Winter returns with cool days and cold nights in the north; coastal and southern areas remain milder. Snow is possible in the high mountain passes, restricting some routes, while cities are quiet outside holiday periods. Accommodation is generally available but mountain lodges may operate seasonally.
SeasonHigh SeasonTemperature 5-22°C (41-72°F)Crowds HighPrices High
High seasonShoulderLow season
Weather by City in December
CityLow / highRain
Lahore
Cool
7°21° 9 mm
Karachi
Mild
14°28° 5 mm
Peshawar
Cool
6°20° 26 mm
Faisalabad
Cool
6°21° 8 mm
Rawalpindi
Cool
4°19° 31 mm
Gujranwala
Cool
6°21° 15 mm
Multan
Cool
7°23° 6 mm
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Pakistan in December.
Where to Go in Pakistan in December
Northern Mountains
Gilgit-Baltistan, Skardu, Hunza, Karakoram and western Himalaya
As winter eases, freeze-thaw cycles increase and early meltwater can make valley roads muddy in late December; high passes remain snowbound. This month is a waiting room for the spring bloom - you’ll see villages begin to plan for the coming tourist season while conditions on the big treks remain prohibitive. Pack layered clothing and check flight reliability out of the small mountain airports before finalizing onward travel.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa & the northern valleys
Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, Kaghan, Naran
Pre‑spring in the region brings increasing sunshine and the first migrant birds back to the valley rivers; by late February, almond and apricot trees are swelling buds. Roads remain passable in most of the lower valleys, and adventurous travelers can glimpse the ski fields repairing equipment for the next season. Bring a warm jacket for mornings and expect lively weekend crowds as locals head uphill to picnic spots.
Punjab & Pothohar Plateau
Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan region
Pre‑monsoon warmth sets in by late spring, accelerating orchard blossom to fruit development and making the plains hot and dusty by May. This month is best spent taking morning and evening city tours, visiting museums and cooling off in air‑conditioned restaurants or canal‑side parks. Pack light cotton clothes but keep a sun hat and water bottle for daytime exploring.
Sindh & Lower Indus Plain
Karachi metropolitan region, Hyderabad, Thatta, Sukkur, Thar Desert fringe
Pre‑spring warmth returns in March with longer, balmy days and the coastal breeze keeping temperatures comfortable while inland regions heat more quickly. This is a busy travel season domestically, and hotels in Karachi see increased bookings. For beach trips and city breaks, bring summer clothes plus a light layer for early mornings and evenings.
Pre‑spring warmth returns by March with steadily longer, warmer days; the Makran coast warms faster than Karachi and inland suburbs start to feel hotter. This month works well for coastal trips and for running short excursions to Kund Malir and the coastal highway west of Karachi. Bring sun protection and plan activities for mornings and evenings to avoid midday heat.
Balochistan Plateau & Makran Coast
Quetta, Gwadar, Turbat, Pasni, coastal highway
Pre‑spring days increase noticeably in March as the plateau warms; deserts and coastal scrub show refreshed grasses in wetter years while Gwadar becomes a more attractive coastal base. Road conditions are generally good for exploration of archaeological sites and coastal drives; carry water and a sunhat for the long daylight hours.
Events & Festivals in December
There are no major festivals or events in Pakistan during December to be aware of.
Planning a trip to Pakistan?
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
