Best time to visit Burma
- The best time to visit Burma is November to May, with good weather across most of the country.
- Months to avoid, for the rains or the heat: June to October.
- High season, with more visitors and higher prices: November to February.
- To save money, travel in low season while the weather is still fine: April to May.
Burma month by month
| Month | Weather | Season | Festivals |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Great time | High season | |
| February | Great time | High season | |
| March | Great time | Shoulder season | |
| April | Great time | Low season | Thingyan (Water Festival) |
| May | Great time | Low season | |
| June | Poor time | Low season | |
| July | Poor time | Low season | |
| August | Poor time | Low season | |
| September | Poor time | Low season | Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival |
| October | Poor time | Shoulder season | Thadingyut (Festival of Lights) · Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival |
| November | Great time | High season | Tazaungdaing (Festival of Lights) |
| December | Great time | High season |
What the weather is like in Burma each month
January Great time
Cool and dry season. Excellent time to visit Bagan, Yangon, Mandalay, and Inle Lake. Pleasant temperatures (20-30°C), clear skies, and low humidity. Ideal for trekking in the Shan Hills.
February Great time
Still cool and dry, but temperatures start to rise slightly. Very good travel conditions. The famous Hpa-An cave temples and Mrauk U are easily accessible. Considered high season for tourism.
March Great time
Beginning of the hot season. Temperature rises sharply (25-38°C). Dry but very warm. Central plains around Bagan and Mandalay can be extremely hot. Early morning sightseeing recommended.
April Great time
Peak of the hot season. Temperatures can reach 40-45°C in central Myanmar. April is the hottest month. Thingyan (Water Festival) occurs in mid-April – fun but chaotic. Not recommended for intense touring unless you cope very well with heat.
May Great time
Hot and humid. The southwest monsoon begins to approach, with pre-monsoon showers. Rainy season starts in late May. Still possible to travel but afternoon storms become common. Fewer tourists.
June Poor time
Southwest monsoon fully established. Heavy rainfall, especially in Yangon, the Irrawaddy delta, and coastal Rakhine. Bagan and Mandalay receive less rain but cloudy skies. Trekking and boat trips become limited.
July Poor time
Peak of the rainy season. Flooding possible in low-lying areas. Roads to Ngapali Beach, Mrauk U, and Hpa-An may be affected. Some flights to remote areas can be delayed. Not ideal for travel.
August Poor time
Still very wet. Consistent rain and high humidity. However, Bagan and the dry zone receive less rain than coastal areas. Travel is possible but requires flexibility. Low tourist season, great bargains.
September Poor time
Rainfall begins to decrease but remains significant. The end of September sees improving conditions. Inle Lake may be muddy but still beautiful. Fewer crowds.
October Poor time
Monsoon retreats. October is transitional – early October still rainy, late October becomes drier. By mid-October, travel conditions improve dramatically. A good time to visit before peak season.
November Great time
Start of the cool dry season. Perfect weather across the country. Clear skies, cool nights, and mild days. Excellent for ballooning over Bagan, trekking in Kalaw, and exploring ancient temples.
December Great time
Cool and crisp weather. Peak tourist season. Comfortable temperatures (15-28°C). Ideal for visiting all destinations. Book accommodations well in advance. Best month for photography and outdoor activities.
Where to go in Burma
Routes through Burma
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