Laos in April

Hottest month and Pi Mai (13–16 Apr): water fights, closed shops and sold-out trains.

• North · Luang Prabang, Nong Khiaw, Luang Namtha, Phonsavansmoke haze

  Cool, misty mornings Dec–Jan (near 10 °C at altitude); the burning season (Feb–Apr) brings thick smoke; rains wash roads May–Oct.

• Centre · Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Thakhekhot

  Dry and pleasant Nov–Feb; April tops 37 °C; the Thakhek Loop is hard in the rains.

• South · Pakse, Bolaven Plateau, 4,000 Islandshot

  Hottest region in April; the Bolaven Plateau is cooler and wettest; river islands flood partly at high water.

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year) big impact

  13–16 Apr

  Water throwing everywhere, Luang Prabang processions; trains, buses and rooms sold out, shops closed.

Crowds · Laos

High

Prices · Laos

High

High-price month: see what to book ahead.

• Light, breathable clothes, a sun hat and sunscreen

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Better another month

• Luang Prabang

  Hottest and smokiest; Lao New Year mid-month sells out rooms.