Skip to content

Weather Comparison

Chiang Mai vs Vientiane

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Chiang Mai: 34°CVientiane: 32°C395 km apart

March Weather: Chiang Mai vs Vientiane

MetricChiang MaiVientianeBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer34°C (93°F)32°C (90°F)Chiang Mai
Average LowHigher is milder21°C (70°F)22°C (72°F)Vientiane
Rain DaysFewer is drier2 days6 daysChiang Mai
PrecipitationLess is drier12 mm34 mmChiang Mai
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day10h/dayChiang Mai
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better9 km/h12 km/hChiang Mai

Which City is Better in March?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Chiang Mai edges ahead as the better destination in March. Chiang Mai offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 2 rain days, while Vientiane sees 10 sunshine hours and 6 rain days.

Chiang Mai can feel quite hot at 34°C, so plan for heat. Vientiane runs hot at 32°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Chiang Mai is the stronger choice in March. Chiang Mai receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in March

Chiang Mai reaches an average high of 34°C (93°F) and drops to 21°C (70°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 13°C, meaning significant temperature swings between day and night.

Vientiane averages 32°C (90°F) for the high and 22°C (72°F) for the low, with a daily range of 10°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in March.

Rainfall Comparison in March

Chiang Mai receives approximately 12 mm of rainfall across 2 rain days during March. Rain is rare this month, so dry conditions are likely.

Vientiane sees 34 mm over 6 rain days. That makes Chiang Mai the drier option by 4 rain days and 22 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.

What to Pack: Chiang Mai vs Vientiane

Packing for Chiang Mai in March

Highs of 34°C, lows of 21°C, 2 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Vientiane in March

Highs of 32°C, lows of 22°C, 6 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during March.

Year-Round Comparison: Chiang Mai vs Vientiane

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.March is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthChiang MaiVientiane
HighRainHighRain
Jan28°C1d27°C2d
Feb31°C1d30°C2d
Mar34°C2d32°C6d
Apr36°C5d34°C11d
May33°C14d32°C23d
Jun31°C20d30°C26d
Jul30°C23d30°C28d
Aug29°C25d30°C28d
Sep29°C24d30°C24d
Oct29°C16d29°C11d
Nov28°C4d29°C3d
Dec27°C2d27°C1d
34°

Chiang Mai Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

32°

Vientiane Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chiang Mai warmer than Vientiane in March?
Yes. In March, Chiang Mai is warmer with an average high of 34°C (93°F) compared to Vientiane at 32°C (90°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in March, Chiang Mai or Vientiane?
Vientiane gets more rain in March with 6 rain days and 34 mm of precipitation. Chiang Mai is the drier option with 2 rain days.
Is it better to visit Chiang Mai or Vientiane in March?
It depends on your preferences. Chiang Mai averages 34°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 2 rain days. Vientiane averages 32°C with 10 sunshine hours and 6 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Chiang Mai. For drier weather, Chiang Mai is the better pick.
How far apart are Chiang Mai and Vientiane?
Chiang Mai and Vientiane are approximately 395 km (245 miles) apart. Chiang Mai is located in Thailand (Asia) while Vientiane is in Laos (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Chiang Mai and Vientiane?
For Chiang Mai, February tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 31°C. For Vientiane, April is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 34°C highs.

Compare Chiang Mai and Vientiane in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Chiang Mai coordinates: 18.79°N, 98.99°E | Vientiane coordinates: 17.98°N, 102.63°E