01 Dec. 2024

Are you planning a trip to Thailand in December and worried about the weather? Let's break down Thai weather patterns and regional specifics to help you get a clearer picture. You're about to 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 (notably in the east) may still experience rain.

What is the weather like in Thailand in December?

What is Thailand's climate like?

Thai 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 Thailand's dry season. The weather is dry and crisp across much of the country. Temperatures are relatively mild (between 25°C and 30°C depending on the region) and rainfall is virtually non-existent except in the south (see regional specifics below). In fact, it's between November and March that temperatures are most pleasant for visiting the country.

Given these conditions, December is the ideal time to discover Thailand and enjoy numerous outdoor activities. You've got it—December is one of the best times to visit Thailand.

What weather should you expect in December by region?

Northern Thailand in December

In northern Thailand, December brings 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 ranging from 15°C to 30°C. It's the perfect time to trek through the jungle and mountains, and enjoy plenty of outdoor activities (rafting, canyoning, 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, particularly in mountain towns where the thermometer can dip to 15°C. That's why we recommend packing accordingly when preparing your luggage: a sweater, jacket and scarf won't go amiss in the evenings.

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 around 9 hours of sunshine daily. Rain is rare during this period, making it easy to visit major cities in central Thailand such as Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi and Pattaya. It's also the ideal time to discover 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 strikes between June and August on the west coast and the Andaman Sea islands (Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi...), while the rainy season occurs between October and December in the east, in the Chumphon province and the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan).

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

Note:

Although December marks the tail end of the rainy season on the southern peninsula, 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 explore at this time of year, we recommend:

Bangkok

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

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

Check out our 3-day Bangkok discovery circuit to experience all the essentials of the Thai capital.

Sukhothai and Ayutthaya

Want to step back in time and learn more about the history of the Siamese kingdom? Head to Sukhothai and Ayutthaya in central Thailand, two cities that were successively the first capitals of the Kingdom of Siam. Containing numerous remains and ruins of palaces, temples, monasteries and statues, these two cities are veritable open-air museums. Their rich heritage has also 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 perfect conditions. You'll avoid rain 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. If you want to escape the city, we recommend Pai, a charming town nestled between the mountains.

What to include in a trip to northwest Thailand:

• Jungle trekking and mountain hiking;
• Visiting an elephant sanctuary;
• Exploring the temples of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai;
• Staying in a village of a Thai ethnic minority;
• Outdoor activities: bamboo rafting, kayaking...;
• Shopping and buying handicrafts in Chiang Mai;
• Yoga classes and retreats;
• Traditional Thai massage;
• Traditional Thai cooking classes...

Isan

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

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

Discover our circuit exploring the wonders of Isan to experience all this unique region has to offer.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi can be considered during a December visit to Thailand. 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 travel on the Death Railway to relive the dark hours of World War II. The city is also home to one of Thailand's most beautiful waterfalls: Erawan Waterfall. Surrounded by forests, the town also has elephant sanctuaries like Elephant Haven Thailand where you can spend time with these magnificent creatures responsibly.

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

Which Thai island should you visit in December?

Looking to relax on Thailand's most beautiful beaches during your stay and wondering which island to choose for a December trip? Given the weather at this time, we recommend:

• Northern Gulf islands: Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Koh Mak and Koh Kood;
• Andaman Sea islands and Thailand's west coast: 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? 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's best to avoid the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao in December, or at least choose to stay during the second half of December to minimize rainfall risks.

Tourist season: Are there crowds in Thailand in December?

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

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

What events and festivals should you not miss in December in Thailand?

Among the Thai events and festivals not to miss in December, we find:

King Bhumibol's Birthday (December 5)

December 5 is a public holiday in Thailand. It's the birthday of King Bhumibol (Rama IX), Thailand's late king. On this day, residents pay tribute to him by dressing in yellow. Numerous 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 moved 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 tragic history of the Bridge over the River Kwai. The program includes shows, train rides, exhibitions and an incredible sound and light spectacular.

Christmas (December 24)

Although predominantly Buddhist, Thailand celebrates Christmas enthusiastically to please the many visitors. So, how is Christmas celebrated in Thailand?

Most celebrations take place in major tourist cities. 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, we can mention:

• Bangkok: where Christmas magic is discovered through the illuminations of major shopping centers and malls like Central World or Siam Paragon;
• Chanthaburi: home to Thailand's largest Christian community and where Thailand's largest Christmas festival takes place (Chanthaburi Miracle Christmas);
• Tha Rae: a village in Isan where an annual Christmas parade called the Christmas Star Parade takes place...

Discover our 2-week circuit to celebrate Christmas holidays in Thailand.

New Year's Eve (December 31)

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

Florine Dergelet

Florine Dergelet

A web writer for over 10 years, Florine Dergelet is a traveler driven by the desire to discover the world with an open heart. Each of her articles is an invitation to slow down, listen, and understand. Because for her, traveling isn't about ticking countries off a map, but about building connections (often invisible but always powerful) with places, peoples and all kinds of creatures in the animal kingdom. Her motto? Advise travelers with ethics, awaken their consciousness about animal welfare, respect for cultures, and the importance of humble and sustainable tourism. Because the most beautiful memories often arise far from the spotlight, in the shadow of a path, at the edge of a conversation, or in the quiet breath of a world we finally take time to listen to…