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.
Disclaimer
Frequently Asked Questions
Was this page helpful?
Senior Travel Writer · Bangkok · 12+ years in Thailand
James has lived in Bangkok since 2014 and has visited all 77 Thai provinces. He specialises in destination guides, itinerary planning, and transport logistics. Before moving to Thailand, he worked as a travel journalist in Hong Kong and Singapore. He speaks conversational Thai and is a certified PADI divemaster.
Our editorial standards