Pindaya Cave Festival: the beautiful caves of Pindaya come alive during this popular festival, celebrating their unique beauty and religious significance. Buddhist rituals and cultural performances are planned both around the caves and in town. This is one of Myanmar’s best events, so don’t miss it if you’re in the area.

Thingyan Water Festival: this fun water festival celebrates Myanmar’s New Year. The entire country stops working to splash each other with water and cool off from the oppressive heat of April. Every town has some degree of fun, with larger towns sporting parades, beauty pageants and concerts.

Kason Festival: on the first full moon after Thingyan, the Kason Festival happens. This auspicious event honours the Buddha’s birthday, the day he attained enlightenment and the day he died. Temples buzz with activity as monks and locals make merit and hold processions through towns.