Considered to be one of the best times in Southeast Asia, February features warm, dry, and bright weather in most areas, except Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
As the last month of the cool season in continental SE Asia (November to February), the temperature in February ranges between 20°C (68°F) and the low 30s °C (86+°F). If you'd like to escape from the chill of winter, then Southeast Asia is the best place to go in February.
Read on to find out more about February's weather, the best places to go, costs, and what to pack.
Weather for Southeast Asia's Major Cities in February
City | Average Daily Low Temp. | Average Daily High Temp. | Average Rainfall |
---|---|---|---|
Bangkok, Thailand | 24°C (75°F) | 33°C (91°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) |
Phuket, Thailand | 24°C (75°F) | 33°C (91°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) |
Hanoi, Vietnam | 16°C (61°F) | 21°C (70°F) | 13 mm (0.5 in) |
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | 23°C (73°F) | 33°C (91°F) | 5 mm (0.2 in) |
Phnom Penh, Cambodia | 24°C (75°F) | 33°C (91°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) |
Siem Reap, Cambodia | 23°C (73°F) | 32°C (90°F) | 13 mm (0.5 in) |
Bagan, Myanmar | 18°C (64°F) | 32°C (90°F) | 0.3 mm (0.1 in) |
Luang Prabang, Laos | 16°C (61°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 5 mm (0.2 in) |
Singapore | 25°C (77°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 112 mm (4 in) |
Bali, Indonesia | 25°C (77°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 234 mm (9 in) |
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | 23°C (73°F) | 33°C (91°F) | 147 mm (6 in) |
Manila, the Philippines | 24°C (75°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 41 mm (2 in) |
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Countries with Dry Weather: Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and the Philippines
In February, you could enjoy your travels without worrying about heavy rainfall in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
Temperatures increase towards March, the beginning of the hot season (March to May). So early February is cooler and better for outdoor adventures, such as cruising/kayaking in Ha Long Bay, hot-air balloon rides in Bagan, and cycling around Angkor Wat.
Get some ideas about how to plan a trip to Southeast Asia >>>
Countries in the Rainy Season: Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia
Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia deal with their rainy season in February. Indonesia receives the heaviest rainfall, while Singapore and Malaysia get drier toward March. The good news, however, is that it rarely rains all day.
Although diving and island-hopping might be canceled on rainy days, you could enjoy your trip with abundant choices. For example, you could discover the cultural attractions without crowds, pamper yourself with traditional massages in a boutique hotel, or cook exotic dishes with a local chef.
Check out how to plan a family trip to Southeast Asia>>>
The 6 Best Places to Visit in February in Southeast Asia
In February, the best places to visit are undoubtedly the countries with dry weather: Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and the Philippines.Get some itinerary ideas about trips to Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.
If you have limited time, such as 2 weeks, you're advised to visit the essential countries of Southeast Asia: Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
For an in-depth exploration, Laos and Myanmar offer more hidden gems and cultural immersion. Meanwhile, the Philippines is a paradise for beach lovers and diving enthusiasts.
Check our hand-picked itinerary suggestions for 12 days, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks or 6 weeks...
1. Thailand
February is an excellent time to visit Thailand as it experiences minimal rainfall, typically about 20 mm (0.8 in) spread over 5 to 8 days.
The temperature varies across different regions of the country. Bangkok and the southern islands are warmer, averaging highs of 33°C (91°F), while northern Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are cooler with highs approaching 30°C (86°F).
With the ideal weather, you could explore the bustling capital, Bangkok, rain-worry-free. You could also participate in an elephant sanctuary experience in the culturally rich Chiang Mai. Finally, you could unwind in the tranquility of Koh Samui or indulge in the adventures of Phuket. If you're seeking an escape from the crowds, you could venture into Kanchanaburi for the famous Death Railway and a special floating house stay.
Read more about planning a couple's trip to Southeast Asia>>>
2. Vietnam
Much like January, February is a perfect time to travel throughout the country. You would notice a gradual increase in temperatures from north to south in Vietnam: the north enjoys a cool climate, the central region experiences moderate weather, and the south basks in warmth.
In February, you could appreciate the beauty of iconic Ha Long Bay on a 2-night cruise to escape the big tour groups encountered on day-trip cruises. You could also create long-lasting memories by celebrating the Vietnamese New Year in the lantern-filled town of Hoi An. If you would like to delve into local life, you could take a luxury Mekong River cruise and visit disappearing traditional floating markets.
You can also check out more options for 2 weeks in Thailand and Vietnam.
3. Cambodia
Cambodia in February is warm with an average temperature range of 23°C (73°F) to 33°C (91°F). If you're sensitive to the heat, you're advised to do outdoor activities in the cool morning and late afternoon.
As dry weather prevails, you could take a romantic sunrise hot-air balloon ride over Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. In Phnom Penh, you and your family could also participate in a blessing ceremony by local monks for special occasions.
See how to plan a family trip in Southeast Asia>>>
4. The Philippines
In February, the Philippines experiences hot and dry weather, making it the perfect time for engaging in water-based activities.
Couples could find romantic bliss on Apo Island while families tend to enjoy the pristine shores of Boracay. Diving enthusiasts could explore the underwater wonders of Palawan. For a truly unique experience, you could swim with gentle whale sharks in Cebu's clear, calm waters and participate in tarsier sanctuary programmes in Bohol.
5. Myanmar
Visiting Myanmar in February is an excellent choice, as the weather is generally pleasant with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall.
You could kick off your adventure in Yangon by exploring the enchanting Shwedagon Pagoda and vibrant markets at sunset. Then, you could head to Bagan to discover its ancient temples by hot-air balloon. Finally, you shouldn't miss the charms of Inle Lake with its floating gardens and leg-rowing fishermen.
6. Laos
Compared with other Southeast Asian countries, Laos embraces cooler weather. Rainfall is occasional and light in February.
Laos is a small country and Luang Prabang is the heart of a classic Laos tour. With a tranquil atmosphere, you could experience a serene almsgiving ceremony with monks at sunrise, take a picnic lunch at Kuang Si Falls, and even craft your own souvenirs at local workshops.
Read more about the Top 10 Kid-Friendly Destinations in Southeast Asia>>>
Costs and Crowding in February
February is still in the peak season for most Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. However, you could benefit from more affordable prices and fewer crowds than during the festive season (late December to early January). Early bookings are necessary and should be made at least 3 months in advance.
If you don't mind the afternoon short bursts of rain, you could be rewarded with the fewest crowds and lowest prices in countries in the rainy season, such as Bali and Singapore.
A private tour is highly recommended to effectively alleviate the inconvenience caused by group tour crowds in dry countries or flexibly solve the hassles of rainfall in wet countries.
What to Pack in February
As warm weather continues in Southeast Asia, shorts, light trousers, T-shirts, light long-sleeved clothes, sandals, and hats are highly recommended.
A coat as an extra layer is helpful if you're going to visit cooler areas, such as northern Vietnam, northern Thailand, or mountainous areas.
Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Southeast Asia
Learn about the weather in Southeast Asia for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.
Traveling with Asia Highlights
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