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Weather Comparison

Vientiane vs Chiang Mai

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Vientiane: 32°CChiang Mai: 33°C395 km apart

May Weather: Vientiane vs Chiang Mai

MetricVientianeChiang MaiBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer32°C (90°F)33°C (91°F)Chiang Mai
Average LowHigher is milder25°C (77°F)24°C (75°F)Vientiane
Rain DaysFewer is drier23 days14 daysChiang Mai
PrecipitationLess is drier242 mm109 mmChiang Mai
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day10h/dayChiang Mai
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better10 km/h10 km/hTie

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.

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 May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

33°

Chiang Mai Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vientiane warmer than Chiang Mai in May?
No. In May, Chiang Mai is warmer with an average high of 33°C (91°F) compared to Vientiane at 32°C (90°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Vientiane or Chiang Mai?
Vientiane gets more rain in May with 23 rain days and 242 mm of precipitation. Chiang Mai is the drier option with 14 rain days.
Is it better to visit Vientiane or Chiang Mai in May?
It depends on your preferences. Vientiane averages 32°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 23 rain days. Chiang Mai averages 33°C with 10 sunshine hours and 14 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