Looking for the best places to visit in December outside India to escape winter cold or embrace festive celebrations? December offers unique travel opportunities with some destinations experiencing their finest weather while others provide magical winter experiences and holiday celebrations.
This expertly curated guide showcases 12 exceptional destinations that excel during December conditions. From Southeast Asia’s perfect dry season to the Southern Hemisphere’s summer beginning, December provides diverse opportunities for both tropical escapes and winter wonderland experiences.
Based on comprehensive climate analysis, festive season research, and seasonal tourism patterns, this guide helps you discover destinations where December’s unique characteristics create optimal travel conditions for various preferences, from beach relaxation to cultural exploration.
Why December Offers Unique Travel Opportunities
December presents distinctive travel advantages with destinations experiencing either perfect tropical weather or magical winter atmospheres. Seasonal diversity allows travelers to choose between warm tropical paradises and enchanting winter destinations based on personal preferences.
Tropical Advantages: December marks the beginning of the dry season in Southeast Asia with temperatures 24-32°C (75-90°F), minimal rainfall, and perfect conditions for beach activities, island hopping, and water sports.
Winter Magic: December offers authentic winter experiences in Northern Hemisphere destinations with festive markets, snow-covered landscapes, and unique cultural celebrations that create magical holiday atmospheres.
Seasonal Escape: December provides perfect timing to escape monsoon aftermath in India for either tropical warmth or winter wonderland experiences, offering complete climate change and diverse cultural immersion.
Top 12 Best Places to Visit in December Outside India
1. Philippines – Perfect Island Paradise
The Philippines in December enjoys ideal tropical weather with temperatures 26-32°C (79-90°F), minimal rainfall, and perfect conditions for island hopping and water activities across over 7,000 islands.
Why December is Ideal: Peak dry season with minimal typhoon activity, perfect temperatures for beach activities, excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling, and comfortable humidity levels for exploration.
Must-Do Activities: Island hop through Palawan’s pristine beaches, explore Boracay’s white sand paradise, discover Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, and dive in Apo Island’s marine sanctuary.
Budget Range: $40-70 per day including accommodation, meals, and island transport.
Pro Tip: Book domestic flights early as December is peak season, and consider staying on less crowded islands for authentic Filipino experiences.
2. Myanmar – Golden Season Peak
Myanmar in December experiences its finest weather with temperatures 20-30°C (68-86°F), crystal-clear skies, and perfect conditions for exploring temples, cultural sites, and river cruises.
Why December is Ideal: Peak cool, dry season with optimal temperatures, excellent visibility for temple photography, perfect river cruise conditions, and comfortable weather for extensive exploration.
Must-Do Activities: Explore Bagan’s thousands of ancient temples, cruise the Irrawaddy River, visit Yangon’s golden pagodas, and trek in Shan State mountains.
Budget Range: $45-75 per day including accommodation, meals, and guided tours.
Pro Tip: Book hot air balloon rides over Bagan early, and respect photography restrictions at religious sites while experiencing authentic Buddhist culture.
3. Laos – Perfect Cultural Weather
Laos in December offers ideal conditions with temperatures 18-28°C (64-82°F), comfortable weather for cultural exploration, and perfect conditions for experiencing laid-back Lao culture and natural beauty.
Why December is Ideal: Perfect cool, dry weather, ideal temperatures for temple visits and cultural activities, comfortable conditions for Mekong River activities, and clear skies for photography.
Must-Do Activities: Explore Luang Prabang’s UNESCO heritage sites, experience traditional alms ceremony, discover Vang Vieng’s karst landscapes, and cruise the Mekong River.
Budget Range: $30-55 per day including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Pro Tip: Participate respectfully in alms ceremony in Luang Prabang, and consider slow boat journeys for authentic Mekong River experiences.
4. Vietnam – Ideal North-South Weather
Vietnam in December provides excellent weather for comprehensive exploration with temperatures 15-28°C (59-82°F) varying by region, perfect conditions for both northern mountains and southern beaches.
Why December is Ideal: Ideal weather throughout the country, perfect temperatures for diverse activities, dry conditions excellent for outdoor exploration, and comfortable climate for extensive travel.
Must-Do Activities: Cruise Ha Long Bay with clear skies, explore Hanoi’s historic quarters, discover Ho Chi Minh City’s energy, and relax on southern beaches.
Budget Range: $35-65 per day including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Pro Tip: Pack layers for northern regions while enjoying beach weather in the south, and book Ha Long Bay cruises for optimal weather conditions.
5. Cambodia – Perfect Temple Season
Cambodia in December offers ideal temple exploration weather with temperatures 22-30°C (72-86°F), dry conditions, and comfortable weather for extensive Angkor complex exploration.
Why December is Ideal: Perfect dry season with minimal rainfall, ideal temperatures for extensive temple walking, excellent photography conditions with clear skies, and comfortable humidity levels.
Must-Do Activities: Explore magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, discover Siem Reap’s cultural heritage, visit floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, and experience Khmer traditional arts.
Budget Range: $40-70 per day including accommodation, meals, and temple passes.
Pro Tip: Purchase multi-day Angkor passes for comprehensive exploration, and start temple visits early morning for best lighting and fewer crowds.
6. Thailand – Peak Cool Season
Thailand in December experiences its coolest, most comfortable weather with temperatures 20-30°C (68-86°F), perfect conditions for both cultural exploration and beach relaxation throughout the country.
Why December is Ideal: Peak cool, dry season with most comfortable temperatures, perfect beach weather with calm seas, ideal conditions for temple visits, and excellent weather for outdoor markets.
Must-Do Activities: Explore Bangkok’s temples and floating markets, experience northern culture in Chiang Mai, relax on pristine southern beaches, and enjoy Thai island paradise.
Budget Range: $40-75 per day including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Pro Tip: Book beach accommodations early as December is peak season, and experience both cultural sites and beaches for diverse Thai experiences.
7. Indonesia – Dry Season Excellence
Indonesia in December enjoys excellent dry season conditions with temperatures 24-32°C (75-90°F), minimal rainfall, and perfect weather for exploring diverse islands and cultural sites.
Why December is Ideal: Excellent dry season with minimal rainfall, perfect temperatures for outdoor activities, ideal conditions for island hopping, and excellent visibility for water activities.
Must-Do Activities: Explore Bali’s cultural heritage and beaches, trek volcanoes with clear conditions, discover Yogyakarta’s royal culture, and experience diverse Indonesian islands.
Budget Range: $35-65 per day including accommodation, meals, and transport.
Pro Tip: Venture beyond Bali to discover authentic Indonesian culture in less touristy islands, and book volcano treks for clear summit views.
8. Australia – Summer Season Beginning
Australia in December welcomes summer with temperatures 20-35°C (68-95°F), perfect beach weather, and ideal conditions for exploring cities, coasts, and unique wildlife experiences.
Why December is Ideal: Beginning of summer season with warming weather, perfect beach and outdoor conditions, excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, and festive holiday atmosphere.
Must-Do Activities: Explore Sydney’s harbour and iconic landmarks, discover Melbourne’s cultural scene, experience Great Barrier Reef snorkelling, and encounter unique Australian wildlife.
Budget Range: $80-140 per day including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Pro Tip: Book accommodations early for holiday season, and consider domestic flights for covering vast distances efficiently between major attractions.
9. New Zealand – Summer Adventure Season
New Zealand in December begins its peak adventure season with temperatures 15-25°C (59-77°F), perfect conditions for outdoor activities, and stunning landscapes ideal for exploration.
Why December is Ideal: Beginning of adventure season with improving weather, perfect conditions for hiking and outdoor sports, long daylight hours for extended activities, and blooming landscapes.
Must-Do Activities: Explore Milford Sound’s dramatic fiords, experience Queenstown’s adventure activities, discover Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, and enjoy hobbiton movie set tours.
Budget Range: $75-130 per day including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Pro Tip: Book adventure activities early for peak season, and rent a campervan for ultimate flexibility exploring both North and South Islands.
10. Sri Lanka – Perfect Island Weather
Sri Lanka in December offers excellent weather conditions with temperatures 24-30°C (75-86°F), ideal for exploring both cultural sites and beautiful coastlines with minimal rainfall.
Why December is Ideal: Perfect weather for both hill country and coastal regions, ideal conditions for wildlife viewing, comfortable temperatures for cultural exploration, and excellent beach weather.
Must-Do Activities: Explore ancient Sigiriya rock fortress, safari in Yala National Park, discover Kandy’s cultural heritage, and relax on pristine southern beaches.
Budget Range: $35-60 per day including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Pro Tip: Book safari accommodations early for best wildlife viewing opportunities, and experience both cultural triangle and coastal regions for diverse experiences.
11. Nepal – Crystal Clear Mountain Views
Nepal in December offers spectacular mountain visibility with temperatures 5-20°C (41-68°F) in valleys, crystal-clear skies, and perfect conditions for mountain viewing and lower-altitude trekking.
Why December is Ideal: Crystal-clear mountain views with excellent visibility, perfect weather for Kathmandu valley exploration, comfortable conditions for shorter treks, and stunning Himalayan photography opportunities.
Must-Do Activities: Enjoy spectacular Himalayan views from Kathmandu valley, explore UNESCO heritage sites, experience traditional festivals, and take mountain flights for panoramic views.
Budget Range: $25-50 per day including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Pro Tip: Book early morning mountain flights for clearest Himalayan views, and pack warm layers for cold mornings and evenings.
12. Egypt – Ideal Archaeological Season
Egypt in December provides perfect conditions for exploring ancient monuments with temperatures 15-25°C (59-77°F), comfortable weather for extensive site exploration, and ideal conditions for Nile cruises.
Why December is Ideal: Perfect temperatures for archaeological site exploration, ideal weather for Nile River cruises, comfortable conditions for desert excursions, and excellent photography lighting.
Must-Do Activities: Explore Giza pyramids and Great Sphinx, cruise the Nile from Luxor to Aswan, visit Valley of Kings and Queens, and discover Abu Simbel’s magnificent temples.
Budget Range: $50-85 per day including accommodation, meals, and guided tours.
Pro Tip: Book Nile cruises with heating for comfortable evenings, and start archaeological site visits mid-morning for optimal temperatures and lighting.
Weather Strategies for December Travel
December weather requires strategic destination selection based on desired climate experiences and activity preferences. Climate diversity allows choosing between tropical paradise and winter wonderland experiences.
Tropical Destinations Climate:
- Southeast Asia: 24-32°C (75-90°F) with dry season perfection
- Southern Hemisphere: 20-35°C (68-95°F) with summer beginning
- Island Paradises: 26-32°C (79-90°F) with minimal rainfall
- Cultural Tropics: 18-30°C (64-86°F) with comfortable exploration weather
Winter Destinations Climate:
- Mountain Regions: 5-20°C (41-68°F) with crystal-clear visibility
- Cultural Heritage Sites: 15-25°C (59-77°F) with perfect exploration weather
- Desert Regions: 10-25°C (50-77°F) with comfortable day temperatures
Activity-Based Selection:
- Beach Paradise: Choose Southeast Asian islands for perfect tropical conditions
- Cultural Immersion: Select mainland destinations with comfortable exploration weather
- Adventure Activities: Consider Southern Hemisphere for summer adventure season
- Mountain Views: Choose Himalayan regions for crystal-clear visibility
Budget Planning for December Destinations
December travel costs vary significantly between peak tropical destinations and off-season winter locations. Strategic budgeting becomes essential as some destinations experience peak season pricing while others offer excellent value.
Seasonal Pricing Patterns:
- Peak Tropical Season: 25-40% higher costs due to dry season popularity
- Southern Hemisphere Summer: Increasing costs as summer season begins
- Winter Destinations: Variable pricing based on holiday season timing
- Cultural Destinations: Moderate pricing with excellent weather value
Regional Budget Analysis:
- Southeast Asia: $30-75 per day (excellent value despite peak season)
- Southern Hemisphere: $75-140 per day (higher costs for summer season)
- Cultural Heritage: $35-85 per day (moderate costs with perfect weather)
- Mountain Regions: $25-60 per day (exceptional value with clear conditions)
Cost Optimization Strategies:
- Book accommodations 3-4 months in advance for peak tropical destinations
- Consider shoulder areas near popular destinations for better value
- Use local transportation and accommodation for authentic experiences
- Plan activities around local pricing rather than tourist packages
Cultural and Festive Considerations
December coincides with various cultural celebrations, harvest festivals, and holiday seasons that can enhance travel experiences while requiring advance planning and cultural sensitivity.
Cultural Highlights:
- Buddhist Celebrations: Traditional ceremonies in Buddhist countries
- Harvest Festivals: Local celebrations in agricultural regions
- Holiday Seasons: Festive atmospheres in various cultural contexts
- New Year Preparations: Traditional celebrations leading to new year
Cultural Immersion Opportunities:
- Participate respectfully in local celebrations and ceremonies
- Experience traditional foods and seasonal specialties
- Engage with communities during festive seasons
- Support local artisans during craft production seasons
Planning Considerations:
- Research local holidays and celebration dates
- Respect religious and cultural customs during ceremonies
- Book accommodations early during festival periods
- Learn basic cultural greetings and respectful behaviors
Health and Safety for December Travel
December travel across diverse climates requires comprehensive health preparation and safety planning, especially when transitioning between different climate zones and altitudes.
Health Preparation:
- Tropical Destinations: Consider malaria prevention and water purification
- High Altitude: Plan acclimatization for mountain destinations
- Climate Transition: Prepare for significant temperature changes
- Seasonal Illnesses: Take precautions for different seasonal health risks
Safety Considerations:
- Weather Variability: Pack appropriate clothing for climate diversity
- Tourist Seasons: Be aware of crowded conditions in peak destinations
- Transportation: Plan for reliable transport during peak seasons
- Emergency Preparation: Ensure comprehensive travel insurance coverage
Travel Insurance Essentials:
- Medical coverage for diverse climate destinations
- Activity coverage for adventure destinations
- Trip interruption protection for weather-related issues
- Emergency evacuation coverage for remote destinations
Transportation and Accessibility
December transportation requires early planning due to peak season demands in tropical destinations and holiday travel in other regions.
Transportation Planning:
- International Flights: Book 3-4 months in advance for peak destinations
- Domestic Transport: Reserve internal flights and transportation early
- Ground Transport: Research local transportation during peak seasons
- Multi-Destination Travel: Plan efficient routing for diverse climates
Accessibility Considerations:
- Peak Season Crowds: Plan for increased tourist numbers in popular destinations
- Weather Conditions: Consider weather impact on transportation schedules
- Holiday Periods: Account for local holiday impacts on services
- Remote Areas: Ensure reliable access to off-the-beaten-path destinations
Photography and Documentation
December offers exceptional photography opportunities with diverse lighting conditions, clear weather in many destinations, and unique seasonal celebrations.
Photography Opportunities:
- Clear Weather: Crystal-clear mountain views and tropical perfection
- Cultural Events: Festive celebrations and traditional ceremonies
- Seasonal Beauty: Tropical paradise and winter landscapes
- Wildlife Activity: Active wildlife in comfortable weather conditions
Equipment Considerations:
- Climate Diversity: Protect equipment from humidity and temperature changes
- Lighting Conditions: Prepare for various lighting scenarios
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respect photography restrictions at religious sites
- Storage Solutions: Ensure adequate storage for extended photography sessions
Conclusion
December presents extraordinary opportunities to discover the best places to visit in December outside India through strategic selection of destinations that align with personal climate preferences and activity interests. From tropical paradise to cultural immersion, December offers diverse exceptional experiences.
The key to successful December travel lies in understanding the seasonal advantages of different regions and matching them with your desired experiences. Whether seeking warm tropical beaches, comfortable cultural exploration, or clear mountain views, December provides optimal conditions in carefully selected destinations.
Begin planning your December adventure by choosing destinations that maximize the season’s unique advantages of either tropical perfection or comfortable exploration weather. The diverse opportunities available in December ensure exceptional travel experiences that provide the perfect escape from winter while creating lasting memories through authentic cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Explore more seasonal escapes in our full guide on the best places to visit in every month at LocaleBazar.