December is one of the best months to travel to Thailand. The weather is warm and dry with temperatures around 24–32 °C and almost no rain.
Most destinations offer blue skies and pleasant days for beach visits, island hopping, and sightseeing.
With stable weather throughout the country, December is an ideal time to travel for Christmas and New Year's.
Weather in Thailand in December: Temperature and rainfall
Data source: Based on 10-year average data from the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) (2015–2024).
December falls in the middle of Thailand's cool, dry season. It's the best month weather-wise, but pack your clothes carefully, as there are significant differences between north and south: in the north (Chiang Mai) it's cool and you'll need layers, while sunshine is guaranteed on the Andaman coast (Phuket); on the Gulf coast (Koh Samui) there's still a chance of short rain showers.
Average temperatures and rainfall amounts in Thai cities in December
Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand in December: Cool mornings, clear days
December is the north at its most beautiful.
Chiang Mai starts off cool and fresh, then warms up pleasantly to 26–30 °C under clear skies. Chiang Rai is similar, only a bit windier, especially in the countryside.
Mae Hong Son can be quite cool in the mornings. It's ideal for sunrise excursions and leisurely mountain drives. Sukhothai is warmer during the day, but just as dry. Rainfall is practically nonexistent this month.
If you love sunny days, cool nights and clean mountain air, then now is the perfect time to be here.
Bangkok and Central Thailand: Warm and dry
Central Thailand is pleasantly warm in December.
Bangkok remains warm and sunny at around 28–33 °C. The humidity is decreasing, making exploring temples or markets less strenuous.
Ayutthaya enjoys consistent sunshine and is ideal for cycling among the ruins, without heat or rain. Kanchanaburi is the coolest. Mornings can be chilly, and a light jacket is often recommended in the evenings.
Khao Yai is even more beautiful. The sunrise can be surprisingly cool, but during the day it gets warm enough for hiking and wildlife watching.
Pattaya offers consistent sunshine and tranquil beaches, ideal for quick swims or relaxing days by the sea. Hua Hin usually enjoys a light breeze, especially in the late afternoon.
This month there is hardly any rain. In most places there are long stretches of blue skies, pleasant driving weather and clear days that make sightseeing a breeze.
Andaman Coast (Phuket & Krabi): High season on the beach
This is the Andaman coast in all its splendor.
Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands entice visitors with long, sunny days and calm, mirror-like seas. Temperatures range between 24 and 31 °C, ideal for relaxing on the beach, island hopping, and diving.
Rain is rare and usually passes quickly. Anyone dreaming of classic Thai beach weather will find exactly that in December.
Gulf Coast (Koh Samui): A few showers, then sunshine
December is a transitional month here.
On Koh Samui, there may still be occasional short showers during the first half of the month, often in the early morning. These are usually brief, light, and quickly over. From Christmas onwards, the weather calms down, and most days are sunny and mild with temperatures between 24 and 29 °C.
Koh Phangan and Koh Tao follow the same pattern.
The sea can be somewhat choppy, so longer boat trips may be affected, even under clear skies. Nevertheless, it is a perfectly pleasant month for beach and hotel stays.
From my trip last December:
In Bangkok, it was warm every day, often even hot, around 30–31°C. My jeans and jacket always stayed in my suitcase. In Chiang Mai, it was significantly cooler in the mornings and evenings, and I usually wore two layers of clothing before changing into a T-shirt at midday. On New Year's Eve, we participated in a countdown in the countryside, and it got surprisingly cool, just cool enough for a light down jacket.
How crowded and expensive is Thailand in December?
December is peak season in Thailand, and the week between Christmas and New Year's is the busiest time of the entire year.
Popular destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands and Chiang Mai can feel crowded, while places like Koh Lanta, Koh Chang and Chiang Rai maintain a more leisurely, relaxed pace.
Travel costs can increase by 30–100% compared to other months, with prices peaking during the holiday week. International flights can be 50–150% more expensive, domestic flights 20–50%, and hotels, especially on islands or in luxury hotels, see the biggest price increases.
For those who want to save money or avoid the biggest crowds, the first half of December is noticeably quieter and significantly cheaper.
Learn more about: Tips for a successful Christmas and New Year's stay in Thailand.
The best travel destinations in Thailand in December
December is generally an excellent time to travel to Thailand, but some destinations stand out in particular.
1. Bangkok – Pleasant weather & festive atmosphere
Bangkok is wonderful in December, with temperatures around 24–32 °C. Warm days, balmy evenings. You can explore the city at a relaxed pace, without the usual heat.
The cooler months transform Bangkok into a hotspot for rooftop bars, open-air markets, and open-air concerts every year. The city turns into a vibrant festival, with lights shining everywhere.
If you spend New Year's Eve here, the spectacular fireworks display by ICONSIAM over the Chao Phraya River is the absolute highlight – radiant, colorful, and well worth staying up for.
Those who prefer a quieter experience can consider day trips to Ayutthaya or Kanchanaburi.
2. Chiang Mai – A cultural and cozy retreat
In Chiang Mai, the mornings in December can be cool (~15°C / 59°F), but there are also warm days that are perfect for exploring.
December lends Chiang Mai a tranquil, festive charm.
If you're here over New Year's, don't miss the CAD New Year Countdown Festival. Thousands of lanterns rise into the night sky – one of the most magical moments in Chiang Mai. Tickets sell out quickly, so book early to secure a good spot.
The mountains around Doi Inthanon offer an authentic, "cold Thailand." Take a day trip to admire the "sea of clouds." Don't forget to bring a jacket.
3. Phuket & Krabi – Pure sunshine + calm sea
If you dream of perfect beach weather, December is the perfect time to go.
The Andaman coast offers the calmest seas and the brightest skies of the year. Island hopping is a breeze here, and the visibility for snorkeling is excellent.
Phuket is a classic, but it's busiest in December. Krabi is ideal for adventurers or anyone who prefers a quieter island than Phuket. Koh Lanta is perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation.
Tip: If you're looking for guaranteed sunny beach days, head to the west coast. However, Koh Samui is still a good choice for a relaxed, luxurious stay. Just be flexible when it comes to water sports activities.
4. Khao Sok National Park – Lush Jungle
December is one of the best months to explore the Khao Sok rainforest and Cheow Lan Lake. The jungle is lush, and occasional short showers refresh the air.
Activities such as kayaking, trekking, or wildlife watching are particularly rewarding.
Need inspiration for your itinerary? Take a look at our 10-day classic Thailand tour.
What you should pack and wear for Thailand in December
In Thailand, layering is recommended in December.
During the day: Light cotton or linen clothing – shorts, T-shirts, summer dresses, sandals. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Evenings & Northern Thailand: Light jacket or scarf for cooler nights.
Temple visits: Shoulders and knees should be covered. A scarf or light shawl goes well with shorts or sleeveless tops.
Festivals and events in December & Christmas fun
1. New Year’s Eve Countdown – Bangkok & Chiang Mai
December is full of festive cheer. In Bangkok, the ICONSIAM New Year's Eve fireworks illuminate the Chao Phraya River with spectacular displays and multimedia shows.
For a more relaxed or romantic experience, the CAD New Year festival in Chiang Mai offers the chance to release thousands of lanterns into the night sky. Book early to secure the best viewing spots.
2. Thai Father's Day – December 5th
On December 5th, the late King Bhumibol is commemorated. Candlelight ceremonies take place throughout the country, with Sanam Luang in Bangkok being the most moving location.
It has no impact on travel plans – it's more contemplative than festive – but it's a beautiful sight if you happen to be nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions – Thailand in December
1. Is December a good time to travel to Thailand? Yes. December is one of the best months to travel. Warm, mostly dry weather and calm seas offer ideal conditions for beach holidays, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. In northern Thailand, it's cooler in the mornings and evenings, which is perfect for exploring.
2. Is it cold in Thailand in December? Generally not. Mornings and evenings in the north can be cool (around 15°C), but daytime temperatures are pleasant (25–31°C). In the south, it remains warm and sunny.
3. Does it rain a lot in Thailand in December? In most regions, it rains very little. Northern and central Thailand typically experience 0–1 rainy days, while the Andaman coast may see occasional short showers. The Gulf coast, including Koh Samui, may still experience occasional short showers, but these rarely last longer than an hour.
4. Is December a good time to travel to Thailand for a beach holiday? Yes, December is excellent for beaches, especially on the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi). The sea is calm, the sky is clear, and snorkeling or island hopping is ideal. The Gulf coast is a bit more unpredictable, but still suitable for the beach.
5. Which islands are best to visit in December? Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lanta are ideal for calm seas and sunny weather. Koh Samui and the surrounding islands can experience brief showers but are still popular. Koh Lanta and Koh Chang are quieter if you prefer less hustle and bustle.
6. Is December monsoon season in Thailand? No, December is part of the dry season in Thailand. While the northeast monsoon can occasionally bring short showers to the Gulf coast, overall it is one of the driest and most pleasant months for travel.
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Monthly weather and travel information for Thailand
Learn more about Thailand's weather throughout the year and discover the best travel destinations for each month. For a comprehensive overview of Thailand's climate in all seasons, see our article "Thailand: Weather and Best Time to Travel".
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