Taunggyi Hot Air (Fire) Balloon or Tazaungdaing festival in the Inle Lake Premises of the Shan state has been the center of festivity for tourists in Myanmar. It is one of the most electrifying gatherings with hundreds of hot air balloons designed to display animals and birds making their way in the open sky. Hosted by the Pa-O tribe locals in November. Marking the end of the rainy season, this festival of light is also a display of unity and joy as fireworks and balloons paint the sky with bright colors. Preparations start months before the main festival lasting for 5 days. These balloons are offered to SulamaniCetiya in Tavitisma, the home of gods in Buddhist cosmology. At the end of this festival, monks are given new robes and alms marking the biggest full moon of the year.
Besides the main event, the Tazaungdaing festival is also popular for the vast carnival taking place on the premises. You can try some of the local delicacies here conjoining with the Burmese cuisine here. Similarly, you can enjoy the music from local bands alongside many other attractions like games, parades, feasts, and more.
