December is arguably the best time to visit Laos and experience one of Southeast Asia’s best destinations. With pleasant cool, dry weather and stunning scenery, there are loads of events to attend to get even more of a taste of the country’s culture. Adventure seekers can trek to waterfall lagoons in Luang Prabang, go mountain climbing in Vang Vieng or hit up tranquil retreats in the south. Laos in December is the perfect time to visit this truly peaceful country.
Laos weather in December
Laos weather in December
December is the dry season, which is great year for tourism opportunities. The temperatures are gorgeous, 16 to 28 degrees, with mornings and evenings in the north, such as Luang Prabang, somewhat cool. The north, such as Luang Prabang, Central areas such as Vientiane are warmer and the south, while Pakse and Si Phan Don will be sunny, even somewhat hot. With no more heavy rains, visiting Laos in December is easy, and the natural landscape is also at its most brilliant of the year.
Where to visit Laos in December?
Phongsali
As the northernmost province, Phongsali is the northernmost province of Laos with a cool climate all year round, sometimes with fog in the early morning of December. This is the perfect destination for tourists who love trekking through primeval forests, exploring remote villages and enjoying the famous Phongsali green tea which is one of the highlights when heading North to visit Laos in December.
Muang La
Muang La is a district located in Oudomxay province, known for its natural hot mineral springs which is perfect for taking a soak in the cooler months of December. In addition, you can see the Khmu and Hmong villages and their uniqueness cultural life typical of the mountainous areas of Northern Laos.
Muang La – Laos
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Luang Prabang
This UNESCO city is at its most beautiful in December. Visitors can join the morning alms round, visit Wat Xieng Thong and the emerald Kuang Si waterfall, a dry season sight. The cool air makes Luang Prabang even more magical.
Wat Xieng Thong
Vang Vieng
The cool weather makes the outdoor activities in Vang Vieng like kayaking on the Nam Song River, hot air ballooning or trekking through caves and limestone mountains wonderful without thinking about the heat. Adventure lovers often say that Laos in December is perfect for outdoor exploration.
Hot air balloon adventures -Vang Vieng
Vientiane
Vientiane has a blend of ancient and modern. Don’t miss the golden tower Pha That Luang, or stroll along the Mekong River night market and enjoy the Patuxai Triumphal Archtling in December evening. When I visited during December, I found mornings less crowded which is an ideal time for photography and a more serene atmosphere.
Patuxai Triumphal Arch
>>> Discover the charm of Vientiane, from its serene riversides vibes to its historic temples on Vientiane Classic Tour 3 Days
Southern Laos
The pace of life is much slower in Southern Laos, making an ideal place for an end-of-the-year holiday. Visitors can see the Khone Phapheng, one of the largest waterfalls in Southeast Asia, or take a boat ride around Si Phan Don, which has 4,000 islands, and spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. This region shows why December is among the best time to visit Laos.
Khone Falls
Laos Festivals and Events in December
Festivals and cultural celebrations make Laos in December particularly exciting, from National Day parades in Vientiane to traditional Buddhist ceremonies.
Lao National Day
Lao National Day
If you’re in Laos in early December, you are lucky because of Lao National Day on December 2. This day marks an important event in 1975 when the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party announced the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, ended the monarchy and opened a new chapter in the history of Laos.
On this day, the whole of Laos will be bustling to celebrate, but, to enjoy it to the fullest, head to the capital Vientiane, which is the center of the biggest activities – a must-see if you’re visiting Laos in December. You will witness the parade of the army, students and social groups on a large scale; see the streets of Laos decorated with the national flag flying, countless banners and flowers; enjoy traditional art performances and join the locals gathering to eat, sing, organize cultural and sports activities to celebrate.
That Luang Festival
The That Luang Festival takes place once a year on the full moon day of the 12th lunar month of the Buddhist calendar, normally after the rainy season (the time will depend somewhat on the year, but usually between the end of November and beginning of December). The That Luang Festival is considered the largest Buddhist festival in Laos. The festival runs for about a week; however, the main Buddhist rituals can typically only take place at the most for 2 days.
During this time, Lao people will make a pilgrimage to the golden stupa Pha That Luang – the largest and most beautiful stupa, a place where the solidarity of Lao ethnic groups converges, to offer flowers, candles and chant sutras. During these festivals, there are also many attractive entertainment games as well as cultural performances with folk songs and dances imbued with traditional Lao culture, creating a joyful and exciting atmosphere.
That Luang Festival
Hmong New Year
Every December, the rich and busy spirit of the Hmong New Year fills up the northern provinces of Laos. This time of year is not just for the Hmong to celebrate and give thanks for the harvest. It is also about family reunions and traditional cultural performances, and folk games. You will see colorful brocade costumes, take part in the Pao throwing game – a unique cultural feature that helps young people communicate, and participate in traditional music and dances. All of this while eating delicious food.
I once joined locals in their ball-tossing game, and even without knowing the language, it became one of the most memorable cultural exchanges of my trip. This is a rare opportunity to deeply feel the cultural heritage of one of the most representative ethnic communities in Laos.
Hmong New Year
That Ing Hang Festival
Taking place in Savannakhet in December, the That Ing Hang Festival is considered one of the most sacred Buddhist events in Laos. Thousands of Buddhists make pilgrimages to the That Ing Hang stupa – believed to house Buddha’s relics – to make offerings, pray and participate in traditional rituals. The festival space becomes sparkling with candlelight processions, resounding chants and bustling markets around the temple grounds. For visitors, this is an opportunity to immerse themselves in spiritual life and fully experience the typical devotional spirit of the Lao people.
That Ing Hang
Christmas in Luang Prabang and Vientiane
Although Laos is a Buddhist country, Christmas is still celebrated quite bustlingly in the major cities. Hotels, restaurants and cafes decorate with lights, pine trees; organize Christmas buffets, live music and entertainment programs for international guests. In Luang Prabang, the expat community also has a Christmas market, selling handicrafts, souvenirs and Western dishes
Christmas in Laos
Welcoming the New Year
Vientiane and Luang Prabang are the most popular destinations over the New Year period. In the bars and restaurants along the Mekong River, many have countdown parties with fireworks and DJs. For those wishing to arrive in 2020 in a more tranquil setting, Southern Laos and region of Si Phan Don provide the perfect welcome in natural surroundings.
Lao New Year Festival in Luang Prabang
Laos Travel Tips for First-Time Travelers
December is one of the best times to travel to Laos with cool, dry weather and many vibrant festivals. To make your trip more complete, you can refer to some Laos travel tips from my own experience:
Laos travel tips in December
Book services early
December in Laos is the peak tourist season, coinciding with Christmas and New Year, so there are quite a lot of tourists coming to Laos. Therefore, book air tickets, hotels and tours early to avoid running out of space or high service prices.
Prepare suitable clothes
If your agenda is from morning until night, you will want to pack light clothing such as T-shirts, shorts for the day and light jackets or light sweaters for the early mornings and evenings in northern provinces such as Luang Prabang and Muang La, Phongsali because at this time of year, the temperature can drop to 12-15 degrees. You don’t want to forget your sneaker or walking shoes for visiting temples, trekking, or walking around town.
Choose transportation wisely
First, do your research on leg transport in various areas when you travel in Laos.
For longer distances such as travel between major cities, domestic flights are your best option for saving time. For the closer distances, you can travel by bus and minivan, however, understand that travel times by these forms of transport can be long and must factor this into your schedule. A small tip for you is to always negotiate the price of a tuk tuk before getting on the vehicle to avoid being overcharged if you are not familiar with life here. If you only travel within the city, it is much simpler because there are many options such as tuk tuk, bicycles or motorbikes for rent, which are very convenient.
Respect local culture
Laos is predominantly Buddhist, so there are many traditions and a rich culture to consider when traveling here, which means paying attention to respect and politeness for local customs and traditions when you travel. For clothing, you should choose clothing that has sleeves when visiting temples, that covers your shoulders and knees. You will also have to remove your shoes before entering a place of worship and people’s homes. If you want to give something, put it down so that the monk can receive it.
Laos often greet each other with the “nop” gesture with 2 hands clasped in front of the chest and slightly bowing. As a tourist, you should also use this greeting to show respect to the local people.
>>> Check out Indochina Greetings Guide: How to Say Hello Like a Local to discover how people greet each other in different Southeast Asian countries
Participate in festivals properly
Laos has a lot of big events and festivals to take part in during December and when you are at these festivals, please make sure that you are dressed appropriately, stay polite, respect order and cleanliness in public. And for not being shy, please remember to join the games and dance, as it is a good way to participate and enjoy the culture from this unique country.
Laos in December is ready for a new cultural exploration with green nature, captivating weather, and a festive atmosphere. Explore Luang Prabang’s sacred temples or the Mekong River in the South, or lose yourself in the serene towns of Phongsali. Each place guarantees an unmatchable experience. With the unique culture and warm accommodation of the locals, a December trip to Laos, will surely imprint many unforgettable recollections. If you seek a restful journey filled with culture in the Land of a Million Elephants then don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
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