- Fewer tourists: December is a shoulder month, meaning there are fewer tourists than during the peak season (November to February). This means you’ll be able to enjoy the city’s attractions without having to deal with large crowds.
- Lower prices: Due to the lower demand, prices for flights, hotels, and other tourist services are typically lower in December than during other times of the year.
- More availability: With fewer tourists, it’s easier to find available hotel rooms and tours.
- Unique cultural experiences: December is a time of many festivals and celebrations in Burma, including the Thingyan Water Festival, which is held in mid-April. This is a great opportunity to experience Burmese culture and traditions firsthand.
Weather In Rangoon During December
Rangoon, or Yangon, the former capital of Myanmar (Burma), experiences a tropical monsoon climate with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
During December, Yangon’s weather is generally pleasant and dry with warm temperatures.
- Average temperature: The average temperature in Yangon during December is 26°C (79°F), with daily highs typically reaching around 32°C (90°F) and lows dropping to around 20°C (68°F).
- Rainfall: December is one of the driest months in Yangon, with an average rainfall of just 20mm (0.8 inches). There is a very low chance of rain on any given day in December.
- Humidity: The humidity levels in Yangon during December are moderate, averaging around 70%.
- Sunshine: Yangon receives an average of 9 hours of sunshine per day in December, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities.
Overall, the weather in Yangon during December is pleasant and dry, making it a great time to visit the city and explore its many attractions.
Things To Do In Rangoon In December
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Shwedagon Pagoda Festival: Held in December, this grand festival celebrates the Shwedagon Pagoda, one of Myanmar’s most sacred Buddhist sites. The festival features colorful processions, traditional music and dance performances, food stalls, and a lively atmosphere.
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Christmas and New Year Celebrations: Rangoon has a significant Christian population, and Christmas is widely celebrated with decorations, special church services, and festive gatherings. New Year’s Eve is also a time of celebration, with parties, fireworks, and live music.
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Maha Wizaya Pagoda Festival: This festival is held at the Maha Wizaya Pagoda, another iconic Buddhist site in Rangoon. It takes place in December and features religious ceremonies, cultural performances, and a bustling bazaar with local handicrafts and souvenirs.
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National Independence Day (December 4): This national holiday commemorates Myanmar’s independence from British rule in 1948. The day is marked with official ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and festive gatherings across the country, including Rangoon.
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Hpaung Daw U Festival: This annual festival is held in Taunggyi, a city in Shan State, but it attracts visitors from all over Myanmar, including Rangoon. The festival features a colorful boat procession on Inle Lake, traditional dances, and performances, as well as cultural exhibitions.
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Rangoon Cultural Centre Events: The Rangoon Cultural Centre hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including traditional dance and music performances, art exhibitions, and literary readings. Check their calendar for specific events happening in December.
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Kyaiktiyo Pagoda Festival: While not located in Rangoon itself, the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda Festival, held in December in Mon State, is a popular pilgrimage and tourist destination. The festival features religious ceremonies, cultural performances, and a lively atmosphere.
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City Parks and Gardens: Rangoon has several beautiful parks and gardens that are pleasant to visit in December. Some popular options include Kandawgyi Park, Inya Lake Park, and Maha Bandula Park, where you can relax, enjoy nature, and take leisurely walks.
Tourism In Rangoon, Burma During December
During December, Rangoon, Burma, known as Yangon, Myanmar, experiences a vibrant blend of traditional and modern tourism. Travelers can immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Shwedagon Pagoda, the Reclining Buddha, and the Sule Pagoda. These sacred sites offer stunning architecture and intricate religious iconography, providing a glimpse into the country’s deep-rooted spiritual beliefs.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Yangon also offers a diverse range of entertainment and leisure activities. Visitors can explore the lively markets, such as the Bogyoke Aung San Market, known for its vast selection of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The city’s many parks and gardens, including the Kandawgyi Lake and Park, provide serene spaces for relaxation and recreation, while the bustling downtown area offers a variety of shopping malls, restaurants, and bars.
Furthermore, December marks the beginning of the dry season in Yangon, making it an ideal time to explore the surrounding areas. Day trips to nearby attractions, such as the Golden Rock, a precariously balanced boulder covered in gold leaf, or the serene Inle Lake, renowned for its floating gardens and stunning scenery, are popular options for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the natural beauty of Myanmar.
The convergence of cultural exploration, natural wonders, and a pleasant climate makes Yangon an attractive destination for tourists during December, offering a unique and memorable travel experience.