following months. As the year progresses, the UV Index escalates dramatically—reaching an extreme 14 from May to August—indicating a critical need for sun protection, with burn times dropping to just 10 minutes during these months. Even as the season transitions into late autumn, the index remains significant, with a return to very high levels in November before cooling off in December. Emphasizing sun safety becomes essential, especially when the index peaks at 13 in October. For detailed insights, visit the Chiang Rai UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In January, Chiang Rai basks in an inviting 240 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a bright start to the year. As winter gives way to early spring, the days lengthen, with February enjoying a surge to 295 hours, enticing visitors to explore its natural beauty. By March, the sun shines even stronger, illuminating the landscape for 332 hours, while April remains radiant with 318 hours—ideal for outdoor adventures amidst the lush surroundings. The peak sunshine month arrives in May, boasting an impressive 333 hours, showcasing Chiang Rai at its sunniest. Though the warmth continues, a slight decrease occurs through the coming months, with June at 283 hours and July dipping to 258 hours, before gradually rebounding in August with 247 hours. The remaining months see consistent sunshine, ranging from 275 to 306 hours, offering a delightful climate for travelers seeking both exploration and relaxation in this vibrant Thai destination.
In January, Chiang Rai enjoys a robust 69% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the more favorable months for sun lovers. This trend continues into February, which sees a slight increase to 73%, further solidifying this period as an appealing time to visit. However, as the seasons shift, the likelihood of sunlight peaks in March at an impressive 80%, before beginning to decline sharply with the onset of the hotter months. Notably, by April and May, the chance of sunshine drops significantly to 39%, and it takes a steep dive further into the rainy season by June and July, where the likelihood plummets to just 11% and 15%, respectively. Thus, early in the year emerges as the prime time for basking in Chiang Rai’s vibrant sun, while the latter half offers a much greyer outlook.
In Chiang Rai, Thailand, January heralds the year with a consistent 11 hours of daylight, a trend that continues into February, making it a perfect time for outdoor adventures and exploration. As March arrives, daylight begins to flourish, increasing to 12 hours, and the warmth of spring further brightens the days. This extended daylight peaks in May and June, with a generous 13 hours of sunshine, creating ideal conditions for hiking and enjoying the lush landscapes. As the monsoon season approaches in July and August, the daylight remains steady at 12 to 13 hours, allowing for ample opportunities to soak in the vibrant scenery. By October, daylight gradually diminishes, returning to 11 hours, and further declines into December, which offers just 10 hours of light. This cyclical pattern highlights Chiang Rai's dynamic balance between light and the changing seasons, enhancing the region's enchanting allure throughout the year.
In January, the gentle breeze of Chiang Rai invites a sense of calm, with an average wind speed of 1.4 m/s (3 mph), setting the stage for pleasant explorations. As the months progress into February and March, the wind remains consistent, maintaining a similar pace. However, as the temperatures rise into the summer months, June offers a slight uptick to 1.6 m/s (4 mph), providing a refreshing contrast to the growing warmth. This trend of slightly increasing winds continues into July, before tapering off as the rainy season approaches in September, where the breeze softens to 1.1 m/s (2 mph). The months leading into the new year show a similar pattern, teasing a return to milder winds, making January an ideal month for embracing the serene atmosphere of this beautiful region.
Weather in Chiang Rai varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Chiang Rai, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In January, the weather in Chiang Rai is characterized by a minimum temperature of 7°C (46°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), peaking at a maximum of 33°C (91°F). The month typically sees about 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over four days, with humidity levels averaging around 51%. In contrast, February experiences warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures rising to 10°C (51°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), reaching highs of 35°C (96°F). Additionally, February is drier, with only 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain over just one day and slightly lower humidity at 46%. For a more detailed look at February’s weather, you can visit Chiang Rai weather in February.
In January, the weather in Chiang Rai features a comfortable range of temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and an average high of 33°C (91°F). The month experiences moderate humidity at 51% and receives about 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 4 days. In contrast, March brings warmer conditions, boasting a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and a peak temperature of 39°C (102°F) on particularly hot days. The humidity decreases to 38%, and rainfall is less frequent, with only 13 mm (0.5 in) recorded over 2 days. This shift indicates a transition towards hotter and drier weather as winter gives way to early spring. For more detailed insights, you can visit Chiang Rai weather in March.
In January, the weather is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and averaging around 20°C (69°F). The month experiences an average of 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over just four days, coupled with a humidity level of 51%. In contrast, April brings more intense heat, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) to a striking maximum of 40°C (105°F), averaging 27°C (80°F). This month also sees a significant increase in rainfall, with 171 mm (6.7 in) spread over 13 days and a drop in humidity to 36%. For more details on the weather conditions during this time, check out Chiang Rai weather in April.
When comparing the weather in January and May, there are significant differences in temperature and precipitation levels. In January, the temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (69°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, totaling 39 mm (1.5 in) over just 4 days, and the humidity sits at 51%. In contrast, May experiences much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F), an average of 27°C (82°F), and a peak of 41°C (106°F). Precipitation increases dramatically in May, reaching 203 mm (8.0 in) across 19 days, and humidity rises to 63%. For more detailed information on the weather in May, you can visit Chiang Rai weather in May.
In January, the weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F). Precipitation is relatively low, totaling 39 mm (1.5 in) over just 4 days, and the humidity is a comfortable 51%. In contrast, June sees significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and a peak of 37°C (99°F), averaging at 27°C (81°F). However, it also brings much higher precipitation, with 277 mm (10.9 in) spread across 25 days, resulting in increased humidity at 81%. For more detailed information, you can check Chiang Rai weather in June.
January and July present striking contrasts in weather, particularly in terms of temperature and precipitation. January experiences a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), while July is significantly warmer, with temperatures between 22°C (72°F) and 37°C (98°F). Additionally, January boasts lower humidity at 51% and only 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 4 days, whereas July is characterized by much higher humidity at 83% and substantial rainfall of 327 mm (12.9 in) across 27 days. For a detailed overview of the conditions during this time, you can check out Chiang Rai weather in July.
January and August exhibit stark differences in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a mild minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a comfortable maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation of 39 mm (1.5 in) over just 4 days, and humidity levels sit at a moderate 51%. Conversely, August presents a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 23°C (73°F) and maximums rising to 36°C (96°F), averaging at 27°C (80°F). However, this month is characterized by substantial rainfall, totaling 382 mm (15.1 in) across 28 days, and a high humidity level of 91%. For more detailed insights into the August climate, visit Chiang Rai weather in August.
In January, the weather in Chiang Rai is characterized by milder temperatures, with an average of 20°C (69°F) and highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, totaling only 39 mm (1.5 in) over about four days, resulting in a pleasant humidity level of 51%. In contrast, September brings significantly warmer temperatures, with an average of 26°C (80°F) and highs peaking at 35°C (96°F). However, this month is much wetter, with substantial rainfall of 260 mm (10.2 in) over 24 days and higher humidity at 83%. For more detailed information, you can check Chiang Rai weather in September.
In January, the weather in Chiang Rai typically features mild temperatures, with minimums around 7°C (46°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, averaging only 39 mm (1.5 in) over about 4 days, and a humidity level of 51%. In contrast, October offers a warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 18°C (65°F) and averages around 25°C (78°F), peaking at 34°C (93°F). However, October is much wetter, experiencing 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain spread over 19 days, along with increased humidity at 67%. For more details on Chiang Rai weather in October, you can visit Chiang Rai weather in October.
In comparing January and November weather, January features a wider temperature range with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), reaching a maximum of 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is relatively low at 39 mm (1.5 in) over just 4 days, and humidity sits at 51%. In contrast, November enjoys milder temperatures with a minimum of 13°C (57°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), while still peaking at 33°C (93°F). However, it experiences more rainfall, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) across 9 days, resulting in higher humidity levels at 60%. For more detailed information, you can check Chiang Rai weather in November.
In comparing the weather between January and December, both months exhibit mild temperatures, with average highs around 20°C (68°F) to 33°C (91°F) and minimal fluctuations in daily temperatures. January slightly edges out December in terms of maximum temperature, reaching 33°C (91°F) compared to December's 32°C (90°F). However, December experiences marginally higher humidity at 56% compared to January's 51%. Precipitation levels are similar, with January recording 39 mm (1.5 in) over four days and December slightly lower at 33 mm (1.3 in) over the same number of days. For a detailed overview of December conditions, you can check Chiang Rai weather in December.
In January, Chiang Rai experiences a delightful blend of mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it a prime time to explore the region comfortably. Unlike the sweltering heat of the summer months or the heavy rains of the monsoon season, January offers an inviting climate with cool evenings and plenty of sunshine, perfect for outdoor adventures. With only a few days of rainfall, visitors can revel in the beauty of Chiang Rai's landscapes without the interruptions of more temperamental weather seen at other times of the year. For a deeper dive into the nuances of Chiang Rai's climate throughout the year, check out Chiang Rai Climate.