Weather in Indonesia in November

November is when the wet season starts kicking in across most of Indonesia. You’ll start to see more afternoon rain, but it usually comes in short bursts, leaving the rest of the day open for exploring. It’s still warm and sticky, with temperatures hovering between 75–90°F (24–32°C), and the humidity creeps up a bit.

You won’t see as many travelers as during the dry season, which means prices tend to be lower and places are generally quieter. Landscapes are especially lush around this time, thanks to the return of the rains.

Indonesia in November at a glance

• The weather in November in Indonesia marks the transition from the dry season to the beginning of the rainy season. 
• Expect warm and humid weather with increasing rainfall. 
• Average temperatures range from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C).
• Tourist crowds in November are moderate. It's after the peak season (June-August), so you can expect fewer tourists compared to earlier months but still a decent number of visitors, especially in popular destinations.

What is the weather like in Indonesia in November?

November is a bit of a mixed bag weather-wise, depending on where you go. In the west, places like Java, Sumatra, and western Bali, rainfall picks up, usually with intense but short afternoon storms. You’ll still get sunny mornings, and in many areas the rain cools things off just enough to make walking around more bearable.

In the east, places like Lombok, eastern Bali, and Flores tend to stay a little drier through the month. On average, you can expect around 6 to 12 inches (150 to 300 mm) of rain across major destinations. Jakarta sees about 7 inches (175 mm), and Bali gets a little over 7 inches (190 mm). Most of the rain falls in the afternoon or evening, so it’s still possible to plan around it.

This is shoulder season in Indonesia. You’re between the dry crowds of summer and the heavy rains of December and January. That means fewer tourists, better deals, and super green landscapes. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, November can be a smart time to plan for your Indonesia itinerary, especially if you’re more into markets, temples, and nature than lying on a beach all day.
 

If you're ready to start making your dream trip a reality, see our Indonesia local travel experts for tips and trips from people local to the area.

Average daily temperatures in November

November stays warm across Indonesia, with only minor differences between regions. In most well-known destinations, daytime temperatures usually sit between 82 to 90°F (28 to 32°C). It’s just a little cooler than during the dry season, but still feels tropical. That heat, combined with rising humidity, can make the middle of the day feel heavy, so it's best to get your outdoor plans started early.

Mornings tend to be sunny, while clouds start building in the early afternoon. Most of the rain falls between 2 and 5 PM, and it often clears up in time for dinner. Evenings are still warm, with nighttime temperatures around 73 to 79°F (23 to 26°C), so you can comfortably eat outside or go for a walk.

If you're planning to swim, the sea stays inviting all month, in fact this might be the best time to visit Indonesia. Water temperatures usually hang around 82 to 84°F (28 to 29°C), making it a good time for diving or just floating around. Even though it's the rainy season, you still get close to 12 hours of daylight each day. In most places, the sun comes up around 5:30 AM and sets just after 6:00 PM.
 

Is November a good time to visit Indonesia?

If you're looking for a quieter, more affordable time to visit Indonesia and don’t mind a bit of afternoon rain, November can work really well. It falls in the shoulder season, just after the dry crowds have cleared out but before the heavier December rains begin. Early wet-season showers bring out deep greens in the landscape, especially in places like Bali’s rice paddies and the hills of Flores.

How to plan a trip to Indonesia during this month? Most cultural sites are open as usual, and it’s still easy to plan outdoor activities. Mornings are usually dry, so snorkeling, hiking, or temple visits are still very doable. You might just want to wrap up before the early afternoon. November also lines up with some interesting events, like the Jakarta International Film Festival and various local harvest celebrations depending on where you are.

Why November is a good time to visit:

• Great month for photographers chasing moody skies and green landscapes
• Budget travelers will find prices about 20 to 30 percent lower than peak season
• Fewer people at major temples and museums makes for more relaxed visits
• Rainy afternoons are a good excuse to try a spa, cooking class, or long lunch
• Wildlife can be more active thanks to the return of natural water sources
   

What about the crowd and cost?

Crowds drop off in November. Bali, for example, sees fewer tourists compared to July and August. That makes it easier to get restaurant reservations, visit major sites without long lines, and feel more connected to everyday local life.

Prices reflect the lower demand. Many hotels and guesthouses reduce rates and you’ll sometimes get a nicer room or little extras thrown in without asking. If you’re really looking to save, the last week of November through early December is a sweet window before vacation travel ramps up again.

For comparison, the June to August stretch is the busiest and most expensive, while January and February usually bring the heaviest rain. That said, if you're comfortable with more unpredictable weather, those months tend to have the biggest discounts too.
 

Where to go in Indonesia in November

Indonesia is huge, and November looks a little different depending on where you go. In general, the eastern islands tend to stay drier than the western ones this time of year. If you're planning a trip, these are some of the better regions to check out, with a good mix of weather, culture, and scenery. Here are some of the best places to visit in Indonesia in November.

Bali’s eastern coast

Places like Sanur and Candidasa on Bali’s east side get less rain in November than the central mountains or the west coast. Daytime temperatures sit around 86°F (30°C), and mornings usually stay dry. This part of Bali is great if you’re into slower-paced beach towns, morning snorkeling trips to the Blue Lagoon, or checking out temples like Besakih. It’s easy to plan outdoor activities before the clouds roll in later in the day. 

Lombok and the Gili Islands

Just east of Bali, Lombok and the nearby Gili Islands are also a good bet in November. Rain does fall occasionally, but usually in short bursts. Mornings are still sunny enough for the beach, and it’s a nice time to hike the lower slopes of Mount Rinjani without the crowds. The Gilis are quiet, good for snorkeling with turtles, and have a more relaxed feel than during high season. 

Flores and Komodo

Further east, Flores and Komodo National Park usually stay pretty dry through November. If you're hoping to see the Komodo dragons, this is still a reliable time. Diving around the park is solid too, with clear water and fewer boats. Inland Flores is beautiful this time of year: terraced rice fields turn bright green, and places like the tri-colored lakes of Kelimutu are especially striking after the early rains. 

Yogyakarta, Java

Even with more frequent rain, Yogyakarta is still worth visiting in November. The mornings are usually clear enough to visit Borobudur or Prambanan before the afternoon clouds build up. When it does rain, you’ve got plenty of indoor options: covered markets, museums, and art spaces. Plus, slightly cooler temperatures make it easier to explore the Sultan’s Palace or wander around the old city. 

Raja Ampat

If diving is your main goal, November is one of the best times to be in Raja Ampat. Located in the far east, it tends to have calmer seas and excellent underwater visibility, often over 100 feet (30 meters). Water temperatures stay around 84°F (29°C), and it’s a quiet time before peak vacation season. There’s great marine life activity, and manta rays are usually around their cleaning stations. It’s remote, but worth it if you want serious underwater time. 
 

What to do in Indonesia in November

With a mix of sunshine and occasional afternoon rain, November is a flexible time to explore Indonesia. It’s early in the wet season, so you still get plenty of dry hours in the day. Mornings are often clear, which works well for outdoor activities, while the afternoon showers make for a good excuse to slow down and try something indoors. Here’s what’s worth doing.

Early mornings at temples

If you’re heading to Java or Bali, start your days early. The major temples like Borobudur and Besakih are usually quieter this time of year, and the softer morning light makes them even more impressive. With recent rains, the surrounding landscapes are at their greenest, and the cooler mornings make climbing temple stairs more manageable than in the dry season heat. 

Try Indonesia cuisine

When the rain starts to roll in during the afternoon, it’s a great time to explore the food scene. Take a cooking class and learn how to make something like sambal or beef rendang, or head to a covered market to graze your way through snacks and candy. Areas like Seminyak in Bali or Menteng in Jakarta are known for their food, and many places run shoulder-season deals. 
 

Rice terraces

The rains bring Indonesia’s rice terraces to life. In Bali, spots like Tegallalang and Jatiluwih turn bright green, and on Flores, the spider web-shaped fields near Ruteng are especially striking this time of year. This is a great addition to a Bali itinerary. Mornings are best for photos, and you’ll often see farmers working in the fields, which gives you a better sense of how these landscapes function day to day.  This is one of the best things to do in Indonesia. 

Spa retreats at a discount

If you’re in Bali, especially around Ubud, November is a great time to check into a spa. There’s more availability, prices are lower, and the rain actually adds something calming to the experience. Many treatments use local ingredients like volcanic clay, coffee, or ginger, and the sound of rain on the roof of a riverside pavilion makes it easy to lose track of time. Bali's yoga retreats are also well known.

Look for wildlife

Rain brings the forests and reefs back to life. In Sumatra, orangutans around Bukit Lawang become more visible near feeding platforms. Birdwatching improves across the islands, with many species showing off breeding plumage. If you’re headed to Komodo National Park, November is a quieter time, which means fewer boats and a better chance of seeing the dragons up close. In the water, marine life around the Derawan Islands is especially active thanks to nutrient-rich currents. See our guide to where to see Borneo orangutan.