Weather in Phonsavan

Planning a trip to Phonsavan? Check out the latest weather information and detailed forecasts to best prepare for your journey.

The climate of Phonsavan is pleasantly mild, largely due to its elevated location. Unlike many other hotter regions of Laos, scorching heat is rare here. The weather can be described as moderate-tropical, where temperatures remain comfortable for travel most of the year, ranging from brisk coolness in winter to moderate warmth in summer.

There are two distinct seasons during the year. The dry season lasts from November to February and is perhaps the most popular time to visit: rain practically ceases, and the skies are delightfully clear. However, it is worth noting that in December and January, nights can be truly cold, with the thermometer dropping to 10°C, so warm clothing in your luggage will be essential.

The wet season takes hold in May and continues until October. At the height of this period, especially in July and August, rainfall is very frequent — statistics show up to 30 rainy days per month. Nevertheless, air temperatures remain very stable and pleasant during this time (averaging around 22–23°C), creating a fresh atmosphere and allowing you to enjoy the lush greenery of the surroundings without extreme heat.

The climate in Phonsavan is characterized by pleasant moderation, distinguishing it favorably from the hotter lowland regions of Laos. The warmest period here begins in April and lasts until June. During this time, daytime highs reach peak values of around 27–28°C, providing comfortable warmth without exhausting heat. Even in the hottest months, the average temperature holds at around 23°C, creating excellent conditions for sightseeing.

The winter season, especially December and January, brings noticeable coolness. These are the coldest months of the year, when the average temperature drops to 16°C. Travelers should be prepared for significant daily fluctuations: while the sun may warm the air to a pleasant 22°C during the day, nights become genuinely cold, with temperatures falling to 10°C. Warm clothing will definitely be required for evening walks during this period.

The summer months and early autumn (from June to September) are characterized by a stable and mild temperature regime. Daytime readings remain in the comfortable range of 25–27°C, and the nightly chill recedes — minimum temperatures rarely drop below 19–20°C. Unlike the winter season, the difference between day and night temperatures in summer becomes less pronounced, creating a consistent thermal background, although humidity is felt more strongly at this time of year.

Phonsavan has a clearly defined seasonality of precipitation, dividing the year into two main periods: the dry season and the rainy season. Precipitation here falls exclusively as rain; snow does not occur in this region even in the coolest months. Travelers should take these climatic features into account when planning a trip to choose the most comfortable time for excursions.

The rainy season begins in May and lasts until the end of September. The wettest months are July and August, when the number of rainy days reaches a maximum — about 30 days per month, meaning rain is possible daily. During this period, nature comes alive, but frequent rains may require adjustments to travel plans around the region.

The dry season, considered the best time to visit, falls during the winter months. December is the driest month of the year: rainfall drops almost to zero, and the number of rainy days is minimal (about 2 days). From November to February, the likelihood of getting caught in a downpour is extremely low, creating ideal conditions for long walks and sightseeing under clear skies.

The climate in Phonsavan differs noticeably from the rest of Laos: due to its location on a plateau, it is always fresher and cooler here. The main principle when packing your suitcase is layering. Even if you are traveling in the warm months (from April to September), when the air warms up to 27°C during the day, evenings can be brisk. If your trip is planned for the winter period (from November to February), be sure to bring a warm sweater, fleece top, or light jacket, as night temperatures often drop to 10°C.

In the rainy season, which lasts from May to September, precipitation falls very frequently — up to 30 rainy days per month. At this time, you cannot do without a high-quality raincoat or umbrella. Pay special attention to footwear: for excursions to the famous Plain of Jars, comfortable trekking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that you don't mind getting dirty are best, as roads can be washed out.

Despite the coolness, the mountain sun remains active year-round, so don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. We also recommend bringing insect repellent, especially if you are traveling during the wet season, and a small personal first aid kit to be ready for any surprises on the road.