Why going to Thailand in November is a good idea ?
November in Thailand, the peak tourist season begins. The monsoon normally threw its last drops of the country with a few exceptions in the South and there are some interesting festivals. The most important and essential festival in November is undoubtedly Loi Krathong. And in September and October, airlines often offer specials deals on flights to Thailand that allow you to fly there for very good prices.
Exploring Northern Thailand
November is one of the best times to discover Northern Thailand. Why ? Because of Loy Krathong ! Also known as the Lights Festival, this festival is one of the world’s finest festivals and the most photogenic in Thailand. The most interesting festivities take place in the North. Frist go to Sukhothai Historical Park that exceptionnally opens at night for 5 magical evenings. Then go to Chiang Mai to attend Yee Peng Festival, the largest ascending lanterns release in Thailand and beautiful ceremonies in the temples of the city, including the one in Wat Pan Tao or stay in Bangkok and go on Chao Phraya River banks.
What better way to discover Sukhothai, one of the former capital cities of the Kingdom and its temples ruins with their magnificent stone Buddha images while participating in one of the biggest festivals hosting in the city. And there is no more monsoon in November in Northern Thailand.
Other major Thai festival in November
November is also the time of the Surin elephants festival. The Northeastern city promises to organize the largest elephants banquet int he World this year. But if you plan to get there at this occasion, make a advance booking (see “Hotels / Guesthouses” in the top menu).
The right time to go to Thailand in November
Loi Krathong is based on the lunar calendar so the date of celebration varies and can fall at different dates in November. So oprganize your trip in Thailand according to Loy Kratong’s date. Otherwise it is better to go to Thailand on the second half of the month. The South is still rainy but will increasingly get sunny. By cons, in November and December, avoid Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao and the coast facing the islands. These places are still very rainy. If you are planning to there, rather go to Thailand in January and the following months.
Go to Thailand in November 2015
This year, Loy Krathong will be celebrated on November 25. Sukhothai begins its festival from November 21 and ends it on November 25. The Surin Elephant Round Up Festival will be held from 20 to 22 November (the big elephants banquet will take place on November 20). I let you organize yourself according to what you want to do knowing that Surin is quite eccentric. But I advise you to spend at least one day between 21 and 23 November to explore Sukhothai and spend a night there and be in Chiang Mai on November 24 to attend Yee Peng Festival, the candle ceremony in Wat Pan Tao, the parade, the lanterns and kratongs realease near the moat and Loi Krathong festivities and celebrations on November 25. It is better to book your hotel in Chiang Mai in advance. The Sukhothai – Chiang Mai trip by bus takes 6 hours and there is a departure every hour.
