Laos, Asia

Luang Prabang in February

Still lovely, though the first haze from field burning can appear late in the month.

BestDry, highs near 85F (29C)

Wat Xieng Thong temple, Luang Prabang — Luang PrabangPhoto: Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0

The straight answer

February is one of the best months of the year to visit Luang Prabang. Still lovely, though the first haze from field burning can appear late in the month.

Weather: Dry, highs near 85F (29C)
Crowds: 4 of 5
Prices: 4 of 5

What February is like in Luang Prabang

February is still lovely. Days are dry with highs near 85F (29C), and the mornings are pleasantly cool. Crowds and prices stay high through much of the month. The first haze from field burning can appear late in the month, softening views and hinting at the smoky season to come. Everything is open and boat trips run normally.

It suits the same travelers as January, and late February is a smart pick for fewer crowds with dry-season weather. People with asthma or allergies should aim for the first half of the month, before the haze arrives. After February, conditions turn smoky and hot, so this is the last easy month until November.

Make the most of February

What is especially good about Luang Prabang this month.

Clear dry-season days

Blue skies and dry trails make it easy to visit temples, waterfalls, and the countryside.

Wat Xieng Thong at opening

The town's most important temple, with its sweeping roofs and glass mosaics, is calm first thing in the morning.

Night market strolls

Warm evenings are perfect for the handicrafts and textiles along Sisavangvong Road. Bargain gently.

What to pack for February

Light, breathable clothes
A light sweater for early mornings
Sunscreen and a hat
Modest clothes for temples

Our timing tip

Book the first half of February if anyone in your group is sensitive to smoke, since haze from field burning can arrive late in the month.

Book Luang Prabang for February.

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Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Luang Prabang
Opens a hotel search for Luang Prabang in February, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
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Vacation rentals in Luang Prabang
Whole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
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Tours and tickets in Luang Prabang
Timed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Luang Prabang for February. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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Things to do in Luang Prabang

Full guide

Tak Bat (morning alms giving)

Around dawn on Sakkaline Road. Keep your distance, do not use flash, and only take part if you do it respectfully with properly prepared rice.

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Wat Xieng Thong

The town's most important temple, with its sweeping roofs and glass mosaics. Go early morning before tour groups.

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Kuang Si Falls

Turquoise in the dry season, often cloudy after heavy rain. Go at opening or late afternoon to swim without the crowds.

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Mount Phousi at sunset

A steep climb to a stupa with views over the rivers. Arrive 30 to 45 minutes early for a good spot, or go at sunrise instead.

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Royal Palace Museum

The former royal residence, with the Phra Bang Buddha image in a temple on the grounds. Dress conservatively.

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Pak Ou Caves by boat

Two caves filled with thousands of Buddha images, about two hours upriver. Best on a clear dry-season morning.

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Beat the crowds

Visit Kuang Si right at opening. By late morning in high season the lower pools are crowded with day trippers.
Watch the alms procession from a quieter side street rather than the main strip where tour groups gather.
Climb Mount Phousi for sunrise instead of sunset. It is far quieter and the morning mist over the rivers is beautiful.
November and late February offer dry-season weather with fewer visitors than December and January.

Know before you go

During Pi Mai, some shops and businesses close for several days, and you will get wet whether you plan to or not. Protect your phone and camera.
Mekong boat trips and some rural treks are less appealing in the peak rainy months (July and August), and some are suspended when water levels are high.
Temples require covered shoulders and knees. The Royal Palace Museum has a strict dress code and does not allow bags inside.
Luang Prabang has a curfew culture: many bars and venues close around 11pm or 11:30pm.

Luang Prabang in February, quick answers

Is February a good time to visit Luang Prabang?

February is one of the best months of the year to visit Luang Prabang. Still lovely, though the first haze from field burning can appear late in the month.

What is the weather like in Luang Prabang in February?

Dry, highs near 85F (29C).

Is Luang Prabang crowded in February?

Luang Prabang is busy in February, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.