Phuket is often seen as a sunshine-and-sea kind of place, and while that’s not wrong, there’s another side to this tropical island that’s just as beautiful. From May to October, the “green season” arrives. The occasional showers cool the air, the forests come alive, and the island feels calmer, quieter, and more local.
All the hotels’ room rates in Phuket are cheaper too, so if youre after a good deal, this is the time to come. It’s not the typical beach holiday with endless sun, but that’s exactly what makes it special. If youre looking for a slower pace, a good mix of indoor and outdoor activities, and time to properly unwind, the green season in Phuket might be just what you need.
When you’re ready to shop, dine, or simply take shelter from the rain, Jungceylon Phuket in Patong is the perfect place to reset and recharge, offering everything from fashion and food to spa treatments and entertainment under one roof.
Photo (Promthep Cape)
The rain during the green season usually comes in short bursts, often in the late afternoon or at night. That means your days are still free for exploring. In fact, many locals would say this is when Phuket is at its most beautiful.
One of the best ways to take in the landscape is to visit Big Buddha, one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Sitting 45 metres tall on Nakkerd Hill, this white marble statue looks out over Chalong Bay. The peaceful atmosphere, mixed with the panoramic view, makes the trip feel both spiritual and scenic, especially when everything below is freshly green from the rain.
Another great viewpoint is Promthep Cape at the southern tip of the island. Its a popular sunset spot, but during the green season, the colours in the sky feel even more vivid. The mix of clouds and golden light often creates jaw-dropping views over the Andaman Sea. It’s a quiet, open space where you can sit for a while and just watch the sky change.
If youre into hiking or nature walks, Khao Phra Thaeo National Park in the north of Phuket is the place to go. This protected rainforest area is home to waterfalls like Bang Pae and Ton Sai, which are especially full and flowing during the rainy season. The park also houses a gibbon rehabilitation centre, and if you’re lucky, you might hear the calls of these shy primates echoing through the trees.
The green season is a wonderful time to visit Phuket with family. The lighter crowds mean more room to explore, more availability at top attractions, and less waiting in lines. It’s also easier to plan activities spontaneously since things aren’t booked up far in advance.
With waves rolling in and fewer people on the beach, surfing at Patong is a great way to embrace the green season. It’s ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers and rental shops along the beach make it easy to get started. If you’re in the mood for something more fast-paced, Somnam Watersports at the centre of Patong Beach has options like jet skiing and parasailing, a bit of rain just adds to the fun.
Ziplining is especially magical during the green season, and Phuket offers two unique spots to try it. At Hanuman World, the rainforest comes alive after a fresh rain, everything looks greener, the air feels fresher, and the mist among the trees adds to the fairytale-like vibe. It’s an immersive jungle experience perfect for families and nature lovers.
For a different view, Erawan Patong Seaview Zipline offers gentle thrills and panoramic views over Patong Beach. With fewer crowds and cooler weather, it’s a great time to enjoy these sky-high adventures.
If youre in the mood for something a bit more grounded but still exciting, Kathu Shooting Range is a great rainy day activity. The indoor setup allows you to try your hand at various firearms in a safe and controlled environment. A first-timer or just looking to blow off steam, it’s a fun way to mix things up during your trip.
For a meaningful and nature-filled experience, both Nopparat Elephant Camp and the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary offer wonderful opportunities to connect with Thailand’s gentle giants. At these ethical sanctuaries, you can feed, bathe, and even swim with rescued elephants in a peaceful, green setting.
They’re perfect for families or anyone who loves animals and wants to learn more about elephant care and conservation. These wholesome experiences are especially magical during the green season, when the surroundings feel extra lush and serene.
If you’re curious about wildlife, Phuket offers not just beaches and temples, but rare up-close experiences with some of the world’s most majestic animals. Tiger Park Phuket is a must-visit for animal lovers, where you can safely get close to tigers in a well-maintained environment. With no sedatives used and a strong focus on animal care, the park ensures respectful, educational interactions, perfect for wildlife photography or simply a unique memory from your trip.
Just a short distance away, Lion Land Phuket, Thailand’s first lion park, takes the excitement up a notch. Visitors can interact with lions of various ages, from cuddly 2-month-old cubs to powerful white lions up to 4 years old. Each session is supervised by trained keepers, and safety guidelines ensure that age and height requirements are met for everyone’s wellbeing. During the green season, from May to October, Lion Land becomes even more magical. With fewer tourists and lush, rain-kissed landscapes, you’ll enjoy a peaceful and personal encounter with these majestic creatures. Don’t forget to stop by the souvenir shop for lion-themed mementos!
Photo (Wat Phra Thong)
Temples are another peaceful way to spend a cloudy afternoon. Wat Chalong, the largest and most important temple in Phuket, is known for its beautiful architecture and calm grounds. Locals come here to pray and light incense.
Just walking through the temple’s halls gives you a glimpse into everyday Thai culture and spirituality. Another lovely stop is Wat Phra Thong, famous for a half-buried golden Buddha statue. Legend has it that those who tried to dig it out were cursed, so the statue was left partially underground. Today, it’s one of Phuket’s most unique religious sites.
Jungceylon Phuket is a must-visit during the green season. This large shopping and lifestyle complex is located right in the centre of Patong, and it’s the perfect place to spend a few relaxed hours, especially when you want to stay dry.
The mall has over 300 shops ranging from well-known international brands to local designers. You’ll find fashion, electronics, beauty products, souvenirs, and more.
Hungry? Jungceylon Phuket has restaurants at The Garden and Love Eat, offering everything from authentic Thai dishes to Japanese sushi, Italian pizza, and vegan bites. You’ll also find dessert cafes with coconut ice cream, mango sticky rice, and bubble tea, perfect for a quick treat between shops. There’s a food bazaar in the basement for a casual meal, but also plenty of sit-down restaurants for a nicer dinner out.
Need a bit of self-care? Jungceylon Phuket has massage and spa shops, located on the BF floor of The Jungle Zone, Thairapy Zone, where you can pop in for a foot rub or a Thai massage. You can also catch a movie at the cinema, play games in the arcade in the Botanica Zone, or just enjoy a peaceful walk through the indoor space as the rain taps gently on the glass.
Going for shopping, food, or just to take a break from the outdoors, Jungceylon Phuket is a convenient and enjoyable way to spend part of your day. It’s one of the island’s best green season retreats. Families will find plenty to do here beyond shopping, from catching a movie at the cinema to letting the little ones explore Kidzooona, bounce around at Froggy’s Fun Park, or enjoy a ride on the carousel. Older kids can also have a go at Power Drive, the fun electric go-kart experience. It’s a great indoor escape for the whole family when the weather turns wet.
Travelling during the green season is all about being flexible, curious, and relaxed. With a bit of planning, you’ll have an amazing experience that’s often more affordable and less crowded than the high season. Here are some helpful tips:
Choose the right beaches: The west coast can have stronger waves during the green season, so swimming may not always be safe. But beaches like Ao Yon, Panwa, and those on the east coast tend to be calmer and quieter.
Have your own transport: Renting a scooter or car will make your trip much easier. Public transport is limited, and it’s nice to be able to come and go without worrying about timing or weather.
Pack thoughtfully: Lightweight, breathable clothing is still a must, humidity can be high. Bring a rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and waterproof bags for your electronics and valuables. Sunscreen is still important even on cloudy days.
Explore indoor and cultural spots: Use the rainy hours to dive into Phuket’s art, history, and food. Cooking classes, coffee shops, craft markets, and galleries offer memorable experiences that don’t rely on sunshine.
The green season shows Phuket in a different light. The skies are more dramatic, the forests more vibrant, and the whole island feels less rushed. You can still visit the beach, eat fantastic food, and discover beautiful places, but without the big crowds and busy schedules.
From lush viewpoints to peaceful temples, there’s plenty to see and do. And with places like Jungceylon Phuket offering comfort, convenience, and a touch of fun, you’ll never be short on things to enjoy, rain or shine.
If you’ve only ever considered Phuket in the dry season, maybe it’s time to give the green season a try. It’s softer, quieter, and in many ways, more memorable.
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