Locals were advised to brace for further colder weather as temperatures plunged to 4 degrees Celsius in northern Thailand this week.

Tourists welcoming the sunrise at Chiang Mai's Doi Inthanon mountain braved the chills were treated to a spectacular view when the morning dew froze over and blanketed foliage across the peak on December 11.

Meanwhile, a temperature of 19 degrees Celsius was recorded in downtown Chiang Mai on the same morning.

Authorities said thousands of visitors have begun flocking to the mountains and national parks to enjoy the country's cold season.

Bancha Ramsiri, head of the province's Huai Nam Dang National Park, said the tourist spot has been bustling, with hotels fully booked until January 17.

The Thai Meteorological Department has advised residents to bundle up in warmer clothing as a cold front from China will prevail over Thailand's northern regions starting December 13. The cold front is expected to cause temperature drops of 3 to 6 degrees Celsius.