Bagan weather is a topic that is of great interest to many travelers planning a visit to this ancient city in Myanmar. Located in the central dry zone of the country, Bagan experiences a tropical monsoon climate with a distinct dry and wet season. The dry season lasts from October to May, while the wet season takes place from June to September.
The dry season is characterized by hot and dry weather, with temperatures averaging between 30-35°C (86-95°F) during the day and dropping to around 20-25°C (68-77°F) at night. The weather during this time is generally sunny and clear, making it an ideal time to explore the many temples and pagodas that dot the Bagan landscape.
The wet season, on the other hand, is characterized by heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels. Temperatures during this time are generally around 25-30°C (77-86°F) during the day and around 20-25°C (68-77°F) at night. Despite the rain, this is still a great time to visit Bagan as the lush green landscape provides a beautiful contrast to the dry season.
Here is a table with the average temperature and rainfall for each month in Bagan:
| Month | Low (°C) | High (°C) | Low (°F) | High (°F) | Rain (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14 | 28 | 57 | 82 | 5 |
| February | 15 | 29 | 59 | 84 | 5 |
| March | 16 | 32 | 61 | 90 | 5 |
| April | 20 | 35 | 68 | 95 | 5 |
| May | 23 | 38 | 73 | 100 | 5 |
| June | 24 | 34 | 75 | 93 | 20 |
| July | 25 | 32 | 77 | 90 | 40 |
| August | 25 | 32 | 77 | 90 | 40 |
| September | 24 | 32 | 75 | 90 | 35 |
| October | 20 | 35 | 68 | 95 | 5 |
| November | 17 | 30 | 63 | 86 | 5 |
| December | 15 | 28 | 59 | 82 | 5 |
When it comes to deciding the best time of year to visit Bagan, it ultimately depends on what type of experience you are looking for. If you prefer clear skies and warm weather, the dry season from October to May is the best time to visit. This is also the peak tourist season and the temples and pagodas will be busiest during this time.
However, if you prefer a more lush and green landscape, the wet season from June to September is a great option. While it may rain during this time, it’s usually just a quick shower and the rain usually doesn’t last long. Additionally, the temples and pagodas will be less crowded during this time, making it a great option for those who prefer a more peaceful experience.
In addition to the weather, it’s also important to consider other factors such as the festivals and events that take place in Bagan. The Bagan Temple Festival is held in February and features traditional performances and cultural activities. The Ananda Temple Festival is held in December and features traditional performances, cultural activities, and a colorful parade.
Another factor to consider is the number of tourists visiting Bagan. The peak tourist season is from October to May and the temples and pagodas can get quite crowded during this time. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, the wet season from June to September is a great option as there will be fewer tourists visiting.
Another thing to consider is the temperatures during the different seasons. The dry season is hot and dry with temperatures averaging between 30-35°C (86-95°F), while the wet season is characterized by heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels. If you can’t handle the heat, then the wet season could be a better choice.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Bagan depends on your preferences. If you prefer clear skies and warm weather, the dry season from October to May is the best time to visit. However, if you prefer a more lush and green landscape, the wet season from June to September is a great option. Additionally, consider factors such as festivals, crowds, and temperature when planning your trip to Bagan.
