An overview of Myanmar’s seasons
The ideal time for traveling throughout Myanmar is winter, from mid-October to mid-February, with an average temperature of 68-76°F. Some regions in upper Myanmar have temperatures ranging between 40–50°F.
The rainy season (monsoon) is from mid-May to mid-October with an average temperature of 77-86°F. Although it rains heavily in Yangon and Inle Lake, traveling in Myanmar during this season is still enjoyable because Mandalay and Bagan lies in rather dry zone where it rarely rains. The hot season (summer) is from mid-February to mid-May, with an average temperature of 86-95°F.
OVERVIEW
This is peak tourist season in Myanmar, so book well in advance! Rainfall is negligible and while you can expect sunshine through the day with temperatures hovering in the early 70s, the nights can get a bit chilly, so make sure you carry some layers!
WE RECOMMEND
- It’s the perfect weather to relax on Myanmar’s beaches such as Ngwe Saung
- Surrounded by pine forests, the small hill station of Kalaw is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers
- Visit the distinctive rural town of Hpa-An, with its dramatic backdrop of limestone mountain and over 1,000 Buddha statues
- If it’s peace and tranquility you are after, head to Inle Lake
OVERVIEW
Much like January, the weather in February makes it perfect for visiting Myanmar. This is the last official month of winter, so expect temperatures to rise slightly, but still remain largely warm and dry.
WE RECOMMEND
- Relax at Ngapali Beach, considered one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful beaches
- From glittering ancient pagodas to museums and remnants of its British colonial past in its leafy avenues and markets, there’s much to see in Yangon!
- Visit the small town of Pindaya, well-known for its picturesque surroundings and its holy limestone caves
OVERVIEW
March is still high season in Myanmar, with warm and sunny conditions prevailing through most of the country. But it is also a transition month – expect temperatures to start steadily rising towards the end of March.
WE RECOMMEND
- Enjoy peace and relaxation at the fantastic Ngwe Saung Beach located on the western coast of Myanmar
- For an offbeat experience head to the Mergui (Myeik) Archipelago, a hidden paradise of about 800 islands
- When in Mergui, meet and observe the lifestyle of its indigenous Moken people
- Explore the sacred rock of Kyaiktiyo, situated in the midst of densely wooded mountains
OVERVIEW
It’s getting hot in Myanmar with temperatures averaging in the high 90s across the country and even crossing 100°F in the central lowland regions. This is among the hottest months of the year and as the rains are yet to set in, you can expect dry conditions for the most part.
WE RECOMMEND
- Imagine a four-day rain dance, for more than 50 million people, spread over thousand of square kilometers, every year! Welcome to the biggest celebration in Myanmar – Thingyan, the Burmese new year. Get your water pistols ready!
- Visit the verdant hill town of Pyin Oo Lwin on a horse drawn carriage
OVERVIEW
The hot weather continues through May, but expect temperatures to marginally dip as the southwest monsoons make an appearance towards the end of the month.
WE RECOMMEND
- Visit the dreamy town of Hsipaw and immerse yourself in the provincial life in its villages, home to traditional ethnic peoples. Don’t forget to visit the candlelight midnight market!
OVERVIEW
This is the time the southwest monsoon begins to set in, so expect cooler temperatures and increasing spells of rainfall, especially towards the end of the month.
WE RECOMMEND
- If you plan to be around Bagan this month, make a day trip to Mt Popa – this extinct volcano houses many stupas and small temples and is always bustling with pilgrims
OVERVIEW
The monsoons have set in during this month, so expect heavy rainfall pretty much through the country in short sharp bursts. Temperatures are usually in the mid 90s, and humidity levels high. Do note that the beaches are usually shut around this time and flight connectivity across the country can get erratic due to the rains.
WE RECOMMEND
- Visit the ancient village of Salay, around two hours south of Bagan, with its stunning wooden monasteries
OVERVIEW
This one of the wettest months of the year, so expect heavy downpours across the country. Travel continues to be difficult and several beach resorts will be shut.
WE RECOMMEND
- Make a trip to the charming town of Monywa on the eastern bank of the Chindwin River and explore the grand Thahboddhay Pagoda complex, with its stupas, statues and sacred images
OVERVIEW
Expect the heavy rains to continue but gradually taper towards the end of the month. The temperatures continue to be in the mid 80s, but as the rains abate come October, the humidity levels will gradually decrease as well.
WE RECOMMEND
- Immerse yourself in Mawlamyine’s spiritual aura at its many monasteries and shrines, especially the Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, Mawlamyine’s signature landmark
OVERVIEW
As the rains abate through the month, conditions become dry, making travel in Myanmar easier. Temperatures usually range between 68 and 86°F. The landscape is usually lush green after the rains, making this quite a popular month to plan your visit.
WE RECOMMEND
- High water levels post monsoons makes this a good time for an overnight cruise on the Ayeyarwady River
- Opt for a change from the busier destinations of Myanmar with a visit to Daiwei with its miles of sandy beaches
OVERVIEW
Excellent conditions prevail through most of the country – making this a popular time to visit, so book early! Temperatures usually average in the high 70s to early 80s, it is warm and sunny, and the rainfall is minimal at this time.
WE RECOMMEND
- Spend time in the cultural heart of Myanmar – Mandalay!
- November is usually the time the country celebrates the Festival of Lights
- Visit the small town of Kyaing Tong and immerse yourself in amazing natural beauty and the ancient traditions of its local colorful tribes
- Explore the beautiful town of Loikaw with its impressive mountain ranges, enchanting lakes and breathtaking waterfalls
OVERVIEW
It’s dry, warm – with temperatures in the high 90s across the country – and sunny, making Myanmar a highly sought-after Christmas and New year destination and very much in demand!
WE RECOMMEND
- Explore the beautifully preserved brick temples of the ancient royal city of Bagan – a cultural and historical gem
- Experience a magical balloon ride over the beautiful landscape of Bagan
- When in Bagan, don’t forget to take a stroll through the Nyaung U market for some truly wonderful sights and smells
- Head to Meek for its exquisite virgin beaches, inhabited only by a profusion of wildlife
- Explore the town of Bhamo with its beautiful waterfront and the ancient ruins of Sampanago
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Best Time to Visit Myanmar by Season
Plains (Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay, Ngapali):
- High season: November – March
- Low season: April – October
- Restricted to: May, July – September
Higher Regions (Inle Lake, Kyaing Tong, Hsipaw, Kalaw, Pyin Oo Lwin):
- Main season: November, March – April
- Low season: July – October, December – February
- Restricted to: May – June
What to Pack for Myanmar
As a rule of thumb, visitors should know many southeast Asians are conservative in their clothing. Western clothing is acceptable and is worn by many, but in modest fashion. While visiting shrines and religious places, visitors are recommended not to wear shorts, mini-skirts, vests, tanks, etc. Your knees and shoulders must be covered. Please avoid clothing with images of Buddha, as this is considered highly disrespectful. The best footwear includes sandals, flip-flops and comfy walking shoes that can be taken off easily. Although it is acceptable to wear shoes when walking in the compound of the temple, you would be required to take them off before you enter the chapel where the main Buddha image is placed, as well as in pagodas and people’s homes.
Specifically for Myanmar, it is important to check the weather when you are planning to visit and pack clothes accordingly. Depending on when you do go, here are a few things you must packs: light clothes, cotton and linen, a light jacket for mild evenings, a good sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, rain gear including an umbrella, jacket, and some light-weight shoes and hiking boots for long trails.
Discovering Myanmar
19 Days: $ 4,490 / person
Myanmar For Beginners
9 Days: $ 2,390 / person
Luxurious Wonders of Myanmar
15 Days: $ 7,590 / person
Enchanting Travels made planning this vacation a breeze. I didn’t stress at all during the trip, especially since there was also someone there to help with international transfers. All of our guides spoke English well and were quite accommodating.
Enchanting Travels employs people who really know how to listen to their clients and provide an exciting itinerary that is also safe and flexible. Everyone we worked with, from Brenda and Lavina to our guides Mr. Pongthep and Sangay, and our chauffeur Kengua, were professionals who seemed to really enjoy showing us their beautiful and exciting countries.
Go to Bhutan now! We don’t believe it is really going to stay this way for long. And it really is unique right now. Building laws require that dwellings be built in the traditional fashion and this makes for the most beautiful and original vistas. No one goes to Bhutan for the cuisine.
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