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Weather Comparison

Hanoi vs Luang Prabang

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Hanoi: 31°CLuang Prabang: 32°C406 km apart

May Weather: Hanoi vs Luang Prabang

MetricHanoiLuang PrabangBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer31°C (88°F)32°C (90°F)Luang Prabang
Average LowHigher is milder24°C (75°F)24°C (75°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier17 days20 daysHanoi
PrecipitationLess is drier230 mm142 mmLuang Prabang
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier8h/day10h/dayLuang Prabang
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better13 km/h9 km/hLuang Prabang

Which City is Better in May?

Hanoi and Luang Prabang are closely matched in May. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Hanoi can feel quite hot at 31°C, so plan for heat. Luang Prabang runs hot at 32°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Hanoi is the stronger choice in May. Luang Prabang receives 2 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Hanoi reaches an average high of 31°C (88°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Luang Prabang averages 32°C (90°F) for the high and 24°C (75°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°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 May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Hanoi receives approximately 230 mm of rainfall across 17 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Luang Prabang sees 142 mm over 20 rain days. That makes Hanoi the drier option by 3 rain days and 88 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.

What to Pack: Hanoi vs Luang Prabang

Packing for Hanoi in May

Highs of 31°C, lows of 24°C, 17 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Luang Prabang in May

Highs of 32°C, lows of 24°C, 20 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

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

Year-Round Comparison: Hanoi vs Luang Prabang

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.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthHanoiLuang Prabang
HighRainHighRain
Jan20°C8d27°C3d
Feb22°C8d30°C2d
Mar25°C11d33°C6d
Apr29°C11d33°C12d
May31°C17d32°C20d
Jun33°C19d31°C22d
Jul32°C21d30°C26d
Aug31°C23d30°C28d
Sep30°C19d29°C22d
Oct28°C12d29°C12d
Nov25°C7d28°C4d
Dec21°C7d26°C3d
31°

Hanoi Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

32°

Luang Prabang Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hanoi warmer than Luang Prabang in May?
No. In May, Luang Prabang is warmer with an average high of 32°C (90°F) compared to Hanoi at 31°C (88°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Hanoi or Luang Prabang?
Luang Prabang gets more rain in May with 20 rain days and 230 mm of precipitation. Hanoi is the drier option with 17 rain days.
Is it better to visit Hanoi or Luang Prabang in May?
It depends on your preferences. Hanoi averages 31°C and 8 hours of daily sunshine with 17 rain days. Luang Prabang averages 32°C with 10 sunshine hours and 20 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Luang Prabang. For drier weather, Hanoi is the better pick.
How far apart are Hanoi and Luang Prabang?
Hanoi and Luang Prabang are approximately 406 km (252 miles) apart. Hanoi is located in Vietnam (Asia) while Luang Prabang is in Laos (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Hanoi and Luang Prabang?
For Hanoi, October tends to be the best month with 8 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 28°C. For Luang Prabang, April is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 33°C highs.

Compare Hanoi and Luang Prabang 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.

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