Visiting Thailand in November

Central Thailand

It’s a fantastic month to explore the Thai capital of Bangkok before the crowds return in the run-up to Christmas. Head to Kanchanaburi to explore Erawan Falls this month too, with the water levels at their highest but the walk now dry and not too hot. It’s also a good month to discover more of Thailand’s history at the former royal capital of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.

North Thailand

The temperature in north Thailand is also starting to drop, with cooler mornings and evenings making it easier to hike. Head into the rice paddies and hills of Pai, stay in a Karen village as you trek and raft along the river, or enjoy learning more about Thai culture with a chance to eat with a local family or enjoy a homestay visit. You can even meet elephants at Chiang Mai. Around Chiang Rai, it’s a good month to discover the temples and tea hills.

Central/East Thailand

It’s also one of the best times to visit the eastern province of Isaan, cycling through the countryside and discovering the Khmer temple of Phanom Rung, or spotting elephants and other wildlife at Khao Yai. It’s easy to combine this with time at the beach at one of the tropical islands off the coast here. Ko Mak is known for fantastic snorkelling, while the waterfalls of Ko Chang will be full after the rains and unspoiled Ko Kood is perfect to see another side of the country. For an easy city and island combination, Ko Samet is a straightforward journey from Bangkok.

Beaches

You can combine wildlife and beach at Hua Hin as well, or further south, explore the rainforest and lakes of Khao Sok before heading to the islands off the west coast. Here, the seas are calmer this month and the beaches are bathed in sun making it a perfect time to visit Krabi, Ko Phi Phi, Ko Lanta, Ko Hai and Ko Yao Yai. The east coast monsoon brings rainy days to the Gulf of Thailand but also signals the start of the short surf season here. The swells are less dramatic than on the west coast, so somewhere like Ko Samui can be a good option for beginners if you can brave the rainier days.

Festivals: The festival of lights, Loy Krathong, takes place at full moon in November marking the beginning of winter, with millions of candle lanterns placed on the water in small baskets, or krathong. Celebrated throughout Thailand.

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival also celebrates the end of the rainy season in early November, with a rainbow of coloured lanterns on display in homes and temples in Chiang Mai.

Best for: Exploring the whole country, hiking and trekking, national parks, west coast beaches, elephant spotting