Myanmar has three broad seasons, and there's no truly bad time to visit — each has its own character.
Cool season · mid-November to mid-March
The most comfortable window, with temperatures around 20–24°C and clear skies — and the only time the Bagan balloons fly. It's also the busiest and priciest, so book six to nine months ahead. Mornings are genuinely chilly in the north; you'll want a layer or two around Inle Lake in January.
Hot season · mid-March to mid-June
Hot (30–35°C) but most places stay accessible, with fewer tourists, lower prices and better guide availability. The exception is the Thingyan water festival in mid-April, when the whole country celebrates and prices spike — book well ahead for that. Pack light cotton and linen, and a shawl for temples.
Green season · mid-June to November
Our quiet secret. Sporadic, heavy rain turns the landscape lush and — we'd argue — makes it the most photogenic time of year, with very few other travellers about. Some remote excursions may be limited by flooding. Bring light, loose clothing and a good waterproof.
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