Planning a trip to Thailand in December and worried about the weather? Let's take a closer look at Thai weather patterns and regional specifics to help you get a clearer picture. You'll discover that December is one of the best times of year to travel to Thailand!

In a nutshell:

December is one of the best months to travel to Thailand. It follows the rainy season and marks the beginning of the dry season across most of the country. Only certain southern destinations (particularly on the eastern coast) may still experience rain.

What's the weather like in Thailand in December?

What is Thailand's climate like?

Thailand's climate is influenced by southwest and northeast monsoons. Thailand has 3 distinct seasons:

• The rainy season, which runs from May to October;

• The dry season, which occurs from November to February;

• The hot season, which stretches from March to May.

Is it good to visit Thailand in December?

As you've gathered, December corresponds to the dry season in Thailand. The weather is dry and cool across much of the country. Temperatures are relatively mild (between 25°C and 30°C depending on the region) and rainfall is virtually absent except in the southern regions (see regional specifics). In fact, it's between November and March that temperatures are most pleasant for visiting the country.

Given these conditions, this is the ideal time to discover Thailand and engage in multiple outdoor activities. As you can see, December is one of the best times to travel to Thailand.

What weather can you expect in December depending on the region?

Northern Thailand in December

In the north of Thailand, December is characterized by a dry and cool season. Whether in the northeast (Isan region) or northwest (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai...), this part of the country enjoys about 9 hours of sunshine daily with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. This is the perfect time for trekking and hiking in the jungle and mountains and packing in outdoor activities (rafting, canyoning, kayaking...). It's also the best time to venture off the beaten path and explore the countryside.

Good to know:

Although daytime temperatures are mild, they can drop quickly at night, particularly in mountainous towns where the thermometer can dip to 15°C. That's why we recommend packing accordingly when preparing your luggage: sweaters, jackets and scarves won't go amiss in the evening.

Central Thailand in December

After the monsoon that affects central Thailand from July to October, December marks the return of the dry season. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C with approximately 9 hours of sunshine per day. Rainfall is rare during this period, making it easy to visit the main cities in central Thailand such as Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi and Pattaya. It's also an ideal time to explore central islands like Koh Chang.

Southern Thailand in December

Southern Thailand experiences distinct seasons depending on whether you're on the east or west coast. The monsoon affects the western coast and Andaman Sea islands (Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi...) from June to August, while the rainy season occurs between October and December in the eastern part of the country, in the Chumphon province and the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan).

As you can see, if you want to enjoy a beach getaway, it's better to opt for the west coast over the east coast. In the Gulf of Thailand islands, rainfall becomes increasingly rare from mid-December onwards. It's therefore best to wait until January for a stay there.

Note:

Although December marks the end of the rainy season on the southern peninsula, it should be noted that temperatures remain high (between 25°C and 30°C) and showers don't last all day.

Where to go in Thailand in December?

Which part of Thailand should you visit in December?

Wondering where to go in Thailand during a December trip? Among the best destinations to discover at this time of year, we recommend:

Bangkok

An essential starting point for any trip to Thailand, the city of Bangkok plunges visitors directly into Thai intensity. In the City of Angels, all your senses come alive at every street corner. And since December in Bangkok is neither too hot nor too humid, it's the perfect time to discover the Thai capital.

Among the must-sees, don't miss Bangkok's most beautiful temples including Wat Pho and Wat Arun. You can also visit the iconic Grand Palace, stroll along the Klongs of Bangkok, soak up the lively atmosphere of the Chinatown district, take a boat ride on the Chao Praya, or sample some of the Thai street food specialties. Venturing further from the center, you can also discover the most beautiful floating markets near Bangkok.

Discover our 3-day Bangkok itinerary to make sure you don't miss the essentials of the Thai capital.

Sukhothai and Ayutthaya

Looking to step back in time and learn more about the history of the Kingdom of Siam? Head to Sukhothai and Ayutthaya in central Thailand, two cities that were successively the first capitals of the Kingdom of Siam. Containing numerous vestiges and ruins of palaces, temples, monasteries and statues, these two cities are veritable open-air museums. Their rich heritage has earned them UNESCO World Heritage status.

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Pai

Northern Thailand is renowned for its majestic mountains, lush jungles, countless temples and ethnic villages. Once again, December is an ideal time to explore the northern region in ideal conditions. You'll avoid the rains and extreme heat.

Don't miss the cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, the two former capitals of the Lanna kingdom renowned for their cultural identities. To venture beyond the city, we recommend the town of Pai, a charming village nestled between mountains.

What's on the agenda for a stay in northwest Thailand:

• Jungle trekking and hiking in the mountains;

• Visit to an elephant sanctuary;

• Visit to the temples of Chiang Mai and the temples of Chiang Rai;

• Stay in a village of a Thai ethnic minority;

• Outdoor activities: Bamboo rafting, kayaking...;

• Shopping and purchasing handicrafts in Chiang Mai;

• Yoga classes and retreats;

• Traditional Thai massage;

• Traditional Thai cooking classes...

Isan

Often overlooked by tourists, Isan is nonetheless one of the most authentic regions in Thailand. Located in the northeast, bordering Laos and Cambodia, this region is the ideal destination for travelers seeking to venture off the beaten path. Once again, December seems like a perfect time to discover Isan under clear skies while enjoying mild temperatures.

During an Isan stay, you can explore temples and Khmer ruins including the famous Prasat Hin Phimai temple, explore archaeological sites such as Ban Chiang, trek through rice fields and cassava plantations, hike in its national parks such as Pha Taem National Park with its panoramic views of the Mekong, and Sam Phan Bok, nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Thailand. Take the opportunity to meet local people renowned for their warm hospitality and discover local craftsmanship (including silk weavers).

Discover our itinerary discovering the wonders of Isan to make sure you don't miss this unique region.

Kanchanaburi

The city of Kanchanaburi is worth considering during a Thailand trip in December. Located just 2 hours from the capital, Kanchanaburi is known worldwide for its history with the famous Bridge over the River Kwai. You can notably take the Death Railway to relive the dark hours of World War II. The area is also home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand: the Erawan Waterfall. Surrounded by forests, the town also houses elephant sanctuaries such as Elephant Haven Thailand where you can spend time with these magnificent creatures without causing them harm.

Discover our day excursion to Kanchanaburi combining the Death Railway visit and the Elephant Haven Thailand sanctuary.

Which Thai island should you visit in December?

Craving a relaxing time on Thailand's most beautiful beaches during your stay and wondering which island to choose when traveling to Thailand in December? Given the weather at this time, we recommend prioritizing:

• Islands in the northern Gulf of Thailand: Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Koh Mak and Koh Kood (or Koh Kut);

• Islands in the Andaman Sea and Thailand's west coast: Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao Noï, Koh Jum...

Good to know:

The Andaman Sea is home to some of Thailand's best diving spots. The good news? December is one of the best times to dive in this region. You can even plan a diving cruise to the Surin Islands and the Similan Islands.

As mentioned earlier, it's best to avoid Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao in December or, at least, plan a stay during the second half of December to avoid the risk of rain.

Tourist season: are there crowds in Thailand in December?

December marks the beginning of the tourist season in Thailand. Visitors are therefore numerous at this time of year, particularly during Western school holidays and around Christmas and New Year's.

High season means higher prices. Hotel room prices can double or even triple at the end of December compared to the low season. To save money and have choices regarding accommodation, we recommend booking flights and hotels well in advance.

What events and festivities shouldn't you miss in December in Thailand?

Among the events and festivities in Thailand not to miss in December are:

King Bhumibol's Birthday (December 5)

December 5 is a public holiday in Thailand. It's the birthday of King Bhumibol (Rama IX), the former King of Thailand. On this day, residents pay him tribute by dressing in yellow. Many parades and celebrations take place throughout the country. Note that it's also Father's Day.

Constitution Day (December 10)

December 10 is also a public holiday in Thailand. This is the day of the Thai Constitution. As a reminder, Thailand transitioned from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy on December 10, 1932.

Bridge over the River Kwai Festival (late November – early December)

If you're passing through Kanchanaburi in early December, you can attend the Bridge over the River Kwai Festival. Celebrated each year for a week, from late November to early December, the festival commemorates the sad history of the Bridge over the River Kwai. The agenda includes shows, train rides, exhibitions and an incredible light and sound spectacular.

Christmas (December 24)

Although predominantly Buddhist, Thailand celebrates Christmas enthusiastically to please the many visitors. So how do they celebrate Christmas in Thailand?

Know that most celebrations take place in major tourist cities. Some small towns in the north also allow you to celebrate Christmas in traditional style while escaping the crowds.

Among the best destinations to celebrate Christmas in Thailand, you can mention:

• Bangkok: where the magic of Christmas is discovered along the illuminated windows of major shopping centers and malls like Central World or Siam Paragon;

• Chanthaburi: home to the largest community of Thai Christians and hosting Thailand's largest Christmas festival (the Chanthaburi Miracle Christmas);

• Tha Rae: a village in Isan where a Christmas parade is held each year called the Christmas Star Parade...

Discover our 2-week itinerary to spend Christmas holidays in Thailand.

New Year's Eve (December 31)

Like Christmas, New Year's Eve is celebrated in Thailand, but has no traditional significance (the Buddhist New Year being celebrated during Songkran). Nevertheless, many fireworks are set off in several cities across the country, with the most impressive and largest display held in Bangkok, above the Chao Praya.

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