"ປະຊາຊົນລາວ | The People of Laos"
About:
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, was founded in the 11th century by the Khmer as a Buddhist monastery. It became the capital of Lan Xang Kingdom in the 16th century under King Setthathirath. After periods of Burmese, Siamese, and Vietnamese invasions, it was made a French protectorate in 1893. The city experienced significant development under French rule. It became the capital of independent Laos in 1953. Despite the turmoil of the Indochina wars, Vientiane remains the economic, cultural, and political center of Laos.
When to visit:
Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The optimal time to visit Vientiane is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to March. This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity levels and little to no rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city's cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Travelers should be mindful of the hot and humid conditions during the wet season from May to October, which can bring heavy rainfall and occasional flooding to the region.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Vientiane, Laos on a holiday is during the rainy season, which typically occurs from May to October. Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding and transportation disruptions, making it challenging to navigate the city. Additionally, the high humidity during this time can be uncomfortable for travelers not accustomed to such conditions. It is advisable to plan your trip during the dry season, from November to April, to avoid potential weather-related issues and fully enjoy all that Vientiane has to offer.
"Monsoon Season (May–October)"
Vientiane's wettest season runs from May to October, during the southwest monsoon. Average temperatures hover around 28°C (82°F), although it can occasionally spike to 34°C (93°F). Rainfall is highest in August and September, with monthly averages of 320mm and 300mm respectively. The city experiences reduced sunlight hours, typically around 5-6 hours per day, with high cloud cover. Humidity can reach 85%. An average day for a visitor during this time would involve intermittent heavy showers, often in the afternoon or evening, with mornings usually remaining dry.
Hot Season (March-May)
The warmest part of the year in Vientiane, Laos, typically falls between March and May. During this period, temperatures can reach up to 35-40°C (95-104°F) in the daytime, with average lows around 25°C (77°F) at night.
Rainfall is minimal in these months, as the hot season precedes the monsoon season, which usually starts in late May or early June. Therefore, you can expect mostly dry days, with occasional brief showers.
Sunlight is abundant during this time, with an average of 9-10 hours of daylight per day. The sun is usually at its strongest between 11 am and 2 pm, so it's recommended to wear sun protection during these hours.
Humidity levels can be quite high, often reaching up to 70-80%. This can make the heat feel more intense, so it's important to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade when needed.
As for cloudiness, the sky is generally clear or partly cloudy, allowing for plenty of sunshine. However, the heat can sometimes cause afternoon cloud build-ups, which can lead to short, intense showers.
A typical day for a visitor during this time would involve hot, sunny weather with high humidity. The mornings and evenings are slightly cooler and more comfortable, making these ideal times for outdoor activities. During the peak afternoon hours, many visitors choose to relax indoors or in shaded areas to escape the intense heat. Despite the high temperatures, this period is great for exploring Vientiane's beautiful outdoor sights, as long as precautions are taken against the heat and sun.
Language:
In Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, the most commonly spoken language is Lao. As the official language of the country, it is used in government, education, and media. Other languages spoken include French, a remnant of the country's colonial past, and English, which is increasingly used in business and tourism sectors. Various ethnic languages are also spoken due to the city's cultural diversity.