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Weather Comparison

Vientiane vs Chiang Mai

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Vientiane: 32°CChiang Mai: 34°C395 km apart

March Weather: Vientiane vs Chiang Mai

MetricVientianeChiang MaiBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer32°C (90°F)34°C (93°F)Chiang Mai
Average LowHigher is milder22°C (72°F)21°C (70°F)Vientiane
Rain DaysFewer is drier6 days2 daysChiang Mai
PrecipitationLess is drier34 mm12 mmChiang Mai
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayChiang Mai
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better12 km/h9 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.

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

Vientiane reaches an average high of 32°C (90°F) and drops to 22°C (72°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Chiang Mai averages 34°C (93°F) for the high and 21°C (70°F) for the low, with a daily range of 13°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

Vientiane receives approximately 34 mm of rainfall across 6 rain days during March. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Chiang Mai sees 12 mm over 2 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: Vientiane vs Chiang Mai

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

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

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: Vientiane vs Chiang Mai

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.

MonthVientianeChiang Mai
HighRainHighRain
Jan27°C2d28°C1d
Feb30°C2d31°C1d
Mar32°C6d34°C2d
Apr34°C11d36°C5d
May32°C23d33°C14d
Jun30°C26d31°C20d
Jul30°C28d30°C23d
Aug30°C28d29°C25d
Sep30°C24d29°C24d
Oct29°C11d29°C16d
Nov29°C3d28°C4d
Dec27°C1d27°C2d
32°

Vientiane Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

34°

Chiang Mai Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vientiane warmer than Chiang Mai in March?
No. 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, Vientiane or Chiang Mai?
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 Vientiane or Chiang Mai in March?
It depends on your preferences. Vientiane averages 32°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 6 rain days. Chiang Mai averages 34°C with 11 sunshine hours and 2 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Chiang Mai. For fewer rain days, Chiang Mai is the better pick.
How far apart are Vientiane and Chiang Mai?
Vientiane and Chiang Mai are approximately 395 km (245 miles) apart. Vientiane is located in Laos (Asia) while Chiang Mai is in Thailand (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Vientiane and Chiang Mai?
For Vientiane, April tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 34°C. For Chiang Mai, February is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 31°C highs.

Compare Vientiane and Chiang Mai 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.

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