Last Updated on 2025 年 12 月 2 日 by 総合編集組
Chiang Mai in December 2025: The Ultimate Month-by-Month Guide – Weather, Festivals, Crowds & Pro Tips
December is unanimously considered the BEST time to visit Chiang Mai. Cool weather, almost no rain, blooming festivals, and stunning mountain views make it the peak season – but also the most crowded and expensive. This 2025 updated guide reveals how to enjoy perfect 28°C days while avoiding 90% of the crowds.
Perfect Dry Season Weather You’ll Fall in Love With Average daytime temperature: 28–30°C (82°F) – perfect for T-shirts. Night/low: 14–18°C (61°F) – you’ll need a light jacket for night markets and morning alms-giving. Rain: Only 1–2 rainy days all month (total rainfall <12mm). UV Index: 8 (VERY HIGH) – sunscreen is mandatory even when it feels cool. High mountains (Doi Inthanon): Can drop to 8–12°C at dawn – bring proper warm layers!
The Smartest Travel Window: December 11–23 Avoid two massive crowd waves: • Early December: Thai public holidays (Dec 5 Father’s Day + Dec 10 Constitution Day) • Dec 24–Jan 1: Christmas & New Year international rush Mid-December gives you festive decorations, cool weather, and 30–40% cheaper hotels.
Where to Stay: Old City Wins for First-Timers Old City (inside the moat): Walk to temples, Sunday Walking Street, cafés – peaceful Lanna vibe. Nimman (Nimmanhaemin Road): Trendy cafés, bars, Maya mall – great for digital nomads, but you’ll commute daily to sights. Verdict: Stay in Old City, Grab to Nimman only when you want nightlife (15 min, <150 THB).
Getting Around Chiang Mai Safely (2025 Updated)
- Red songthaews: 30–40 THB/person – cheapest for short hops
- Grab/Bolt: Fixed price, trackable, safest at night
- Tuk-tuks: Fun for short tourist rides (always negotiate first)
- Private songthaew charter (full day): 1,200–1,800 THB – best for families or Doi Suthep + Doi Inthanon trips
- Motorbike rental: STRONGLY NOT RECOMMENDED – Thailand ranks 2nd globally for road deaths, insurance void without IDP.
Must-Visit Temples & Pro Photography Tips Visit major temples (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh) AFTER 5 PM – fewer tour groups, golden hour + night illumination = stunning photos.
Doi Inthanon National Park – December is Prime Time Thailand’s highest peak (2,565m) with 20°C trails, Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, waterfalls, and possible Thai cherry blossoms. Go early with a private driver.
Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries Only Never ride, bathe, or watch shows. Choose true sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park (ENP) – observe rescued elephants roaming freely.
December-Only Festivals & New Year Options
- Chiang Mai CAD Countdown (Dec 31): Paid, organized, MASSIVE sky lantern release + fireworks (book early!)
- Tha Phae Gate: Free public countdown – crazy crowds but amazing energy
- Royal Park Rajapruek: Beautiful light installations, sometimes K-pop guests
Lanna Food You Cannot Miss
- Khao Soi – creamy coconut curry noodle soup with crispy noodles
- Sai Oua – herbal northern sausage
- Khao Kha Moo – slow-braised pork leg rice (try Cowboy Hat Lady!)
- Larb Khua – intense spicy minced meat salad (for brave eaters only) Pro tip: Join “A Chef’s Tour” night food tour – 15+ tastings in 4 hours.
Safety & Insurance Reminder Chiang Mai is very safe for tourists, but road accidents are the #1 risk. Buy comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation – especially if you ignore the motorbike warning.
Final Pro Tips for December 2025
- Book flights & hotels 4–6 months in advance
- Pack layers + serious sunscreen
- Use Grab instead of renting a scooter
- Visit temples at night
- Choose ethical elephant experiences
- Mid-December = perfect balance of weather and manageable crowds
See you under the Chiang Mai winter sky!
