Thailand is one of the greatest countries to visit in December. Because of the drop in temperature and the almost universal cessation of rain, the weather is no longer oppressively hot (although there are still storms on some beaches). Everything is once again open, and the heat is not unbearable. The only downside of Thailand in December is that there will be more visitors and people because of the excellent weather. You may find advice and suggestions for travel to Thailand in December in the sections below.
Why December is the Best Time to Travel to Thailand
While many people think of Thailand as a summer destination, December is actually the best time to visit. The weather is cooler and more comfortable than in the hotter months, and there are fewer tourists. This makes December the perfect time to explore Thailand’s temples, beaches, and other attractions.
December also happens to be the month when many of Thailand’s festivals take place. From the Loy Krathong festival, where people float lanterns in honor of the goddess of water, to the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So if you’re looking for a unique travel experience, consider heading to Thailand in December. You won’t be disappointed!
What to Pack for Your Trip to Thailand in December
Assuming you’re packing for a trip to Thailand in December, you’ll need to bring clothing that can accommodate the hot, humid weather.
- Lighter fabrics such as cotton and linen are ideal, and you’ll want to avoid anything too tight-fitting as it will be uncomfortable in the heat.
- A versatile sundress is a great option for daytime exploring, while a pair of shorts or a skirt with a tank top or t-shirt will work for evening activities.
- For footwear, sandals or flip-flops are essential, but make sure they’re comfortable as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- To stay safe from the sun, pack a hat or visor to wear during the day, and don’t forget sunscreen!
- Other items to consider packing include insect repellent (especially if you’re visiting rural areas), sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
How is Thailand’s weather in December?
If you’re traveling to Thailand in December, you can expect the weather to be warm and humid. The average temperature in December is 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit). The rainy season typically ends in November, so you shouldn’t have to worry about too much rain during your trip. December is a popular month to travel to Thailand, so be prepared for large crowds at popular tourist destinations.
Travel to Thailand in December, is it a good time?
If you have come this far, it is because you are considering traveling to Thailand in December and you want to know if it is a good time or not. Well, to help you decide we will see what the weather is like during this month. But we will also analyze other important aspects, such as hotel prices and the number of tourists during this month.
Read More: How to celebrate Christmas in Bangkok
Advantages of traveling to Thailand in December
The weather is one reason to visit Thailand in December. It is without a doubt one of the months with the nicest weather of the year in almost all of Thailand, as we have previously witnessed. And because it hasn’t been raining in the nation for too long, we must also remark that nature is still bright.
Disadvantages of traveling to Thailand in December
The fact that there is a significant stream of visitors, which means that you will encounter many people during trips and excursions to the beach region, is one of the less desirable elements. Particularly starting on December 20, when the Christmas holiday season officially starts.
The expensive hotel rates are one further drawback of visiting Thailand in December. The first week of December will still have high season rates, but beyond that date, the hotels will charge extra season rates, which are the most costly of the year.
Given what has been seen, it is simple to conclude that it is preferable to visit Thailand during the first half of December as opposed to the second. The difference, however, is that you’ll need a bigger budget and more employees if you can’t. Another option is to pick other dates for your vacation after reading about the ideal season to visit Thailand.
What to do in Thailand in December?
Be sure to visit the spectacular Wat Pho temple in Bangkok, often known as the “Temple of the Reclining Buddha.” This temple is home to a massive golden figure stretching over 150 feet. The well-known Grand Palace is located in the neighborhood and showcases the palace that the famous Siamese Kings once inhabited. The city of Bangkok is a fantastic place to visit if you’re interested in fine cuisine and contemporary art galleries.
Nimmanhaemin Road in Chiang Mai is a great place to go shopping or to indulge in a spa treatment at one of the many day spas located on that street. Take a cooking class, cruise around the city on a bicycle, or go all the way to the top of the mountain to see the Doi Suthep temple for breathtaking views. Chiang Rai is located further up north in Thailand and is home to the famous wildlife sanctuary known as the Valley of the Elephants. This sanctuary safeguards elephants from cruel treatment.
Snorkeling and sea kayaking through the mangroves are two activities that are popular on Phuket’s beaches. For scuba diving and other water activities, you may go diving on Phi Phi Island or Phang Nga Bay, or you can go to Krabi. In the event that it starts to rain, various things can be done indoors, such as going to the temple of Wat Chalong or seeing the trapeze and circus show that Phuket FantaSea puts on. This “Taste of Southern Thailand” tour lasts for five days and takes care of the planning and logistics for those who would prefer not to do so.
What clothes to bring to Thailand in December?
The clothes to travel to Thailand in December should be light, but without forgetting a thin sweater for the nights in the north of the country. It is a month in which you can wear shorts, polo shirts, short-sleeved shirts and t-shirts during the day. But, it is also one of the months in which you can go perfectly with long pants during the day without being hot. Obviously, once we get to the beach, things change, the clothes will be completely summer, and you can’t miss the very high protection sunscreen.
Read More: Best Place To Spend New Year’s Eve In Thailand
Which side of Thailand is better in December?
In December, Ko Chang and the islands that surround it are just as beautiful as Bangkok and the rest of central Thailand. Very little rain, a lot of sunlight, and temperatures that are just right for being comfortable in the middle of the range.
Is Thailand expensive in December?
No, Thailand is not expensive in December. In fact, it’s one of the cheaper months to travel there. You can find good deals on accommodation and flights if you plan your trip in advance. However, you should expect prices to be higher during the Christmas and New Year periods.
Can you swim in Thailand in December?
The answer is yes! December is an ideal time to take a dip in the ocean in Thailand as the water temperature is a comfortable 26-28 degrees Celsius. However, keep in mind that the weather on land will be quite hot and humid, so make sure to apply sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Holidays in Thailand in December
Three significant celebrations, including Father’s Day, New Year’s Eve, and Christmas, take place in December.
Father’s Day
Thailand celebrates Father’s Day on December 5, which also happens to be the late King Rama IX’s birthday. This day is a significant holiday in Thailand because of the respect shown to the elderly and the loyalty of the populace to this king. Thai kids honor their fathers by giving them presents and floral tributes. It is a national holiday, and when it coincides with the weekend, many people utilize it to travel throughout the nation.
The End of the Year
Despite being a Buddhist nation, Thailand observes the tradition of marking December 31 as the conclusion of the year. They do this by having a television broadcast from Bangkok that serves as “a countdown” of the last 10 seconds of the year. It often takes place in the vicinity of a big shopping mall and is preceded by a pre-show of talks and musical acts. Cities of a particular size, like Chiang Mai, have their own countdown and spectacle in the city’s center.
Christmas in Thailand
Thailand will be covered with Christmas decorations if you visit in December. The major streets of the cities will be lighted, and each shopping center will feature a large Christmas tree.
Is December a good time to go to Bangkok?
Bangkok is a great city to visit any time of year, but some months are better than others. December is a good time to visit Bangkok because the weather is pleasant and there are many fun events taking place. Christmas and New Year’s Eve are both popular times to visit, so if you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, December is a perfect time. However, keep in mind that hotels and other accommodations will be more expensive during these peak periods.
Places you must visit in Thailand in December
Thailand’s cold season starts in December, making it a fantastic time to go to this tropical nation. We show you several locations to spend Christmas in Thailand, from the highlands of Chiang Mai to busy Bangkok and the white beaches and crystal blue seas of Ko Samui.
Visit Bangkok in Thailand in December
Bangkok, one of Southeast Asia’s busiest cities, is a must-visit if you’re traveling to Thailand. Bangkok best exemplifies Thailand’s capacity to meld the traditional with the modern touch. A contemporary Asian city with a broad range of hip dining establishments and nightlife alternatives. Traditional elements like the ornate Buddhist temples, the twisting canals, and the bustling street life are still very much present.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew’s unique grandeur are two locations not to be missed. The former houses the Emerald Buddha, a centuries-old statue said to be a guardian of the country, and is Thailand’s holiest temple. You may see decaying wooden buildings, people selling products from boats, and fisherman hanging poles from windows as you travel through the city’s Thonburi canals.
Visit Ko Samui in Thailand in December
Ko Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of the mainland, an hour’s flight from Bangkok. While Ko Samui is rapidly attracting high-end tourists, the adjacent islands of Ko Phangan and Ko Tao still appeal to backpackers. Luxurious resorts that fit in with the palm-lined beaches have taken up several of the island’s most attractive coves. Ko Samui’s natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere are virtually unaltered.
With designer restaurants that are not affiliated with the hotels appearing often, dining choices are many and becoming more upmarket. With a variety of opulent independent and hotel-based spas where you may pamper yourself to your heart’s content, the island has made a name for itself as Thailand’s trendiest spa destination. In addition to soft sand beaches like the expansive Hat Chaweng and the more laid-back Hat Lamai.
Kayaking excursions are possible on day trips from Ko Samui to the several islands that make up the Ang Thong National Marine Park. Visit a lagoon that is emerald green and bordered by craggy limestone cliffs, as well as snorkel in tropical fish-filled waters. It is a great place to travel to Thailand in December.
Visit Chiang Mai in Thailand in December
The hill tribal cultures, wooded mountains, rich vegetation, and interesting outdoor sports are all found in northern Thailand. The region’s capital, Chiang Mai, is regarded as the country’s cultural center. It is a city of many delights with its attractive Lanna-style temples, museums, night market, and friendly people.
There are several chances for day outings in the area. From seeing the beautiful cliff-top temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and the historical villages of Lamphun and Lampang to exploring river valleys and national parks. As you go through the Chiang Mai Sustainable Trails with Insight Guides, take in Chiang Mai and its environs.
Visit Krabi in Thailand in December
Krabi, which is located on southern Thailand’s west coast, is a tranquil place to spend the holidays. Its most famous feature is the magnificent and untamed limestone karts that protrude from the ocean off its beach. Numerous islands with white sands, clear seas, and an excellent reef for snorkelling can be found in the Andaman Sea near Krabi. Thailand is a fantastic destination in December.
Enter the green Khao Phanom Bencha National Park in the interior to observe the majestic Huay To waterfalls, a 1,397-meter karst, and other animals, including Asiatic black bears. Or take a boat to the neighboring islands of Ko Phi Phi and Ko Lanta, which are just a few hours away and provide pristine beaches with beautiful white sand. It is a great place to travel to Thailand in December.
Visit Pattaya in Thailand in December
The resort city of Pattaya is a well-liked vacation spot for both Thai families and international tourists. It is located on Thailand’s eastern coast, not far from Bangkok. Pattaya, which is well-known for its beaches, has a tonne of reasonably cost lodging and dining options. Along with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, there is also a vibrant nightlife with pubs and cabarets open around-the-clock.
Water skis, jet skis, windsurfing gear, and sailing gear may all be rented in Pattaya, making it a great place for water activities. One of Pattaya’s most popular day excursions offshore is Ko Larn, known for its expansive, soft-sand beaches and seafood eateries. Many diving schools provide diving expeditions to distant islands with some of Thailand’s top wreck diving locations.
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