While many travellers opt to spend the festive month of December in a snowy setting, the sunny streets of Chiang Mai offer a unique experience. Chiang Mai is situated in the mountainous north of Thailand and is a thriving city which is perfect for a December getaway.
In this article, we discuss what to expect when you visit Chiang Mai in December. We provide an overview of the weather, highlight events and festivals, suggest places to visit and talk about the best things to do in Chiang Mai in December. So if you’re thinking about escaping to the Land of Smiles this December, this is the guide for you!
Contents
Chiang Mai is a timeless destination that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. However, certain periods will provide a much more pleasant experience than others.
December offers some of the best weather and an inviting climate which makes it one of the best times for a Chiang Mai trip. Throughout December, there are low chances of rain and sunny days are guaranteed. This is the best time to visit Chiang Mai if you are planning to enjoy lots of outdoor activities.
Visiting Chiang Mai in December also ensures that you avoid the bad weather that is experienced at other times of year. Average temperatures in Chiang Mai in December settle around 22°C, with highs of 28°C and lows of 14°C in the evenings.
The hot season in April can bring unbearable temperatures to the city and is also when farmers burn their crops, sending smoke and smog into the air. Likewise, the wet season from July to October is prone to monsoons which could severely impact your visit, making December an optimal time to visit Chiang Mai.
December brings a festive spirit to Chiang Mai that is absolutely infectious. It’s a great time to get involved in local traditions and holidays whilst still enjoying the hallmarks of the Christmas season. Below, we discuss some of the best celebrations that take place in Chiang Mai in December and give advice on how you can get involved in the festive fun.
King Bhumibol’s Birthday
On the 5th of December, the entirety of Thailand celebrates the late King Bhumibol’s Birthday. This is a national holiday in Thailand and is known as King Bhumibol Memorial Day. Although he passed away in 2016, his birthday continues to be observed as a day of remembrance and reverence for his contributions to the nation.
In the early morning, Buddhist monks gather in Chiang Mai to receive alms from the local people. This is a common practice in Thailand but holds special significance on the occasion of the king’s birthday. It reflects the king’s own devotion to Buddhism and his support for religious practices.
Temples across Chiang Mai hold special ceremonies, including chanting and prayers, to honour the late king. In the evening, people gather to light candles and lay flowers at shrines or temples dedicated to the late king. This symbolic gesture represents the light of wisdom and the purity of heart.
Constitution Day in Thailand, celebrated annually on December 10th, commemorates the day in 1932 when Thailand adopted its first constitution. It is known as Wan Ratchaphithi in Thai and holds historical significance as it marks the beginning of democracy and constitutional rule in the country.
The celebrations take place across Thailand, with many offices, schools and businesses closing for the day to allow citizens to enjoy the festivities. In Chiang Mai, there is a parade through the streets as well as patriotic displays and performances, which is a visual delight and a great way to experience the local traditions.
Constitution Day serves as a reminder of Thailand’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law. It’s a time when Thais come together to celebrate their nation’s political heritage and the principles that uphold their society.
Although Christmas is not widely celebrated in Thailand, you will still find a festive atmosphere gracing the city’s streets. The best hotels in Chiang Mai will often host Christmas dinners, giving travellers the opportunity to celebrate the holiday with a fresh Thai twist. Alongside traditional Western foods, you will be able to try Thai staples, like Pad Thai and mango sticky rice.
You will also find that many of the local markets take on some Christmas flair in December. There will be a variety of stalls at the night markets selling handmade goods and souvenirs, which could be the perfect gift for a special someone back home. Spending Christmas in Chiang Mai can be a real treat for visitors who want to experience the holiday in a different way.
Although Christmas is a fairly quiet affair in Chiang Mai, New Year’s Eve is still just as vibrant as anywhere else. Popular areas like Nimmanhaemin Road host countdown parties, complete with live music, DJs and cultural dance performances, which adds a unique ambience to the occasion.
Travellers will find that Chiang Mai’s nightlife embraces the New Year’s excitement, with many bars and clubs hosting special events. If you’re eager to jump into some evening fun, you will find plenty of parties and dancing at the city’s top venues.
What’s more, as the clock strikes midnight you can enjoy a fabulous display of fireworks that light up the city skyline. Alongside the striking fireworks, you will also get the chance to see locals releasing Khom Loi Lanterns. These rice paper lanterns act as mini hot air balloons and float up into the sky once they are lit, providing a unique opportunity to witness local customs alongside the raucous fireworks.
When you visit Chiang Mai in December, you’ll want to visit as many of the top attractions as possible. From temples to waterfalls, Chiang Mai has so many incredible places to visit that will appeal to all sorts of travellers.
It is worth noting that December is peak time for tourists in Thailand, so many of these sites will be very busy. For the best experience, try to visit attractions early in the morning and be sure to block out a whole day for more extensive sightseeing.
Known as the roof of Thailand, Doi Inthanon National Park is home to the highest point in the country and is a great place to visit in Chiang Mai. The park is approximately 60 kilometres southwest of Chiang Mai and is easily accessible via a private transfer or guided tour.
Travellers who enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration will be blown away by the unspoiled terrain and striking trails. The highest peak in the park stands at an enormous 2,565 metres above sea level and you can reach the summit via car or hiking depending on your preference.
At the top, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the lush landscape and feel refreshed by the cooler climate. There can often be mist at higher elevations which will impair visibility but creates a mystical atmosphere unlike any other.
The hiking trails at Doi Inthanon are a major standout, offering excursions through rich rainforests, wonderful waterfalls and picturesque viewpoints. As you trek through the park, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the local flora and fauna. You can find a variety of vibrant orchid species along the paths and a myriad of bird species up in the canopies.
On your visit to Doi Inthanon, you will want to make some time to see the twin royal pagodas. At the summit, visitors are treated to the architectural splendour of the King and Queen chedis, dedicated to the rulers of Thailand. These pagodas are beautifully adorned and surrounded by well-maintained gardens which makes them a very popular tourist attraction in the park.
No trip to Thailand is complete without exploring the many lavish temples that are dotted around the country. Chiang Mai is graced with a handful of ornate temples which are absolute must-do’s when visiting in December. With festivals like Constitution Day and the King’s Birthday, the temples take on a whole new ambience in December and will be the highlight of your visit.
One of the best temples to visit in Chiang Mai is Wat Chiang Man. This is the oldest temple in the city, constructed by the founder of Chiang Mai in the 13th Century. The golden roof of the Buddhist temple glints in the tropical sun and is held up by elephant-shaped buttresses which will inspire travellers who enjoy stunning architecture.
You should also make time to visit Wat Saen Fang, another temple located just outside of the Old Town. This temple is over 500 years old and is ornately decorated in gold and white flower motifs, combining Lanna and Burmese influences. The interior is a striking red which immediately catches the eye and visitors can marvel at the carved wooden facade.
One of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai for a unique experience is Bua Thong Waterfall. It is known as ‘Sticky Waterfall’ and stands out as an attraction in Chiang Mai due to its limestone formations which allow visitors to climb up the water stream without slipping. It is about 50 kilometres from Chiang Mai city centre and there are well-maintained trails leading up to the falls.
As you climb up Bua Thong, you can relish the feeling of the water rushing beneath your hands and feet which offers a unique thrill. The texture of the limestone allows you to have a firm grip, so prior climbing experience isn’t necessary. There are also many natural pools along the waterfall, making great swimming spots to break up your ascent.
Bua Thong is strongly tied into local folklore, as it is believed that spirits dwell within the waters. Because of this, it is recommended that you remain respectful of the natural environment on your visit. Do not leave behind any rubbish or damage any of the surrounding nature, as it will disturb the spirits.
We have discussed the events and places to visit in Chiang Mai in December but you may be wondering what to do in Chiang Mai on your visit. The bustling northern city is filled with experiences that are the perfect complement to sightseeing and festivals. From witnessing a Muay Thai fight to daring white water rafting, this section will give you ideas of the best things to do in Chiang Mai on your December escape.
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a thrilling sporting event, consider booking tickets to a Muay Thai fight. This martial art was originally part of the country’s military training and has now become the national sport of Thailand. Whether you’re an avid enthusiast or just curious about the sport, watching a Muay Thai fight is an exhilarating experience.
At a professional Muay Thai fight, visitors can take in the electrifying ambience of the cheering spectators and thrumming crowds. Once the fight begins, you can observe the skilful fighters demonstrating their mastery of the martial art. The rich traditions of the sport make it an absolute must-do when visiting Chiang Mai.
If you’re visiting Chiang Mai for some rest and relaxation then you’ve certainly picked the right destination. One of the best things to do in Chiang Mai for any traveller is to enjoy a Thai massage that will melt away all your tension and strain, which is much needed after lots of exploring.
A Thai massage is a unique aromatherapy experience that is the perfect addition to any Chiang Mai itinerary. Your massage therapist will ensure you have the most rejuvenating therapies and will couple your treatment with soothing scents for ultimate relaxation.
For a truly elevated experience, visit the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, just 36 kilometres from Chiang Mai. The hot springs are the best place to enjoy a mineral bath and there are facilities for foot soaking and swimming as well. It’s the perfect place to pamper yourself and the natural scenery only adds to the atmosphere.
If you’re a traveller who desires adventure and thrills, then white water rafting in Chiang Mai is the activity for you. Being situated so close to the Mae Taeng River, there are a variety of rapids that are suitable for beginners as well as experienced rafters. If you do want to try white water rafting, the best way to do it is with an established rafting company as they will ensure your safety and provide you with the best experience.
White water rafting is one of the most fun things to do in Chiang Mai and offers both an exhilarating experience as well as unique sightseeing. As you traverse the river you will be treated to views of dense forests, stunning gorges and cascading waterfalls. December is a great time to try white water rafting in Chiang Mai as the water levels are much more suitable.
With gorgeous weather, a variety of events and a plethora of thrilling activities and sites, it would seem there’s no better month to visit Chiang Mai than December. There is something for everyone in this vibrant city, be it temple hopping, Muay Thai fights or a sensory massage.
Whether you seek cultural immersion, outdoor adventures or tranquil relaxation, Chiang Mai in December offers a diverse array of experiences, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling journey that will round out your year in the best possible way.
If you’re considering visiting Thailand in December, take a look at our other blogs like A Guide to Phuket in December and What to Do in Chiang Mai For 3 Days.
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
© 2009-2024 – BACKPACKERBOY
WEBSITE DESIGN BY SEO TRAVEL
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai, Thailand 