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Laos In November: Weather, Where To Go, What To See, Itinerary And FAQ

November is considered the ideal time to travel to Laos. The dry season has returned, and the rain no longer interferes with your excursions. Additionally, the temperatures are not as high as in the summer, providing a pleasant atmosphere perfect for exploring the beautiful land of a million elephants. In particular, the northern region of Laos enjoys cool weather and lush green landscapes. Discover in the guide below why visiting Laos in November is an excellent idea!

I. Overview of Laos weather in November

• Average temperature: 24°C (75°F)
• Average precipitation: 26 mm

Marking the return of the dry season, Laos in November experiences very little rainfall, with an average of about 26 mm. Thus, most days are sunny, making it ideal for exploring this beautiful Southeast Asian country.

This is the perfect time to discover northern Laos (Bokeo, Luang Prabang, Luang Namtha, Xaignabouli, Phongsaly, Oudomxay,...), a region known for its majestic mountains, pristine forests, and stunning waterfalls. In central and southern Laos (Vientiane, Savannakhet, Attapeu, Champasak, Salavan, Sekong,...), the rural areas boast splendid green rice fields that flourish after the rains of the rainy season.

In terms of temperature, the climate is very pleasant in northern Laos, averaging around 23°C to 24°C in Luang Prabang (75°F). In some mountainous regions, temperatures can drop to 20°C (68°F) at night, so it’s advisable to bring warm clothing. The weather becomes milder as you head south, with temperatures around 26°C (79°F) in Pakse and the 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don), which remains ideal for outdoor activities.

II. Special festival in Laos in November - Boun That Luang

• Date: Generally in November (based on the lunar calendar)
• Location: Vientiane

Boun That Luang is the most important religious festival in Laos in November, held annually in Vientiane. The festival centers around the Pha That Luang, the country’s national symbol and sacred stupa.

Celebrations begin with a lively candlelit procession called the "wax castle" parade, which starts at Wat Simeuang. Thousands of participants carry candles, flowers, and intricately decorated wax structures to honor the city pillar and pay homage to Lord Buddha. The following day, the procession continues to the That Luang stupa, where worshippers, dressed in traditional Lao attire, walk three times around the stupa in a clockwise direction, led by chanting monks.

One of the main highlights is the almsgiving ceremony held at dawn, where hundreds of monks gather to receive offerings from the crowd. This peaceful ritual is followed by traditional games such as Tikhy, a Lao form of hockey. The capital is filled with cultural performances, trade fairs, and concerts throughout the festival, making it an exciting time to visit Laos in November.

III. Best places to visit in Laos in November

1. Vientiane

The pleasant climate of Laos in November is perfect for visiting the capital, Vientiane. Unlike other capitals, Vientiane stands out for its sacred and peaceful atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of large cities. As a spiritual and historical destination, it is famous for its hundreds of temples, the most iconic being the majestic Pha That Luang. This stupa, a symbol of the land of a million elephants, hosts the grand Buddhist festival, Boun That Luang, every November. Here are some must-visit places in Vientiane:

2. Luang Prabang

Located in the north, with its cool climate and lush nature, Luang Prabang is a must-see in Laos in November. Thanks to its stunning landscapes and unique cuisine, this ancient capital attracts many visitors each year. Luang Prabang is also home to numerous historical and religious sites of high artistic value, built by ancient dynasties. Since 1995, the city has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here are some places to visit in Luang Prabang:

3. Champasak

Traveling to Laos in November, Champasak, with its wild, peaceful, and authentic beauty in the south, is sure to amaze you. Surrounded by nine mountains, the region is traversed by the vast Mekong River, creating an archipelago of 4,000 islands, known as Si Phan Don. Champasak is also considered the largest rice granary in Laos, located near the Cambodian border. Here you will find the majestic Pha Pheng Falls, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia, with a height of 12 km. Other sites to discover include:

IV. Best Laos tours in November

• Laos packages 10 days: Explore the wonders of Laos by visiting unforgettable destinations such as Vientiane, Luang Prabang, the Pak Ou Caves, the Kuang Si Waterfalls, the Plain of Jars, Vang Vieng, the Bolaven Plateau, Wat Phou, and Don Khong Island.
• Laos highlights 14 days: Discover the land of a million elephants, from the peaceful capital Vientiane to the treasures of UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang, with its stunning temples and landscapes. Don't miss the majestic waterfalls and authentic villages in Vang Vieng.
• Laos tour 3 weeks: Immerse yourself in Laos through its authentic treasures. From Luang Prabang to the 4000 Islands, passing through Nong Khiaw, Muang Ngoy, and the Bolaven Plateau, enjoy cruises, treks, and cultural visits for a complete experience of Lao nature and culture.

Here’s the complete travel guide for Laos in November. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites of Vientiane, the breathtaking Kuang Si waterfalls, or the serene beauty of Luang Prabang, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Autour Asia, your Laos tour operator. Our knowledgeable travel advisors are dedicated to helping you create a memorable journey and will respond to you as soon as possible.