Thailand in November is chef’s-kiss travel timing. After the rains, it’s all about those cool mornings and clear skies. Bangkok finally stops melting, Chiang Mai swaps sauna nights for lantern-lit skies, and the Andaman coast slips back into beach mode with calm, turquoise seas. 

The Gulf islands can still be soggy around the edges, but there is still plenty to do. So, pack light, throw in a layer for up north, and leave room in the suitcase for those Thai market bargains.

For most travellers, it’s the best month. November kicks off the cool and dry season up north and in the centre, so you get sunnier days, friendlier temps, and lower humidity. Chiang Mai is at peak pretty (plus lantern magic with Loy Krathong and Yi Peng), Bangkok is far more doable without the steam, and the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi and Khao Lak) reopens with smoother seas and better visibility. Over on the Gulf side (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao), the northeast monsoon still throws regular showers and choppy water, so you’ll need to plan more spa time and café hangs there.

It’s the start of high season, so prices are beginning to nudge up. This is particularly true around Chiang Mai’s lantern festivals and across the Andaman beaches as the sun returns. Early November can still feel shoulder-y, with nicer hotel rates and flight deals if you’re quick. Day-to-day? Thailand stays kind: street eats under AU$10, solid-value mid-range hotels, and cheap domestic hops. For the best value, aim for early to mid-November before school holidays and international demand kicks prices up.