Things to Do in Thailand in December

December Weather in Thailand

32°C (90°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

15 mm (0.6 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season weather - December has the lowest rainfall of the year with only 15 mm (0.6 inches) and approximately 2 rainy days, making it ideal for island hopping, outdoor markets, and temple exploration without weather disruptions
Comfortable temperatures for all-day activities - Morning temperatures start at 23°C (73°F), perfect for temple visits and cycling, while 32°C (90°F) afternoon highs are offset by low humidity compared to other months, making outdoor exploration manageable
Andaman Sea visibility peaks at 25-30 m (82-98 ft) - December through March offers the best diving and snorkeling conditions of the entire year, with calm seas, minimal plankton bloom, and water temperatures at 28-29°C (82-84°F)
Festival season atmosphere - December combines the King's Birthday celebrations (December 5th) with New Year preparations, creating decorated streets, night markets with seasonal foods like khanom tom (coconut rice balls), and a festive energy without the commercial intensity of Western Christmas

Considerations

Highest accommodation prices of the year - December is Thailand's absolute peak season, with hotel rates 40-60% higher than shoulder months and beachfront properties in Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui requiring 8-12 weeks advance booking for reasonable rates
Maximum tourist density at major attractions - Expect 3,000-5,000 daily visitors at Grand Palace, 30-minute waits for long-tail boats at Railay Beach, and crowded photo spots at Instagram-famous locations like Wat Arun's central prang between 9am-3pm
Premium pricing on domestic flights and tours - Bangkok-Phuket flights cost ฿3,500-5,500 versus ฿1,800-2,500 in September, while popular tours like Phi Phi Island day trips increase from ฿1,800 to ฿2,800-3,200 during December's three-week peak (December 15-January 5)

Best Activities in December

Similan Islands Liveaboard Diving Expeditions

December marks the opening month of Similan Islands season (closed May-October) when underwater visibility reaches 25-30 m (82-98 ft) and water temperature sits at perfect 28-29°C (82-84°F). Manta ray sightings peak in December-January at sites like Koh Bon and Koh Tachai. The Andaman Sea is glassy calm with wave heights under 0.5 m (1.6 ft), eliminating seasickness concerns. December offers the advantage of fewer boats than February-March when Chinese New Year crowds arrive.

Booking Tip: Liveaboard trips typically cost ฿18,000-28,000 for 3-day/2-night expeditions and require booking 6-8 weeks ahead for December departures. Day trips run ฿4,500-6,500 but involve 90 minutes (56 miles/90 km) each way in speedboats. Look for operators with Nitrox capability and small group sizes (12-16 divers maximum). See current liveaboard options in the booking section below.

Northern Thailand Mountain Trekking

December brings 18-22°C (64-72°F) daytime temperatures to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai highlands - the coolest weather of the year that makes multi-hour jungle treks comfortable. Morning mist clears by 9am, revealing views of Doi Inthanon at 2,565 m (8,415 ft) and terraced rice fields post-harvest. Hill tribe villages like Karen and Lahu communities are accessible on dry trails, unlike monsoon months when paths become impassable mud. December also coincides with strawberry season in Doi Ang Khang at 1,400 m (4,593 ft) elevation.

Booking Tip: Multi-day treks typically cost ฿3,500-6,500 depending on remoteness and group size, with 2-3 day itineraries most popular. Book 10-14 days ahead through operators offering small groups (6-8 people maximum) and homestay accommodations. Verify that guides are licensed by Tourism Authority of Thailand. December books faster than other months due to optimal weather. See current trekking tours in the booking section below.

Bangkok Rooftop Bar Circuit and Night Market Food Tours

December evenings cool to 23-25°C (73-77°F) - the only month when rooftop bars at 200-300 m (656-984 ft) elevation feel genuinely comfortable without oppressive heat or rain risk. Humidity drops to 60-65% after sunset versus 80%+ in rainy season. This weather makes 3-4 hour walking food tours through Chinatown's Yaowarat Road or Ari neighborhood night markets enjoyable, covering 3-4 km (1.9-2.5 miles) while sampling 8-12 dishes. December also brings special seasonal dishes like ba chang (Chinese rice dumplings) and roasted chestnuts to street stalls.

Booking Tip: Food walking tours typically run ฿1,800-2,800 for 3-4 hours including 8-12 tastings. Book 5-7 days ahead as group sizes cap at 8-12 people for quality interaction. Evening tours (6pm-10pm) offer better weather than afternoon options. Tours should cover 3-4 neighborhoods and include market access that independent travelers can't easily navigate. Rooftop bars don't require booking but arrive before 7pm for sunset tables. See current food tour options in the booking section below.

Krabi Rock Climbing at Railay and Tonsai

December's dry conditions mean limestone cliffs are chalk-dry with maximum grip - crucial for Railay's overhanging routes rated 6a-7c on French scale. Rain probability drops to under 10% versus 60-70% in monsoon months, eliminating route closures. Temperatures peak at 31-32°C (88-90°F) but sea breezes at cliff bases provide cooling. December is ideal for beginners taking intro courses on Railay West Beach's 15-25 m (49-82 ft) walls, while advanced climbers tackle Tonsai's 30-40 m (98-131 ft) multi-pitch routes. Low tide in afternoons exposes approach paths to cliff bases.

Booking Tip: Half-day intro courses cost ฿2,200-3,000 including equipment and instruction on 3-4 routes. Full-day climbing trips for experienced climbers run ฿2,800-4,200 with guide and gear. Book 7-10 days ahead in December as instructor availability tightens. Verify operators provide modern equipment (ropes manufactured within 3 years, helmets meeting UIAA standards). Morning sessions (7am-11am) offer cooler conditions. See current climbing courses in the booking section below.

Ayutthaya Historical Park Cycling Routes

December's 23-32°C (73-90°F) range makes all-day cycling through 400+ year old temple ruins manageable, unlike March-May when temperatures exceed 38°C (100°F). The 15 km (9.3 mile) main circuit connecting Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram is best covered 7am-11am before peak heat, then resumed 3pm-6pm. December's dry ground allows access to outer ruins like Wat Phu Khao Thong that flood during monsoon. The Royal Palace area, covering 0.7 sq km (173 acres), requires 90-120 minutes alone. December also sees fewer tour buses than February-March.

Booking Tip: Bicycle rentals cost ฿50-100 per day for basic single-speeds or ฿150-250 for geared bikes with baskets. Guided cycling tours run ฿1,400-2,200 including bike, guide, temple entries (฿50 per major temple), and lunch. Self-guided is feasible with downloaded maps as the park is well-signed. Start early (7am) to complete the 15 km (9.3 mile) main loop before 32°C (90°F) afternoon heat. Bring 2-3 liters of water as refill stations are limited. See current cycling tour options in the booking section below.

Khao Sok National Park Jungle Lake Safaris

December sits in Khao Sok's dry season when Cheow Lan Lake's limestone karsts emerge dramatically from water levels 2-3 m (6.6-9.8 ft) lower than monsoon peaks. Morning mist on the lake dissipates by 8-9am, revealing 400 m (1,312 ft) cliffs and wildlife including hornbills, macaques, and occasional elephant sightings along shorelines. Water temperature at 26-27°C (79-81°F) makes swimming comfortable. December's low rainfall means jungle trails to Nam Talu Cave (1.2 km/0.75 mile trek) remain accessible, unlike October-November when paths flood. This is Thailand's oldest rainforest at 160 million years.

Booking Tip: Overnight floating bungalow packages cost ฿2,800-4,500 per person including longtail boat transfers (45 minutes each way), meals, and guided activities. Day trips run ฿1,800-2,600. Book 14-21 days ahead for December as floating accommodations are limited to 8-10 properties with 4-8 rooms each. Verify packages include early morning wildlife spotting (6am departure) when animal activity peaks. Two-day/one-night itineraries provide better value than rushed day trips. See current lake safari options in the booking section below.

December Events & Festivals

December 5

King Bhumibol Memorial Day (December 5)

National holiday honoring the late King Rama IX with ceremonial events at Grand Palace and Sanam Luang in Bangkok. Government buildings and major streets display yellow decorations and portraits. Many Thais wear yellow or black clothing. Expect government offices and some businesses closed, but tourist attractions remain open. Evening candlelight vigils occur at major temples. The atmosphere is respectful and solemn rather than festive - maintain quiet demeanor near ceremonies.

Early December (typically first full week)

Phuket King's Cup Regatta

International sailing competition held since 1987, attracting 100+ yachts from 30+ countries racing in Andaman Sea waters off Kata Beach. Week-long event includes beach parties, awards ceremonies, and yacht displays at Kata Beach Resort area. Spectators watch races from beaches or book spectator boat trips (฿1,500-2,500). Evening beach parties feature live music and food stalls. Even non-sailors enjoy the festive beach atmosphere and international crowd.

Mid-December (typically second or third weekend)

Wonderfruit Festival

Four-day sustainable arts, music, and lifestyle festival held at The Fields at Siam Country Club in Pattaya, 120 km (75 miles) from Bangkok. Features 200+ musical acts across multiple stages, art installations, farm-to-table dining, wellness workshops, and camping. Attracts 15,000+ attendees with significant international presence. Advance tickets ฿4,500-12,000 depending on access level. Shuttle buses run from Bangkok (90-minute journey). Known for eco-conscious ethos with waste reduction and renewable energy focus.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ in 200ml+ bottles - UV index reaches 8 and Thai marine parks (Similan, Phi Phi, Surin Islands) ban chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone or octinoxate to protect coral reefs, with ฿5,000 fines for violations

Light long-sleeve linen or cotton shirts in light colors - Provides sun protection for temple visits and outdoor markets while remaining breathable in 70% humidity, and covers shoulders for temple dress codes (required at Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun)

Quality walking sandals with ankle support - You'll walk 8-12 km (5-7.5 miles) daily on uneven temple grounds, night markets, and beach paths; slip-on design essential as you'll remove shoes 15-20 times daily entering temples, homes, and some shops

Compact rain jacket or packable poncho - While December only sees 2 rainy days on average, brief 15-20 minute showers can occur, especially in Krabi and Phuket; more crucial for northern regions like Chiang Mai where mountain weather changes quickly

Sarong or lightweight scarf - Multi-purpose for temple visits (wrap around shorts/skirts for modesty), beach cover-up, airplane blanket, and picnic blanket; temples provide loaners but they're often worn and limited in supply during peak December crowds

Electrolyte packets or rehydration salts - December heat reaches 32°C (90°F) with 70% humidity causing significant perspiration during outdoor activities; Thai pharmacies sell these but having supply immediately prevents dehydration headaches

Small dry bag (5-10 liter capacity) - Essential for boat trips to islands where belongings get splashed, and for protecting phone/wallet during water-based activities; December's calm seas mean less spray than monsoon months but still necessary

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - While December sees fewer mosquitoes than rainy season, evening outdoor dining at beach restaurants and jungle areas like Khao Sok still attract insects; dengue fever remains present year-round in Thailand

Portable battery pack (10,000+ mAh capacity) - Heavy phone use for maps, translations, photos, and Grab taxi app drains batteries quickly; many temples and outdoor areas lack charging access for 8-10 hour exploration days

Modest clothing for temples - Pants or skirts covering knees, shirts covering shoulders and midriff; December's comfortable weather makes this easier than hot season, but bring at least 2 temple-appropriate outfits as dress code enforcement is strict at major sites with ฿200-500 sarong rental fees

Insider Knowledge

Book domestic flights on Tuesday-Thursday for 20-30% lower fares - Thai travelers book weekends for short breaks, inflating Friday-Sunday Bangkok-Phuket and Bangkok-Chiang Mai flights to ฿4,500-5,500 versus ฿3,200-4,000 midweek during December peak season

Visit Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew after 2pm - Morning crowds peak at 3,000-4,000 visitors between 9am-1pm when tour buses arrive; after 2pm crowds drop by 60-70% and afternoon light is better for photography of golden chedis, though complex closes at 3:30pm so arrive by 2pm for 90-minute visit

December is durian off-season but mangosteen, rambutan, and longan peak - Fruit prices drop 30-40% at markets with mangosteen at ฿40-60 per kg versus ฿80-120 in off-season