Thinking of visiting Laos in May? As the country transitions from the dry season to the lush monsoon season, May brings a unique combination of warm weather, budding rice paddies, vibrant festivals, and fewer crowds. Will there be much rain? What to see? What events are happening? In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to decide if May is the right month for your Laos adventure, from weather details and travel tips to the best attractions and cultural events you won’t want to miss. Discover what makes Laos in May such a surprisingly magical time to travel.
Overview of weather in Laos in May. Is May a good time to visit Laos?
In May, Laos enters the monsoon season, marking the transition from the hot dry season to the rainy season. Temperatures remain high throughout the country, especially in southern areas like Pakse, where daytime temperatures can rise above 35°C (95°F). The capital Vientiane and Luang Prabang are a little more pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 35°C (79°F–95°F). Humidity is also higher in May, creating a hot and humid climate that can affect your outdoor activities.
Rainfall is more frequent, especially towards the end of the month. Although not heavy or long-lasting, it does help cool temperatures and provide some respite. The start of the monsoon also brings a fresh green look to the countryside, with rice paddies filling up and forests becoming lush – making this an ideal time for photography.
Laos weather in May
So is May the perfect time to travel to Laos? The answer depends on your preferences and the type of experience you are looking for. May is a good time for those who want to travel more quietly and comfortably, as this is the low season for tourism, so the number of tourists is significantly reduced. You can freely explore famous destinations such as Luang Prabang, Vientiane or the Plain of Jars without having to worry about jostling with crowds, providing a deep and private experience.
Moreover, many hotels and tour companies will have preferential prices or discount programs during the low season, you can save money on your trip. That said, May does have some challenges such as hot and humid weather or sudden rains. You should check the weather forecast in advance and don’t forget to prepare a backup plan in case of bad weather.
Main events and festivals in Laos in May
Boun Bang Fai
A festive moment as locals launch rockets to welcome the rainy season
Bun Bang Fai Festival, held in May, is a unique festival that demonstrates the creativity and belief of Lao people in a bountiful harvest. During this festival, each place will prepare homemade rockets, and then organize a fireworks competition. According to Lao beliefs, this is an opportunity for people to send prayers for favorable weather so that plants grow well, all things grow and crops will be bountiful.
With some typical activities such as: Making and decorating rockets, Parades and art performances, fireworks competitions, … the festival atmosphere is extremely vibrant with laughter, music and excitement of everyone. What is special is that this festival is not only entertaining but also carries cultural and spiritual values, demonstrating the connection in the community.
Visakha Bousa
Visakha Bousa in Laos: A sacred night of prayer and light
Visakha Bousa, also known as Vesak or Buddha’s Birthday, is one of the most important and sacred Buddhist festivals in Laos, commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing away of the Buddha. The festival falls on the 15th day of the 6th month of the Buddhist calendar, which usually falls in May each year. Although celebrated across the country, the best place to experience it is in Luang Prabang, where there is a magical lantern procession to mark the occasion, as well as ceremonies at the sacred Pak Ou Caves.
During the festival, temples are packed with devotees who come to chant, meditate and make offerings to monks, a gesture of merit and devotion. As night falls, the atmosphere becomes very peaceful and contemplative, and locals and even visitors can join in candlelight processions around the temple grounds, where they walk three times in silence, holding incense, flowers and candles. It is a time for self-reflection, spiritual renewal and celebration of the core teachings of Buddhism, offering visitors a profound and meaningful insight into Lao religious life.
> > > These vibrant festivals are just the beginning, Laos tours in May let you dive deeper into the country’s culture, landscapes, and warm local hospitality.
Best places to visit in Laos in May
Luang Prabang
Beautiful landscapes and cultural charm in Luang Prabang in May
Located between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage City that charms visitors with its mix of French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and Lao historical and religious sites. Here you will feel the peaceful and rustic beauty. In May, the city is even more beautiful thanks to the first rains of the season, making the landscape lush and green. Kuang Si Falls, just a short drive away, are especially vibrant at this time of year, with its majestic waterfalls and turquoise pools. You can still enjoy the iconic almsgiving ceremony at dawn, explore the bustling night market, or hike up Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the city at sunset.
> > > If you’re feeling inspired by the natural beauty surrounding Luang Prabang, why not take your adventure further? Check out our complete guide to trekking in Laos for the best trails, tips, and unforgettable experiences deep in the Lao countryside.
Vang Vieng
Lush green landscapes of Vang Vieng after the first rains of May
Vang Vieng is a relatively unspoiled town, nestled in the mountains and on the banks of the Nam Song River. It is known as a paradise for foreign tourists, one of the most unspoiled and famous tourist destinations in Laos. Vang Vieng has spectacular karst landscapes, underground caves and vast forests with diverse vegetation. You can kayak on the Nam Song River, hike to hilltop viewpoints or relax at the famous Blue Lagoon. Although showers are more frequent, they are usually short and leave the sky clear, perfect for hot air balloon rides or cycling around town.
Si Phan Don
A rare glimpse of Irrawaddy dolphins in Si Phan Don’s waters
Si Phan Don, meaning 4000 islands, is a collection of thousands of large and small islands, featuring a peaceful and pristine natural beauty, ideal for relaxation and recreation. As May approaches the rainy season, the Mekong River will become wider, adding to the spectacular beauty of Khone Phapheng Falls, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia. This is also a great time to see rare Irrawaddy dolphins near Don Khon.
> > > If you’re looking to see the very best of Laos in May, this Amazing Laos in 6 Days Tour from Vientiane to Pakse brings together the country’s highlights in one unforgettable journey.
Vientiane
Vientiane
Unlike other bustling capitals in the world, the capital of Laos, Vientiane, has an indescribable peace and relaxation. Any visitor to Vientiane will feel that Vientiane is a place with a slow, peaceful pace of life, a sense of peace and closeness. If you are a spiritual traveler, you cannot miss famous destinations such as That Luang Stupa, the golden stupa symbolizing Lao Buddhism, Wat Sisaket Temple or the ancient temple with sophisticated architecture, Wat Xieng Thong. Besides historical relics, you can experience a series of interesting activities in Vientiane such as mountain climbing, watching traditional art performances and enjoying local cuisine at the night market.
Bolaven Plateau
The famous loop in Bolaven Plateau
The Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos is famous for its year-round cool climate, beautiful waterfalls, and rich coffee plantations. This is an ideal destination for those who love nature, peace, and want to experience the unique culture of the indigenous people. The highlight of Bolaven is the motorbike tour called “Bolaven Plateau Loop,” where you can explore a series of famous waterfalls such as Tad Fane, Tad Yuang, and Tad Lo. In addition, the coffee plantations here are a must-see stop, providing an opportunity to learn about the production process and enjoy pure, rich coffee.
Some helpful tips for your trip to Laos
Here are some useful tips based on experience to make your trip smooth, safe and memorable:
- Although May is rainier, don’t worry too much because the rains mainly occur in the afternoon and usually don’t last long. Just bring an umbrella, a light raincoat or a waterproof backpack.
- If you plan to visit temples, museums or attend festivals, dress modestly and cover up. Take off your shoes and hats before entering the temple to show respect.
- Rain can make the roads, especially forest roads and rural areas, muddy and slippery. So if you need to travel a lot in these places, rent a private car with a driver or a reputable transportation service. If you want to rent a motorbike to travel in areas like Vang Vieng or Luang Prabang, check the wheels and brakes carefully to ensure safety.
- Don’t forget to bring cash to pay for small expenses like food, souvenirs,… especially in the suburbs because vendors mostly only accept cash payments and ATMs are not as available as in big cities.
May may not be the most talked about month for a trip to Laos, but for those in the know, it’s a rewarding time filled with lush landscapes, vibrant festivals and authentic local experiences. This guide has you covered with everything you need to know about visiting Laos in May, from weather and cultural events to the best places to explore and essential travel tips. Don’t hesitate to contact us now if you’re ready to explore Laos in May or need help planning the perfect itinerary.
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