Joanna James
The miscellany of things that await you here in Chiang Mai in December is mind-boggling. With festivities, culture, and landscapes, there’s a lot to enjoy. Here’s how to explore Chiang Mai in December.
Chiang Mai is enchanting all year round, but come December, festivities come into play, painting every corner of the city with the hallmarks of Thai heritage. Held on the 5th of December, King Bhumibol’s Birthday is a public holiday in Thailand. Although the king passed in 2016, the country still celebrates his birthday. Get here on the 10th of December, and you can witness Constitution Day unfold. The entire country comes together in celebration, with parades and various performances taking place in the streets of Chiang Mai.
Although Christmas is not widely celebrated in Chiang Mai, you’ll still find seasonal cheer, especially at tourist hotels and restaurants. New Year’s Eve celebrations aren’t as lively as they are in other destinations, but Chiang Mai's nightlife turns an exciting leaf on New Year’s Eve. If you’re planning to visit Chiang Mai for Christmas and stay on until the New Year, consider staying at a place like Travelodge Nimman. Keep in mind that checking into the best place to stay in Chiang Mai is a bit of a challenge in December due to high demand, so save yourself the headache by making an early booking.
This is where you’ll find the highest peak in Thailand. Even though Doi Inthanon National Park is not exactly in Chiang Mai, the distance of 60 kilometres means that it’s often part of the Chiang Mai itinerary. The untouched nature of the park, streaked with hiking trails, will have you spending hours here. The highest peak, at 2,565 metres above sea level, features several hiking trails that will make your inner thrill-seeker come out and play. Getting to the top requires a bit of effort, which is nothing to an adventurer, but once you get to the top, you’ll be awestruck by the panoramic views. The cooler, misty weather of December makes the visit even more enchanting.
Your trip to Chiang Mai is not nearly complete until you visit the temples. Thai temples are must-visits no matter where you are in Thailand. Plus, these temples host various cultural festivals during December. Wat Chiang Man is an absolute must-visit. Going back to the 13th century, it’s the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. Another temple to visit is Wat Saen Fang. Located near the Old Town, the temple has 500 years of history.
Also known as the Sticky Waterfall, Bua Thong Waterfall is one of the best places to visit during December. It’s among the key attractions due to its limestone formations. These natural rocks allow you to get to the top of the waterfall without slipping. The waterfall is no more than 50 kilometres from Chiang Mai, so you must visit. Climbing up the waterfall while the water rushes past you, with the tight grip of the rough texture of the limestone, makes for a thrilling experience. To enjoy the climb, you don’t need any prior experience. The natural pools you encounter along the way will have you jumping in for a refreshing swim at any time of the day.
Thai spa treatments are famed for their therapeutic benefits, so avail yourself of these benefits during your time in Chiang Mai. It’s not just a mere massage. The use of natural fragrant ingredients and the expertise of the therapist will have you slip into a blissful sleep and make you forget the cares of the world for a minute.
Can’t get enough of thrill and adventure? Then white water rafting is right up your alley! The city’s location close to the Mae Taeng River means there are plenty of opportunities for a ride down the river. With a range of rapids, white water rafting in Chiang Mai is suitable for both experienced rafters and beginners.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
