Thailand in November: A Complete Guide to Planning the Perfect Trip

Thailand is a great place to visit in November. It’s the start of the dry, cool season, perfect for outdoor fun and seeing beautiful places. Travellers can hike in the mountains or take long walks to see beautiful views. There are also many old temples and historical places to visit (each with an exciting story).

Moreover, meeting the local people is one of the best parts of the getaway. Thai people are very friendly and welcoming. They love sharing their culture and traditions with visitors. Zippy Holidays has created this guide to help you plan the perfect getaway to Thailand. So, without further ado, let’s help you have the fun of a lifetime.

Should Travellers Visit Thailand in November?

Yes! The weather is pleasant because it’s the start of the dry season, so there’s less humidity and rain. In the north, places like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai have mild temperatures and clear skies. This is perfect for visiting temples, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Central Thailand’s colder climate makes cities like Bangkok and Ayutthaya ideal for sightseeing. Sunny days are ideal for beach activities, water sports, and island exploration in southern locations like Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui.

Overview of Weather in Thailand in November

The weather in November is nice all over Thailand.

• Northern Thailand: Northern Thailand has average high temperatures of 25-30°C (77-86°F) and cooler evenings.
• Central Thailand: Bangkok experiences 24 – 30°C (75 – 86°F) temperatures.
• Southern Thailand: Phuket and Koh Samui have warm temperatures around 31°C (87°F). However, at night it’s 23°C (74°F)

Rainfall is low in most areas. The north gets very little rain, and the south may have some light showers, but they don’t happen often. Overall, Thailand gets about 80-90 mm of rain in November.

November’s good weather makes it a great time to explore Thailand’s landscapes, festivals, and outdoor activities.

Things to Do in Thailand in November

We’ve talked about how the weather is nice and cool. So, now let’s talk about what travellers can actually do in this weather.

Visit Ancient Temples and Historical Sites

The well-known reclining Buddha statue may be seen at Wat Pho in Bangkok. Another amazing place is Wat Arun (known for its stunning design).

If you go to Ayutthaya, you’ll find an old city with many ruins of temples and palaces. In the north, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai also have beautiful temples and historical sites to explore. These visits are peaceful and interesting. You’ll feel calm and relaxed as you learn about Thai culture and history. So, make sure to add these places to your list.

Engage in Watersports and Activities

A fantastic approach to take in Thailand’s natural beauty is to be active in the water. Travellers can see beautiful coral reefs and colourful fish underwater in places like Phuket and Koh Samui. It’s like exploring a different world. If you like more relaxed activities, try kayaking or paddleboarding. These are fun and easy to do. The calm waters in November make it a great time to enjoy these sports.

Explore Local Markets

In Bangkok, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is huge and has everything you can think of, from clothes to antiques. You can get really wonderful souvenirs to bring home from this place. Another must-see is the floating markets. These markets are on boats, and you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks directly from the vendors on the water.

Furthermore, travellers should definitely taste Thai street food at these marketplaces. Many stalls sell delicious dishes like pad thai and mango sticky rice.

Discover the Nightlife

In Bangkok, places like Khao San Road are famous for their bars and clubs. Travellers can dance the night away and make friends from all over the world. Other places like Pattaya and Phuket also have great nightlife. During holidays in Phuket, visitors can enjoy beach clubs where they can unwind with a drink and listen to music. Additionally, there are night markets where you can eat late, shop, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Try Authentic Thai Cuisine

Thai food is famous for its flavours. You must try dishes like:

• Pad Thai
• Green Curry
• Mango Sticky Rice
• Fresh Fish
• Shrimp
• Crab

Look for the seafood that is grilled or cooked in delicious sauces.

Trek With Friends

Khao Sok National Park and Doi Inthanon National Park are the finest places to trek with friends. These parks offer breathtaking paths, vistas, rivers, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Experience Traditional Thai Massages and Spas

These massages are known for their healing benefits and ability to relieve stress and tension. Many places offer massages, from high-end spas to small local shops. Thai massages are unique because they involve stretching and deep pressure.  Many spas also offer other treatments like facials and body scrubs, adding to the relaxation experience.

What to Wear in Thailand in November

Here’s what we urge our traveller to pack for their getaway to Thailand in November.

• Light Clothing: Wear breathable clothes, such as sundresses, shorts, skirts, and tops made of cotton (or linen).
• Modest Attire: Travellers can carry a light scarf or shawl to cover their shoulders.
• Shoes: Comfortable shoes are a must if you want to explore cities. Moreover, pack flip-flops or sandals for the beach.
• Swimwear: Bring swimsuits for beach days.
• Sun Protection: Bring sunglasses, an umbrella and a hat.
• Cool Evenings: In the north, evenings can be cooler, so bring a light sweater or jacket.

Is Thailand Crowded During November?

Although it’s not as congested as December and January, November is a popular time to visit Thailand.

Just don’t forget to reserve the accommodation and activities ahead of time. Zippy Holidays can do that for you!

Average Costs of a Getaway to Thailand in November

The cost of a November holiday to Thailand can vary depending on many factors.

• Flights: A round-trip flight from the UK to Thailand in November usually costs between £400 and £700 (prices vary depending on the airline).
• Budget Hotels: Around £10-£20 per night.
• Mid-Range Hotels: About £30-£80 per night.
• Luxury Resorts: From £100-£300 or more per night.
• Local Travel: Taxis, public transport and tuk-tuks are affordable.

For a 10-day holiday, including flights, mid-range places to stay, and daily spending, you might need around £1000-£2000 or more per person. This is just a rough guess; your actual costs could be higher or lower depending on what you choose and how you travel. We are happy to help you make a budget for your holiday.

Festivals in Thailand in November

Let’s talk festivals!

November is a lively and fun month in Thailand, full of colourful festivals. There is lots of music, dancing, and beautiful costumes, making visiting exciting.

Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights)

Loy Krathong is celebrated all over Thailand. People make small floats, called krathongs, and decorate them with flowers and candles. These floats are placed on rivers and lakes to symbolize letting go of bad things and being thankful. Traditional dance, music, and exquisite lantern displays are also featured at the celebration.

This festival is very pretty to watch.

Yi Peng Lantern Festival

It happens at the same time as Loy Krathong. During this festival, everyone releases many lanterns into the sky. It honestly reminds us of the movie Tangled. So, if you want to create a similar romantic experience for your partner, then you must attend this event in full spirits.

Vegetarian Festival (Tesagan Gin Je)

The Vegetarian Festival is celebrated by the Thai-Chinese community, especially in Phuket. During this festival, people eat only vegetarian food and perform special rituals to cleanse their bodies and minds. If you visit during the Vegetarian Festival, you’ll see many colourful processions and taste delicious vegetarian dishes.

Golden Mount Fair (Talat Phu Khao Thong)

Travellers can enjoy traditional performances, games, and good food in this event. There is also a procession up the Golden Mount to celebrate the temple’s construction. It takes place in Wat Saket, Bangkok.

During these festivals, everyone is in a good mood, and the celebrations are full of life.

List of Islands to Visit in November

We have created a list of islands to visit in November for your ease.

List of Beaches to Visit in November

Here’s a list of all the beaches to visit in November.

Hacks & Tips for Visiting Thailand in November

Plan Ahead

Book your hotel rooms, flights, and activities ahead of time to avoid any trouble. This way, you can get the best deals and ensure everything is available when you arrive. Zippy Holidays can help you plan your holiday.

Enjoy Festivals and Outdoor Activities

Thailand has exciting festivals in November. Verify the dates of these events and schedule your holiday around them. Furthermore, use the pleasant weather to enjoy outdoor activities like island hopping, snorkelling, and visiting national parks.

Budget Smartly

Look for deals and consider staying in mid-range hotels. Eating street food is also a tasty and affordable way to save money.

Stay Hydrated and Dress Modestly

Thailand can be hot, so drinking plenty of water is important. Bring a reusable water bottle to save money on single-use purchases. Dress modestly when you visit local villages or temples. This entails keeping your legs and shoulders covered. You should always take off your shoes when you visit a temple or someone’s home.

Take Care of Your Health

Before you go, get the necessary vaccinations and bring basic medicines. It’s also a good idea to buy travel insurance. This will help cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and other unexpected events.

Learn Basic Thai Phrases

Common phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “how much” can be very useful. Here’s a little guide:

• Hello = S̄wạs̄dī
• How much? = Thèārị?
• Thank you! = K̄hxbkhuṇ!

Use Reliable Transportation

When using tuk-tuks or taxis, agree on the fare before you get in. This helps avoid overcharging. Furthermore, stick to reputable transportation services to ensure your safety and that of your friends/family.

Respect Thai Culture

‘Wai’, or a small bow with palms together, is a courteous way to welcome someone in Thailand. This is especially crucial when extending a greeting to monks or seniors. So, to show appreciation for Thai culture, you must always respect local traditions and customs.

So…

Thailand is the place to travel to this November. So, waste no time and get there ASAP!

FAQs

Are there possibilities of me getting scammed in Thailand?

Scams can happen, but if you stay alert, you can avoid them. Common scams include overcharging for taxis or street food. So, always agree on prices beforehand and be cautious with your money.

Can Thai people speak English?

Particularly in tourist locations, many Thai individuals speak some English.

How much time should one spend in Thailand?

Most people spend 1-2 weeks in Thailand. This is enough time to see the main attractions.

Is Thailand safe?

Thailand is generally safe. However, be careful on the roads and avoid risky areas. 

What should I know before travelling to Thailand?

While some scams exist, not everyone is out to trick you. Most Thai people are kind and helpful. Travel with a positive attitude.

What should one not do in Thailand?

Avoid illegal drug use or elephant riding, and respect local laws and customs.