Best Places to Visit in December in Asia

December is winter in many parts of Asia. In Northeast Asia, including China, Japan, and South Korea, December is characterized by cold with average temperatures ranging from around 0-10°C (32-50°F), and snowfall is common. While in parts of Southeast Asia and South Asia the weather is usually dry and sunny, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach vacations.

 

There is a list of the best places to visit in December in Asia for travelers looking to escape the cold and enjoy some sunshine.

• Sri Lanka
• Maldives
• Thailand
• Myanmar
• Vietnam
• Cambodia
• India
• Philippines
• Dubai

 

 

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island nation with a rich history and culture, as well as stunning beaches, lush jungles, and a vibrant culinary scene. December is a great time to visit, as the weather is mild and dry. 

 

Patanangalla Beach

 

Weather in December: The average temperature during the day ranges from 28-32°C (82-90°F) in coastal areas, while temperatures in the highlands are cooler at around 20°C (68°F).

 

Best Places to Visit: Kandy, Colombo, Galle, Nuwara Eliya, Yala

 

Top things to do: Visit the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, exploring the stunning landscapes, and relaxing on the Patanangalla Beach.

 

 

Maldives

The Maldives is a tropical paradise, with crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. The Maldives experiences a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons - the dry season and the wet season. December falls within the dry season. During this time, the weather is generally warm and dry with low humidity, making it a perfect time to visit the Maldives.

 

Riu Atoll Maldives

 

Weather in December: The average temperature in December is around 27°C (81°F), with warm and pleasant sea temperatures, perfect for swimming and water sports. There may be occasional rain showers, but they are usually short and sporadic.

 

Best Places to Stay: Riu Atoll Maldives

 

Top things to do: Snorkeling and diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life, relaxing on the beaches, and indulging in spa treatments and other luxurious experiences.

 

Thailand

December is one of the best months to visit Thailand, as the weather is mostly dry and pleasant across the country. December falls within the country's cool and dry season, which lasts from December to March. December is the start of the peak tourist season in Thailand, so it's important to book accommodations and activities in advance.

 

Experience deep diving

 

Weather in December: The weather is generally mild and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius (75 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). 

 

Best Places to Visit: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi

 

Top things to do: Explore the cultural and historical sites in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, as well as vibrant markets and delicious street food. Relax on the beaches, experience a variety of water activities and sports, and visit the landmark James Bond Island in Phuket.

 

 

4. Myanmar

Myanmar is a country of stunning natural beauty and ancient cultural heritage. In Myanmar, December falls within the country's dry season, it is a great time to explore Myanmar's many temples, historic sites, and natural wonders without having to worry about the heat or monsoon rains.

 

Watch the sunset and stupas of Bagan by hot air balloon

 

Weather in December: The average temperature during December ranges from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F) with low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

 

Best Places to Visit: Bagan, Inle Lake, Yangon, Mandalay

 

Top things to do: Visit the stunning Inle Lake, experiencing the local culture, and taking a hot air balloon ride over Bagan. Explore the temples of Bagan and the city of Mandalay.

 

 

5. Vietnam

December is generally considered a good time to visit Vietnam as the weather is mild and dry, making it ideal for exploring the country's bustling cities, historic sites, and stunning landscapes.

 

Hoi-an Town

 

Weather in December: The weather can vary depending on the region you visit. In the northern regions like Hanoi and Halong Bay, December is generally cool and dry, with temperatures averaging around 19-20°C (66-68°F). In the central regions like Hue and Hoi An, December is also mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 23-24°C (73-75°F). In the southern regions like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, December is warm and dry, with temperatures averaging around 27-28°C (81-82°F).

 

Best Places to Visit: Hoi An, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta

 

Top things to do: Explore the historic cities, take a cruise on Halong Bay, and sample the delicious cuisine. You can also visit the Mekong Delta and the Cu Chi Tunnels.

 

 

Cambodia 

Cambodia is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. December is a great time to visit Cambodia, as it is one of the coolest and driest months of the year. This makes it an ideal time to explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat.

 

Angkor Wat

 

Weather in December: The weather is generally mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 29°C (70°F to 84°F) and low humidity.

 

Best Places to Visit: Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville

 

Top things to do: Explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, visit the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, and relax on the beaches of Sihanoukville.

 

 

India

India is a vast and diverse country, with a rich cultural heritage and a wealth of attractions. December is a good time to visit India as the weather is comfortable and ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the country's rich culture and heritage.

 

Taj Mahal

 

Weather in December: In Northern India, including popular destinations like Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, temperatures range from around 7-22°C (45-72°F). In Southern India, including Kerala and Tamil Nadu, temperatures range from around 20-30°C (68-86°F).

 

Best Places to Visit: Agra, Delhi, Jaipur

 

Top things to do: Visit the iconic landmarks, such as Taj Mahal and the Amber Fort, explore the beautiful landscapes, and experience the local culture.

 

 

Philippines

The Philippines is a tropical paradise with over 7,000 islands to explore. In the Philippines, December marks the beginning of the dry season in the Philippines, which lasts until May. Rain showers are less frequent during this time, especially in the northern parts of the country, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

 

Palawan El-nido

 

Weather in December: In December, the average temperature in the Philippines ranges from 24-30°C (75-86°F), depending on the region.

 

Best Places to Visit: Boracay, Palawan, Manila, Cebu, and Bohol

 

Top things to do: Go island hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving. You can also explore the historic sites and sample the local cuisine.

 

 

Dubai

Dubai is a modern and cosmopolitan city that offers plenty of attractions and activities for travelers. December is a great time to visit, as the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities like visiting the various theme parks, shopping in the world-famous malls, and exploring the stunning architecture and landmarks.

 

Dubai Parachuting

 

Weather in December: The average temperature in Dubai in December ranges from 16-26°C (61-79°F), with only a small chance of rainfall.

 

Best Places to Visit: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain

 

Top things to do: Visit the iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain, and the Palm Jumeirah. Experience Dubai Parachuting. You can also enjoy indoor skiing, shopping at the Dubai Mall, and taking a desert safari.