15 Best Things To Do In Thailand In November For An Amazing Getaway

Have an amazing trip with the best things to do in Thailand in November on a vacation

The best things to do in Thailand in November offer a wealth of memorable experiences that will make the trip truly special. November is the time when the weather is a little cooler than in other months, accompanied by a vibrant array of festivals and events. Lantern festivals and street food fairs bring a unique charm to the country during this time, adding to the excitement. If someone is planning a trip to Thailand, November would be the ideal month for a perfect staycation and an unforgettable holiday.

15 Best Things To Do In Thailand In November

Here is a curated list of top things to do in Thailand in November, from floating lanterns in Chiang Mai to pristine beaches in Krabi.

1. Experience The Magic Of Loy Krathong

A captivating view of lanterns lighting up the night sky during Loy Krathong Festival

Photo: PA / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Celebrate one of the most exciting and picture-worthy festivals during a visit to Thailand in November. Loy Krathanong is mostly celebrated on an evening when there is a full moon, people release beautifully crafted rafts made from banana leaves, decorated with candles and flowers into the river. “Release of the raft” signifies letting go of anger, defilements, and grudges towards each other. Participate in this luminous festival to be part of a spiritual ritual, and experience one of the unique things to do in Thailand in November while enjoying the ever-lasting beauty of Thailand.

Location: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai

Suggested Read: Rayong Nightlife

2. Explore The Ancient City Of Ayutthaya

Explore the ancient ruins at Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on next trip

Photo: Anil Kaushik / Wikimedia Commons

The cooler climate in November gives one the perfect opportunity to explore Ayutthaya, the Ancient City of Thailand. It will feel like one has opened that door to the past and will get to witness the Ayutthaya temples that have stood the test of time and are rich in culture and history. The site is under UNESCO World Heritage now and is visited by many photographers to take majestic shots of the city. The exploration journey of Thailand will get a good kick-start with visiting this location if someone is a history enthusiast.

Location: Ayutthaya Historical Park, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

3. Explore The Similan Islands

Water sports at Similan Islands are one of the best things to do in Thailand in November

Photo: No Troubles Just Bubbles / Wikimedia Commons

The Island is famous and celebrated for its diverse marine life and underwater visibility that can extend up to 30 meters which helps the divers to swim easily. November is the month when the underwater adventure starts in Similan Island, and a new diving season is announced. Divers from all around the world visit the place to explore the waters of Thailand. The protected marine park is not only for divers but for people who enjoy clean oceans and sandy beaches.

Location: Similan Islands National Park, Phang Nga Province

Suggested Read: Best Similan Islands Scuba Diving

4. Enjoy Yi Peng Lantern Festival At Chiang Mai

A beautiful view of lanterns in the night sky at Yi Peng Lantern Festival at Chiang Mai

Photo: Takeaway / Wikimedia Commons

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival, which is held in Chiang Mai, transforms the night into a mesmerizing sea of light, with thousands of lanterns floating into the sky. This spectacle coincides with Loy Krathong, offering a unique blend of two enchanting celebrations. Witnessing the lanterns rise, carrying wishes and prayers into the night, provides a profound sense of peace and community. November’s clear skies and cool air create the perfect conditions for this unforgettable event, drawing visitors from around the globe to participate in a tradition that symbolizes renewal and release.

Location: Various temples in Chiang Mai

5. Bask In The Beauty of Krabi’s Beaches

A scenic view of a white sand beach with two boats on the shore and clear skies in Krabi

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons

This is the best time to explore the Krabi’s Beaches, November is the right time for tourists to go snorkelling and kayaking in the beautiful oceans. For adventure enthusiasts, this time is ideal to enjoy many water sports activities near the beaches. For someone with a family, these beaches are perfect for a daytime picnic and at night the place turns into a party place. For solo travellers, these beaches are a must-visit for an exhilarating experience.

Location: Railay Beach, Ao Nang, Phi Phi Islands

Suggested Read: Lamai Beach

6. Explore Lush Landscapes Of Khao Sok National Park

Explore Khao Sok National Park, one of the best things to do in Thailand in November

Photo: Marcin Kaliński / Unsplash

November is when the Khao Sok National Park comes alive. As the rainy season starts, the park’s beautiful jungles, heavenly waterfalls, and exotic flora are at their most vibrant colours, showcasing the beauty of nature. Hiking trails lead to hidden caves and secluded pools, providing more opportunities for wildlife spotting, from colourful birds to rare mammals. It is the ideal month for trekking and exploring as the weather conditions are cooler and dryer providing a good time to be in nature.

Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Location: Surat Thani Province

7. Enjoy Cool Weather In Northern Thailand

A picture of a mesmerising view of a lush green field at Lampang in Northern Thailand

Photo: Waranont (Joe) / Unsplash

November is a little cooler than the other months and Northern Thailand feels like heaven on earth at that time. This is a good time to get a little warmth from the outside and indulge in outdoor activities, like trekking in the nearby forest and exploring the local markets in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Visitors can also get to eat the special delicacies that are only available in the winter months. Northern regions of Thailand have a very different culture, so visit the place to explore more about the country.

Location: Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai

Suggested Read: Chiang Mai Temples

8. Shop At Bangkok International Fashion Fair

Shopping in markets of Bangkok is one of the best things to do in Thailand in November

Photo: Evan Krause / Unsplash

Held in November “The Bangkok International Fashion Fair” is an exhibition a mix of both traditional Thai craftsmanship and contemporary designs. One can explore the collection of designer accessories, apparel, and clothes. Anyone with a love for fashion and design should visit this festival, either to appreciate or to get inspired by the craftsmanship of the designers. This festival allows visitors to take a deep glimpse into the vibrant Thai culture.

Location: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok

9. Explore Chiang Mai Street Food Festival

Relish the local delicacies and have a fun time at the Chiang Mai Street Food Festival

Photo: frogses production / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

A stroll through the beautifully decorated stalls at Chiang Mai Street Food Festival, allows visitors to indulge in the widespread Thai flavours that are offered in the festival. From sizzling satays to mouthwatering sticky rice to Pad Thai noodles, visitors will get everything that their taste buds are craving. It is a perfect opportunity for tourists to explore the famous street food culture of Thailand and get to meet travellers from all around the world. The street food vendors are very sweet and visitors get a chance to live like locals for a day or two.

Location: Various locations in Chiang Mai

Suggested Read: Best Food In Krabi You Must Try On Your Next Trip

10. Enjoy At Surin Elephant Round-Up

Enjoy Surin Elephant Round-Up, one of the best things to do in Thailand in November

Photo: Hu Chen / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Immerse in a captivating celebration of Thailand’s revered elephants at the Surin Elephant Round-up, one of the best things to do in Thailand in November. It is an annual event and it comes in November, where one can watch the elephants perform amazing feats from soccer matches to reenacted battles. The main aim or the main reason behind celebrating the festival is to educate the visitors and the locals on the importance of elephant conservation and remind everyone about the contribution of elephants in Thai history. Being part of this festival would be a great experience for a first-timer.

Location: Surin Province

11. Attend The Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Attend Phuket Vegetarian Festival, a colourful annual festival in Phuket with processions and rituals.

Photo: icon0 com / Pexels / image For Representation Only

One of the most exciting cultural events in Thailand is the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, which takes place in October or November based on the lunar calendar. People from all over the world come to see the colourful displays of devotion, rites, and processions to the Chinese Taoist gods. Self-disciplined actions, like walking on fire and getting pierced, are common among participants. These actions are meant to cleanse the spirit. In addition to the traditions, the festival offers a feast of tasty vegetarian street food, making it one of the best things to see in Thailand in November.

Location: Phuket Town

Suggested Read: Ultimate Guide To The Monkey Buffet Festival

12. Trek In Doi Inthanon National Park

Enjoy the trekking trails through waterfalls, forests, and Thailand’s highest peak.

Photo: Jazz Kaundal / Pexels

The province of Chiang Mai is home to Doi Inthanon National Park, which has Thailand’s highest peak and beautiful natural scenery. The best time to walk here is in November, when it is cool and the sky is clear. People can experience dense forests, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts, as well as hill tribe villages and learn about their culture. Birdwatchers and people who love nature will find a lot of rare species.

Location: Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai Province

13. Explore The Golden Triangle

Explore Golden Triangle, a famous border region of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar at the Mekong River.

Photo: Chainwit. / Wikimedia Commons

Along the Mekong River, Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar form the Golden Triangle. This area has a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Travellers can enjoy the peaceful scenery of rolling hills and riverbanks while learning about the area’s past, which includes the opium trade. Visiting border towns, temples, and local villages are all cultural experiences that make the Golden Triangle an interesting place to visit, especially when looking for things to do in Thailand in November for couples.

Location: Chiang Rai Province

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Koh Samui

14. Visit Sukhothai Historical Park

One of the best things to do in Thailand in November is exploring the ancient ruins and temples.

Photo: Ninaras / Wikimedia Commons

Sukhothai Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the ruins of Thailand’s first capital city are kept safe and show the country’s rich history. The weather is cool and pleasant in November, which is a great month to explore the park. People can walk or ride bikes around the old temples, stupas, and Buddha statues that are set in parks and ponds full of lotus flowers, making it one of the best things to do in Thailand in November for couples.

Location: Sukhothai Province

15. Take A Boat Tour Of Phang Nga Bay

One of the best things to do in Thailand in November is scenic limestone cliffs and emerald waters.

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons

Phang Nga Bay is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs, clear blue water, and secret caves. The monsoon season ends in November, making the waves calmer. People can explore James Bond Island, kayak through holes made of limestone, and get close to the unusual rock formations. On the trip, you can also see floating villages and eat delicious seafood from the area. Adventure, natural beauty, and photogenic views are all found in Phang Nga Bay, making it a must-see for travellers.

Location: Phang Nga Bay, near Phuket

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Koh Phangan

November is the most happening month of the year in Thailand, it is the start of winter in the country and winters come with festivals, celebrations, and many cultural events. Also, the weather conditions are ideal for exploration. Plan the next trip to Thailand with TripXL to make the planning process hassle-free. The best things to do in Thailand in November are a must-try with family or friends. Thailand is a place that keeps surprising its visitors every time.

Cover Photo: Evan Krause / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

November is a little chilly in Thailand, so try carrying a jacket with you if you are visiting.
Some of the popular dishes in Bangkok include chicken in coconut soup, green chicken curry, red curry, Thai-style fried noodles, stir-fried basil and pork, spicy green papaya salad, and spicy shrimp soup.
The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (฿). Also, some places accept US Dollars too.
A 5-day trip is enough to explore the major tourist attractions of Thailand. But, visitors can choose to stay for more days if they wish.
You can buy many things from Thailand like dry fruits, Thailand’s silk, and products made up of coconuts.
Depending on the lunar calendar, the celebration is most often held in October or November. Every year, the dates are different.
Cycling or walking is recommended to cover the large area comfortably.
To protect yourself from the sun, bring drinks, light snacks, a camera, and bags that can keep your things dry.

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