Bagan in April

November through March is peak season for good reason — temperatures hover around 85°F instead of the brutal 105°F you'll face in April and May. December and January are perfect, with clear skies and comfortable mornings for temple exploration. But peak season means peak prices. Hotel rates double, and hot air balloon rides jump from $300 to $400 per person. If you can handle some heat, late October or early April offer fewer crowds and better deals. Avoid the monsoon months (June through September) unless you enjoy exploring temples in mud and constant drizzle. Many dirt roads become impassable, and half the balloon companies shut down. Here's the sweet spot: early November. The rains have just stopped, everything's green, and tourist hordes haven't fully descended yet. Temple sunrise views are clearest, and you might have entire pagodas to yourself.