written by
Joanne Owen
updated 07.12.2023
Thinking of taking a break in Chiang Mai in December? Good news — it’s one of the best months to visit this treasure of northern Thailand, not least if you want to combine festivals and cultural activities with exploring the great outdoors.
Born in Vietnam and majoring in English language, I've been inspired to explore the world's diverse beauty. My studies, coupled with an open-minded approach, led me and my classmates to travel extensively, discovering many enchanting places in Southeast Asia. I've been in the travel industry for over 10 years and my expertise spans across Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and neighboring countries offering a diverse range of experiences.
From the breathtaking Ha Long Bay and majestic Angkor Wat to the pristine beaches of Indonesia, we connect you with both renowned landmarks and hidden treasures known only to locals.
I am Jenny, a passionate traveler, and explorer, what I have chosen for my profession. I have extensively traveled to different corners of Vietnam, Thailand, and the Indochina region and have used my experience and knowledge to help my travelers see the beauty of these destinations for already 11 years. My other passion is performing arts, so combining my travel experience and immersion in the local cultural scene I always can advise you on something special. As a tour operator, we focus on local experience and sustainable travel building a deeper connection between our travelers and the place they visit.
With a big passion, I work as a trip designer for over 10 years. The company I worked for has over 20 years of expertise in private and customized tours. We have designed tailor- made Southeast Asia trips for numerals travelers around the world, and over 98.5% of our clients praise highly of our service. With in-destination knowledge and years of planning experience, I am intimately familiar with Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos
and Myanmar. Whether you are visiting these countries for the first time, or you have been there before and want to do something different, I can help to make it into reality.
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Having grown up in South Africa exploring the wildlife, mountains and coast, I was inspired to travel and from a young age, became fascinated with South-East Asia. After numerous trips, I made my passion my profession and now 14 years later I am still working for a local Travel company in Southeast Asia and can’t imagine a better place for me. Immersing in the local culture, experiencing the beauty of Asia, and sharing these experiences with others to enjoy authentic and unforgettable holidays is what I love most, so together let’s create a trip of a lifetime for you!
As a passionate travel specialist, I am committed to bringing this passion across and sharing it with those who want to discover our beautiful Cambodia and get to know our culture, history, and people. I have worked many years in the travel industry and have a wealth of knowledge and experience of different cultures and working practices. I really enjoy meeting travelers from other countries to learn from and share experiences. I firmly believe that the best way to explore a country and its landscape, culture, and people is to travel with a local insider. My mission is to immerse travelers in cultural experiences that have a positive impact on local communities.
I grew up in Vietnam and am currently based in Hanoi. After graduating with a degree in Hotel Management, I started my career in the industry in a large hotel in Ho-Chi-Minh-City. After a while, I realized that my real passion lies in sharing my knowledge about our culture, cuisine and communication with other travelers. I’m living my dream job now, being able to share our unique culture with the world.
Our tour operator is headquartered in Vietnam but we have operations all over Southeast Asia with our own offices. To bundle communications, we have our local expert based in Vietnam, handling all local communications with the regional offices to provide you with your multi-country or single-country itineraries. This way we ensure you receive excellent service but with real-time local information directly from the regional offices. No matter if you’re planning a romantic getaway in Thailand, an active journey across Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam or a river cruise in Myanmar - we’re ready to customize your ideal trip and bring it to life.
Our tours are best suited to those wanting to explore Southeast Asia in style and luxury.
Falling within the cooler season, the weather in Chiang Mai in December is very pleasant — still warm and mainly dry. The days are usually sunny with clear skies, and the humidity levels are relatively low.
The average day temperature ranges from 15°C to 27°C (59°F - 81°F). However, during the evenings and early mornings, temperatures can drop further, requiring some light layers.
December is generally considered the dry season in Thailand. With a monthly average of 20mm, Chiang Mai experiences one of its lowest quotas of rain in December.
Considering visiting Chiang Mai in December? Browse our inspirational Thailand itineraries and start planning your perfect trip.
The weather in Chiang Mai in December is ideal for exploring Inthanon temple and its scenic environs © Shutterstock
Given the cooler temperatures — though it remains pleasantly warm — and low rainfall, December a great time to visit Chiang Mai.
That’s especially the case if you’re hoping to take a trip that takes in Chiang Mai’s Sustainable Trails, or fancy enjoying a Chiang Mai Safari.
In short, if outdoor adventuring is on your mind, you’ll definitely want to consider taking a trip to Chiang Mai in December.
Not sure when you want to go? Read up on the best time to go to Thailand.
Elephants in Chiang Mai's Elephant Nature Park, Thailand © Shutterstock
The only downside of visiting Chiang Mai in December comes courtesy of the fact that its clement weather draws bigger crowds than the preceding months.
And high season can mean having to pay higher prices for higher-end accommodation than you would during the shoulder and low seasons.
That said, if you don’t have a problem with crowds, and you book well ahead, neither of these factors will be an issue.
In addition, if you’re on a tighter budget, Chiang Mai has plenty of cheaper places to stay and eat. So, in all likelihood, you’ll still find an option to suit your needs.
Set on taking a trip this winter? Discover discover more of the best places to visit in December
Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai, Thailand. © Shutterstock
Hoping for a December trip delivers tonnes of cultural experiences along with unforgettable outdoor adventures? You’ll find stacks of inspiration in our customisable Chiang Mai itineraries.
As with all Rough Guides trips, they’re fully customisable, with a Thailand travel expert on hand to take the hassle out of planning and booking. Here we highlight just a few of them.
Or discover more Thailand itineraries.
Traditional Hmong hill tribe dwelling, Chiang Mai province, Thailand © Shutterstock
As you prepare for your trip to Chiang Mai, remember a few important travel tips for visiting Thailand.
Given the average temperatures in Chiang Mai in December, pack light, cool clothing, but also come prepared with warmer layers.
While rainfall is low, you might still want to bring a light waterproof jacket, just to be on the safe side when you’re on a long hike, for example.
You’ll also want to pack a long-sleeved top in your rucksack — the mountains can be on the cool side, especially if you set off on trek early in the morning.
When visiting temples, be sure to adhere to local etiquette in how you dress and behave. This means shorts and short skirts are out, along with any skimpy clothing, Instead, wear trousers or a long skirt and keep your shoulders covered.
Before entering temples, remove your shoes, hat and sunglasses. Once inside, never touch or point at a Buddha image or monk. In addition, you should never turn your back on a Buddha image.
Finally, be mindful that temples are peaceful places of meditation. So, switch your phone to silent and keep your voice soft.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, Chiang Mai, Thailand © Shutterstock
Also known as King Bhumibol Memorial Day as it’s held on the late king’s birthday, 5th December is a national holiday in Thailand.
In Chiang Mai, Buddhist monks receive alms, and temples play host to special ceremonies honouring the late king.
Come evening, locals light candles and lay flowers at shrines and temples dedicated to King Bhumibol.
Commemorating Thailand’s adoption of its constitution in 1932, Constitution Day (Wan Ratchaphithi) sees celebrations across the country.
In Chiang Mai, expect to see an exuberant street parade and traditional performances as people come together to celebrate a significant moment in Thailand’s political history.
While Christmas is a pretty lowkey affair in Chiang Mai, New Year’s Eve sees it energised by big parties and dance performances, with a firework display kicking off on the stroke of midnight.
In addition, locals light rice paper lanterns and release them into the sky — it’s believed they carry away bad luck.
The food in Chiang Mai is not to be missed © Shutterstock
Inspired? Find out more in our guide to the best things to do in Chiang Mai.
Browse our customisable Thailand itineraries, and contact our Thailand local experts to save yourself the hassle of planning.
Prefer to do it on your own? Get yourself a copy of The Rough Guide to Thailand and make sure to read all our tips for backpacking Thailand.
written by
Joanne Owen
updated 07.12.2023
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