Country Monsoon Description
Laos Cool dry season. December and January are part of dry and cool season. Central regions are having nice warm weather. Temperature range is between 22 and 25 °C (72-75 °F). Mountainous areas are naturally cooler with 15 to 21 °C (59-70 °F) depending on altitude of certain location with occasional rains. The dry season continues during the month of January, promising premium travelling conditions throughout Laos. Comfortable average temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and minimal rainfall can be expected across the country.
Vietnam In January, cold winter weather hits the north. This is often accompanied by fine persistent mists, which could spoil your views at Ha Long Bay. There's also the chance of ground frost in higher regions, or even a rare snowfall. Don't let it put you off outdoor activities though – while January is the coldest month in mountainous areas, such as Sa Pa, rainfall is at its lowest, making perfect trekking conditions. Hanoi averages a pleasant 20ºC. The southern end of the country is firmly into the dry season come January, so it's a good time to explore cities such as Ho Chi Minh. And for post-city downtime make for beaches within easy reach of the capital, such as at Phan Thiet and Mui Ne. It's a fantastic time to try water-related activities, such as diving, around Phu Quoc. Nha Trang and Da Nang beaches also start to beckon in January, as the central coast sees the tail end of the rains.
Thailand January is one of the best months of the year to travel to Thailand, with favorable weather conditions throughout the country. In fact it is one of the most popular months for tourists arriving from all over the world. Northern Thailand tends to be cool and dry and nighttime temperatures in the far north can be a bit chilly. In Bangkok the weather is warmer and drier, with temperatures hovering around 20-23°C throughout the month.
Malaysia Malaysia. January. With the west coast basking in sunshine, it's a fantastic time to visit Langkawi, Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Malacca and the Cameron highlands. On the east coast, however, the rainy season ensues so is best avoided. The east of Malaysia, including islands like Tioman, Redang and the Perhentian Islands, see heavy rains between November and February. These showers can be longer and heavier than those in the west, so we generally advise travellers to avoid the east of Malaysia at this time.
Cambodia First period of the dry season is the least hot of the year.
Indonesia Rainy season. In the rainy season the sun shines for a few hours a day, between one rain shower and another. There's muggy heat due to high humidity. Temperatures are high and uniform throughout the year. They are slightly higher from October to April, when the daily average is around 28 °C (82 °F)
Nepal From late December through to February, Nepal's weather is pleasant during the day but temperatures drop significantly at night-time; especially in the mountains. January is the coldest month, but fewer visitors results in quieter sightseeing opportunities. Many hotels and lodges offer fireplaces, blankets and hot water bottles to keep you cosy. January and February can be very cold, especially at night, with average temperatures of 6°C in Namche Bazaar. But you'll be rewarded with clear skies, incredible panoramas and quieter trekking trails, as there are fewer visitors. High altitude trekking is not recommended at this time. Kathmandu : January, the same as December, is another enjoyable winter month in Kathmandu, Nepal, with an average temperature ranging between max 19.1°C (66.4°F) and min 2.4°C (36.3°F). January is the coldest month, with an average high-temperature of 19.1°C (66.4°F) and an average low-temperature of 2.4°C (36.3°F).
Philippines Tag - Lamig. Between December and February. It is dry season but with less heat.Excellent for travel to the Philippines, as temperatures are cooler, without being too cold. Rainfall should be minimal in this month.
Singapore Singapore. January. The Northeast Monsoon is at its most active. Expect frequent heavy downpours, particularly in the evenings and overnight, with high humidity throughout. Rainfall averages 230–260 mm — the highest of the year. The air is noticeably cooler than mid-year (24–30°C), making outdoor sightseeing comfortable between showers. Pack a compact umbrella; the storms are dramatic but usually clear within an hour.
Burma Cool and dry season. Excellent time to visit Bagan, Yangon, Mandalay, and Inle Lake. Pleasant temperatures (20-30°C), clear skies, and low humidity. Ideal for trekking in the Shan Hills.
Sri Lanka Sri Lanka. January. North-east monsoon at its tail end. West and south coasts (Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle) are in excellent shape — the prime beach season. Colombo weather is sunny and breezy. Whale-watching from Mirissa peaks. The Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Anuradhapura) is dry and accessible. Hill country (Ella, Nuwara Eliya) is cool with some mist. East coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) has residual rain from the north-east monsoon.