November is one of the best months to visit Thailand. That’s mainly because the rainy season comes to an end. Hence, it is ideal for sightseeing and beach time. The rains have cleared away the humidity.
November’s cooler weather makes this destination much more comfortable. The tropical heat of the summer months has subsided, allowing you to explore all day without feeling exhausted. As an added bonus, traveling in the so-called “shoulder season” means thinner crowds at popular sights and lower prices on hotels and tours.
Weather in Thailand
November brings cooler and drier weather to all regions of Thailand. While southern Thailand still sees some rain, most areas have transitioned into the dry season by this point in the year.
High temperatures in Bangkok and central Thailand average 86-90°F (30-32°C). Overnight lows dip down to the mid-70sF (24°C), allowing for comfortable sleeping weather. The capital sees very little rain, with only about 2 inches falling over the month. With sparse cloud coverage, sunshine dominates the days.
The north of Thailand enters its cool season in November. Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai both average highs of 85°F (29°C) and lows around 65°F (18°C), making for pleasant daytime conditions. The north sees very little rain this month. Cool and dry weather prevails.
Regional Weather in Thailand
Northern Thailand
The north of Thailand has entered the cool, dry season by November. Chiang Mai enjoys pleasant daytime temperatures in the 80s Fahrenheit along with low humidity. Overnight lows dip down into the 60s F, allowing for comfortable sleeping weather. The skies stay sunny, and rainfall is sparse. It’s an ideal time to explore Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and other northern areas.
Central Thailand
Bangkok basks in warm, sunny weather in November. High temperatures reach the upper 80s most days, with nights cooling off into the mid-70s F. Humidity and rain are both lower than in the summer months. November sees on average only 2 inches of rain in Bangkok, concentrated at the beginning of the month. The rest of the time it’s mostly sunny.
Southern Thailand
Southern Thailand is drying out in November but sees some residual rainfall remains. Phuket gets around 5 inches of rain this month, usually in scattered showers. Koh Samui sees 7 inches of precipitation. Despite the showers, November also brings plenty of sunshine in the south. Temperatures are warm but not blazing hot like the summer months, making it easier to enjoy days at the beach.
Islands
The Thai islands enjoy drier weather and fewer storms in November. Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and Koh Lanta may still get some rain showers this month, but they also benefit from cooler temperatures in the 80s and ample sunshine between showers. The islands make for a great beach getaway in November with their calmer weather.
Best Places to Visit in November
With its comfortable weather and low chance of rain, November is a great time to visit Thailand’s cultural sites and natural areas. Here are some top things to do:
- Bangkok: Explore the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chinatown, and other famous sites without the heat and humidity of summer.
- Chiang Mai: The cool, dry weather is perfect for hiking and visiting temples in the north. Enjoy the Yi Peng festival this month.
- Koh Samui: Lounge on beaches and enjoy water activities with cooler weather and fewer storms.
- Khao Yai National Park: Make the most this park’s lush, green nature, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting in the dry season.
- Koh Lanta: Island hop around Koh Lanta and the Trang islands chain with pleasant beach weather.
- Phuket: Take advantage of resort deals in the low season and enjoy Phuket’s beaches and attractions.
Crowds and Costs in November
November falls within Thailand’s low tourism season, between the summer and winter high season. You’ll encounter fewer tourists at major attractions in Bangkok, Phuket, and elsewhere. Hotel rates and airfares both drop significantly compared to October or December. Activities and tours also offer reduced pricing this month. Overall, November offers a good value for visiting Thailand.
Here are some average costs in Thailand during November:
- Flight from U.S. to Bangkok: $800 roundtrip
- Mid-range hotel: $50 per night
- High-end hotel: $150 per night
- Street food meal: $2-3
- Nice restaurant dinner: $15-20 per person
While the southern beaches won’t be deserted in November, they’ll be far less crowded than during peak season. You’ll have an easier time finding chairs on the sand and reservations at beachfront restaurants. The crowds pick up more towards the end of the month in anticipation of the high season.
What to Wear in November
With cooler temperatures and lower humidity, November allows you to wear a wide variety of comfortable outfits around Thailand. Here are some clothing tips:
- Bangkok: Pack light pants, short-sleeved shirts and dresses. Carry a light jacket for air-conditioned areas.
- North Thailand: Bring light pants, short sleeves, and a light jacket or sweater for cool mountain areas.
- Islands: Light summer clothes, shorts, tank dresses, and swimsuits. Bring a coverup for possible rain showers.
- Temples: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Sarongs are handy for quickly covering up bare legs.
- Nighttime: Add a light sweater or jacket for evenings, especially in northern Thailand.
November makes packing easy with the hot summer weather gone. Focus on light, breathable fabrics that can handle both sun and possible rain showers. Be prepared to dress conservatively when visiting religious sites. With cooler weather, November offers more clothing options for a comfortable Thailand trip.