Things to Do in Laos in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Laos

35°C (95°F) High Temp

22°C (72°F) Low Temp

25mm (1 inch) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather - only 3 rainy days with 25mm (1 inch) rainfall means outdoor activities rarely get cancelled
Ideal trekking conditions in northern mountains - clear visibility and comfortable morning temperatures of 18-22°C (64-72°F) before afternoon heat
Low tourist crowds - March sits between Chinese New Year peak and Songkran festival, meaning 30-40% fewer visitors at major temples and attractions
Mekong River at optimal levels - water is clear and calm for boat trips, with sandbars and beaches fully exposed along the riverbanks

Considerations

Intense afternoon heat reaches 35°C (95°F) - outdoor sightseeing becomes uncomfortable between 11am-3pm, requiring midday breaks
Burning season air quality - northern regions experience haze from agricultural burning, reducing mountain visibility and affecting sensitive travelers
Very dry conditions mean dusty roads and increased fire risk in rural areas, making some remote trekking routes temporarily inaccessible

Best Activities in March

Luang Prabang dawn alms ceremony and temple visits

March's cool mornings (18-22°C/64-72°F) make the 5:30am alms ceremony comfortable, and you'll finish temple-hopping before the intense afternoon heat. Clear skies provide perfect lighting for photography, and fewer crowds mean more authentic interactions with monks.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed for alms ceremony, but join organized temple tours (typically ฿800-1,200) to avoid the midday heat. Book morning tours starting before 8am through licensed guides.

Mekong River slow boat journeys

March offers ideal river conditions with calm waters and clear visibility. The dry season means reliable schedules and comfortable temperatures for the 2-day Luang Prabang to Chiang Khong route. River levels are perfect for accessing remote villages.

Booking Tip: Book slow boat tickets (typically ฿400-600) 5-7 days ahead at riverfront ticket offices. Avoid booking through guesthouses who add 30-40% markup. See current tour options in booking section below.

Kuang Si Waterfalls swimming and hiking

Perfect weather for the 29km (18-mile) trip from Luang Prabang - the falls are at optimal flow levels and the turquoise pools are refreshingly cool against March's heat. Morning visits avoid afternoon crowds and harsh UV exposure.

Booking Tip: Day tours cost ฿600-900 including transport. Book morning departures (8am start) to enjoy cooler temperatures. Independent travel via tuk-tuk costs ฿300-400 round trip for up to 4 people.

Northern mountain trekking around Nong Khiaw

March provides the best trekking conditions with clear mountain views and comfortable hiking temperatures. The dry season makes trails accessible and river crossings safe. Stunning sunrise views are guaranteed with minimal cloud cover.

Booking Tip: Multi-day treks typically cost ฿2,500-4,000 per person including guide and meals. Book through registered operators in Nong Khiaw village 10-14 days ahead. Check current trek availability in booking section below.

Vang Vieng outdoor adventure activities

Dry season means prime conditions for tubing, kayaking, and rock climbing. The Nam Song River runs clear and safe, while rock faces are dry and grippy. Cool morning temperatures make multi-hour activities comfortable before afternoon heat sets in.

Booking Tip: Activity packages range ฿1,200-2,500 depending on combination. Book morning sessions to avoid peak heat. Tubing is cheaper (฿60,000 kip) but adventure tours through licensed operators provide safety equipment and insurance.

Vientiane cycling and street food tours

March evenings (6-8pm) offer perfect temperatures for cycling between temples and night markets. The dry weather means reliable evening food stalls operation, and cool mornings allow comfortable rides to Patuxai Monument and riverside areas.

Booking Tip: Bicycle rentals cost ฾50,000-80,000 kip per day. Guided food tours typically ฿1,800-2,800 including bike and tastings. Book evening tours starting after 5pm when temperatures drop to comfortable levels.

March Events & Festivals

Early to Mid March

Boun Khoun Khao (Rice Harvest Festival)

Rural communities celebrate the rice harvest with traditional ceremonies, folk dancing, and communal feasts. Villages around Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng host authentic celebrations where visitors can observe rice blessing rituals and sample harvest season dishes.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and zinc stick - UV index reaches 11, causing burns in 10-15 minutes without protection

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts in light colors - protects from sun while staying cool in 35°C (95°F) afternoon heat

Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses - essential for temple visits and river activities with intense UV reflection

Insect repellent with DEET - dry season concentrates mosquitoes around water sources, especially at dawn/dusk

Reusable water bottle (2-3 liters) - dehydration happens quickly in dry heat, safe refill stations available in tourist areas

Light rain jacket or poncho - brief afternoon showers still possible, and waterfalls create spray zones

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support - temple steps and trek paths can be uneven, dust makes surfaces slippery

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees - required for all temples, lightweight pants better than shorts in heat

Small daypack with water and snacks - essential for day trips, local shops may be closed during hottest hours

Portable fan or cooling towels - invaluable during midday heat when seeking shade between attractions

Insider Knowledge

Local buses run air conditioning only when full - for routes over 3 hours, pay extra for VIP buses or travel early morning when temperatures are bearable

Lao people take 11am-3pm siestas during March heat - many family-run restaurants and shops close during these hours, so plan meals around local schedules

March is ideal for homestays in mountain villages - clear weather means reliable transportation access, and harvest season creates opportunities to participate in traditional activities

Book accommodations near night markets and riverside areas - these stay lively after sunset when temperatures drop, giving you more exploration time during comfortable hours

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing between 11am-3pm - the heat becomes dangerous quickly, and many locals avoid going outside during peak hours

Underestimating water needs - tourists frequently get dehydrated, needing 3-4 liters daily during outdoor activities in March heat

Ignoring air quality reports in northern regions - burning season can trigger respiratory issues, especially around Luang Prabang and mountainous areas