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Weather Comparison

Phuket vs Langkawi

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Phuket: 29°CLangkawi: 30°C230 km apart

May Weather: Phuket vs Langkawi

MetricPhuketLangkawiBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer29°C (84°F)30°C (86°F)Langkawi
Average LowHigher is milder27°C (81°F)26°C (79°F)Phuket
Rain DaysFewer is drier25 days26 daysPhuket
PrecipitationLess is drier258 mm232 mmLangkawi
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day10h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer88Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h13 km/hLangkawi

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Phuket edges ahead as the better destination in May. Phuket offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 25 rain days, while Langkawi sees 10 sunshine hours and 26 rain days.

Phuket can feel quite hot at 29°C, so plan for heat. Langkawi runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Phuket is the stronger choice in May.

Temperature Comparison in May

Phuket reaches an average high of 29°C (84°F) and drops to 27°C (81°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 2°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Langkawi averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 26°C (79°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Phuket receives approximately 258 mm of rainfall across 25 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Langkawi sees 232 mm over 26 rain days. That makes Phuket the drier option by 1 rain day and 26 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Phuket vs Langkawi

Packing for Phuket in May

Highs of 29°C, lows of 27°C, 25 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Langkawi in May

Highs of 30°C, lows of 26°C, 26 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Phuket vs Langkawi

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthPhuketLangkawi
HighRainHighRain
Jan29°C7d31°C8d
Feb29°C4d32°C8d
Mar30°C11d32°C16d
Apr30°C18d31°C24d
May29°C25d30°C26d
Jun29°C23d30°C22d
Jul29°C24d29°C23d
Aug28°C24d29°C24d
Sep28°C25d29°C26d
Oct28°C27d29°C28d
Nov28°C21d29°C25d
Dec28°C12d29°C15d
29°

Phuket Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Langkawi Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Phuket warmer than Langkawi in May?
No. In May, Langkawi is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to Phuket at 29°C (84°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Phuket or Langkawi?
Langkawi gets more rain in May with 26 rain days and 258 mm of precipitation. Phuket is the drier option with 25 rain days.
Is it better to visit Phuket or Langkawi in May?
It depends on your preferences. Phuket averages 29°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 25 rain days. Langkawi averages 30°C with 10 sunshine hours and 26 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Langkawi. For drier weather, Phuket is the better pick.
How far apart are Phuket and Langkawi?
Phuket and Langkawi are approximately 230 km (143 miles) apart. Phuket is located in Thailand (Asia) while Langkawi is in Malaysia (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Phuket and Langkawi?
For Phuket, February tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 29°C. For Langkawi, February is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 32°C highs.

Compare Phuket and Langkawi in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Phuket coordinates: 7.88°N, 98.39°E | Langkawi coordinates: 6.35°N, 99.80°E