Weather Comparison
Luang Prabang vs Vientiane
Side-by-side weather comparison for January
January Weather: Luang Prabang vs Vientiane
| Metric | Luang Prabang | Vientiane | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 27°C (81°F) | 27°C (81°F) | Tie |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 16°C (61°F) | 17°C (63°F)▲ | Vientiane |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 3 days | 2 days▲ | Vientiane |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 19 mm | 10 mm▲ | Vientiane |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 9h/day | 10h/day▲ | Vientiane |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 78% | 78% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 3 | 3 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 7 km/h▲ | 11 km/h | Luang 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.
| Month | Luang Prabang | Vientiane | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 27°C | 3d | 27°C | 2d |
| Feb | 30°C | 2d | 30°C | 2d |
| Mar | 33°C | 6d | 32°C | 6d |
| Apr | 33°C | 12d | 34°C | 11d |
| May | 32°C | 20d | 32°C | 23d |
| Jun | 31°C | 22d | 30°C | 26d |
| Jul | 30°C | 26d | 30°C | 28d |
| Aug | 30°C | 28d | 30°C | 28d |
| Sep | 29°C | 22d | 30°C | 24d |
| Oct | 29°C | 12d | 29°C | 11d |
| Nov | 28°C | 4d | 29°C | 3d |
| Dec | 26°C | 3d | 27°C | 1d |
Luang Prabang Weather in January
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Vientiane Weather in January
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities