A tropical paradise awaits travelers who explore Thailand in December. During this magical time of the year, the country is filled with lush landscapes and stunning sights to behold. From the magnificent beaches of Phuket to the beautiful temples of Chiang Mai, there are many amazing places to explore.
With its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and friendly locals, Thailand is the perfect destination for a winter getaway. To make the most of your trip, here are the top five places to visit in Thailand during December.
Phuket: Picturesque beaches and breathtaking landscapes
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. You can enjoy a day out at Patong Beach, which is the island’s most popular beach. This is a great place to snorkel and dive in calm waters. For those who love sunbathing, there are more than 100 beach chairs that you can use. After a full day of sunbathing, you can head to the night market to buy souvenirs or indulge in delicious Thai food.
If you are feeling adventurous, climb to the top of the Big Buddha. At 32 meters, this bronze statue is the largest seated Buddha in Thailand. For nature lovers, Phang Nga Bay is the best place to visit. This is one of the most scenic places in Thailand and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hop on a boat to admire the scenic limestone karsts in this area. Other places to visit in Phuket include Phuket Town and the Royal Phuket Yacht Club.
Chiang Mai: Enchanting temples and rich cultural experiences
Chiang Mai is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Thailand during December. This northern city is famous for its beautiful temples. The most important temples are Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. You can visit these temples to learn more about Thai culture and Buddhist practices. For cultural experiences, you can take part in different activities in Chiang Mai like cooking classes, Muay Thai boxing lessons, and Thai cooking classes.
You can also learn about the local handicrafts and arts by visiting the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar or the Chiang Mai Craft Center. Aside from temples and cultural activities, Chiang Mai is also a great place to see nature. Doi Inthanon National Park is the highest mountain in Thailand and a must-see place during your visit to Chiang Mai. You can drive to the park or take a bus from Chiang Mai.
Bangkok: Bustling city and vibrant nightlife
Bangkok is one of the most iconic cities in Thailand and a must-see place in December. During this time of the year, Bangkok is filled with festivals and events such as the Flower Festival, Bangkok Art Biennale, and the New Year Celebrations. The Flower Festival is a popular event that takes place in the first week of December. It features colorful flower gardens, musical performances, and food stalls. To experience Bangkok at its best, visit the city during the New Year celebrations.
You can watch the spectacular fireworks show at the Chao Praya River or join in the New Year countdown at Yaowarat Chinatown. Aside from the festivals and celebrations, you can also enjoy the vibrant and colorful nightlife of Bangkok. Visit the famous night markets and street corners to explore the local culture and cuisine. You can also go clubbing at the Ratchathewi District or Sukhumvit District.
Krabi: Natural wonders and limestone cliffs
Krabi is a popular destination in Thailand because of its rich culture and attractive landscape. One of the must-visit places in this southern city is Koh Ha, a small island that is surrounded by limestone cliffs. You can swim or kayak in the island’s lagoon and climb the limestone cliffs for a breathtaking view of Koh Ha. For those who love nature, Koh Phi Phi is a must-see place. This small island is surrounded by rich and diverse marine life.
You can snorkel or scuba dive to see the colorful corals and marine creatures. Another must-see natural wonder in Krabi is the Krabi National Park. This park is home to the Thale Noi waterfall, Khao Phra Thaeo, and Khao Krailuai. Aside from the natural wonders, Krabi is also a great place to shop for ikat, a textile that is dyed using natural dyes. These textiles are produced locally by the aboriginal tribes.
Koh Samui: Unspoiled beaches and tropical vibes
Koh Samui is a tropical island paradise in Thailand that is a must-see place in December. This island is known for its stunning beaches such as Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Bophut Beach. You can enjoy some time on the beach by swimming or kayaking in the blue waters. After some beach time, you can visit the famous Lamai Temple for a glimpse of Buddhist culture and architecture. If you love water sports, you can go parasailing or snorkeling in the Gulf of Thailand. For shopping enthusiasts, Koh Samui’s Chaweng Beach is the best place to shop for jewelry and souvenirs.
Aside from the beaches and temples, Koh Samui is also a great place to see nature. Visit the Koh Samui Botanical Garden, Koh Phayam, and Koh Ngai to see the rich and diverse plant life. You can also visit the Koh Samui Ethno-Botanical Garden to learn about the aboriginal culture of the island.
Conclusion
If you are planning a holiday in Thailand, then December is a great time to visit. This is when the country experiences a pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. Since it is shoulder season, you can enjoy cheaper rates for accommodations and flights. The country is also less crowded, so you can explore the various attractions at your own pace. If you are planning to visit during this time, make sure to pack light clothes and travel essentials that are suitable for the weather. Now that you know where to visit Thailand during December, start planning your trip now!
