Things to Do in Vientiane in March

March Weather in Vientiane

33°C (92°F) High Temp

22°C (71°F) Low Temp

43 mm (1.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season ending - only 10 rainy days with brief afternoon showers lasting 20-30 minutes, perfect for morning temple visits and evening riverside dining
Comfortable morning temperatures of 22-25°C (72-77°F) ideal for cycling the 8 km (5 mile) temple circuit before 10am heat sets in
Mekong River at lowest levels revealing sandy beaches and perfect sunset viewing spots along Sisattanak Waterfront
Pi Mai (Lao New Year) preparation season - locals preparing traditional foods and decorations, authentic cultural immersion without tourist crowds

Considerations

Afternoon temperatures reach 33°C (92°F) with 70% humidity making outdoor activities uncomfortable between 11am-4pm
Dust levels peak before rainy season begins - air quality can be poor especially near construction zones
Some rural roads become dusty and uncomfortable for day trips outside the city

Best Activities in March

Sunrise Temple Circuit Cycling

March's cool mornings (22-25°C/72-77°F) are perfect for cycling between Pha That Luang, Wat Si Saket, and Wat Ho Phra Keo before the day heats up. The low tourist numbers mean peaceful photo opportunities and genuine interactions with morning worshippers. Dust-free early hours provide clear views.

Booking Tip: Rent bicycles from guesthouses for ฿20,000-30,000 LAK per day. Start by 6:30am to complete the circuit before 10am heat. See current guided cycling options in the booking section below.

Mekong Sunset River Activities

March's low river levels create beautiful sandy beaches along the Mekong perfect for sunset picnics and boat trips. The dry weather guarantees clear sunset views across to Thailand. Evening temperatures drop to comfortable 26°C (79°F) - ideal for riverside dining at local beer gardens.

Booking Tip: Traditional boat trips typically cost ฿80,000-120,000 LAK for 2 hours. Book through riverside operators or see current options in booking section below. Best departure time is 4:30pm for optimal lighting.

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) Morning Exploration

Located 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center, March's dry roads make this easier to reach. Morning visits avoid the intense afternoon sun that makes the concrete sculptures uncomfortably hot to touch. Clear skies provide dramatic photography of the 200+ Buddhist and Hindu statues.

Booking Tip: Tuk-tuk day trips typically ฿150,000-200,000 LAK including waiting time. Depart by 8am, return by noon. Licensed drivers offer better vehicles for dusty roads. Current tour options available in booking section.

Traditional Cooking Classes

March brings seasonal ingredients like young bamboo shoots and river fish to local markets. Indoor cooking classes provide perfect escape from afternoon heat while learning authentic Lao cuisine. Pre-Pi Mai season means learning traditional festival food preparation.

Booking Tip: Half-day classes range ฿200,000-300,000 LAK including market tour and meal. Book 3-5 days ahead as March is popular among locals preparing for Pi Mai. Check current class availability in booking section.

Morning Market and Street Food Tours

Cool March mornings are perfect for exploring Khua Din Market and Morning Market when vendors display seasonal produce and traditional Lao breakfast dishes. The comfortable temperatures make food sampling enjoyable before afternoon heat affects appetite.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours typically ฿180,000-250,000 LAK for 3-4 hours including tastings. Start early at 7am for best selection and comfortable temperatures. See current food tour options in booking section.

COPE Visitor Center and Museums

March's afternoon heat makes air-conditioned indoor attractions perfect for midday exploration. COPE Center provides crucial context about UXO (unexploded ordnance) issues in Laos. The Lao National Museum offers cultural background ideal before Pi Mai celebrations begin.

Booking Tip: Admission typically ฿20,000-40,000 LAK per site. Plan indoor activities for 11am-4pm when outdoor exploration becomes uncomfortable. Self-guided visits work well with good English signage.

March Events & Festivals

Throughout March

Pi Mai Preparation Period

March marks the preparation phase for Lao New Year (Pi Mai) celebrated in mid-April. Locals begin traditional food preparation, temple cleaning, and crafting decorations. Visitors can observe authentic cultural practices and learn traditional cooking techniques from families preparing for the biggest celebration of the year.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps heat and moisture uncomfortably

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 during peak afternoon hours

Light rain jacket or umbrella - brief afternoon showers occur 10 days of the month lasting 20-30 minutes

Closed-toe shoes for temple visits - required at all religious sites, also protects from dust on unpaved areas

Lightweight long pants and sleeves for evening - respectful temple attire and protection from mosquitoes after sunset

Dust mask or scarf - air quality can be poor due to pre-rainy season dust, especially near construction zones

Refillable water bottle - staying hydrated crucial in 33°C (92°F) afternoon temperatures

Small daypack with wet wipes - helpful for dust removal and cooling down during outdoor exploration

Sandals that can be easily removed - frequent shoe removal required at temples and some restaurants

Power bank and waterproof phone case - for full-day temple circuits and unexpected rain showers

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations near Fountain Square or Sisattanak Waterfront - these areas have the best air circulation and evening breeze, crucial for comfortable March nights

Shop at morning markets before 8am when vendors display the freshest seasonal produce and prices are most negotiable before tourist hours

Use the new Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway completed in 2024 for day trips - cuts travel time from 4 to 2.5 hours but book early morning departures to return before afternoon heat

Locals retreat to shopping malls like Vientiane Center during 11am-4pm heat - follow their lead for comfortable midday activities with air conditioning and food courts

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing between 11am-4pm when temperatures reach 33°C (92°F) with high humidity - locals avoid this period entirely

Wearing dark colors or synthetic fabrics that absorb heat and don't breathe in the humid conditions

Not carrying cash in small denominations - many temples, markets, and local transport only accept Lao Kip in small bills