Last updated: August 27, 2025
December in Chiang Rai, Thailand offers a delightful blend of mild temperatures and refreshing weather, making it a perfect time for exploration. With daytime highs reaching a comfortable 32°C (90°F) and nightly lows dropping to 7°C (45°F), visitors can enjoy a pleasant mix of warm sun and cool evenings. The average temperature hovers around 20°C (68°F), creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. Although precipitation is minimal, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 4 days, the humidity remains at a moderate 56%, adding a touch of freshness to the air. This ideal climate presents an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
In Chiang Rai, Thailand, December marks a transition into cooler temperatures, offering a refreshing respite from the sweltering heat of earlier months. The month kicks off with a minimum temperature dipping to 7°C (45°F), providing a crisp morning chill, while the average temperature hovers around 20°C (68°F)—perfect for exploring the city's cultural treasures. Daily highs reach up to 32°C (90°F), striking a pleasant balance for outdoor activities. As the year concludes, these milder temperatures contrast starkly with the searing highs experienced in April and May, making December an ideal time to experience Chiang Rai’s serene landscapes and vibrant local life without the sweltering heat.
In December, Chiang Rai experiences a notable shift in its precipitation patterns as the rainy season recedes. With a total rainfall of just 33 mm (1.3 in) over four days, the month signifies a transition into cooler, drier weather. This reduction in precipitation is a stark contrast to the preceding months, which are characterized by heavier rainfall, peaking in August with 382 mm (15.1 in). As the region moves away from the wetter climate, December serves as a quieter period, offering a pleasant respite that hints at the forthcoming dry season. This decline in both rainfall and rainy days reflects Chiang Rai's seasonal rhythm, making December an ideal time for outdoor exploration and enjoying the scenic landscape.
As the year draws to a close, December in Chiang Rai, Thailand, showcases a notable shift in humidity levels, settling at 56%. This marks a slight increase from November's 60%, highlighting a gradual trend of diminishing humidity through the dry months of the year, with April and March reaching their driest moments at 36% and 38%, respectively. Following the peak of the wet season in the summer months, where humidity soars to a staggering 91% in August, December offers a breath of fresh air, wrapping up the year with a more moderate, yet still considerable, atmosphere. The fluctuation throughout the year reflects Chiang Rai’s distinctive tropical climate, with a clear transition from the heavy rains of mid-year to the more temperate conditions experienced as winter approaches.
In December, Chiang Rai experiences a UV Index of 8, classified as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses, there's a noticeable trend toward increasing intensity, beginning with a UV Index of 9 in January and peaking at 14 from May through September. This pattern highlights the extreme conditions typical in the region during much of the summer. By December, although the UV levels decrease slightly, caution is still warranted, as sun exposure can lead to burns within minutes. For more detailed insights on UV conditions throughout the year, visit Chiang Rai UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As the year draws to a close, December in Chiang Rai, Thailand, brings a delightful 306 hours of sunshine, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. This month stands out with its ample sun, adding some glow to the cooling temperatures. Following the peak sunshine months of March and May, December continues to showcase significant light, albeit slightly less than the high-energy days earlier in the year. Interestingly, sunshine hours this month are a marked improvement compared to the slightly gloomy summer months of July and August, reinforcing December as a great time for travelers to bask in the beauty of Northern Thailand's landscapes. Overall, the trend reveals a comforting blend of vibrant sunshine that enhances the charm of Chiang Rai as the festive season approaches.
As December arrives in Chiang Rai, Thailand, the likelihood of sunny weather presents a delightful opportunity for outdoor activities. With a notable 78% chance of sunshine, December stands out as one of the sunniest months of the year, closely following the dry and bright preceding months of January and February. This trend indicates a shift from the less favorable weather experienced during the rainy season, which lingers until November. As the year winds down, travelers can expect pleasant and radiant days, making December an ideal time to explore the beauty of this northern Thai gem.
In Chiang Rai, Thailand, December marks the transition into shorter daylight hours, with the sun gracing the sky for about 10 hours each day. This decrease in daylight follows a gradual trend observed throughout the year, where the longest days occur in the warmer months of May to July, with an impressive 13 hours of sunlight. As the seasons shift from the intense heat of summer into the cooler months, daylight durations reduce steadily from 12 hours in March and April to 11 hours in November, culminating in December's shortest days. This cyclical pattern not only influences outdoor activities but also adds a charm to the crisp December evenings, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy the cooler climate and festive spirit.
In December, the winds in Chiang Rai, Thailand maintain a gentle demeanor, with an average speed of 1.2 m/s (3 mph). This month's wind patterns reflect a slight decline compared to the more breezy summer months, which saw a peak in June at 1.6 m/s (4 mph). While December’s winds may not be the strongest, they contribute to the region's serene winter atmosphere, complementing the cooler temperatures and crisp air. Notably, as the year winds down, the wind speeds have consistently hovered around the same gentle pace since November, fostering a tranquil environment perfect for enjoying the beautiful Thai landscape.
Weather in Chiang Rai varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Chiang Rai, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, the weather in Chiang Rai exhibits a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of around 20°C (68°F). The month sees a total of 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over 4 days, contributing to a humidity level of 56%.
In contrast, January brings slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F), an average of 20°C (69°F), and a maximum of 33°C (91°F). Precipitation increases to 39 mm (1.5 in) over the same number of days, but humidity drops to 51%. Overall, January tends to be a bit drier and slightly more comfortable than December. For more details on January weather, you can refer to Chiang Rai weather in January.
In comparing the weather of December and February, we see a noticeable increase in temperature during February. While December experiences a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) and an average high of 32°C (90°F), February's range starts at a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and peaks at a maximum of 35°C (96°F). Additionally, February is drier with only 16 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over a single day, compared to December's 33 mm (1.3 in) over four days. Humidity also decreases in February, dropping from 56% in December to 46%. For more detailed insights, visit Chiang Rai weather in February.
In December, the weather tends to be milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). This month sees around 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 4 days, combined with a humidity level of 56%. In contrast, March is significantly warmer, featuring a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and reaching highs up to 39°C (102°F), with an average temperature of 25°C (78°F). Precipitation is notably lower at 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days, accompanied by reduced humidity at 38%. For more detailed insights into March's weather, you can visit Chiang Rai weather in March.
In December, the weather in Chiang Rai is typically milder, with daytime temperatures averaging 20°C (68°F) and maximum highs reaching 32°C (90°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation at 33 mm (1.3 in) over about 4 days, combined with a humidity level of 56%. In contrast, April is notably warmer with average temperatures climbing to 27°C (80°F) and maximum highs soaring to 40°C (105°F). However, it also brings significantly more rainfall, with 171 mm (6.7 in) over approximately 13 days, and a lower humidity of 36%. For more detailed insights, you can check the Chiang Rai weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a mild 7°C (45°F) to a warm max of 32°C (90°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F) and relatively low precipitation of 33 mm across just 4 days. Humidity is moderate at 56%. In stark comparison, May experiences much hotter temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C (69°F) and a scorching maximum reaching 41°C (106°F), averaging 27°C (82°F). This month also sees significantly higher rainfall, totaling 203 mm over 19 days, accompanied by increased humidity at 63%. For more details about the weather in May, visit Chiang Rai weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, December offers a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). It experiences relatively low precipitation, with about 33 mm (1.3 in) falling over just 4 days, along with moderate humidity at 56%. In contrast, June brings significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and a maximum reaching 37°C (99°F), averaging around 27°C (81°F). The month is also characterized by heavy rainfall, totaling 277 mm (10.9 in) over 25 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 81%. For more details on weather conditions, you can visit Chiang Rai weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures generally range from a mild 7°C (45°F) at night to a warm 32°C (90°F) during the day, with an average of 20°C (68°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling just 33 mm (1.3 in) over four days, and humidity sits comfortably at 56%. In contrast, July brings significantly warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 22°C (72°F) and daytime highs soaring to 37°C (98°F), averaging 27°C (81°F). Moreover, July is characterized by heavy rainfall, accumulating a staggering 327 mm (12.9 in) over 27 days, coupled with higher humidity at 83%. For more detailed insights into the rainfall and conditions specific to this month, you can visit Chiang Rai weather in July.
In comparing the weather between December and August, it's clear that August is significantly warmer and wetter. December experiences milder temperatures, with averages around 20°C (68°F) and maximums peaking at 32°C (90°F), while humidity levels stand at a comfortable 56%. In stark contrast, August presents much higher temperatures, with averages of 27°C (80°F) and maxima soaring to 36°C (96°F), accompanied by a high humidity level of 91%. Precipitation also sees a dramatic increase in August, with an average of 382 mm (15.1 in) over 28 days, compared to just 33 mm (1.3 in) across 4 days in December. For more detailed information, you can check Chiang Rai weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, it's evident that December offers a more moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C to a maximum of 32°C, and an average of 20°C. In contrast, September experiences significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C and highs reaching 35°C, coupled with higher humidity levels at 83%. Additionally, September sees a substantial increase in precipitation, with 260 mm over 24 rainy days, compared to December's relatively dry season with only 33 mm of rain falling over just 4 days. For more details on the weather patterns during this month, you can visit Chiang Rai weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, December tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), while October features a warmer climate with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F). Additionally, December experiences significantly lower precipitation, with only 33 mm (1.3 in) over 4 days, compared to October's substantial 161 mm (6.3 in) over 19 days. Humidity levels are also higher in October at 67%, whereas December sees a more comfortable 56%. For a detailed look at October’s weather in Chiang Rai, you can visit this link: Chiang Rai weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to November, December experiences a slightly cooler range of temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), while November tends to be warmer, with a minimum of 13°C (57°F) and a maximum of 33°C (93°F). The average temperature in December is 20°C (68°F), compared to 23°C (74°F) in November. December also sees less precipitation, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 4 days, whereas November records higher precipitation levels of 48 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly lower in December at 56%, compared to 60% in November. For more details, visit Chiang Rai weather in November.
As December rolls into Chiang Rai, the weather transforms into a delightful mix of warmth and coolness, setting it apart from the other months. With average temperatures hovering around a comfortable 20°C (68°F), the days are pleasantly warm, peaking at a maximum of 32°C (90°F), while nights bring a refreshing chill that can dip to 7°C (45°F). This month witnesses a significant drop in precipitation, with only a handful of rainy days, allowing for abundant sunshine and lower humidity levels at 56%. This idyllic weather makes December an excellent time for outdoor adventures and exploring the vibrant local culture. For a deeper dive into the unique weather patterns year-round, check out Chiang Rai Climate.