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Weather Comparison

Luang Prabang vs Hanoi

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Luang Prabang: 27°CHanoi: 20°C406 km apart

January Weather: Luang Prabang vs Hanoi

MetricLuang PrabangHanoiBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer27°C (81°F)20°C (68°F)Luang Prabang
Average LowHigher is milder16°C (61°F)13°C (55°F)Luang Prabang
Rain DaysFewer is drier3 days8 daysLuang Prabang
PrecipitationLess is drier19 mm41 mmLuang Prabang
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day4h/dayLuang Prabang
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer33Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better7 km/h12 km/hLuang Prabang

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Luang Prabang edges ahead as the better destination in January. Luang Prabang offers 9 hours of daily sunshine with only 3 rain days, while Hanoi sees 4 sunshine hours and 8 rain days.

Luang Prabang sits in the comfortable travel range at 27°C. Hanoi is also comfortable at 20°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Luang Prabang is the stronger choice in January. Luang Prabang receives 5 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Luang Prabang reaches an average high of 27°C (81°F) and drops to 16°C (61°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 11°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Hanoi averages 20°C (68°F) for the high and 13°C (55°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. There is a notable 7°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

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

Rainfall Comparison in January

Luang Prabang receives approximately 19 mm of rainfall across 3 rain days during January. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Hanoi sees 41 mm over 8 rain days. That makes Luang Prabang the drier option by 5 rain days and 22 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.

What to Pack: Luang Prabang vs Hanoi

Packing for Luang Prabang in January

Highs of 27°C, lows of 16°C, 3 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Hanoi in January

Highs of 20°C, lows of 13°C, 8 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: light layers, a light jacket for evenings, sunscreen, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Luang Prabang vs Hanoi

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.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthLuang PrabangHanoi
HighRainHighRain
Jan27°C3d20°C8d
Feb30°C2d22°C8d
Mar33°C6d25°C11d
Apr33°C12d29°C11d
May32°C20d31°C17d
Jun31°C22d33°C19d
Jul30°C26d32°C21d
Aug30°C28d31°C23d
Sep29°C22d30°C19d
Oct29°C12d28°C12d
Nov28°C4d25°C7d
Dec26°C3d21°C7d
27°

Luang Prabang Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

20°

Hanoi Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Luang Prabang warmer than Hanoi in January?
Yes. In January, Luang Prabang is warmer with an average high of 27°C (81°F) compared to Hanoi at 20°C (68°F), a difference of 7°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Luang Prabang or Hanoi?
Hanoi gets more rain in January with 8 rain days and 41 mm of precipitation. Luang Prabang is the drier option with 3 rain days.
Is it better to visit Luang Prabang or Hanoi in January?
It depends on your preferences. Luang Prabang averages 27°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 3 rain days. Hanoi averages 20°C with 4 sunshine hours and 8 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Luang Prabang. For drier weather, Luang Prabang is the better pick.
How far apart are Luang Prabang and Hanoi?
Luang Prabang and Hanoi are approximately 406 km (252 miles) apart. Luang Prabang is located in Laos (Asia) while Hanoi is in Vietnam (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Luang Prabang and Hanoi?
For Luang Prabang, April tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 33°C. For Hanoi, October is typically ideal with 8 sunshine hours and 28°C highs.

Compare Luang Prabang and Hanoi 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.

Luang Prabang coordinates: 19.88°N, 102.13°E | Hanoi coordinates: 21.03°N, 105.83°E