Bangkok weather,
live right now

November to February — the 'cool season,' which here means 24-32°C, dry, clear skies, low humidity. Easily the most pleasant time. December and January are peak: still warm, no monsoon rain, comfortable evenings. Avoid March-May: pre-monsoon heat builds to 35-40°C+ with brutal humidity. June-October is wet season but cheaper, lush, with dramatic short afternoon storms. Songkran (Thai New Year, mid-April) is fun if you like water fights, miserable if you don't.

Lightweight, breathable, modest. Cotton or linen t-shirts and long shorts. Long lightweight pants for temple visits (knees must be covered) — many temples lend wraps if you arrive in shorts. Bring an extra layer for indoor AC, which Bangkok blasts at fridge temperatures. Comfortable sandals for street walking, real shoes if you'll be doing markets all day. Avoid black; you'll cook. A small umbrella protects from both sun and surprise monsoon rain.

Bangkok was made for monsoon afternoons. The malls are a destination unto themselves — Siam Paragon, ICONSIAM, MBK each could absorb a full day. Jim Thompson House is covered and atmospheric. The Grand Palace stays open (umbrella works), and rain makes the gold glow against grey skies. Thai massage parlours, cooking schools, indoor markets like Or Tor Kor — all thrive in rain. Don't try to taxi in heavy rain; traffic stops. Use BTS Skytrain or stay where you are.

Significant problem from December to March — agricultural burning across northern Thailand drifts south, and Bangkok's traffic adds to it. AQI regularly hits 150-200+ (unhealthy). Check the air quality before walking outside; on bad days, plan indoor activities and wear an N95 mask outdoors. Locals do this; tourists often don't. Rainy season (June-October) is paradoxically the cleanest air — storms wash the city. If you have asthma or are pregnant, March is worth avoiding.