December

December is a brilliant time for travel to many Asia destinations: dry, warm and celebratory.

December is high season for many destinations across Asia – and with good reason. The rains have eased, temperatures are comfortable, and reliable weather opens up a broad sweep of countries for travel.

In Vietnam, it’s a great month to pair crisp northern days in Hanoi with sunshine down south – from Ho Chi Minh City to the beaches of Con Dao or Mui Ne. Cambodia is also in its dry season, with blue skies, smooth travel and calm beach conditions along the southern coast. Over in India, the post-monsoon landscapes are lush and clear skies stretch across most regions, from Rajasthan to the backwaters of Kerala. It’s a popular time for exploring cities, wildlife spotting in central parks or relaxing on the coast. Just avoid the Himalayas – it’s snowbound and best left for spring.

Vietnam

Best for Lan Ha cruises and southern beaches

December is a great time to travel across Vietnam. In the south, dry skies and warm temperatures (28–32 °C) make it ideal for beach breaks and exploring Ho Chi Minh City. Up north, cooler, crisp days (12–20 °C) are well-suited to wandering Hanoi’s old streets or taking in the misty views of Lan Ha and Halong Bay by boat. The central coast is more mixed – there’s still a chance of rain early in the month, but conditions usually settle as December progresses. Larger cities get into the Christmas spirit with lights, markets and trees strapped to mopeds. Just be aware that prices climb from mid-month and pack layers for cool evenings.

Cambodia

Best for beaches, hiking and cycling

Dry, sunny days make December a great time to explore Cambodia’s cities, countryside and coast. You’ll find clear skies and comfortable temperatures across Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and the beaches – ideal for temple visits, river trips or quiet afternoons by the sea. Cooler mornings in the eastern highlands are perfect for hiking or cycling, especially in Mondulkiri and Kratie. Christmas isn't widely celebrated, but you'll spot decorations in hotels and restaurants in main cities.

Laos

Best for linking up north to south

December is one of the most dependable months to travel in Laos. In the north, cool crisp air (12–22 °C) makes temple visits and hill town walks especially comfortable. Further south and in the central region, warm dry days (20–30 °C) and steady river levels allow for relaxed boat journeys and countryside exploration. With stable weather across the country, it’s an ideal month to combine north, south and central regions into one itinerary – perhaps linking up regions by boat.

Tourist numbers tend to rise in early December and highland nights may feel cold – so pack a few layers.

If you’re a film lover, I highly recommend Luang Prabang in December. The Blue Chair Film Festival turns this historic town into an open-air cinema, with free screenings, Q&As and panel talks right in the heart of the old quarter. It’s a relaxed, intimate way to experience Southeast Asian cinema – all under the stars."

India

Best for the Tamil Nadu temples and Keralan beaches

December is a great time to experience the full range of India’s landscapes and traditions. From wandering the palaces of Rajasthan and exploring the temples of Tamil Nadu to unwinding on Kerala’s beaches or cruising the backwaters, the weather is reliably dry and travel is straightforward. The far north – including Ladakh and the Himalayas – is deep into winter and best skipped now, but most of the country is comfortable and accessible. With Christmas and New Year approaching, it’s smart to book ahead as places fill up fast.

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