title: The Rough Guide to Laos, 1st Edition
author:  Jeff Cranmer 
description: When to go November to January are the most pleasant months to travel in lowland Laos, when daytime temperatures are agreeably warm and evenings are slightly chilly, necessitating a lightweight jacket. However, at higher elevations temperatures are significantly cooler, sometimes dropping to freezing point - a heavy coat is a must. In February, temperatures begin to climb, reaching a peak in April, when the lowlands are baking-hot and humid. During this time, the highlands are, for the most part, equally hot if a bit less humid than the lowlands, though there are places, such as Pakxong on the Bolaven Plateau, that have a temperate climate year round. Generally, the rains begin in May and last until September. This is important to keep in mind, as the rainy season affects the condition of Laos's network of unpaved roads, some of which become impassable after the rains begin. On the other hand, rivers which may be too low to navigate during the dry season become important transport routes after the rains have caused water levels to rise.
zlib_text: www.ebook3000.com
  
  INSIDE THIS BOOK
  INTRODUCTION What to see, what not to miss, itineraries and more – everything 
  you need to get started
  BASICS Pre-departure tips and practical information
  THE GUIDE Comprehensive, in-depth guide to Laos, with area highlights and full-
  colour maps throughout
  CONTEXTS History, religion and belief systems, arts and temple architecture, the 
  environment, literature and myths, plus recommended books covering the country 
  and a useful language section
  This sixth edition published September 2017
  Make the Most of Your Time on Earth at roughguides.com
  5
  4
  3
  2
  6
  1
  Savannakhet
  Pakse
  Luang
  Namtha
  Houayxai
  Pakbeng
  Xishuangbanna
  Phonsavan
  Paksan
  Vinh
  Luang Prabang
  Hué
  Thakhek
  Vang Vieng
  HANOI
  VIENTIANE
  M
  e
  k
  o
  ng
  M
  e
  k
  o
  ng
  Gulf of
  Tonkin
  T H
  A
  I
  L
  A N
  D
  MYANMAR
  (BURMA)
  C H I N A
  C H I N A
  V
  I E
  T
  N
  A
  M
  C A M B O D I A
  N
  kilometres
  0
  100
  Laos chapters
  1 Vientiane and the northwest
  2 Luang Prabang
  3 The northeast
  4 The far north
  5 South central Laos
  6 The far south