In August, the wet season is in full effect, and though that makes some places more lush and beautiful, it also means you’re likely to experience some heavy downpours. That said—it’s not monsoon weather everywhere in the country. Although the coast and southern cities get hit hard, there are plenty of regions in the north and around the mountains that are spared some of the heavy flooding and torrential downpours. The weather is still warm and, best of all, the crowds completely disappear.
**Weather in Myanmar During August**
Visiting Myanmar in August presents a unique set of considerations, primarily revolving around the weather. There’s simply no way to avoid the reality: August is the heart of the monsoon season, the wettest month of the year for this Southeast Asian nation. If you’re planning a trip during this time, be prepared for rain. Heavy, persistent rain is the defining characteristic of August weather in Myanmar.
The monsoon season bears down heavily upon the coast, particularly the southwestern regions that border the **Bay of Bengal**. Many of the beaches in this area essentially shut down. Roads become impassable due to flooding and washouts, making access difficult, if not impossible. It is paramount to factor this in when considering travel plans.
Temperatures in Myanmar during August can fluctuate, generally ranging from 75 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit. The southern regions of the country tend to experience warmer weather, while the mountainous areas and the northern central plains offer slightly cooler conditions. Keep in mind that humidity levels are also generally high, contributing to a feeling of warmth.
In terms of rainfall, specific locations receive varying amounts. **Yangon** and **Inle Lake** typically experience around 12 inches of rainfall during August. Moving further north, the ancient cities of **Bagan** and **Mandalay** receive comparatively less, with approximately 6 and 7.4 inches of rain respectively. Even with these lower figures, the potential for rain showers and thunderstorms remains a factor throughout the month.
It is also essential to bear in mind that Myanmar’s infrastructure is still developing. The heavy rains can have a significant impact on transportation. Many roads, especially those along the coast, can become completely washed out during this time of year. As a result, air travel is often the preferred mode of transportation compared to buses or private vehicles. That being said, flights are also sometimes subject to delays or even cancellations due to the adverse weather conditions. This necessitates travel insurance and a flexible itinerary.
Another crucial aspect to consider is the increased risk of dengue fever during August and July. These months represent the peak season for transmission, primarily because mosquitoes breed in the numerous puddles of standing water created by the monsoon rains. Therefore, vigilance is critical. Employing mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in accommodations with mosquito netting are all highly recommended precautions. Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is vital for a safe and healthy trip.
**The Allure of Fewer Crowds and Lower Costs**
One of the most significant advantages of visiting Myanmar in August is the relative absence of crowds. Myanmar, even during peak season, doesn’t experience the overwhelming tourism seen in some other Southeast Asian destinations. During the rainy season, some regions can genuinely feel like ghost towns, at least as far as other tourists are concerned. This offers the opportunity to experience a more authentic and less crowded version of Myanmar.
If you venture to **Inle Lake**, you might find that many of the lodges situated directly on the water are practically empty. It can feel as if you have an entire lake resort entirely to yourself, which can be a truly unique and memorable experience. The serenity and tranquility of the lake, undisturbed by throngs of tourists, adds to the appeal.
Similarly, in other urban centers like **Yangon** and **Mandalay**, the crowds are noticeably thinner compared to the peak tourist season. This allows for a more relaxed and less hurried exploration of the cities’ attractions and cultural sites.
Furthermore, the prices for accommodation, food, and activities tend to be lower during August. Many hotels offer rainy season specials to attract guests. You may also find discounts on food at restaurants and on various tours and activities. This makes it a more budget-friendly time to visit Myanmar, allowing you to stretch your travel budget further.
**Destinations to Consider in August**
While some areas are best avoided in August, other regions offer compelling reasons to visit. **Bagan** and **Mandalay** stand out as excellent choices during this month due to their comparatively lower rainfall compared to **Yangon**, **Inle Lake**, and other popular tourist destinations.
In both **Bagan** and **Mandalay**, temperatures typically hover around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This is warm, but not as scorching hot as in April or May. The mornings often bring breaks in the rain, offering opportunities for outdoor exploration. However, it’s crucial to remember that many of the tourist attractions in these cities are outdoors. Therefore, a good quality raincoat and a rain-friendly attitude are essential.
For those who appreciate misty, foggy mountains, lush greenery, and dramatic lightning storms over bodies of water, **Inle Lake** can feel like paradise during August. While you will undoubtedly encounter heavy storms, the region possesses a mystical quality that many travelers find enchanting.
Staying in one of the many lodges situated directly on the water provides a tranquil and immersive experience. It’s a wonderful place to curl up with a book, overlooking the lake and watching the rain cascade down the mountains. During the breaks in the rain, which often occur in the mornings, you can hire a long-boat driver to explore the floating markets and waterways. Before embarking on any road trip, make sure the roads are passable.
In contrast, the southern part of Myanmar, including **Yangon**, and the coastal beaches are generally not the best places to visit in August. While **Yangon** offers some indoor attractions like museums and temples, the coast has little to offer this time of year. Streets can become flooded, rendering them impassable, and many resorts close their doors to guests. Even the famous Golden Rock is often shrouded in fog and likely not visible at sunrise. For the most enjoyable trip to Myanmar in August, it is recommended to focus on the northern regions of the country or the mountainous areas surrounding **Inle Lake**.
**Activities to Enjoy**
August presents some interesting opportunities to engage in a variety of activities.
Climbing **Mandalay Hill** is a fantastic option. This viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city of **Mandalay**. The ascent involves climbing 1,729 steps inside a Buddhist shrine. As the steps are covered, this is an ideal time for this hike because it tends to be cooler than at other times of the year. However, caution is advised on the narrow white steps near the top, as they can be steep and slippery when wet.
While in **Mandalay**, consider exploring Burmese cuisine. In **Bagan**, showers are usually scattered, with breaks of sunshine in between, so head out in the morning to explore the ancient archaeological ruins such as the **Shwezigon Temple** or **King Kyansittha**’s **Ananda Temple**. A **Grasshopper Adventures bike tour** of the temples allows you to pedal to cover if needed, and a bus tour lets you see some of the sites from the comfort of a bus.
If you find yourself at **Inle Lake**, indulge in relaxation at one of the waterside lodges, or get a massage. You’ll be treated to misty mountain views and spectacular lightning storms. During breaks in the weather, check out the golden **Hpaung Daw U Pagoda** or stop by the **Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery** that’s famous for the cats that roam the grounds. Up the hillside, the **Red Mountain Estate Vineyards** offers wine-tasting opportunities.
**Yadana Gu Nat Festival**
In the town of **Amarapura**, the Yadana Gu Nat Festival takes place every year in August or September. This spiritual festival, lasting eight days, draws mediums and spiritual leaders from all over Myanmar to take part in rituals and songs. The Buddhist event is held to honor Burmese animist spirits called **Nats**. Participants offer food, alcohol, flowers, money, and other gifts to the spirits.
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