Chiang Mai, Thailand UV Index in January
The average UV index in Chiang Mai, Thailand in January is about 6.8 (High), peaking near 9.4 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 13 minutes without sunscreen. SPF 30–50 sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are essential. Seek shade between 11am and 3pm.
What is the UV index in Chiang Mai, Thailand in January?
Average UV
6.8
High
Midday Peak
9.4
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
13 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Chiang Mai, Thailand in January?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 9 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 2 | 13 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 22 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 35 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 53 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 79 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Chiang Mai, Thailand's latitude and typical January sun angle. Cloud cover, altitude and reflection from water or sand can raise or lower the real UV. Check the live forecast before long days outside.
Chiang Mai, Thailand UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Chiang Mai, Thailand?
Highest: May (about 8). Lowest: December (about 6.7).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6.8 | 9.4 | High | 13 min |
| February | 7.2 | 9.9 | High | 13 min |
| March | 7.7 | 10.6 | High | 12 min |
| April | 7.9 | 10.9 | High | 11 min |
| May | 8 | 11 | Very High | 11 min |
| June | 8 | 11 | Very High | 11 min |
| July | 8 | 11 | Very High | 11 min |
| August | 8 | 11 | Very High | 11 min |
| September | 7.8 | 10.7 | High | 12 min |
| October | 7.4 | 10.2 | High | 12 min |
| November | 7 | 9.6 | High | 13 min |
| December | 6.7 | 9.2 | High | 13 min |
Common questions about UV in Chiang Mai, Thailand in January
Do you need sunscreen in Chiang Mai, Thailand in January?
Yes. A UV index of 6.8 is High, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Chiang Mai, Thailand in January?
Yes, UV of 6.8 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 13 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Chiang Mai, Thailand?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 9.4 in January. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is January a good month to visit Chiang Mai, Thailand for the sun?
January averages UV 6.8, compared with a yearly high of 8 in May and a low of 6.7 in December. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 79 minutes at this level.