Planning a trip to Yangon? Timing really matters. The city has a tropical monsoon climate, which means hot weather all year and a sharp divide between dry and rainy seasons.
If you want the most comfortable weather, aim for the cool, dry months from November to February. Temperatures feel bearable, and rain is rare.
During these months, you’ll catch sunny days and lower humidity. Evenings are nice too, so you can actually enjoy exploring golden pagodas, bustling markets, and those colonial streets without melting or dodging downpours.
The wet season, on the other hand, brings daily rain and sticky air. It really changes what you can see and do.
Understanding how Yangon’s seasons work helps you make smarter plans. Want to stroll through Shwedagon Pagoda at sunset, join a festival, or just wander around Kandawgyi Lake? Knowing the weather patterns means your trip will feel less rushed—and honestly, just better.
Yangon Weather Overview
Yangon has a hot, humid climate shaped by monsoon winds and seasonal rain. High temperatures stick around all year, with a clear dry season and months of heavy rain that affect how comfy your visit is.
Tropical Climate Explained
Yangon sits in southern Myanmar and deals with a tropical monsoon climate. You basically get two main seasons: dry and wet.
The dry season lasts from November to April. Skies usually stay clear, humidity drops, and rain barely shows up. These months feel best for sightseeing and outdoor stuff.
The wet season kicks in around May and sticks around until October. Southwest monsoon winds bring in daily, sometimes heavy rain. Streets can flood fast, and getting around outside gets tricky.
Unlike places with four seasons, Yangon’s weather really just flips between dry and wet. This makes it easy to pick the best travel windows, especially if you want to skip the rain.
Temperature Patterns Throughout the Year
Yangon stays warm to hot all year, with only minor changes from month to month. Daytime highs usually range from about 32°C (90°F) in January to 39°C (102°F) in April, which is the hottest time.
Nights cool down a bit but stay warm. In January, you’ll see lows around 19°C (66°F), and in April, nights hover near 27°C (81°F). Even in the coolest months, you won’t need anything heavy to wear.
The hottest stretch shows up just before the monsoon in May. High heat and rising humidity can feel rough if you’re not used to the tropics.
If you prefer things milder, November to February is your best bet. You’ll get warm days without the brutal heat of late spring.
Rainfall and Humidity Trends
Yangon gets over 2,400 mm of rain each year, and most of it falls during the monsoon. July usually tops the charts, with more than 500 mm and showers nearly every day.
February, though, barely sees any rain—often under 5 mm. This big difference is why the dry season is so much better for outdoor plans.
Humidity also swings with the seasons. In August, it can hit 87%, making things feel sticky. January is better, around 62%, so walking tours and exploring feel a lot more pleasant.
Sunshine hours change too. January offers about 10 hours of sun per day, but July drops to just 2 to 3 hours. That affects comfort, photos, and even your plans.
Seasonal Guide to Visiting Yangon
Yangon’s tropical monsoon climate creates three main travel periods. Each season brings its own blend of temperature, rain, and humidity, which really shapes what you can do and how comfortable you’ll be.
Dry Season: November to April
You’ll find the dry season is the most comfortable time to check out Yangon. Rain barely shows up, and the sky usually stays clear, giving you lots of sunshine. Humidity is lower too, so walking around feels much easier.
From November to February, daytime temperatures usually fall between 25°C and 32°C. These months feel cooler and are great for sightseeing, visiting Shwedagon Pagoda, or wandering the city’s old colonial streets.
March and April stay dry but get hotter. Temperatures can spike to 37–39°C, especially in April. Even though there’s little rain, you’ll want to plan for shade, lots of water, and maybe slow things down in the afternoons.
Key points:
- Rainfall: Minimal
- Sunshine: 8–10 hours daily
- Best activities: Outdoor sightseeing, festivals, street markets
Hot Season: March to May
The hot season overlaps with the end of the dry months. Temperatures shoot up, with daytime highs often hitting 37°C or more. Nights don’t cool off much either, usually around 27°C, so there’s not much relief.
Humidity starts to climb in May as the monsoon gets closer. That mix of heat and moisture can feel pretty intense if you’re outside for long.
Even with the heat, this time brings some big cultural moments. The Thingyan Water Festival in April marks Burmese New Year and takes over Yangon. If you can handle the heat, it’s a special time to visit.
Travel tip: Try to stay indoors during the hottest afternoon hours. Plan your sightseeing for early morning or evening.
Monsoon Season: June to October
The monsoon season dumps heavy rain and brings high humidity. From June through September, Yangon gets most of its yearly 2,400+ mm of rain. July is the rainiest, often with more than 500 mm.
Rain usually comes in big bursts, sometimes lasting hours. Streets can flood, and travel plans might get thrown off. Sunshine is pretty rare, with only about 2–3 hours per day during the wettest months.
Temperatures stay warm, around 30–33°C, but the constant humidity makes it feel even hotter. Outdoor sightseeing is tough, though indoor attractions or cultural spots are still doable.
If you visit during monsoon, bring waterproof clothes, quick-dry shoes, and keep your plans flexible. Hotels are usually cheaper, and you won’t have to deal with crowds.
Quick facts:
- Rainfall: Heavy, daily
- Sunshine: Very limited
- Pros: Lower costs, fewer tourists
- Cons: Flooding, travel delays
Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown
Yangon’s tropical monsoon climate brings clear seasonal changes. Temperatures stay warm all year, but rainfall and humidity shift a lot, which shapes when travel feels best.
January to February: Pleasant and Cool
These months offer the nicest weather in Yangon. Daytime highs average 32°C (89°F), and nights cool off to about 19–21°C (66–70°F). Humidity stays lower, around 62–65%, so the air doesn’t feel as sticky.
Rain barely makes an appearance, just a few millimeters across both months. You’ll get long sunny days, up to 9–10 hours daily, which makes sightseeing and walking around way easier.
This is peak tourist season, so expect more people at popular spots like Shwedagon Pagoda. But honestly, the weather makes everything more enjoyable.
Quick facts:
- Average high: 32°C
- Average low: 19–21°C
- Rainfall: 2–5 mm
March to May: Rising Heat and Festivals
Temperatures climb quickly during these months. By April, daytime highs often hit 37–39°C (99–102°F), making it the hottest stretch of the year. Nights stay warm, around 26–27°C (79–81°F), and humidity starts to creep up.
Rain picks up a bit in May, signaling the start of the monsoon. March and April, though, are mostly dry with lots of sunshine. Outdoor activities can feel rough in the middle of the day, so mornings and evenings work better for exploring.
This is when Thingyan (Water Festival) happens in April, Myanmar’s New Year. The heat can be brutal, but the festival’s water-throwing traditions bring some relief and energy.
Quick facts:
- Average high: 37–39°C
- Average low: 26–27°C
- Rainfall: 20–100 mm (rising in May)
June to October: Rainy Months
The southwest monsoon takes over during this stretch. Rain gets heavy and frequent, especially in July and August, when monthly totals can top 500–600 mm. You’ll get rain most days, often as long downpours or thunderstorms.
Temperatures stay warm, with highs around 30–32°C (86–90°F). Nights are muggy, averaging 24–25°C (75–77°F). Humidity often reaches 80–87%, so the air feels thick.
Sunshine drops fast, sometimes to just 2–3 hours per day in the rainiest months. Flooding in low-lying spots can mess with travel plans, and outdoor trips may be limited.
If you come now, pack waterproof gear and plan for indoor things like museums, markets, or cultural shows.
Quick facts:
- Average high: 30–32°C
- Average low: 24–25°C
- Rainfall: 300–600 mm per month
Festivals and Events Impacting Your Visit
Yangon’s cultural celebrations often line up with seasonal weather shifts. These events can change your travel plans by affecting hotel availability, crowd sizes, and even daily routines with street closures or extended festivities.
Thingyan (Water Festival)
Thingyan, the Burmese New Year, usually lands in mid-April—right at the peak of the hot season. Temperatures often soar above 35°C (95°F), and the festival brings relief with citywide water-throwing fun.
You’ll see streets packed with stages, music, and people dousing each other with water. Businesses often close for several days, and transportation gets limited. Booking your stay early makes things easier.
The festival lasts about four days, but in Yangon, celebrations can stretch longer. It’s a wild time, so expect crowds, soaked clothes, and slower travel. If you’re up for a high-energy scene, this is one of Myanmar’s most unforgettable events.
Shwedagon Pagoda Festival
The Shwedagon Pagoda Festival celebrates Yangon’s most sacred Buddhist site. It usually happens around March, just before the rains start. Hot and dry weather makes it easier to join outdoor ceremonies and processions.
Pilgrims from all over Myanmar gather at the pagoda, making for big crowds. You’ll see flower offerings, candles, food, chanting, and traditional performances. Vendors pop up with snacks and religious items.
Because this festival centers on such an important landmark, nearby hotels fill up fast. If you want the spiritual side of Yangon, plan ahead and be ready for long hours outside in the heat.
Thadingyut Festival
Thadingyut, or the Festival of Lights, takes place in October as Buddhist Lent ends. The weather starts shifting from rainy to cooler and drier, so it’s a comfortable time to get out and explore.
During the festival, homes, streets, and pagodas light up with lanterns and candles. Shwedagon Pagoda draws big crowds, with thousands paying respects to monks and elders.
Expect busy streets, evening festivities, and a lively city atmosphere. Hotels and transport can fill quickly, but the nice weather and cultural buzz make this a great time to visit.
Tazaungdaing Festival
Tazaungdaing, or the Festival of Lights in November, follows Thadingyut and welcomes the cool dry season. This is one of the best times for weather in Yangon, with lower humidity and clear skies.
The festival features hot-air balloons, robe-weaving contests, and ceremonies at pagodas. Shwedagon Pagoda becomes a hub again, drawing locals and travelers alike.
Evenings are especially lively, with lit-up streets and community gatherings. Since this festival kicks off peak tourist season, booking your stay early is smart. The mix of pleasant weather and vibrant celebrations makes it a great time for longer sightseeing trips in Yangon.
Top Attractions and Activities by Season
Yangon’s weather really shapes the best times to get outside, wander hill towns, or just duck into indoor spots when the rain gets wild. Your trip experience will probably depend on picking activities that fit the temperature, humidity, and rain of each season.
Exploring Shwedagon Pagoda
Shwedagon Pagoda stands out as Yangon’s most important site. You can go any time of year, but each season feels a bit different. The cool, dry stretch from November to February is honestly the best—less humidity, clear skies, and way better for snapping photos.
Try to show up early in the morning or later in the afternoon. That way, you dodge the worst of the midday heat. In March and April, things heat up fast, so bring water and dress light. The golden stupa really bounces back the sun, so sunscreen is a must.
When the rainy season hits from June to September, the pagoda grounds get pretty slippery. If you don’t mind a shower, you might find fewer people around and a much calmer vibe. The covered walkways help you stay dry, so you can still explore even if it pours.
Hill Stations: Pyin Oo Lwin
If Yangon’s heat gets to you, try heading for Pyin Oo Lwin, a hill town northeast of Mandalay. The cooler air makes it a popular spot between March and May, when Yangon feels like an oven.
You’ll see botanical gardens, old colonial houses, and waterfalls like Anisakan Falls. The falls really roar during the monsoon. In July and August, expect lush scenery but also muddy, slippery trails, so good shoes are a must.
From November to February, Pyin Oo Lwin gets crisp mornings and gentle afternoons. It’s perfect for walking tours or hopping on a horse-drawn carriage. That’s definitely the most comfortable time to wander the countryside, since there’s hardly any heavy rain or sticky humidity.
Indoor and Rainy Day Activities
Yangon’s wettest months, June through September, bring daily showers almost like clockwork. When that happens, indoor spots come to the rescue. You could check out the National Museum of Myanmar to see royal artifacts and cultural exhibits.
Shopping centers like Junction City and Bogyoke Aung San Market give you shelter and a chance to browse local crafts, gems, and textiles. Cafés and tea shops are everywhere, so you can relax and watch daily life go by while you dry off.
If you’re in the mood for culture, try a traditional puppet show or swing by some art galleries. These activities keep things interesting while you wait out the rainstorms that rule the monsoon.
Travel Tips for Weather-Ready Yangon Trips
Yangon’s tropical weather brings stretches of hot months, pounding monsoon rains, and a few cooler, dry weeks. If you prep for these changes, you’ll stay more comfortable, avoid health hassles, and get more out of your time in Myanmar’s biggest city.
What to Pack for Each Season
For the cool and dry season (November–February), bring light cotton clothes, a hat, and sunscreen. The temperatures feel mild, but the sun can still be harsh. Toss in a light jacket or scarf for those chilly mornings or evenings.
In the hot season (March–May), it gets downright sweltering—sometimes above 38°C (100°F). Pack breathable fabrics, a reusable water bottle, and solid sun protection. Loose clothes and sandals will help you stay cooler when you’re out exploring.
When the rainy season (June–October) rolls in, you’ll need waterproof gear. Bring a compact umbrella, quick-dry clothes, and sturdy sandals for wet streets. A lightweight rain jacket is handy too. Roads flood easily, so skip the heavy shoes that take forever to dry.
A small day bag with insect repellent, hand sanitizer, and a refillable water bottle comes in handy all year.
Air Quality and Health Considerations
Rainy season clears the air in Yangon, so pollution and dust drop off. In the hot, dry months, you’ll notice more haze—especially near busy roads. If you’re sensitive to air quality, maybe carry a light mask for crowded spots.
High humidity during the monsoon boosts mosquito activity. Use repellent and throw on long sleeves in the evenings to avoid bites. Most hotels offer mosquito nets, but ask ahead just in case.
Stay hydrated, no matter when you visit. Don’t drink tap water in Myanmar—stick to bottled or filtered. If you’re out in the heat for hours, carrying oral rehydration salts can be a lifesaver.
Accommodation and Booking Advice
The cool season draws the biggest crowds to Yangon. Hotels book up fast, so if you want a decent place and a fair price, you’ll want to reserve your room at least 2–3 months ahead. Prices shoot up, especially around hotspots like Shwedagon Pagoda.
In the hot season, fewer people visit, and prices usually drop. Trust me, you’ll want to double-check that your room actually has working air conditioning before you commit.
During the rainy season, hotels tend to offer some tempting discounts. Some smaller guesthouses might shut down if flooding’s a risk, so it’s smarter to go for places with solid drainage and easy routes to main roads. Always take a look at the cancellation policy, since the weather can throw a wrench in your plans.