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Winter · Nov-Apr

Thailand's dry season: where to go from November to April

Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, Chiang Mai and Bangkok are at their best from November. Which coast to pick, what it costs and who each area suits.

By the TripBreeze team · November 13, 2026

November to April is Thailand's high season on the Andaman coast and in the north: calm seas, sunny days and cooler evenings in the mountains. It's also when prices rise, so the best-located beach hotels are worth booking ahead.

Where to go

  • Phuket: the easiest beach base, from lively Patong to quieter Kata, Karon and Kamala. Big choice of family resorts.
  • Krabi & Railay: limestone cliffs, island-hopping to Phi Phi and Hong islands, and rock climbing. Great for couples and adventurers.
  • Khao Lak: long, uncrowded beaches and the gateway to the Similan Islands for diving (the national park typically opens mid-October to mid-May).
  • Chiang Mai: temples, night markets, cooking classes and ethical elephant sanctuaries. December and January bring pleasantly cool mornings.
  • Bangkok: street food, rooftop bars and grand temples. Perfect for 2-3 nights at the start or end.

One watch-out: Koh Samui and the Gulf islands have a different weather pattern, with their rainiest months usually around October to December. They're at their best from about February to August.

Budget

Thailand still offers some of the best value in the world. Good 4-star beach resorts often cost $90-200 a night in high season, and luxury pool villas $300+. Christmas to New Year is the peak, so expect prices to double.

Who it suits

Almost everyone: families, honeymooners, backpackers, divers and foodies. A classic two-week plan is Bangkok, then Chiang Mai, then a beach on the Andaman coast.

Agoda is often strong in Asia, so compare it side by side with Expedia, Booking.com and Vio on TripBreeze.

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