Vientiane has a typically tropical climate, with two distinct seasons based around the annual monsoon. The rainy season begins around June and lasts until late October. Heavy afternoon thunderstorms are normal during this summer period, followed by high levels of humidity which make the hot weather feel even more uncomfortable. However, the rainy season also brings relief to the sometimes dust-choked streets of the capital, cleaning things and helping the dense vegetation burst back into life.

By November, the rains have subsided and dry conditions prevail. The dry season runs until May, when the wet season’s first thunderstorms are welcomed as they rip across the city. The temperatures range from warm to hot throughout most of the year, except for December and January, when conditions reach their coolest and most pleasant. Bright blue skies and comfortable daytime temperatures make this the most popular season for tourism, but it rarely feels overcrowded in Vientiane.

By March the weather turns hot again. Farmers burn their fields and dust and haze hang heavy over the region, often creating unpleasant conditions. To help ease things during the region’s hottest period, April’s Pi Mai New Year celebrations bring frivolous water fights to the streets in an effort to cool everyone off.