The heat can get intense in Thailand, but locals, expats, and tourists alike get creative in finding refreshing ways to stay cool beyond just retreating to air-conditioned rooms. From eating cold desserts and drinking cool drinks, to visiting water-based destinations and events, there are many ways to beat the heat in Thailand. Here are our top tips for keeping cool and making the most of Thailand’s summer heat.
Heat Hideaways
In Thailand, shopping malls are more than just retail centers; they’re full-blown destinations. With sprawling indoor theme parks, ice rinks, luxury cinemas, and food courts packed with affordable, local favorites, it’s easy to spend an entire day inside. The cool, air-conditioned spaces are perfect for families looking to beat the heat, catch a film, or even get some work done in comfort.
Head to MEGA HarborLand at Central Westgate in Bangkok, the world’s largest indoor playground for the ultimate indoor adventure. It’s fun for kids, and even teens won’t be able to resist. Not in Bangkok? No problem. MEGA HarborLand has locations across Thailand.
More often than not, the simplest way to beat the heat is to stay in the shade. Steer clear of the beach and swim at one of Thailand’s picturesque waterfalls. Check out the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall in the laid-back province of Kanchanaburi. The crisp mountain breeze and ample greenery will provide much-needed refuge from the scorching sun. Take breaks to cool down in the water as you climb to the top, or find a level you like and dip in there. Erawan Waterfall is a day trip from Bangkok or an excellent place for a weekend getaway.
Dip into one of Thailand’s many onsens for those short on time. It’s like an oasis of serenity featuring ice baths and cold plunges. They are the perfect escape from city life. It may seem counterintuitive, but onsens can help you better handle the heat. Soaking in hot water encourages sweating, which helps your body cool itself down and regulate temperature more effectively. Onsens also promote circulation, which is essential for people who tend to swell in the heat. Make sure to take an extra-long soak in the cold plunge before leaving. The longer you last, the better the results; lower your core temperature and give yourself a much-needed mental refresh before venturing back into the heat. Check out Mojo Spa & Retreat in Hua Hin or the Ice House in Bangkok.
Cool Treats
Namkhaeng Sai is the quintessential Thai summer dessert. Shaved ice topped with sweet syrup and condensed milk is the equivalent of the American snow cone, and you can find it in even the country’s most remote areas. There isn’t a Thai in the country who doesn’t share fond memories of summers filled with Namkhaeng Sai. Impromptu stalls will start popping up when school is out for the summer. With their pocket money in hand, kids ride up on their bikes to order themselves a cool, sweet treat. You can enjoy a bowl for just 20 baht. Choose from a variety of sweet syrups—red, blue, and green are the most popular options.
A chic, fresh twist on the Thai classic is the trendsetting Pang Cha. The literal translation is “bread tea,” an adaptation of Namkhaeng Sai that uses rich Thai tea instead of sweet syrup. It also features bread as a base for the shaved ice. Check out the Michelin-recommended Lukkaithong at The Emquartier in Bangkok. Let us emphasize the importance of tasting this uniquely Thai summer treat—not only will it satisfy your craving for something cold and sweet, but it’s also a delicacy that, so far, is only available in Thailand.
For a simpler palate, nothing beats homemade coconut ice cream. The best part? It comes to you. Take notice of the makeshift carts with giant umbrellas being pushed through your neighborhood by friendly, hardworking Thais who likely still make the ice cream themselves at home. You know it’s time for ice cream when you hear the simple sounds of the bells ringing. Prices range from 10 to 30 baht and tend to sell out fast.
If sweets aren’t your forte, don’t forget that spicy food can help cool you down, too. Chilies make you sweat, and sweating helps regulate body temperature. So when that afternoon heat peaks, sit down with a plate of Som Tam and let your sweat glands run free.
Tips & Tricks
Taking a page from the locals is your best bet for surviving and thriving during the Thai summer. Stay in tune with the sun’s natural rhythm by staying inside or in the shade during the hottest hours. The sun reaches its peak around noon, but the heat and humidity linger until the early afternoon, making it the perfect time to watch a movie or even take a nap (definitely something the locals do). If you are outside during this time, avoid direct sunlight by covering up in the shade.
Hydration is essential during Thailand’s hot season. Besides drinking plenty of water, reduce your intake of caffeine and sugary beverages, as they can dehydrate you. The perfect alternative? Fresh coconut water is inexpensive, refreshing, and readily available almost everywhere.
A lesser-known way to beat the heat in Bangkok is the public canal boats. Faster, less crowded, and shaded, with the bonus of fresh, cool air, canal travel is a popular choice in the summer. Even with the air-con on full blast, being in a taxi stuck in traffic can still feel like a sauna. The Khlong Saen Saep boat service provides a scenic 11-mile (18 km) ride through the heart of Bangkok. With fares ranging from 8 to 20 baht, it’s an affordable and fast way to visit popular destinations like Wat Saket (the Golden Mount) and MBK Center.
Remember that big cities like Bangkok often feel hotter due to the heat island effect, where concrete retains and radiates heat. Leaving the hustle and bustle behind for the countryside can offer a respite from the heat. In Northern Thailand, you can escape to the cool mountain air in Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai, or take in the peaceful vibes of Bo Kluea in Nan. It’s essential to consider this when planning, especially when traveling with children and older people.
Life is about balance, which becomes even more crucial during Thailand’s hottest months. Be sure to balance rest and activity, staying hydrated and healthy. Make friends with the fruit carts, and don’t hesitate to skip an activity or two to recharge.
And remember: timing is everything. A well-planned day can make all the difference.
