Skip to content

Weather Comparison

Luang Prabang vs Vientiane

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Luang Prabang: 27°CVientiane: 27°C219 km apart

January Weather: Luang Prabang vs Vientiane

MetricLuang PrabangVientianeBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer27°C (81°F)27°C (81°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder16°C (61°F)17°C (63°F)Vientiane
Rain DaysFewer is drier3 days2 daysVientiane
PrecipitationLess is drier19 mm10 mmVientiane
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day10h/dayVientiane
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer33Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better7 km/h11 km/hLuang Prabang

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Vientiane edges ahead as the better destination in January. Vientiane offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 2 rain days, while Luang Prabang sees 9 sunshine hours and 3 rain days.

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

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Vientiane is the stronger choice in January. Vientiane receives 1 more hour 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.

Vientiane averages 27°C (81°F) for the high and 17°C (63°F) for the low, with a daily range of 10°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

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.

Vientiane sees 10 mm over 2 rain days. That makes Vientiane the drier option by 1 rain day and 9 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.

What to Pack: Luang Prabang vs Vientiane

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 Vientiane in January

Highs of 27°C, lows of 17°C, 2 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • 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 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.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthLuang PrabangVientiane
HighRainHighRain
Jan27°C3d27°C2d
Feb30°C2d30°C2d
Mar33°C6d32°C6d
Apr33°C12d34°C11d
May32°C20d32°C23d
Jun31°C22d30°C26d
Jul30°C26d30°C28d
Aug30°C28d30°C28d
Sep29°C22d30°C24d
Oct29°C12d29°C11d
Nov28°C4d29°C3d
Dec26°C3d27°C1d
27°

Luang Prabang Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

27°

Vientiane Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Luang Prabang warmer than Vientiane in January?
Luang Prabang and Vientiane have the same average high temperature of 27°C (81°F) in January. The average lows are 16°C and 17°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in January, Luang Prabang or Vientiane?
Luang Prabang gets more rain in January with 3 rain days and 19 mm of precipitation. Vientiane is the drier option with 2 rain days.
Is it better to visit Luang Prabang or Vientiane in January?
It depends on your preferences. Luang Prabang averages 27°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 3 rain days. Vientiane averages 27°C with 10 sunshine hours and 2 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Vientiane. For fewer rain days, Vientiane is the better pick.
How far apart are Luang Prabang and Vientiane?
Luang Prabang and Vientiane are approximately 219 km (136 miles) apart. Luang Prabang is located in Laos (Asia) while Vientiane is in Laos (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Luang Prabang and Vientiane?
For Luang Prabang, April tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 33°C. For Vientiane, April is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 34°C highs.

Compare Luang Prabang 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.

Luang Prabang coordinates: 19.88°N, 102.13°E | Vientiane coordinates: 17.98°N, 102.63°E