Ayeyarwaddy Delta

The Ayeyarwady, fondly referred to by the locals as Mother Ayeyarwady, is the country's lifeline. For centuries, the fertile soil of the Ayeyarwady deposited along its lengthy banks has sustained life as evidenced in the many ancient kingdoms (now in ruins) and settlements that dot both sides of the river. But it is the delta region that the land is perhaps most fertile. Throughout the delta, you will find rice farming villages and settlements, some consisting of no more than a few dozen huts on silt huddled together.

The rainy season lasts from mid-May until mid-October. For the next few months, the weather is quite reasonable. In fact, it is actually cool in Mandalay at night and near freezing in Kalaw, near Inle Lake. From mid-February, it gets increasingly hot until the rains arrive once more. The Burmese New Year in April, at the peak of the hot season, means much fun and throwing water at all concerned. November to February are the best months to visit.