Bangkok in November – Everything to See & Do

The bustling streets of Bangkok invite millions of travellers every year, but it can be hard to determine when to visit the sprawling capital of Thailand. While the warm summers are prime time for beach parties and near-endless nightlife, the milder days of November are perfect for travellers looking to enjoy Bangkok at its finest.

In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about visiting Bangkok in November. From the expected weather and events to the best places to visit and things to do, we cover everything that makes November a brilliant time to visit Bangkok and provide inspiration for how you can spend your time in the Thai capital.

View of Bangkok

The Weather in Bangkok in November

November is one of the best times to visit Bangkok as it brings pleasant weather after the wet monsoon season. Temperatures in Bangkok in November do drop slightly and range from 25°C to 32°C. This means the days are still lovely and much more bearable than the scorching summer months. 

Humidity will still be high so you will find that daytime exploring can be quite exhausting. Ensure you wear light clothing to keep cool and drink plenty of water. There may be some occasional rainfall as November is the beginning of the dry season in Thailand, but the short showers are brief and can bring a refreshing coolness to the local climate. 

There will be a good amount of sunshine in Bangkok in November. You can expect up to 8 hours of sunlight each day and the city truly comes alive in the evening, giving you plenty of time to explore the urban wonderland on your visit. It is worth noting that this is a peak month for tourists in Bangkok, so expect slightly higher accommodation rates and crowded attractions.

Wat Arun Temple Bangkok

Festivals and Events in Bangkok in November

November in Bangkok is a festive time as the city gears up for the holiday season. There isn’t a vast array of festivals and events in Bangkok in November, but if you are keen to experience the local traditions and customs, then you have to attend the Loy Krathong Festival.

Loy Krathong Festival

This dazzling festival takes place across Thailand on the last full moon of the lunar calendar, which typically falls in early November. It is one of the most celebrated events in Thailand and is a picturesque experience that makes November one of the best times to visit Bangkok. 

The highlight of Loy Krathong is the floating of krathongs, which are small, decorated floats traditionally made from banana leaves and flowers. People release these krathongs into rivers and canals as a way to pay respects to the goddess of water and to symbolically let go of misfortunes.

Loy Krathong celebrations often include traditional dances and music performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. You can also enjoy fabulous fireworks displays that light up the evening sky with flashes of colour.

The Best Places to Visit in Bangkok in November

With the milder weather and sunnier days, November is a great time to go sightseeing in Bangkok. There are a variety of places to visit in Bangkok that will make your trip truly memorable. From the glistening halls of the Grand Palace to the thrilling rides of Siam Amazing Park, there are so many cultural and modern attractions that are perfect for a trip to Bangkok in November. 

Wat Pho

There are a variety of temples in Bangkok that are the main cultural attractions of the Thai capital. Among the skyscrapers that stretch towards the clear skies, ancient temples stand as remnants of the country’s fascinating past. You can take a tour of the miraculous temples and uncover the details of Thailand’s mystical history, but if there is one temple you can’t miss, it’s Wat Pho

Sometimes referred to as Wat Phra Chetuphon, this ancient masterpiece is the most striking temple in Bangkok. It holds pride of place in Bangkok Old Town and is famous for housing the massive statue of the reclining Buddha. The traditional architecture of the temple complex features golden spires, ornate wall carvings and stunning stupas which add to the spiritual significance of the site. 

As you walk through the temple you can take in the serene atmosphere and explore several courtyards and pagodas. Wat Pho will be bustling with tourists and other visitors in November, so find a quiet spot and take some time to absorb the mystical ambience and observe the practices of the resident monks and worshipping locals. 

When visiting any temples in Bangkok it is important to respect local customs and traditions. Be sure that you keep your shoulders and knees covered and avoid wearing flip-flops. You will want to dedicate a few hours to Wat Pho so you can get the best experience of this Thai landmark and its intriguing history.  

The Grand Palace

Just next to Wat Pho, you will find the resplendent Grand Palace, another of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks. It was constructed in the 18th Century when King Rama relocated the capital to Bangkok. 

For over a century, it functioned as the main royal residence and the administrative centre of Thailand’s government. It’s one of the best places to visit in Bangkok and an absolute must if it’s your first time visiting. 

The Grand Palace complex is made up of multiple ornate structures and buildings, which makes it a top attraction in Bangkok as you could easily spend hours exploring every gilded corner. Each building is immaculately decorated with intricate carvings, beautiful gold leaf detailing and vibrant mosaic tiles. The Outer Court of the palace features halls and temples, whereas the Inner Court served as the residential area, so there is plenty to see. 

Within the Grand Palace, you can also visit Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is one of the most significant temples in Thailand due to the venerated Buddha statue made from a single piece of jade. Within the temple, you can observe the wall paintings which depict scenes from the Ramakien, the national epic of Thailand. 

You can take a guided tour of the Grand Palace which will provide you with much more insight into the cultural heritage of Thailand. On your tour, you will also get the chance to visit a handful of other temples in Bangkok which makes it an efficient way to see the top sights of Bangkok.  

Siam Amazing Park

While the cultural wonders of Bangkok are fascinating to witness, there is also plenty to do in the city for thrill-seeking travellers. If you’re an adrenaline junkie or visiting Bangkok with family, you should take a trip to some of the exciting amusement parks that offer a day filled with fun. There are a few to choose from, but for unparalleled enjoyment, Siam Amazing Park is the clear standout. 

Located in the Khan Na Yao district of Bangkok, this fabulous amusement and waterpark is one of the largest and most famous in Thailand. The sprawling entertainment complex promises attractions and activities that are suitable for travellers of all ages. There are blood-pumping roller coasters like the Giant Drop, charming family rides and entertaining shows and parades that all add up to one amazing day out in Bangkok.

The water park at Siam Amazing provides a refreshing oasis that is perfect for the warm November days. There are a variety of waterslides, lazy rivers and interactive waterplay areas that make it one of the best things to do for families in Bangkok. There is also a zoo and safari park on sight that will be a real treat for young travellers or anyone who is animal-obsessed. 

With so many opportunities and activities, Siam Amazing Park is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok for travellers who want a varied experience. From screaming your heart out on thrilling rides to lounging by the pool, the park offers something for everyone and is a top attraction for tourists visiting Bangkok in November. 

Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in long queues and jump right into the fun!

The Best Things to Do in Bangkok in November

While there are plenty of places to see in Bangkok that are perfect for a November trip, it’s always good to break up sightseeing with some interesting activities. Thankfully, Bangkok is a wonderland of options with so many day trips, cultural experiences and unforgettable pursuits. 

November is a great time to jump into a wide range of things to do in Bangkok as the month is blessed with perfect weather for excursions and a vibrant atmosphere for interacting with locals. 

Day Trip to Coral Island

You can break up your visit to Bangkok with some fabulous day trips that will let you experience more of Thailand’s natural and cultural wonders. If you’re keen to try some island exploration and take a short break from the loud streets of the city, book a small group tour of Coral Island. The island is located off the coast of Pattaya, which is a vibrant beach resort about 2 hours from Bangkok. 

Though it can be tricky to get to, your tour operator will ensure that all transportation is handled for you, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the island without stressing about your return. Once you reach Coral Island you can enjoy a wide array of beach activities like sunbathing, nature walks and thrilling watersports. 

Coral Island gets its name from the pristine coral reef which makes it a prime spot for snorkelling and scuba diving in Thailand. You will find many local operators on the island offering diving trips that will see you explore the colourful reef and see a variety of marine life. 

Evening Chao Phraya River Cruise

If you’re looking for a nighttime activity in Bangkok but aren’t keen on the loud bars and nightclubs, a great option is taking a scenic cruise along the Chao Phraya River. It’s one of the best things to do in Bangkok as you get to see the city from a different perspective. It’s a very romantic activity as well, making it a great option for couples visiting Bangkok. 

On your cruise, you can enjoy a buffet-style dinner complete with Thai specialties and international dishes. As you enjoy your delicious meal, you can listen to live music performed by talented musicians which creates a suitably relaxing evening atmosphere. 

From the deck of your cruise ship, you can look upon the Bangkok skyline in all its glory as it illuminates the night sky. The gently rolling waters of the Chao Phraya River reflect the city lights, creating an idyllic view which adds so much charm to the magical experience. 

Thai Cooking Classes and Markets

While day trips to remote islands and enchanting river cruises are undoubtedly appealing, Bangkok also has some great activities which will delight travellers seeking authentic experiences and cultural immersion. One of the best things to do in Bangkok is to take part in a Thai cooking class and tour the spirited markets. 

During a Thai cooking class, you will get hands-on experience with making traditional Thai meals from an expert local chef. You will begin by touring the Khlong Toei market where you can pick up fresh ingredients and produce for your meals. Your guide will be able to help you haggle for the best prices and pick out the finest items. 

During the cooking class, you will learn how to make Thai staples like coconut soup, pad thai and red curry. Your helpful teacher will ensure that your meals are made to perfection and provide you with unique tips and skills. Afterwards, you can sit and enjoy your culinary creations and impress your loved ones back home with your new tasty talents.

Summary

November proves to be one of the best months to visit Bangkok. The pleasant weather coupled with the festive build up makes it a magical time to be in the city and experience its majesty and metropolitan delights. In November, Bangkok emerges as a city of endless possibilities, where the blend of ancient traditions and modern attractions creates a captivating offering of experiences. 

From exploring the gilded temples to shooting down waterslides, the variety of activities in Bangkok in November makes it a great time to visit for any kind of traveller. So if you’ve been thinking about going to  Bangkok, make sure your calendar is clear in November as there is no better time to visit. 

If you’ve enjoyed this article, check out our other Thailand posts for some travel tips, like What to Do in Bangkok for 3 Days and Where to Stay in Bangkok.

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About the Author

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Tom Adams

I am an experienced writer with a diverse background, having lived in 7 countries by age 16. I have specialised in various topics throughout my career, such as archaeology, sports and travel writing. Having grown up abroad I feel a special connection with the countries I once called home, in particular China, Singapore and Thailand. With my archaeological background, I also have a plethora of historical knowledge about Italy, Greece and Egypt. My favourite thing to do while travelling is visiting museums and historic landmarks and learning more about the local culture. As a foodie, I also make a point of sampling as much local cuisine as possible whenever I visit a new country. My favourite place I’ve visited so far has to be New Zealand, but I also loved Hong Kong and Copenhagen.