Sơn La Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Sơn La.

Climate overview of Sơn La

The climate in Sơn La, Sơn La province, Vietnam, sees a moderate range of temperatures across the year, from 31°C (88°F) in May down to 22°C (72°F) in January.

The city receives considerable rainfall, with around 1663 mm (65 in) annually. July is the wettest month. It has distinct dry (November to February) and wet (May to September) seasons. May is the sunniest month, averaging 6.8 hours of sunshine per day.

Sơn La Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Sơn La - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Sơn La

In Sơn La, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in May to a comfortable 22°C (72°F) in the coolest month, January.

Nights vary from 23°C (73°F) in May to around 12°C (54°F) during the colder months.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Sơn La

Sơn La experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 1663 mm (65 in) of precipitation annually. The climate in Sơn La shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in July, the wettest month, with an average of 349 mm (14 in) of precipitation over 22 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month February offers drier and sunnier days, with around 29 mm (1.1 in) of rainfall over 8 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Sơn La Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Sơn La

Sơn La offers a pleasant mix of sunny and slightly overcast days. The difference in sunshine hours between May (6.8 hours daily) and February (4.7 hours daily) provides a bit of variety for visitors and residents.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Sơn La by Month

Best Time to Visit Sơn La

For comfortable weather, consider visiting Sơn La in January, February, March, October, November and December. Conditions are usually least favourable in June, July, August and September.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: January, February, March, October, November and December
  • Warmest weather: April, May, June, July, August and September
  • Most sunshine: May
  • Fewest rainy days: December
  • Wettest months: May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
  • Seasonal pattern: Distinct dry (November to February) and wet (May to September) seasons

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Sơn La

What is the best time to visit Sơn La?

January, February, March, October, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Sơn La. In contrast, June, July, August and September tend to have less optimal conditions. Sơn La has distinct dry (November to February) and wet (May to September) seasons.

What temperatures can I expect in Sơn La?

Daytime highs range from 22°C (72°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in May. Nighttime lows range from 12°C (54°F) to 23°C (73°F).

How much rain does Sơn La get?

Annual rainfall is around 1663 mm (65 in). July is the wettest month with 349 mm (14 in), while February is the driest with 29 mm (1.1 in).

How sunny is Sơn La?

Sơn La receives around 2,023 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 205 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 141 hours. Overall, Sơn La enjoys abundant sunshine.

Sơn La 3-Day Forecast

Sơn La on the map

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