From November, Bangkok enters its comfortable cool season. While it might already feel like winter where you are, Bangkok stays warm, averaging around 31–32°C (88–90°F) during the day and a cooler 23–25°C in the mornings and evenings. With the rainy season just over, the city feels fresh, bright, and perfect for exploring.
It is the start of the busy season, though the city isn't yet as crowded as December and January.
As a bonus, November often coincides with Loy Krathong, Thailand's second biggest festival after Songkran. I still remember standing by the river, watching thousands of lanterns float on the water. It was peaceful, magical, and a moment I'll never forget.
Bangkok's Weather in November
- Average temperature range: 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F)
- Average precipitation: 40 mm (1.5 inch)
- Sunny days: 25 days
- Rainy days: 5 days
Data from: https://weatherspark.com/
The weather in November feels warm but rarely overwhelming, with pleasantly cool mornings and evenings, and comfortably hot afternoons. The chance of rain is slim. Early November might bring the occasional brief rain, but by mid-month most days are sunny and ideal for temple-hopping, boat rides, or wandering through markets.
Nearby getaways also enjoy great weather. Kanchanaburi is cooler, especially at night (around 22°C). Khao Yai National Park is refreshingly mild, ranging from 18°C to 28°C, though quite humid in the forests. Ayutthaya tends to feel hotter under the midday sun, often reaching 32°C (90°F).
Not sure how to choose places to visit near Bangkok? Check out our guide to the Best Day Trips from Bangkok.
What to Pack for Bangkok in November
Most of what you'll need are summer clothes like light, breathable T-shirts and shorts. Do remember to pack at least one pair of long pants or a long skirt for visiting temples, as these are required.
A light jacket or shawl can come in handy for cooler evenings, especially if you plan side trips to places like Kanchanaburi or Khao Yai.
If you're visiting in early November, consider slipping a foldable umbrella or rain jacket into your bag, just in case. That said, it's not a must — brief showers are easy to dodge, and you can always grab an umbrella from 7-Eleven if needed.
Top 5 Things to Do in Bangkok in November
The Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and other Bangkok classics are worth visiting any time of year. In November, it's more comfortable thanks to cooler weather, though the crowds start to pick up.
Instead, here I want to highlight a few experiences that feel especially enjoyable in November.
1. Celebrate Loy Krathong Lantern Festival
Locals float lanterns during Loy Krathong.November is the month of Loy Krathong, Thailand's second-largest festival after Songkran. It is the most special and romantic reason to visit Thailand in this month! Its date varies each year: in 2025, it falls on November 6, and in 2026, it will be on November 25.
While Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are more famous in Chiang Mai, Bangkok offers plenty of memorable experiences too.
At Asiatique Night Market, there's a lively celebration where you can float your own krathong on the river. Temples like Wat Saket and Wat Arun host vibrant events with traditional dance, chanting, and bustling food stalls. Some dinner cruises even offer Loy Krathong–themed journeys for a unique view of the glowing river.
If you prefer a quieter, more local vibe, head to a neighborhood canal or park where families gather — the atmosphere feels intimate and authentic.
Tip: This is one of the busiest periods of the year, so be sure to book hotels and activities in advance. Our 10-Day Best of Thailand Lantern Festival Tour takes you to fully enjoy the festival.
2. Watch the Sunset from a Rooftop Bar
Bangkok's skyline is stunning, and November's cooler evenings make it the perfect time to enjoy it from above.
For the classic postcard view, head to bars along the Chao Phraya River, where you can watch the sun set behind Wat Arun and see the temples light up at night. Sky Bar at Lebua is world-famous (yes, the one from The Hangover), while Vertigo at Banyan Tree feels more intimate, with no glass between you and the sky.
If you prefer skyscrapers and that buzzing "megacity" energy, the Siam/Sukhumvit bars are your spot. Mahanakhon Sky Bar is Thailand's highest, complete with a glass skywalk for the brave. Personally, I love Octave Rooftop Lounge—not the tallest, but it's laid-back, panoramic, and great value during happy hour.
Want something less formal but more fun? Tichuca Rooftop Bar has become a social media sensation thanks to its glowing jellyfish-like light installation. Or try Above Eleven, which feels like a hidden sky garden serving Nikkei cuisine.
Tip: Get there half an hour before sunset. That way, you see the city in daylight, enjoy the golden hour, and then watch the skyline sparkle to life. November is busy, so book ahead—weekends in particular fill up fast.
3. Take a Night Cruise on the Chao Phraya River
A river cruise offers a completely different view of Bangkok at night.
As you sail along, you'll pass Wat Arun and the Grand Palace glowing beautifully against the dark sky.
If your trip falls during Loy Krathong, it's even more magical. Thousands of lanterns float across the water while temples and bridges shine along the riverbanks. For a more intimate, romantic experience, try a teakwood boat like the Manohra Cruise.
Tips: Reserve in advance and select a cruise that departs around 6:00 p.m. You'll see the sunset, the "blue hour", and then the full sparkle of the city lights—all in one ride.
4. Take a Trip to Ayutthaya
If you want a more immersive Loy Krathong experience, I highly recommend an excursion to Ayutthaya, about 1.5 hours from Bangkok. November is the perfect month for it.
The celebrations here feel more solemn and authentic, with far less commercialization than in Bangkok. Temples and ruins are lit up with lanterns and candles, rivers fill with floating krathongs, and many sites host traditional dance and cultural shows. Locals in traditional Thai attire, families praying by ancient ruins. It's magical and atmospheric.
Tip: November is busy in Ayutthaya. Book your hotel early. You could do a day trip, but staying overnight is totally worth it—the evening celebrations are the real highlight.
5. Visit the Amphawa Floating Market
Amphawa Floating Market is more authentic and quiet.Amphawa isn't the biggest or most famous floating market near Bangkok, but November is the perfect time to go. From November to February, the market lights up with a seasonal firefly show you won't see any other time of year and at any other markets.
After dark, hop on a long-tail boat and drift along the quiet canals, watching thousands of fireflies light up the trees on both sides. It's truly unforgettable.
Tips: Amphawa is a weekend market, open only Friday to Sunday. I recommend arriving around 2–3 p.m., enjoy the market and local snacks, take the firefly boat tour around 6:30 p.m., and head back to Bangkok around 9 p.m. Our private tour makes the trip smooth and stress-free.
Want to experience Bangkok at its best this November? We can create a tailor-made itinerary just for you, combining all these experiences smoothly and at your own pace. Or see more things to do in Bangkok for inspiration.
Crowds and Prices in Bangkok in November
November is one of the best times to visit Bangkok and marks the start of peak season. The city is lively with festivals and tourists, so popular attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun can get very crowded. Rooftop bars and river cruises are busier too, especially on weekends and during Loy Krathong.
That said, it's not as overwhelming as December or January. With a bit of planning, you can still enjoy the city comfortably.
Prices: November is a sweet spot in the peak season. Hotel rates have risen from low-season lows but haven't hit their peak yet. Avoid the days around Loy Krathong if you want the best deals—prices spike then.
- Flights from the U.S. usually range from $1,100–$1,500, so booking 3–6 months in advance is ideal.
- Mid- to high-end hotels may be 20–50% more expensive than low season. Mid-range hotels in central areas usually go for $70–$120 per night, while boutique or luxury options start around $150–$250.
Tips for smart planning:
- Go early: Arrive 30 minutes before attractions like the Grand Palace open. You'll enjoy at least an hour of quiet before tour groups arrive.
- Plan in reverse: Most tours visit temples in the morning and shopping in the afternoon. Swap it—start with indoor activities like malls or museums when it's cooler, then hit the temples later.
- Book in advance: Popular rooftop bars, restaurants, spa experiences, and cruises fill up fast. Reserve a few days or even weeks ahead.
Recommended Bangkok Tours in November
Want to make the most of your time in Bangkok this November? Our tailor-made tours take the stress out of planning, so you can focus on enjoying the city.
- 10-Day Best of Thailand Lantern Festival Tour: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket
- 14-Day Cultural Thailand Tour with the Lantern Festival: Bangkok - Sukhothai - Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai - Phuket
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Bangkok Monthly Weather and Travel Tips
Learn more about Bangkok's weather and the best things to do in Bangkok for each month by following the links below.
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