November marks the arrival of the dry and cool season in Chiang Mai, and it is one of the best months to visit Chiang Mai. Days average 31°C/88°F, warm enough for outdoor activities, but not uncomfortably sticky or humid.
What makes November truly special are the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Lantern Festivals. I strongly recommend planning your trip around this time. With thousands of floating lanterns lighting up the sky, our previous customers have described the sight as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Chiang Mai's Weather and Climate in November
- Average max. temperature: 31°C/88°F
- Average min. temperature: 20°C/68°F
- Average rainfall: 41 mm/1.6 in
- Sunny days: 26
- Rainy days: 4
In November, Chiang Mai enters the dry season first in Thailand. After the rainy months of September and October—when travelers often worry about downpours or even flooding—the skies finally clear up.
Most of the month brings sunny, stable weather, though you might still catch a brief shower in the first week of November. You'll have ideal conditions for hiking Doi Inthanon, visiting elephant sanctuaries, or even zip-lining in the jungle.
This month also brings Chiang Mai fully into its cool season. You'll feel it most at night, when temperatures drop to a pleasant 20°C/68°F—far cooler than Bangkok or Phuket. Up in the mountains, mornings can dip to 10°C/50°F, creating crisp, refreshing air that makes sunrise treks especially energizing.
Want to explore the best of Chiang Mai without planning logistics? Check out our 7-day in-depth Chiang Mai adventure tour.
What to Wear in Chiang Mai in November
- Daytime: Wear light, breathable clothing, such as cotton shirts and shorts. If you plan to visit temples, pack modest clothing to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Evening: Take a light jacket for cooler nights.
- Shoes: Wear comfortable sneakers for walking or sandals for casual outings.
- Other essentials: Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
What to Wear in NovemberTravelers ❤ Highlights Travel
Crowds and Costs in Chiang Mai in November
Crowds: More Visitors, But Not Overwhelmed
November is early high season, and it is much calmer than December or January.
Around the Old City, people are spread out between temples, cafés, and markets, so it never really feels packed, and you don't end up waiting forever for food or tickets. Day trips to the elephant sanctuaries or Doi Inthanon are far enough apart that you don't feel crowded and have enough space for photos.
The exception is festival week (Nov 5–6, 2025 & Nov 24–25, 2026). It is the busiest time in Chiang Mai, second only to the Christmas and New Year period. Tha Pae Gate and the river are shoulder-to-shoulder for Loy Krathong celebrations, and getting to Yi Peng lantern-release sites on shared buses can take ages.
But this is exactly why travelers come from all over the world—it's one of those rare moments that are absolutely worth the crowds. The key is how you experience it. With our premium package, you'll enjoy a private transfer to avoid the long waits, skip the crowded spaces, and secure front-row views of the lantern release.
Walking with Elephants Peacefully at Changchill, ThailandCosts: High-Season Rates, Book Early
November prices already reflect high season, similar to December or January.
Hotels typically run 30–50% above rainy-season rates, with rates doubling during the lantern festival. For instance, Smile Lanna Hotel averages US$94 in the rainy season, US$135 in November, and about US$234 during festival nights. Flights also double or even triple during that week.
Most attractions, meals, and tours stay reasonably priced, but availability shrinks fast. Elephant sanctuaries and Yi Peng tickets are usually gone months ahead, so securing them at least 3 months in advance is essential.
Our lantern festival tours solve the ticket-and-hotel hassle, and you can easily add more cities, like Bangkok, Phuket, and Khao Sok, to make it a full Thailand journey.
How Expensive is Chiang MaiTop 4 Things to Do in Chiang Mai in November
1. November Only: Yi Peng Festival & Loy Krathong
Releasing Sky Lanterns during the Yi Peng FestivalWant the ultimate Chiang Mai experience? Go during Yi Peng & Loy Krathong (Nov 5–6, 2025 & Nov 24–25, 2026). This is one of the most romantic events in Thailand, or even in Southeast Asia, in November.
Imagine standing among thousands of people as paper lanterns rise into the night sky, while candlelit krathongs float down the Ping River and parades light up the Old City streets.
With us, an official partner, you'll get exclusive extras: front-row access, traditional Thai costumes, and professional makeup. Over the years, I've witnessed many moving moments here: a family celebrating their parents' 30th wedding anniversary, a couple kneeling for a heartfelt proposal, and friends laughing together under a sky full of lights.
But this once-in-a-lifetime experience isn't for last-minute planners. Book your Yi Peng tickets at least 3 months ahead to avoid disappointment.
2. Hiking in Doi Inthanon for a Quiet Natural Escape
November brings back Chiang Mai's best hiking season. Up on Doi Inthanon, the skies clear after the rainy months, so the summit isn't wrapped in mist all day. Trails reopen, and the Kew Mae Pan ridge walk becomes a favorite, with more diverse views than the shaded forest path of the Angka Trail.
Hike through misty forests, cross sun-drenched meadows along the ridge, and enjoy the panorama of the twin pagodas. The sea of clouds from the 9th viewpoint is a breathtaking bonus, best seen between 6:30 and 10:30 am.
Doi Inthanon National ParkTo make the most of your day, our guided day trip takes you to the park's most photogenic Wachirathan Waterfall. Then head to the rural Maeklang Luang Karen Village, where Karen women still weave by hand in wooden homes above the rice terraces.
Maeklang Luang Karen Village, Chiang Mai3. Meet More Active Elephants on a Cool November Day
In November's cool weather, elephants are more active—you'll see them walking, eating, and playing outdoors for longer.
Even though a half-day program is available, to enjoy more natural interactions without feeling rushed, I recommend a full-day one.
If you're looking for a more intimate experience with fewer people, Chiang Mai Bush Camp is my top recommendation. It is the only luxury camp where you can stay overnight with the elephants in Chiang Mai.
I stayed there with my friend, and it was by far the most relaxed experience. Groups are capped at about 10 guests, and you can return to the elephants several times. Evenings are especially peaceful as the camp sits in open countryside, far from city noise.
Explore Elephants' Habitat with Bush Camp Staff4. Make a Sunset Visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is renowned for its sacred temple, but in November, the sunset is another highlight you should not miss. Going sunset also means most daily visitors are gone.
Arrive around 4:30 pm to admire the golden chedi in the soft light, then join locals at 5:30 pm as monks begin evening chanting—a moving experience even if you're not spiritual. By 7 pm, the view over Chiang Mai sparkles with city lights, a perfect contrast to the quiet temple grounds.
A note: If stairs are a concern, a cable car is available, though you'll still need to manage a few steps.
Monk Chanting Ceremony at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep,Chiang MaiExplore Chiang Mai with Us in November
With our private tours, you won't worry about sold-out hotels or hard-to-get festival tickets. We handle the details so you can simply enjoy Chiang Mai at its best.
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