Chiang Mai in November

Weather in Chiang Mai in November

Increasingly cool and dry through the month. Temperatures drop from 24–31°C in early November to 18–28°C by month's end. The last of the monsoon rains clear in the first week. Evenings become genuinely cool — a light jacket is useful after sunset.

Crowds & Prices

Yi Peng transforms Chiang Mai into one of the world's most visited destinations for a few days. Accommodation in the old city area books out a year in advance for the lantern release. Outside of the festival, November is a lovely, moderately busy month.

Best Things to Do in November

• 1Yi Peng Lantern Festival — releasing sky lanterns at the main ceremony (tickets required)
• 2Loi Krathong on the Ping River — floating krathong at sunset
• 3Doi Suthep mountain hike — cool temperatures make this exceptionally comfortable
• 4Chiang Mai Night Safari
• 5Doi Inthanon National Park — cool weather makes trekking pleasant
• 6Old city temple walks — Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man
• 7Sunday Walking Street market

Travel Tips for November

• Book accommodation for Yi Peng 6–12 months in advance — it sells out completely.

• The main mass lantern release is organised by several companies — the Lanna Dhutanka ceremony is widely regarded as the most atmospheric.

• Dress in layers for evenings — Chiang Mai evenings can drop below 20°C in late November.

• Yi Peng exact dates change with the lunar calendar — confirm the year's dates before booking.

• Doi Suthep views are spectacular in November — cool, clear days with excellent visibility.