Famous as a winter getaway, December is one of the best times to discover most of Southeast Asia. You'll have the coolest temperatures (still averaging 27°C (81°F) in the day), which are pleasant for outdoor adventures.
As for rainfall, you could experience two distinct weather patterns in Southeast Asia. Most countries in Southeast Asia enjoy their dry seasons (November to April), such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The rainy season is in full swing, however, in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Read on to find out the best places to go, the costs, and what to pack in December.
Weather in SE Asia's Major Cities in December
City | Average Daily Low Temp. | Average Daily High Temp. | Average Rainfall |
---|---|---|---|
Bangkok, Thailand | 21°C (70°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 11 mm (0.4 in) |
Phuket, Thailand | 23°C (73°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 18 mm (0.7 in) |
Hanoi, Vietnam | 17°C (63°F) | 23°C (73°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) |
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | 22°C (72°F) | 32°C (90°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
Phnom Penh, Cambodia | 23°C (73°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 25 mm (1 in) |
Siem Reap, Cambodia | 22°C (72°F) | 30°C (86°F) | 0 mm (0 in) |
Bagan, Myanmar | 17°C (63°F) | 30°C (86°F) | 0 mm (0 in) |
Luang Prabang, Laos | 15°C (59°F) | 27°C (81°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) |
Singapore | 24°C (75°F) | 30°C (86°F) | 273 mm (10.7 in) |
Bali, Indonesia | 25°C (77°F) | 31°C (88°F) | 374 mm (14.7 in) |
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | 23°C (73°F) | 32°C (90°F) | 271 mm (10.6 in) |
Manila, Philippines | 22°C (72°F) | 30°C (86°F) | 131 mm (5.2 in) |
Countries with Dry Weather: Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and the Philippines
If you're planning to travel to multiple countries in (northern) Southeast Asia, December is undoubtedly the best time to explore them. You'll have the most favorable weather with rain-free days and cool/mild temperatures.
With that comes the high costs and crowds, especially over the Christmas and New Year periods. For your family reunions or milestone celebrations, booking 6 months in advance is recommended to have more availability of the best hotels and avoid last-minute hassles.
Get some itinerary ideas about trips to Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, or get inspired by how to plan your first trip to Southeast Asia>>>
Countries in the Rainy Season: Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia
Island countries experience their rainy seasons in December, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
You can expect an average of 17 days with some rainfall in December. The rain usually falls heavily but is over quite quickly, often falling in the afternoon or evening.
Traveling in December, a private tour with a flexible schedule would be helpful to make the most of your time.
Read more about planning a trip to Singapore and Bali>>>
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Aug 2023
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Alisa has has been great to work with
Alisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive. More
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Aug 2023
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Using Sharon right now to book our…
Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in Thailand More
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Aug 2023
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Thailand, Singapore, Bali
In Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze. More
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Jul 2023
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Very supportive
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Jul 2023
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My experience in Chang Mai with Asia Highlights
I greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism. More
Richard,
Jul 2023
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A pleasure to plan with
Well, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans. More
Chris Williams,
Jul 2023
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Large multi-generational holiday in Thailand
The holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again. More
CL,
Jul 2023
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I never used a travel agent in my life
I never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience. More
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Jul 2023
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Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia!
Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional. More
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Jul 2023
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We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand …
It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ???? More
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Jun 2023
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Wonderful Guides and Experience
Our large group arrived in Bangkok with Tanni as our guide. She was wonderful! An absolute joy to spend time with. She is knowledgeable, kind, and extremely funny. I don’t know what we would have done without her! After Bangkok, we traveled to Chang Mai, where Indy was our tour guide. She was a delight! She is kind, knowledgeable, and so patient. Our trip to Thailand was an adventure of a lifetime and these two women helped make it memorable. I would definitely use Asia Highlights for any future travel in Asia. More
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Jun 2023
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Guide - Chai
We travelled from Vietnam to Bangkok and were blessed to have a guide named Chai. He was a superb guide and it is a pity we couldn't bottle him and take him home. He was very knowledgeable and an absolute gentleman. He could not have done enough to facilitate us and imparted so much knowledge about the Temples, Buddism and the History of Thailand in general. Not only did he give us a great overview of the past and current ways of living in Thailand but I also feel I came away a much better person having interacting with him. I will carry many of his teachings with me for the rest of my life and know that having met him was a very special blessing in my life. More
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Jun 2023
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Our guide Tanni was kind
Our guide Tanni was kind, knowledgeable, funny and beyond accommodating for our group. We felt like we'd made a friend and it enhanced our trip in the most positive way. Everything was coordinated perfectly which is not easy to do in a large traveling group. Excellent experience! More
Marissa Manson,
Jun 2023
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We are only on day 5 of our 15 day trip…
Our first stop so far was in Hanoi where our guide Trong was just so awesome! He shared about his culture and family life which showing us sites through a city tour. He was so funny making lots of jokes and always made sure we were having fun while learning about everything! He checked on us frequently even when we were no longer with him since we then went on a cruise in Halong Bay! Halong Bay and the cruise on Paradise Elegance went way above anything I expected. The scenery was breathtaking, the ship was so beautiful and clean with such fresh, good food! And I can’t sing enough praise for the staff who took care of us- especially Anna and Belle! They went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect from eating meals with Anna to every other detail with Belle! I highly recommend Asian Highlights to help plan these extraordinary trips! This already has been a trip of a lifetime and we still have so much more to see all thanks to Cathy!! More
Diane Creitz,
Jun 2023
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Tanni for the win!
14 of my closest friends and family descended upon Bangkok ready to see the town. Asia highlights and Tanni took us on a tour that changed our lives. We experienced so much everyday. Tanni was amazing! She did all the thinking for us, so we all could just be present and enjoy the moment. I can’t recommend this company, and especially Tanni enough. More
Megan McGlynn,
Jun 2023
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This isn't my first trip with Asia…
This isn't my first trip with Asia Highlights. They are great at helping me plan, working my requests into the itinerary, and booking it all. We travel with friends and just got back from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam. Albee did a great job with all the details and we had a wonderful time. We will use them for our next adventure! More
Katie Potesta,
Jun 2023
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Amazing service
Although we have not been our trip yet I wanted to still write a review based on customer service and the ease of booking. Alisa has been extremely prompt and responsive with planning our trip to Thailand. She has had great recommendations and guidance to add to our custom itinerary. Highly recommend using Asia highlights! -Alex More
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May 2023
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I have never hear of this company…
I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions. More
orge alvarez,
May 2023
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Coco Yang worked tirelessly to…
From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods More
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May 2023
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The 5 Best Places to Visit in December in Southeast Asia
Weather-wise, you're advised to visit Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos.
They showcase Southeast Asia and highlight its diverse beauty, whilst being conveniently adjacent to one another. You could wander around the majestic temples, immerse yourself in the unique charm of the islands, and try the mouthwatering food.
To explore all of the best of the above-mentioned countries, you need at least 4 weeks. Check our hand-picked itinerary suggestions for 4 weeks, 5 weeks or 6 weeks...
1. Thailand: Best for a First Southeast Asia Trip
In December, the daily temperature range in Thailand averages from 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F). You could celebrate Christmas with your family on typically rain-free days wherever you go.
First-timers would love the vibrant festivals and bustling city life in Bangkok. Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are ideal for immersing yourself in the local culture as well.
Your tropical getaway would be perfect with Thailand's stunning islands. Phuket is renowned for the abundant beach activities for families, and Koh Samui is highly recommended for couples thanks to its tranquil vibe.
2. Vietnam: Ideal for a Relaxing Trip Blended with Adventures
In Vietnam, December is the best time for mild/warm, dry weather and atmospheric Christmas and New Year celebrations.
A representative Vietnam trip would not be complete without the charismatic capital Hanoi, picturesque Halong Bay, relaxing Hoi An, bustling Ho Chi Minh City, and vibrant floating markets in the Mekong Delta.
Couples could enjoy some quality private time during our 3-day Halong Bay cruise and in the romantic ancient town of Hoi An.
Families with teenagers could join in our special farming experience and fishing tour for an authentic taste of the rustic lifestyle. The Cu Chi Tunnels could be educational as well.
3. Myanmar: Great for In-Depth Explorations with Romantic Sunset Balloon Rides
December is considered to be one of the driest months in Myanmar, with relatively low chances of rainfall. Temperatures range from approximately 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F) daily.
Myanmar offers enchanting temples and pagodas as its top attractions while Inle Lake invites you to explore a charming and genuine floating village lifestyle.
Bagan is the perfect highlight to complete your trip to Myanmar, particularly if you're planning a milestone trip. What could be more romantic than holding your partner and seeing the sun set over 2,000 pagodas from a hot-air balloon?
Read more about planning a couple's trip to Southeast Asia>>>
4. Cambodia: Renowned for Splendid Angkor Wat
December offers cool temperatures (23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F)) and dry weather.
To explore the majestic temples of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, you could walk around the grand temple complex with our Khmer scholar.
To enhance your experience, couples could take a romantic sunset boat trip, while families with teenagers could enjoy a thrilling sunset quad bike ride.
Beyond Angkor Wat, you could visit Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh. Participating in a blessing ceremony carried out by local monks would create a special occasion for either a couple or a family.
5. Laos: A Hidden Treasure for Cultural Immersion
December offers pleasant weather throughout Laos, with lower humidity and little to no rainfall.
Luang Prabang is the captivating centerpiece of any journey to Laos. First-timers usually add it to their 3–4 week Southeast Asia trips.
You could relax in an adult-only boutique hotel for some serene private time, join in with the awe-inspiring traditional ritual of morning almsgiving, or take a Mekong sunset cruise.
Too hectic to plan your SE Asia trip? Leave your interests and requests, and your travel expert will personalize a private tour for you within 24 hours!
Costs and Crowds in December
December is a popular time to visit Southeast Asia, especially for a warm winter getaway. You should expect higher costs and crowds in the dry countries, such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Early December is ideal to enjoy these countries because of the good weather and fewer crowds.
To avoid the rocketing prices of hotels and flights, it's advisable to book 6 months in advance. Despite the increased crowds, the festive atmosphere and pleasant weather make it an enjoyable time to explore the region.
Conversely, the rainy season in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia offers tranquility and cost-effective travel options.
What to Pack in December
When packing for your Southeast Asia trip in December, you're advised to take lightweight and breathable clothing that's suitable for mild/warm weather. If you visit northern Vietnam, northern Thailand, or mountainous areas, a coat is helpful as the temperature might drop to 15°C (70°F). Also, take your swimsuits and beachwear if you want a beach vacation.
Sun protection is necessary for the high UV rays so don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, etc.
When you visit countries that have their rainy season, it's always good to be prepared with a compact raincoat or umbrella.
To avoid potential mosquito bites, pack an insect repellent to stay protected.
Contact Us for Booking
At Asia Highlights, we have created over 10,000+ big trips for insightful travelers, mostly for families and couples. We will be happy to personalize your private Southeast Asia tour that offers you an unforgettable memory!
You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.
In addition to the above itineraries, we also have other itineraries you may be interested in:
Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)
- Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
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Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.