18 Best Places in the World to Visit in December 2026

8. Myanmar (Burma) - Ancient Temples and Cultural Awakening

December represents Myanmar's cool, dry season with comfortable temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F) and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for exploring the country's extraordinary archaeological sites, ancient temples, and diverse cultural landscapes that remain largely undiscovered by mass tourism. The ancient city of Bagan offers one of the world's most spectacular temple complexes, with over 2,000 surviving pagodas and temples scattered across a vast plain that can be explored by hot air balloon, bicycle, or horse cart during December's perfect weather conditions. The former capital of Yangon showcases colonial architecture alongside golden pagodas, with the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda serving as the spiritual heart of the city, while December's comfortable temperatures make it ideal for exploring local markets, sampling Burmese cuisine, and experiencing the country's unique blend of Buddhist traditions and British colonial heritage. Inle Lake in December offers crystal-clear waters perfect for boat tours to observe the famous leg-rowing fishermen, floating gardens, and stilted villages, while the surrounding hills provide opportunities for trekking through minority ethnic communities and experiencing traditional crafts like silk weaving and cheroot making. December visitors can explore Mandalay's royal palaces, monasteries, and traditional workshops where craftsmen create Buddha statues, tapestries, and gold leaf, while the nearby ancient capitals of Amarapura and Sagaing offer insights into Myanmar's rich historical heritage. The country's diverse cuisine, influenced by Indian, Chinese, and Thai flavors, can be experienced through street food tours and cooking classes, while December's pleasant evenings are perfect for attending traditional puppet shows and cultural performances that preserve Myanmar's artistic traditions.