Is November good for Thailand?

November is excellent for northern Thailand and the Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi) — both enter their dry seasons. The Gulf islands (Koh Samui) are coming to the end of their rainy season — late November is much better than early November.

When is the Yi Peng lantern festival?

The Yi Peng festival in Chiang Mai takes place on the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar — usually in November. Thousands of paper lanterns are released skyward. It is one of the most spectacular festivals in Southeast Asia.

Is November dry in Phuket?

Yes — Phuket and the Andaman Coast enter dry season in November. The first two weeks of November can still see some rain from the tail of the monsoon, but conditions improve rapidly. By mid-November the Andaman Coast is excellent.

Thailand in November | The Thailand Guides

November marks the turning point in Thailand’s calendar. The Andaman Coast emerges from monsoon into dry season, the Similan Islands reopen for diving, and Chiang Mai hosts two of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular festivals. The Gulf Coast is still finishing its rainy season, but by late November conditions there are improving too. For many travellers, November is the sweet spot — good weather returning, festivals in full swing, and prices not yet at December peak levels.

Weather by Region

Bangkok dries out quickly in November. Rainfall drops to around 50mm (compared to 200-300mm in September-October). Temperatures sit at 26-32°C with lower humidity. The flooding risk that shadows September and October is over. November is one of the most comfortable months for exploring the capital.

Chiang Mai and the north enter their cool, dry season — the best weather of the year. Overnight temperatures drop to 15-18°C in the mountains, with daytime highs of 28-30°C. The air is clear, the skies are blue, and the combination of comfortable temperatures and festival season makes November Chiang Mai’s best month. Note: the smoke and burning season does not start until February.

Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta) transitions into dry season. Early November can still see occasional showers from the retreating monsoon, but by mid-November the coast is reliably dry. The Similan Islands reopen in mid-to-late October and are fully operational by November — liveaboard diving season begins. Koh Lanta resorts reopen, and ferry services to all Andaman islands resume full schedules.

Gulf Coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) is still in its monsoon, particularly early November. Koh Samui receives 300-400mm of rain in November — its wettest or second-wettest month. By late November the rain eases and conditions start to improve. If choosing a Gulf island trip in November, aim for the final week.

Diving and Snorkelling

The Similan Islands are the headline for November diving. The season runs from November through April, and early-season trips often enjoy the clearest water before peak-season boat traffic. Richelieu Rock and Koh Bon are open for manta ray encounters. Book liveaboards ahead — the first trips of the season sell out fast.

Koh Tao diving continues year-round. November sees improving Gulf conditions in the second half of the month, with visibility climbing back toward 15-20 metres. The Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan still runs monthly — November dates can coincide with the tail of the monsoon, so expect weather variability.

Festivals and Events

Loy Krathong is Thailand’s most photogenic festival. Held on the full moon of the 12th Thai lunar month (usually mid-November), it involves floating small lotus-shaped baskets (krathong) carrying candles, incense, and flowers on rivers and waterways. Every waterfront in Thailand participates — the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, the moats of Chiang Mai, and even hotel swimming pools. Sukhothai Historical Park hosts the most elaborate celebrations, with a light and sound show at the ancient temples.

Yi Peng takes place on the same full moon in Chiang Mai. Thousands of sky lanterns (khom loi) are released simultaneously, filling the night sky. The main mass release events require tickets purchased in advance — popular venues sell out weeks ahead. Smaller spontaneous releases happen throughout the old city. Yi Peng combined with Loy Krathong makes mid-November in Chiang Mai one of Southeast Asia’s most memorable festival experiences.

Prices and Crowds

November is shoulder season, with prices rising but not yet at December-January peak levels. Andaman Coast resorts ramp up pricing as dry season begins, but early November still offers good deals. Chiang Mai accommodation around Loy Krathong and Yi Peng (typically the full moon week) commands premium rates — book 4-6 weeks ahead. Bangkok is moderately priced. The Gulf islands remain cheap due to the monsoon.

Where to Go in Thailand in November

Bangkok: Bangkok city guide
Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai guide
Phuket: Phuket guide
Koh Samui: Koh Samui guide
Koh Phangan: Koh Phangan guide
Krabi: Krabi guide

Planning

See the best time to visit Thailand for a full seasonal comparison, or the Thailand budget guide for cost planning. Browse Thailand tours and experiences — November is when Similan Islands liveaboards reopen and Yi Peng lantern festival tours in Chiang Mai fill up fast.

Thailand in November: Weather, Crowds and What to Expect