Weather Comparison
Vientiane vs Chiang Mai
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Vientiane vs Chiang Mai
| Metric | Vientiane | Chiang Mai | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 32°C (90°F) | 33°C (91°F)▲ | Chiang Mai |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 25°C (77°F)▲ | 24°C (75°F) | Vientiane |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 23 days | 14 days▲ | Chiang Mai |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 242 mm | 109 mm▲ | Chiang Mai |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 9h/day | 10h/day▲ | Chiang Mai |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 78% | 78% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9 | 9 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 10 km/h | 10 km/h | Tie |
Which City is Better in May?
Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Chiang Mai edges ahead as the better destination in May. Chiang Mai offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 14 rain days, while Vientiane sees 9 sunshine hours and 23 rain days.
Vientiane can feel quite hot at 32°C, so plan for heat. Chiang Mai runs hot at 33°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Chiang Mai is the stronger choice in May. Chiang Mai receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Temperature Comparison in May
Vientiane reaches an average high of 32°C (90°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Chiang Mai averages 33°C (91°F) for the high and 24°C (75°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°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
Vientiane receives approximately 242 mm of rainfall across 23 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Chiang Mai sees 109 mm over 14 rain days. That makes Chiang Mai the drier option by 9 rain days and 133 mm of total precipitation.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.
What to Pack: Vientiane vs Chiang Mai
Packing for Vientiane in May
Highs of 32°C, lows of 25°C, 23 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Packing for Chiang Mai in May
Highs of 33°C, lows of 24°C, 14 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: 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.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Vientiane | Chiang Mai | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 27°C | 2d | 28°C | 1d |
| Feb | 30°C | 2d | 31°C | 1d |
| Mar | 32°C | 6d | 34°C | 2d |
| Apr | 34°C | 11d | 36°C | 5d |
| May | 32°C | 23d | 33°C | 14d |
| Jun | 30°C | 26d | 31°C | 20d |
| Jul | 30°C | 28d | 30°C | 23d |
| Aug | 30°C | 28d | 29°C | 25d |
| Sep | 30°C | 24d | 29°C | 24d |
| Oct | 29°C | 11d | 29°C | 16d |
| Nov | 29°C | 3d | 28°C | 4d |
| Dec | 27°C | 1d | 27°C | 2d |
Vientiane Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Chiang Mai Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities