Hatyai - Things to Do in Hatyai in November

Hatyai in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Hatyai

31°C (88°F) High Temp
23°C (73°F) Low Temp
85 mm (3.3 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

  • Cool season begins - temperatures drop from October's peak heat with morning lows of 23°C (73°F), making early morning temple visits and walking tours comfortable
  • Post-monsoon clarity - occasional rain clears the air, giving excellent visibility for photography at Hat Yai Municipal Park and Wat Hat Yai Nai's giant Buddha
  • Peak durian season - November brings the finest Monthong and Kan Yao varieties at ฿80-120 per kg in local markets, significantly cheaper than Thailand prices
  • Ideal festival weather - comfortable evening temperatures of 25-27°C (77-81°F) make night markets and outdoor celebrations enjoyable without excessive sweating

Considerations

  • Inconsistent rainfall - while total precipitation is moderate at 85mm (3.3 inches), afternoon showers arrive unpredictably, lasting 30-45 minutes and disrupting outdoor plans
  • High UV exposure - clear post-rain skies mean UV index peaks at 8, causing sunburn within 20 minutes without protection during midday temple visits
  • Shoulder season crowds - Malaysian weekenders and early high-season tourists create moderate crowds at popular spots like Ton Nga Chang Waterfall

Best Activities in November

Songkhla Lake Basin Cultural Tours

November's clear post-monsoon air provides excellent visibility across the lake system while temperatures stay comfortable for boat trips. Traditional fishing villages are accessible as water levels stabilize after rainy season. Early morning tours (7-9am) avoid afternoon heat and showcase traditional stilt house communities at their most photogenic.

Booking Tip: Book cultural boat tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators at Songkhla town pier. Tours typically cost ฿800-1,200 including transport from Hat Yai. Morning departures essential - afternoon tours often cancelled due to unpredictable showers. See current options in booking section below.

Ton Nga Chang Waterfall Hiking

Post-monsoon water flow is at its most impressive in November while forest humidity drops to manageable levels. The 2.5 km (1.6 mile) trail is firm underfoot after October's mud season. Morning temperatures of 23-25°C (73-77°F) make the steep sections comfortable before midday heat arrives.

Booking Tip: Independent access via songthaew (฿40) or organized tours with transport ฿600-900. Start early (8am latest) to avoid afternoon UV and potential rain. Waterfall swimming possible but water temperature drops to 22°C (72°F) in November. Current tour options available in booking widget below.

Kim Yong Market Dawn Food Tours

November's cool morning air makes the sensory intensity of Hat Yai's largest wholesale market bearable. Peak durian season means 15+ varieties available at wholesale prices. Market activity peaks 5-8am when temperatures are coolest. This is when locals shop to avoid midday heat and afternoon rain uncertainty.

Booking Tip: Food walking tours typically ฿1,200-1,800 for 3-hour experiences including multiple tastings. Book through operators who start by 6am - later tours miss wholesale activity and face rising temperatures. Licensed guides essential for navigation and food safety. See current food tour options below.

Samila Beach Sunset Activities

November's clearer skies create spectacular sunsets while comfortable evening temperatures of 27°C (81°F) make beach time pleasant. Less crowded than December-February peak season but infrastructure fully operational. Sea temperatures remain warm at 28°C (82°F) from warmer months.

Booking Tip: Beach activities and sunset tours ฿500-1,000. November has moderate crowds so booking 2-3 days ahead sufficient. Avoid late afternoon beach time (2-4pm) due to potential sudden showers. Evening activities from 5pm onward ideal. Current beach tour options in booking section.

Buddhist Temple Dawn Merit-Making

Cool November mornings are perfect for participating in traditional alms-giving at Wat Hat Yai Nai and Wat Khuhapimuk. Locals gather from 6am when temperatures are most comfortable at 23-24°C (73-75°F). This timing avoids tourist crowds and afternoon heat while experiencing authentic religious practice.

Booking Tip: Temple cultural tours ฿600-1,000 including proper attire and guidance. Early morning tours (6-9am) provide real feels with local practitioners. Afternoon temple visits possible but expect 31°C (88°F) heat and potential rain delays. Book through culturally-sensitive operators - see current options below.

Bullfighting Festival Experiences

November's comfortable evening weather makes traditional bullfighting events enjoyable. These cultural spectacles happen most weekends in rural areas around Hat Yai, with moderate temperatures allowing full appreciation of the sport without excessive heat. Local crowds are manageable compared to cool season peak.

Booking Tip: Cultural experience tours ฿800-1,400 including transport to rural venues. Events typically Saturday evenings when weather is most pleasant. Book through operators familiar with schedule as events are weather-dependent. real feels require local knowledge - current cultural tour options available below.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Loy Krathong Festival

Hat Yai's celebration features floating krathong on this destination and U-Tapao River. Evening temperatures of 27°C (81°F) make riverside activities comfortable. Local version emphasizes merit-making rather than tourism spectacle found elsewhere in Thailand.

Late November

Hat Yai Durian Fair

Peak season celebration featuring 20+ durian varieties at wholesale prices. Agricultural fair combines tasting with cultural performances. November's moderate weather allows full day outdoor events without excessive heat discomfort.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon showers last 30-45 minutes with high humidity making waterproof breathability essential
SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index 8 causes burns in 20 minutes during clear post-rain periods
Breathable cotton or linen shirts - avoid polyester in 70% humidity which becomes unbearable during temple visits
Comfortable walking shoes with grip - temple floors and market areas slippery after frequent light rain
Compact umbrella - afternoon showers arrive suddenly, often when away from shelter in markets or outdoor sites
Insect repellent with DEET - post-monsoon conditions increase mosquito activity especially around waterfall areas
Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces - shopping centers and restaurants over-compensate for outdoor humidity
Waterproof phone case - essential for boat tours and unexpected rain during outdoor photography
Electrolyte supplements - high humidity and temperature changes between indoor/outdoor spaces cause dehydration
Cash in small notes - market vendors and local transport operators rarely provide change for large bills during busy morning periods

Insider Knowledge

Local university students return in November creating authentic night market atmosphere - avoid touristy spots and follow student crowds to Lee Garden Plaza area for genuine local food experiences
Malaysian weekenders arrive Friday evenings and leave Sunday afternoons - visit major attractions Tuesday-Thursday for minimal crowds and better photography opportunities
Morning alms rounds at 6am offer authentic cultural experiences when tourists are scarce - participate respectfully by purchasing offerings from local vendors, not hotel concierges
November durian prices peak mid-month then drop 30-40% by month-end as supply increases - wait for better variety and prices in final weeks if schedule allows

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities for 1-4pm when UV peaks and afternoon rain most likely - schedule indoors during this period or start outdoor activities by 9am
Buying durian at tourist areas for ฿200+ per kg when local markets sell premium varieties for ฿80-120 - learn to identify quality fruit or shop with locals
Assuming rain means cancelled plans - November showers are brief and locals continue activities with umbrellas, creating more real feels than waiting indoors

Activities in Hatyai