Cultural · Yangon, Mandalay + nationwide, Myanmar

Thingyan Water Festival Myanmar

Myanmar's Buddhist New Year — 4-5 days of water throwing, similar to Thai Songkran

Thingyan is Myanmar's Buddhist New Year water festival — 4-5 days of nationwide water throwing (similar to Thai Songkran). April 13-16 or 17. Yangon has organised water pavilions (pandals). Mandalay has more traditional celebration. Preceded by strict Buddhist observance days.

Upcoming dates

Next
2027
April 13-17 (Thingyan) + April 18 (Myanmar New Year)
Following year
2028
April 13-17

April 13-16 or 17 fixed every year. Buddhist New Year day is April 17 or 18. Full holiday period April 13-20.

Duration
4-5 days water festival + 3-day post-New Year holiday
Crowd
Myanmar's biggest holiday
Budget/day
$40-100 mid-range Yangon
Book ahead
2+ months

Booking + planning tips

Best for: Adventurous cultural travellers + festival lovers
  • Note: Check Myanmar entry requirements — situation has been complex 2021+
  • Book Yangon hotels 2-3 months ahead
  • Waterproof phone case essential — you WILL be soaked
  • Water pavilions (pandals) in Yangon are the main organized celebrations
  • Mandalay has more traditional Burmese celebration
  • Airports operate but domestic transport limited April 13-17
  • Some businesses closed 5-7 days for full New Year period

Book hotels for Thingyan Water Festival Myanmar 2027

Prices spike + hotels sell out during this event. Book 2+ months ahead.

Frequently asked

When is Thingyan 2027?
April 13-17, 2027 (water festival). Myanmar New Year is April 18. Full holiday period April 13-20.
Thingyan vs Songkran?
Both are Buddhist New Year water festivals in April. Songkran is Thai (April 13-15). Thingyan is Burmese (April 13-17). Similar concept, water thrown across everyone.
Is it safe to visit Myanmar?
Check current UK/US/Australian government travel advisories — situation has been complex since 2021. Some areas restricted, main tourist areas (Yangon, Bagan) generally OK but consult current guidance.
What should I wear for Thingyan?
Waterproof phone case essential. Clothes you don't mind getting soaked. Waterproof shoes. Long trousers/skirt to respect Buddhist modesty even while getting wet.
What are Thingyan pavilions?
Pandals (water pavilions) built along Yangon's streets during Thingyan. Corporate + private groups sponsor them. Playing music + serving food + throwing water on passers-by.