Weather of Thailand in December
December is the best time to visit Thailand. Almost the entirety of Thailand experiences mild temperatures and humidity with certain regions receiving moderate amounts of rainfall. This makes it a lot easier for most people who are not used to temperatures soaring to the high 30s coupled with high humidity. Lots of sun, clear skies make for the perfect time to head for the beaches and indulge in watersports. Even the underwater visibility increases significantly making snorkelling and diving highly rewarding this time of the year.
Northern and Northeastern Thailand have moderate temperatures during the day with the northern part welcoming little rainfalls during the odd day. Nights can get somewhat chilly so long sleeves are definitely recommended for those who shiver easy. Exploring the northern wilderness is highly recommended.
With low humidity level, the average temperature around 26°C and minimum rainfall make central Thailand and Bangkok absolute pleasant visit for sight-seeing. Though Ko Samui and the nearby islands on Thailand's lower Gulf Coast like Koh Tao experience heavy rainfall at the beginning of December. By mid-December balmy warmth gives a finishing touch to the rainfall but it varies from year to year.
If one were to take an ambitious and lengthy holiday of the country comprising of an eclectic mix of activities and sights, December would arguably be the best time to do it.
Best Places to Visit in Thailand in December
The pleasing weather of the northern side of the country aids in the region hosting many adventure lovers who indulge in trekking and biking in the Golden Triangle region and cycling around the Chiang Mai countryside.It is probably hard to point out which beach is the best for sun-bathing and tanning because December is the peak season for vacationing. Traditionally, December is the quintessential month for riding to Phuket, Khao Lak and Krabi. Amidst this chaotic season, Ko Lanta is the ideal spot to get a feel of calmness.Thailand is known for its laid-back culture. People mostly visit this place to rejuvenate back for everyday hectic life. Thai massage is just another dessert to end this eventful journey with.
Festivals and Events Celebrated during Thailand in December
1. 5th December - Father’s Day
This day is celebrated as the birth anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was born in 1927 and passed away on 13th October 2016. He was the “Father of the nation”. It is a national holiday to pay tribute to the Thai monarch all over the country punctuating the special events with fireworks exhibits.
Thailand to outsiders is primarily beaches, loud music, night parties and drinks but this day is considered to be quieter and is seen as a dry day as there are restrictions on alcohol sales and no loud music at parties.
2. 10th December - Constitution Day
Constitution Day is held annually to commemorate Thailand's adoption of a constitutional monarchy in 1932. Since 1932, sustaining the Monarchy during the challenging period reflects the respect and laudation of Thai people towards their Monarchy. On this day Thai people pay thanks to the Monarchy for granting them rights in their own country. The picture of Thai kings are put on view all over the country and parades, and fireworks make the day even more glorious.
3. 25th December - Christmas
Though Thailand is predominantly a Buddhist Country, it fondly embraces the western culture of celebrating Christmas and New Year. Tourists mainly visit Thailand in December to soak in the year-end holiday festivities.
Magnanimous display of sky lanterns, huge Christmas trees and hotel staff in Santa’s attire will welcome you in urban regions of Thailand during December. The Christmas special dinners are a must-try apart from gobbling down lip-smacking Thai foods in local stalls.
4. 31st December - New Years' Eve
A lot of people also pay visit to Thai temples on the eve of New Year to seek blessing where Thai Buddhist welcome New Year with traditional ceremonies.
5. Open Air Concerts in Bangkok
With the weather being favourable and the number of tourists at an all-time high in December, open-air concerts of various genres tend to be common in this month.
A pleasant evening in Bangkok, in a park with live light easy-going music and that too fully free of cost is a must-must thing in your to-do list if you are visiting Thailand in December. December is chaotic but colourful month to roam around Thailand and enjoy its turquoise blue beach under sun. And lastly, don't forget to have Thailand’s special fish pedicure or de-stressing Thai massages.