Are you planning a trip to Thailand in December and worried about the weather? Let’s take a look at Thailand’s weather and regional specifics to help you understand what to expect. You’ll discover that this is one of the best times of the year to travel to Thailand!

In summary:

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 east coast) may still experience rain.

What is the weather like in Thailand in December?

What type of climate does Thailand have?

The climate in Thailand is influenced by the southwest and northeast monsoons. The country experiences three distinct seasons :

• The rainy season, which lasts from May to October; 
• The dry season, from November to February; 
• The hot season, from March to May.

Is December a good time to visit Thailand?

As you can see, December falls within the dry season in Thailand. The weather is dry and cool across most of the country. Temperatures are relatively mild (between 25°C and 30°C, depending on the region), with almost no rain except in the south (see regional specifics). The period between November and March generally offers the most pleasant temperatures for traveling in the country.  

Given these conditions, December is the ideal time to explore Thailand and engage in various outdoor activities. In short, December is one of the best times to visit Thailand.

What weather can you expect in December by region?

Northern Thailand in December

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


 Good to know:

While daytime temperatures are mild, they can drop quickly at night, especially in mountain towns where the temperature can fall to 15°C. Therefore, we recommend packing accordingly for your trip: a sweater, jacket, and scarf will be useful in the evenings.

Central Thailand in December

After the monsoon season from July to October, December marks the return of the dry season in central Thailand. Temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C, with about 9 hours of sunshine per day. Rain is rare during this time, making it easy to visit major cities such as Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, and Pattaya. This is also a great time to discover the central islands like Koh Chang.

Southern Thailand in December

Southern Thailand experiences distinct seasons depending on whether it is the eastern or western coastline. The monsoon affects the western coast and Andaman Sea islands (Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi…) between June and August, while the rainy season typically runs from October to December on the eastern coast in Chumphon and the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan). 

If you're looking for a beach holiday, it's better to choose the western coast over the eastern coast. On the islands of the Gulf of Thailand, rainfall becomes less frequent starting from mid-December. It's advisable to wait until January for a stay there.


 Note:

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

Where to go in Thailand in December?

Which part of Thailand to visit in December? 

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

Bangkok

A must-visit starting point for any trip to Thailand, Bangkok plunges travelers directly into the Thai frenzy. In the "City of Angels," all the senses are in a state of constant excitement at every corner. Since December is neither too hot nor too humid in Bangkok, it is the perfect time to explore the Thai capital. 

Don’t miss the most beautiful temples in Bangkok, such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun. You can also visit the iconic Grand Palace, walk along the Klongs of Bangkok, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Chinatown, take a boat ride on the Chao Phraya, or try one of Thailand's famous street food specialties. If you venture out of the city, you can explore the famous floating markets around Bangkok.

Check out our 3-day tour in Bangkok to see the must-see sights of the Thai capital.

Sukhothaï and Ayutthaya

If you want to step back in time and learn 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. Home to numerous ruins of palaces, temples, monasteries, and statues, these cities are true open-air museums. Their rich heritage has earned them a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Pai

Northern Thailand is known for its majestic mountains, lush jungles, countless temples, and ethnic villages. Once again, December is an ideal time to explore the north in good conditions, avoiding rain and intense heat. 

Don't miss Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, the two former capitals of the Lanna Kingdom, famous for their cultural identity. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit Pai, a charming town nestled between the mountains.

Activities in northwest Thailand include:

• Trekking in the jungle and hiking in the mountains; 

• Visiting an elephant sanctuary; 

• Exploring the temples of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai; 

• Staying in a village of an ethnic minority; 

• Outdoor activities: bamboo rafting, kayaking, etc.; 

• Shopping and buying local handicrafts in Chiang Mai; 

• Yoga retreats and classes; 

• Thai massages; 

• Traditional Thai cooking classes.

Isan

Often overlooked by tourists, Isan is one of the most authentic regions of Thailand. Located in the northeast, on the borders of Laos and Cambodia, this region is the perfect destination for travelers seeking to get off the beaten track. Once again, December is an ideal time to discover Isan under a clear sky while enjoying mild temperatures. 

During a stay in Isan, you can explore Khmer temples and ruins, such as the famous Prasat Hin Phimai temple, visit archaeological sites like Ban Chiang, wander through rice fields and cassava plantations, hike in national parks like Pha Taem, which offers panoramic views of the Mekong, or discover Sam Phan Bok, also known as Thailand's Grand Canyon. Don’t miss the chance to meet the locals, known for their warm hospitality, and explore local crafts (such as silk weaving).

Check out our tour to discover the wonders of Isan.

Kanchanaburi

Located just 2 hours from the capital, Kanchanaburi is known worldwide for its association with the famous Bridge on the River Kwai. You can take a ride on the Death Railway to relive the dark days of World War II. The town also boasts one of Thailand's most beautiful waterfalls: the Erawan Falls. Surrounded by forests, Kanchanaburi also has elephant sanctuaries like Elephant Haven Thailand, where you can spend time with the elephants in a respectful way.

Discover our one-day excursion to Kanchanaburi, combining a visit to the Death Railway and Elephant Haven Thailand.

Which Thai island to visit in December?

If you're looking to relax on Thailand’s most beautiful beaches during your stay, and wondering which island to choose in December, we recommend:

• Northern Gulf of Thailand islands: Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood (or Koh Kut); 

• Andaman Sea islands and the western coast of Thailand: Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Jum…

  
Good to know:

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

As mentioned earlier, it is better to avoid Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao in December, or at least to plan a visit in the second half of December to avoid the risk of rain.

Tourist Season: Is it crowded in Thailand in December?

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

With the high season comes higher prices. Hotel rates can double or even triple at the end of December compared to the low season. To save money and secure better accommodation options, it's recommended to book flights and hotels in advance.

What events and festivals should not be missed in December in Thailand?

Some of the key events and festivals in Thailand in December include:

King Bhumibol's Birthday (December 5)

This day is a public holiday in Thailand, celebrating the birthday of King Bhumibol (Rama IX). On this day, people pay tribute to the king by wearing yellow. There are many parades and celebrations across the country. Note that it is also Father's Day in Thailand.

Constitution Day (December 10)

This is another public holiday, commemorating the day Thailand transitioned from absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy on December 10, 1932.

Bridge on the River Kwai Festival (Late November – Early December)

f you're in Kanchanaburi at the start of December, don’t miss the Bridge on the River Kwai Festival, held annually during the last week of November to early December. The festival commemorates the tragic history of the bridge, with performances, train rides, exhibitions, and a spectacular light and sound show.

Christmas (December 24)

Though predominantly Buddhist, Thailand celebrates Christmas enthusiastically for the many visitors. While most celebrations take place in major tourist cities, smaller towns in the north also offer a chance to celebrate in a more traditional way. Notable Christmas destinations include :

• Bangkok, with its dazzling Christmas lights in malls like Central World and Siam Paragon; 
• Chanthaburi, home to Thailand's largest Christian community and the country’s biggest Christmas festival (Chanthaburi Miracle Christmas); 
•  Tha Rae, a village in Isan that hosts an annual Christmas parade called the Christmas Star Parade.

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

New Year's Eve (December 31)

Like Christmas, New Year’s Eve is celebrated in Thailand, though it does not have traditional significance (the Buddhist New Year is celebrated during Songkran). However, there are fireworks displays in many cities, with the most impressive one held in Bangkok over the Chao Phraya River.

Florine Dergelet