myanmar famous tourist

15 Myanmar Top Tourist Attractions

Travelling to Myanmar a few decades ago was off limits to most foreigners. The country is beginning to open up and is now friendlier towards tourism in modern times. People who do visit this exotic destination in Southeast Asia are rewarded with endless golden pagodas, ancient temples, and a glimpse into life in this once all but forgotten nation.

On top of this, there are lots of opportunities to get off the beaten track or trek in the mountains, alongside pristine lakes and have adventures in caves. This article describes the top tourist attractions in Myanmar.

1. The Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon

The Shwedagon Pagoda is one of the Myanmar top tourist attractions. This giant golden structure in Yangon rises to a height of 99 metres with its exterior covered in around 60 tonnes of gold. If you look up at the top of the stupa, you can see a 76-carat diamond as well as more than 7,000 smaller ones throughout the complex. Inside Shwedagon, there are smaller pagodas and pavilions dedicated to different Buddhist deities. Admission is MKK 8000 ($6 USD) and you should expect to spend up to three hours here. Be aware that you need to remove your shoes and it may be advisable to bring a plastic bag to carry your footwear.

2. The Temples of Bagan

The Kingdom of Bagan was an ancient Kingdom responsible for building temples between the 11th and 13th century. In fact, this early civilisation constructed no less than 10,000 temples, monasteries, and pagodas within the relatively small area of Bagan. This is by far one of the best Myanmar tourist attractions and is one of the most visited places in the country.

You can rent an e-bike for a very reasonable price and explore the ruinous temples independently. Some are larger and in better conditions, whereas others are barely standing after centuries of exposure to the elements. Watching the sunrise or sunset over these ancient temples is a highlight for any tourist. If you’re not travelling on a budget, you can take a hot air balloon ride to gaze down at the temples and landscape below.

Tourists have to pay an entrance fee of MKK 25000 ($20) to enter the archaeological zone of Old Bagan. You have to buy this before leaving Nyaung U Airport near Bagan or the bus will take you to a ticket office before you enter the town.

3. Inle Lake

This is the largest lake in Myanmar and is another one of the top Burma tourist attractions. You can come here to explore the surrounding villages supported on stilts that extend out into the water. Various activities include taking a boat ride around a floating market and visiting the nearby temples and monasteries. You can also see the local Intha people, who use a unique style of paddling their boats using just one leg, for a more cultural experience. Inle Lake is one of the best travel destinations in Myanmar and offers a lot in terms of local culture.

.4 The Reclining Buddha in Yangon

The Reclining Buddha (Chauk-htat-gyi Buddha Temple) is a large image of Buddha in Yangon that extends for a distance of 16 metres. Locals come here to make offerings and to worship the image. When you visit, you’ll see different shrines that correspond to days in the astrological week. People make offerings to the shrine of the day that they were born on.

5. The Bogyoke Aung San Museum

Anyone with a knowledge of modern politics will know the name Aung San Suu Kyi, a former winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. Well, she’s a prominent figure in the development of Myanmar and her father, General Aung San, helped to gain Burmese independence from the British. This museum is the family home of Aung San Suu Kyi and her father before he was assassinated. A trip here is one of the best Myanmar attractions for people with a love of modern history.

6. Mandalay Royal Palace

Everyone around the world has probably heard the name Mandalay Palace. It’s quite common in popular culture and is even the name of a resort and casino in Las Vegas. But you may not know that this was once the palace of the last Burmese Kingdom before British colonialism. For this reason, the Mandalay Royal Palace is one of the top tourist attractions in Burma.

When you arrive in Mandalay , the palace is in the centre of the city surrounded by a giant moat that stretches for 2 kilometres on each of its four sides. If you want to go inside, be aware that it can take several hours to walk around the perimeter. So, you want to make sure you know where the entrance is! Watching the sunrise or sunset over the walls of Mandalay Palace is an unforgettable experience.

7. A Climb Up Mandalay Hill

Mandalay Hill, reaching a total height of 236 metres, is one of the holiest places in Mandalay. This has several pagodas, monasteries, and religious images that rise up the side of the hill. Climbing up the steps to reach the top rewards travellers with views of the city and Mandalay Palace below. Tourists tend to say this is one of their top Burma attractions in Mandalay. And it also gives you an insight into the local Buddhist way of life.

As you climb up the hill, you’ll pass several pagodas and images of Buddha. There are several monks in the monasteries that hang around and like to practice their English with tourists. This is a great experience and you may be able to chat with some of the younger, more curious locals.

Admission is free, but you’re expected to pay a small ‘photography fee’ when you reach the Well-Wisher’s Pagoda at the top. It’s also worth mentioning that you need to remove your shoes to climb the steps. Again, it may be better to bring your own plastic bag to carry your shoes.

8. A Visit to Shan State and Trekking

Shan State usually isn’t considered among the top 10 tourist attractions in Myanmar. But, the region that you can reach from Inle Lake offers rolling hills and multiple opportunities for hiking and trekking. One of the best places is Kalaw and you can arrange a trekking tour away from the temples for a different experience. This is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar for anyone who loves the outdoors.

9. A Cultural Show in Yangon

Karaweik Palace is a large golden barge that doubles as a function centre and restaurant on Kandawgyi Lake in Yangon. The barge is a prominent feature that dominates the lake making it perfect for photographs. But, when the sun goes down, it gets even better. You can attend a culture show in the evening and a buffet dinner with traditional music and dancing. This is certain to be one of the highlights of any trip to Myanmar. For more information and to make a reservation, visit the official Karaweik Palace website.

10. Amarapura and U-Bein Bridge

Amarapura is another top tourist attraction in Myanmar. This was once the capital of the Burmese Kingdom before it was moved to Mandalay. There are lots to do in this small village including visiting the U Bein Bridge that spans across Taungthaman Lake. This is the longest and oldest teak bridge in the world. The lake is a great place to see the sunrise or sunset. You can also sit along the side of the lake and watch the locals on their boats paddle past.

11. The Colonial Architecture in Yangon

The British ruled in Myanmar for more than a century. In fact, you may not know that Burma was actually the old British name for the country. Because of this, there are a few colonial buildings that still exist in Yangon. The better ones include the Strand Hotel, the High Court Building, and the Minister’s Office.

Not everyone likes history, but Yangon is somewhat special. This city has the highest number of colonial buildings in all of South East Asia. The reason is that under the recent military regime, development in Yangon was restricted. As such, the colonial buildings were preserved, which makes it one of the more interesting places in Myanmar if you want to learn about the colonial past.

12. The Modern Capital of Myanmar – Naypyidaw

Naypyidaw isn’t exactly one of the must see attractions in Myanmar, but it should be on your list of places to see if you have the time. The modern capital is unique and very different to any other major city in the world.

It’s a fully built city with good roads, infrastructure, and everything else you would expect a modern city to have. Apart from one small thing that’s missing: the people. Hardly anyone lives there and the roads and streets are practically deserted. Under the military regime, the new city was constructed in clandestine circumstances. Then suddenly, in 2005, it was announced to be the new capital. All the government was subsequently moved from the old capital in Yangon to Naypyidaw.

Attractions include seeing the giant parliament building, spending a few hours in the zoological gardens, and an empty 20 lane highway.

13. A Day Trip to Inwa

Inwa is another former capital of the Burmese Kingdom near Mandalay. In the 19th century, a devastating earthquake destroyed most of the city and it was later moved to Amarapura. If you visit today, you can see the ruins of the old pagodas and a large monastery made from teak where monks still attend today.

14. A Climb to the Summit of Mount Popa

Mount Popa is a mountain near Bagan that towers over the region below. This is considered to be the Mount Olympus of Myanmar and is a very holy place. Locals believe that Nat Spirits live here and several shrines and pavilions honour them. People come from all around the country to make their offerings to appease these potentially nasty spirits.

When you arrive, it’s free to climb up the 777 steps to reach the top. Several vendors sell their goods and you’re sharing the mountain with an army of monkeys. At the top, there’s a large pagoda and beautiful views of the dry, dusty landscape below. The best way to reach Mount Popa is to take a tour from Bagan.

15. Saddar Cave

Visitors generally associate a trip to Myanmar with pagodas and temples. Few know of the opportunities to get out and explore some of the subterranean wonders this country has to offer. Saddar Cave is a large cave system in Karen State that has a number of miniature golden images of Buddha, religious cave paintings and a mystical pagoda. As you’re walking through, it gives visitors an almost spiritual experience.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, there are a number of Myanmar top tourist attractions to visit and experience. Top activities include enjoying the exoticism of the golden pagodas and exploring the ancient temples.

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• 37 Places To Visit In Myanmar In 2024 For Your Fix Of History And Adventure

12 Jan 2023

Myanmar is country rich in history, culture and tradition. It’s midway between undergoing urbanization so that when you visit, you see an incredible mix of modern and old. Pagodas seem scattered across the landscape and nowhere is this more apparent than in Bagan. They even grace balancing rocks and the center of cities. But, while pagodas are some of the biggest attractions here, the country also boasts stunning natural landscapes and tourist-friendly beaches. Along with this, it is a popular place among the Buddha followers as it is home to several Buddhist temples. Check out our list of places to visit in Myanmar for a look at what this land in Southeast Asia has to offer.

37 Best Places To Visit In Myanmar In 2023

Check out the perfect list of places to visit in Myanmar while you are on your trip. Keep scrolling down and read along. Choose what all places are you going to cover. From pagodas to lakes, there is no dearth of places to explore in Myanmar.

• Sule Pagoda : Place For Meditation
• Mount Popa : Paradise For Hikers
• Chauk-Htat-Gyi Buddha Temple : Pay A Visit
• Shwedagon Pagoda : The Most Sacred Pagoda
• Bagan : For Breathtaking Views
• Inle Lake : Go For Boating
• Ngwe Saung : Laze Around On The Beach
• Kyaiktiyo Pagoda : Witness The Balanced Rock
• Kakku Pagodas : Gape At The Symmetry
• Mahamuni Buddha Temple : Take A Dip In The Culture
• Kalaw : Ideal For Adventure Fanatics
• Mandalay : A Popular Pilgrimage Site
• Ngapali : Opt For Watersports
• Pindaya : Trek & Explore Places
• Hsipaw : Hiker’s Dream Location
• Hpa-An : For Mesmerizing Views
• Mawlamyine : Perfect Rustic Countryside
• Mergui : Sail Around The Place
• Naypyidaw : For A Vivid Experience
• Mrauk U : Most-Visited Site
• Shan State : Offbeat Destination
• Gokteik Viaduct : Opt For A Train Ride
• Macleod Island : Witness The Bucolic Nature
• Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda : Admire The Lush Greenery
• Thanboddhay Paya : Colorful Interior & Exterior
• Kandawgyi Park : Spend Recreational Time
• Mandalay Palace : For The Most Beautiful Views
• Bagan Archaeological Museum : Check Out The Murals
• Dukkanthein : See The Spiral Structure
• Bodhi Tataung : For Buddha Statues
• Taukkyan War Cemetery : Salute To The Brave Soldiers
• Maha Bandoola Garden : Relax & Unwind Here
• Mingun Temple : Explore The Ruins
• Thatbyinnyu Temple : Pay A Visit With Family
• Htilominlo Temple : Admire The Intricate Work
• Saddar Cave : Haven For Buddhist Followers
• Purcell Tower : In The Heart Of Myanmar

1. Sule Pagoda: Place For Meditation

Downtown Yangon is the home of the Sule Pagoda, a place of peace and meditation in the middle of the busy city. It’s believed to be more than 2,000 years old. It figures high on the list of Myanmar destinations especially among devotees because it houses a hair relic of Buddha. The Sule Pagoda is often overlooked by tourists but it should figure in your Myanmar travels because it’s one of the only points of interest in this part of Yangon.

Ideal for: History

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2. Mount Popa: Paradise For Hikers

If you’re in Mandalay, make it a point to visit Mount Popa. It’s one of the best Myanmar points of interest especially if you love to hike. The extinct volcano is not just magnificent to look at in itself but it’s topped by the Popa Taungkalat Monastery that’s perched on an outcrop. 777 steps will take you all the way to the top and reward you with panoramic views of the plains.

Ideal for: Hiking

3. Chauk-Htat-Gyi Buddha Temple: Pay A Visit

Myanmar is known for its Buddhist temples and the Chauk-htat-gyi Buddha Temple is one of them. It houses a huge 65-meter reclining Buddha. This is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar especially if you’re on a tour of the country’s temples. Even if you’ve seen many reclining Buddhas, the relaxed pose and peaceful expression of this image are extremely calming.

Ideal for: History and culture

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4. Shwedagon Pagoda: The Most Sacred Pagoda

No Myanmar sightseeing is complete without a visit to the fabulous gilded Shwedagon Pagoda. It’s considered to be one of the most sacred pagodas in Myanmar. Over 2,000 years old, with hundreds of gold plates and more than 4,500 diamonds encrusting the top of the stupa, it’s an architectural wonder that will take your breath away. If there’s only one pagoda you can visit during your travel and tour in Myanmar, this is it!

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5. Bagan: For Breathtaking Views

The ancient city of Bagan is perhaps one of the most interesting places in Myanmar. Over 2,000 Buddhist monuments dot the Bagan Archeological Zone that’s spread across 26 square miles. The best way to take in the entirety of this breathtaking city is to hop into a hot air balloon and fly over it. The rides take place in the wee hours of the morning. Carry a good camera so you can take photos of the monuments from above.

Ideal for: History and hot air ballooning

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6. Inle Lake: Go For Boating

Next on our list of what to see in Myanmar is Inle Lake, which is the second largest in the country and occupies one of the highest elevations. It’s located in Shan and is home to numerous endemic species of snails and fish. Unfortunately, their numbers have dwindled but that should not be a deterrent. Stilt houses pepper the waterway and the only way to see them is by boat. As you head towards the village of In Dein, you’ll be greeted by two groups of old pagodas, the Shwe Indein pagodas and Nyaung Ohak pagodas. Some are in ruins while others have been restored.

Ideal for: History and boating

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7. Ngwe Saung: Laze Around On The Beach

Myanmar beaches aren’t exactly the first places you think of going to when visiting the country. But these little known gems are incredibly picturesque and have all the hallmarks of great beaches. Palm trees, blue seas and pale sands offer the perfect place to spend lazy days soaking in the sun. Ngwe Saug or Silver Beach is one of the most popular. There are scuba diving and snorkeling facilities too if you want to explore the water. Cafes and restaurants nearby serve up dish after dish of lip-smacking seafood and snacks. Beaches in Myanmar are best visited during December-April when spring lends itself to deliciously warm weather. You can also catch the Water Festival (Thingyan) in April where everyone comes out to celebrate.

Ideal for: Leisure

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8. Kyaiktiyo Pagoda: Witness The Balanced Rock

It may be small but Kyaiktiyo Pagoda or Golden Rock in Mon State is one of the most striking pagodas because of its location. It’s perched on a boulder that’s covered with gold leaves. The boulder itself seems to defy gravity as it perfectly balances itself on another rock atop Mt. Kyaiktiyo. It’s believed that the boulder remains in its unusual position by virtue of the hair relic enshrined in the pagoda. And, legend has it that the boulder is supported by a strand of hair from Buddha. Whatever the reason, the unusual and dramatic attraction makes it one of the most sought-after Myanmar places to visit. You can get to the pagoda by bus but if you want to get up close with nature, you can hike the 16-kilometer trail. As tiring as it can be, you won’t be alone as pilgrims often choose to walk to the top.

Ideal for: History and leisure

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9. Kakku Pagodas: Gape At The Symmetry

A visit to Kakku Pagodas, believed to date back over 2,000 years, makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world, one that’s filled with stupas and little else. Almost 2,500 of them dot the hills near Inle Lake. Some of them have fallen into ruin but many are well-preserved. You can also see a few restored stupas. For all those looking for a touristy vacation, this is the perfect place to make it happen.

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10. Mahamuni Buddha Temple: Take A Dip In The Culture

Our list of where to go in Myanmar ends with the Mahamuni Buddhist Temple, an important pilgrimage site that houses one of the most revered Buddha images, a 13-foot tall sculpture. It’s covered in gold leaves so much so that parts of the sculpture appear distorted. The temple complex is also home to the Mahamuni Museum that educates visitors on Buddha’s life. There are also shops selling offerings in case you come without.

Ideal for: Culture

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11. Kalaw: Ideal For Adventure Fanatics

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If visiting Myanmar is solely to calm your adventurer inside, Kalaw is the place you need to be in. This place was one of the least explored places around in Myanmar but has gradually crept its way through the tourist scene because of its amazing trekking trails and beautiful picturesque destinations. The eastern mountains of the country are what is currently taking up on the overall seam of every trekker’s dream around in Myanmar. It is located atop the beautiful and majestic stature of the Shan Hills which was initially considered a mountain town under the British rule back in the initial days. Owing to the altitude it was located in, it was considered as an amazing spot to beat the scorching Myanmar heat. It is packed with resorts and hotels alongside an amazing food market and the best part is that you can hike all the way through without any kind of permit whatsoever.

Ideal For: Trekking and relaxing

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12. Mandalay: A Popular Pilgrimage Site

Mandalay is one of those towns in Myanmar that is known around the world for its rich culture and heritage owing to the contributions made by some of the dynasties that existed back then. The place highlights the doings of the mighty Shwenandaw Monastery and all in all is considered around for its plethora of not just prose but poetry pieces too. This temple has been considered to be one of the most important influencing factors when it comes to the rich history and literature of the place around. This is the second largest town in Myanmar and is best for pilgrimage and people who love visiting temples and amazing picturesque destinations around. Maha Myat Muni, otherwise known as the Royal Palace is also one of the most visited sites of pilgrimage around.

Ideal For: Pilgrimage

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13. Ngapali: Opt For Watersports

Yet another of the must visits around in Myanmar is Ngapali. This is possibly the most popular sand stretch around in Myanmar and does make up for one of the most popular relaxing spots in the entirety of Myanmar. The combination of the yellow-white sand is what makes it one of the most beautiful spots that you can sit and tan yourself and let loose of the thoughts that do intrigue you. It is located around the Bay of Bengal, the vibrant hues of the blue of the waves adding to the beauty of the place even further. The salt washed boats often come ashore, in and out of the bay, making it one of the most amazing spots to enjoy the freshly caught seafood in. Apart from the relaxing experience, you can also sign up with a tour organizer around the place and get into some of the most popular water sports like scuba diving, jet skiing, sea kayaking and the whole lot.

Ideal For: Relaxing on the seaside, Watersports

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14. Pindaya: Trek & Explore Places

Myanmar is known vividly around for their religious beliefs and Pindaya is one of the off the beaten track sites that you will possibly come across. Even this is located in the rise of the majestic Shan Hills, predominantly in the eastern Myelat region and does make up for one of the sites infiltrated by the tourists. It is predominantly known around to provide a glimpse into the Buddhist histories in the nation. The entire landmark has completely formed from a series of deep caves and alone is home to over 8000 images of Lord Buddha. The statues and images are adorned in beautiful hues of gold and brass with the glimmering effect under the shadowy caverns. Apart from the spots around celebrating the religion, you will also find an amazing influx of tourists visiting the lake beside Pindaya. You can also trek through the region and cross mountains from Kalaw to Boot.

Ideal For: Trekking, Pilgrimage

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15. Hsipaw: Hiker’s Dream Location

As hard to spell as the name is, Hsipaw is an enthralling location which is loved and adorned by the tourists the entire year around. This is every adventurer and trekker’s dream destination in Myanmar owing to the amazing range of trekking trails they sport. It was the royal capital of the kingdom of Shan back in the days which then slowly became a trekking spot for the tourists over the course of years. It is even fighting off to take the place of Kalaw as one of the most loved trekking spots around in Myanmar. The mystique views of the sun-scorched forest along with the rich cultural traditions can often keep you locked with its beauty longer than you could have possibly imagined. Check out the town’s Central Market around for an amazing experience and to get along some gifts.

Ideal For: Trekking

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16. Hpa-An: For Mesmerizing Views

Hpa-An is a very popular traveler town around in Myanmar which is not necessarily a lot visited around by the tourist but does make up for providing you with an amazing experience altogether. The rugged and rustic vibes from this specific town are what makes it unique and loved by the majority of the tourists who visit it. It is nestled across the tranquil and reflective waters of the Thanlwin River. One of the most important and popular spots to visit around in Hpa-An is the Zaydan Road which is littered around with coffee joints and amazing spots to just sit down and have a relaxing day. The lakeside of Kan Thar Yar is yet another of the amazing spots to be around in and make sure to enjoy the reflective transparency of the water when you walk along it. The other important site to visit around is the Mount Zwegabin and the monastery that is located there.

Ideal For: A relaxing day, Lakes, Mountains, and Monastery

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17. Mawlamyine: Perfect Rustic Countryside

If you are done with the rustic countryside and small towns, Mawlamyine can be quite a good change in those terms. It provides you with a break from the same and does contribute to your city demands. It is situated in the deep territory of Mon, very close to the borders of Thailand and is known and appreciated around for its amazing cultural forefront. Apart from the hustling of the city, you can also visit the pagodas like that of the Mahamuni Paya which is famous for its architectural creativities. Apart from that, you can also visit the Uzina Paya stupa which is one of the most popular sites for the pilgrims. If possible, charter a boat and visit the mysterious Shampoo Island t get to know the place even better and witness the Buddhist shrines with your own eyes.

Ideal For: Pagodas, Shampoo Island

18. Mergui: Sail Around The Place

The Mergui Archipelago is known around the globe with its pool of the destinations it showcases. Some of its scattered parts around in the Andaman Islands are often regarded as the Myeik Archipelago and the Pashu Islands. Each one of these places has a unique character of its own which is what sets it apart from the others. The beautiful sand that glistens under the direct rays of the sun further adds to the beauty of the place. Not just a relaxing day in there but even a good chunk of the activities around in here include that of the amazing sailing expeditions. More and more people are relegating to the yachts to have an even better time on this piece of land.

Ideal For: Sailing, Relaxing day

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19. Naypyidaw: For A Vivid Experience

Next on the list of the amazing places to visit around in Myanmar includes the authority and delegates it as the capital of the place owing to the mesmerizing beauty of the place around. It is not a destination like every other one that you will come across. The place was announced as the capital of Myanmar back then by the Burmese military leader Than Shwe back in 2005. The decision was made rightfully so because of the littered presence of a wide range of government buildings and nationalist monuments that are found around the place. While there, make sure that you visit the parliament complexes along with the infamous Uppatasanti Pagoda to add to the already vivid experience you will have there.

Ideal For: Visiting the Government Buildings and Landmarks

20. Mrauk U: Most-Visited Site

Yet another one of the picturesque and popular sites of attraction around in Myanmar is the off the beaten track destination of Mrauk U. It is often considered as one of the best alternatives to visiting Bagan because of the kind of similarities both of these places inflict on the geography of Myanmar. It is located between the majestic hills of the Rakhine State, in the far western reaches of the country. The place is rich of a wide range of stupas and temples which is what makes up for the primary source of attraction in that specific tourist site. You must also visit the age-old Arakanese religious building which is situated there. It grew to become a popular site of being a powerful merchant center during the late Middle Ages, trading between India, Portugal and several other places.

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21. Shan State: Offbeat Destination

While you might often come across destinations to visit in and around the Shan State, you won’t necessarily come across someone suggesting you explore the Shan State itself. Once you are done exploring around the popular sites of attraction in and around Shan, make sure to keep a day or two to simply and casually stroll around the Shan State and get engrossed in its beauty altogether. The place is known around for its picturesque landscape, immaculate sceneries and the best part about this place is the wide range of delectable cuisine you get to try around in here. The tiny villages around in the Shan State add to its beauty and authenticity even further. One of the most popular sites to visit while there is the Keng Tawng Falls that often go unnoticed by the majority of the tourists because of the fact that it is often a lot less unexplored.

Ideal For: A wholesome tour around the place with amazing tourists and sightseeing spots

22. Gokteik Viaduct: Opt For A Train Ride

If the history of Myanmar and just history, in general, is something that intrigues you, you definitely want to visit Gokteik Viaduct. The best way to reach this bridge ride is by taking the train ride across the longest railway bridge in Myanmar. The entire bridge was completed building around in 1901 which further adds to the overall excitement and the history of the place around. The entire bridge is around 2300 feet in length and is situated around 30 miles away from Pyin Oo Lwin. You will encounter this bridge on the way to Mandalay and the overall experience riding through is something you would be a complete fool to miss out on. The stunning gorge and the mystique beauty of the greenery around while traveling on the train is something you would be a fool to miss out on.

Ideal For: A long train ride.

23. Macleod Island: Witness The Bucolic Nature

While you must need a recluse from constantly visiting the places of pilgrimage around in Myanmar, Macleod Island is actually a good enough place to visit. It is situated in the far southern end of Myanmar and is one of the 800 untouched islands in the Andaman Sea. Not only do you get to witness an amazing view all around, but the island is also rich in a vivid variety of flora and fauna which further makes up for the overall experience of visiting this place. If tropical weather is something you wanted to experience while in Myanmar, visiting Macleod Island is an ideal option for you to venture into.

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24. Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda: Admire The Lush Greenery

Last but not the least on the list of sightseeing spots is the Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda which is located nearby Hpa An. The limestone tower of the Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda is what leaves every single one of the tourists speechless and in awe. Apart from the Pagoda itself, you also get to experience the beauty of the lush greenery surrounding the place which further adds to the beauty even further.

25. Thanboddhay Paya: Colorful Interior & Exterior

You will be left amazed after knowing that this temple boasts 5,823,631 pictures of Buddha in its premises. Now you know it is not famous just like that. Also, the colorful interior and exterior of this temple will impress you. So, make sure you add this to your itinerary while holidaying in Myanmar with your family. This is one of the interesting places to visit in Myanmar.

26. Kandawgyi Park: Spend Recreational Time

If you are a person who is looking for peace and tranquility on a holiday then, this is the perfect place for you. The park was built during the colonial period and was very important to the british rulers. Now it is the best place to relax your mind and soul. It offers picturesque views too. So, make sure that you include it in your list of tourist places in Myanmar .

27. Mandalay Palace: For The Most Beautiful Views

This is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar. The palace consists of a watchtower which you can climb and soak in the beautiful views of the city it offers. The most compelling thing about this palace is a pyramid which is made of gilt filigree built above the main throne of the palace. This is one of the important places to visit in Myanmar.

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28. Bagan Archaeological Museum: Check Out The Murals

This museum is run by government and offers an insight into a huge collection of the pieces of the ruins of Bagan. From inscribed images to murals, it has a vast collection which you should look into. It also has proofs that show how people of Bagan lived in old times. This is the reason why it forms a part of the famous places in Myanmar .

Suggested Read: 7 Places To Visit In Asia In April For An Enjoyable Vacation!

29. Dukkanthein: See The Spiral Structure

This is one of the unique temples in Myanmar. Its spiral structure in the interiors will take your breath away. It has three different sides which are lead by wide stones steps. Each side showcases different things. There are various Buddha images in the temple that are just beautiful. So, this is one of the best places to go in Myanmar.

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30. Bodhi Tataung: For Buddha Statues

You haven’t been to Myanmar if you have not visited this place. Translating to ‘1000 Buddhas’, this temple features the world’s second largest Buddha statue which is the most incredible in itself. The statue comprises of 31 storeys which you can climb and witness the paintings. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Myanmar.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Myanmar To Explore The Beauty Of This Land Of Gold

31. Taukkyan War Cemetery: Salute To The Brave Soldiers

Image Source If you are looking for historical Myanmar tourist places then you must visit the famous Taukkyan War Cemetery which was built for the soldiers who gave their life in the battle of Burma during World War II. The cemetery is located in the Taukkyan village at a distance of 25 kilometers from Yangon. The place receives a heavy tourist footfall every year and is still maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Ideal for: Historical places and exploring

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In September In Asia On A Long Vacation

32. Maha Bandoola Garden: Relax & Unwind Here

Image Source Searching for recreational places to visit in Myanmar ? Then, you must head to Maha Bandoola Garden which is a public place in Yangon. After sightseeing, you can relax here with your friends or family and unwind for a while. Earlier the place was called Fytche Square and it was dedicated to Albert Fytche, the then Chief Commissioner of British Burma. The place was remodelled over the years and the park that we see has been existing since 2012.

Ideal for: Relaxing

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33. Mingun Temple: Explore The Ruins

Image Source Another one of the list of famous places in Myanmar is Mingun Temple which is an unfinished project. The construction for started by the King Bodawpaya in the year 1790 which was left unfinished. People like nature lovers and history buffs head to this place to explore the ruins and know more about the history of the place. The story of this place fascinated several tourists so you must explore this place too on your vacation to Sri Lanka.

Ideal for: For exploring ruins

Suggested Read: 5 Best Places To Visit In Myanmar In December

34. Thatbyinnyu Temple: Pay A Visit With Family

Image Source This history of Thatbyinnyu Temple can be dated back to the 12th century during the reign of King Alaungsithu. It is located in Bagan and is one of the top places to see in Myanmar . A vacation to this place with family definitely calls for a visit to Thatbyinnyu Temple. The temple is shaped in an asymmetrical cross and has two storeys, one of which bears the image of Buddha.

Ideal for: Sightseeing and praying

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35. Htilominlo Temple: Admire The Intricate Work

Image Source There is no dearth of Buddhist temples in Myanmar so the other one is Htilominlo Temple which is situated in Bagan. It is believed that this is one of the oldest temples in Myanmar and the construction of this one can be dated back to the reign of King Htilominlo which was during 1211-1231. With a height of 46 meters in total, the temple is three storeys tall and is built mainly with red brick. The best part to explore here are the intricate plastic moldings so make sure that you include it in your list of places to visit in Myanmar .

Ideal for: Praying and exploring the intricate designs

36. Saddar Cave: Haven For Buddhist Followers

Image Source Saddar Cave is one-of-its-kind in Myanmar as it is adorned with hundreds of Buddhist idols over the years. Once you reach and enter the cave, you will see several miniatures of Buddha adding to the beauty of the place. Apart from this, you will also get to witness brilliant rock formations that get illuminated with a flash inside the cave. There should be no doubt in the fact that it is one of the top Myanmar tourist places to explore.

Ideal for: For Buddhist miniatures

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37. Purcell Tower: In The Heart Of Myanmar

Image Source Wondering where to go in Myanmar ? Well, there is just the right place for you and it goes by the name Purcell Tower. You will find this off-white and red tower in the heart of Myanmar with a clock studded on the top. It is definitely a must-visit place otherwise your Myanmar vacation will remain incomplete. So, scribble it down to include it in your itinerary.

Ideal for: Sightseeing

Further Read: Places To Visit In Asia In December For An Extravagant Vacation

Now, you know about the best places to visit in Myanmar. Clearly, Myanmar is a complete package when it comes to a fun filled and interesting holiday, you see. So, what do you think? Do you have anymore places to add? Do let us know in the comments section below. Plan a trip to Myanmar to visit these 10 places now.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Myanmar

What is Myanmar famous for?

Myanmar is famous for sand paintings, gems, pearls and much more.

How many days do I need in Myanmar?

Nine days are needed to explore the best of Myanmar.

What is the most popular food in Myanmar?

Shan-style noodles, tea leaf salad, mohinga are some of the popular food in Myanmar.

What can I buy in Myanmar?

Gemstone paintings, sand paintings, arts and crafts, lotus silk shawls and scarves and more.

What is the most beautiful place in Myanmar?

Famed for its stunning Pagodas and rich culture, Mynamar has a plethora of places that are a definition of beauty like Scenic Shan State, floating gardens of Inle Lake and the historical buildings. If you are wondering which is the most beautiful place in Myanmar, then Shwedagon Pagoda will top the list as it looks mesmerizingly beautiful at night.

Is Myanmar safe to travel?

There are a lot of ethnic issues going on in Myanmar but this Southeast Asian country is absolutely safe for tourists. There are some areas like the northern parts of Shan State, Southern Chin and Rakhine state where tourists are not allowed but all the other popular places to visit in Myanmar and the impeccable hotels are completely safe.

Can you drink the water in Myanmar?

No, you shouldn’t drink tap water in Myanmar but you can have bottled water. It is advised that you should not even brush your teeth with tap water but you can use bottled water instead of it.

What is the best month to visit Myanmar?

The best time to visit Myanmar is between November and February as the weather is pleasant and you can easily roam around the country. You can enjoy your vacation to the fullest in these months as the weather is not hot but cool breezes blow throughout the country.

What vaccinations do I need for Myanmar?

Some of the vaccinations that you must take before heading to Myanmar are cholera, rabies, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, yellow fever, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, and polio.

How expensive is Myanmar?

If the total numbers of people traveling to Myanmar are two then the total cost for traveling and staying for a week will come out to be MMK 1,298,448 which is INR 70,500 appx. So, the destination is not that expensive. If you are on a budget crunch, then you can plan your vacation for lesser number of days.

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Top 10 Myanmar Tourist Attractions You Have To See

Planning a trip to Myanmar and wondering what sights are not to be missed? From archaeological wonders to pristine palm-lined beaches, panoramic viewpoints to colossal caves and serene lakes, there are plenty of reasons to visit Myanmar . We’ve profiled the top 10 tourist attractions in Myanmar , one of Asia’s fastest emerging destinations.

Sacred rock

10. Golden Rock at Mt. Kyaiktiyo

This gravity-defying golden boulder is one of Myanmar’s holiest sites, with every Burmese Buddhist aiming to make the pilgrimage to the sacred summit of Mt. Kyaiktiyo at least once. Golden Rock is perched precariously on the precipice of a mountain outcrop overlooking a deep gorge that plummets more than a thousand feet to the valley floor below. Legend has it that this gigantic rock is secured only by one of Buddha’s hairs and its mystical aura is known to regularly convert visitors. The views and atmosphere of the site are unforgettable and well worth the five-hour drive south of Yangon .

U Bein Bridge

9. U Bein Bridge

The mesmerising U Bein Bridge , found in Amarapura near Mandalay , is one of the country’s most iconic and photographed sights. Constructed around 1850 entirely out of teak and spanning 1.2 kilometres it is the oldest and longest bridge of its type in the world. Strolling its rickety walkways is a real experience as the bridge attracts hundreds of people throughout the day, from fishermen to tourists, hawkers to monks, serving as a bustling hub for the local community. Plan your visit for sunset to capture the perfect silhouette of this unique bridge against a blazing orange sky.

Boats at Ngapali Beach

8. Ngapali Beach

Situated on the Bay of Bengal in the far west of the country, Ngapali is Myanmar’s best-known beach spot and a real draw for those in search of the perfect place to wind down during their travels. Expect miles of soft white sand, tall coconut palms and calm turquoise waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. The beach is backed by picturesque thatched huts, a few water sports outfitters and some fantastic seafood eateries.

Mrauk U interiors

One of Myanmar’s most important archaeological sites (second only to Bagan), the remains at Mrauk U stand testament to the mighty Arakan Empire that once ruled this land. You’ll find over 700 pagodas and temples, predominantly made from stone, and dispersed amongst a still-inhabited rural backdrop of farmer’s fields and small villages. This site receives comparatively few visitors, largely because the only access is via a lengthy river journey, which only adds to the sense of awe and adventure.

Stupa inside the Cave

6. Caves in Hpa-An

Besides the beautiful mountains, lakes and temples that characterize this region, Hpa-An is home to some of Myanmar’s most impressive caves. Dozens of ancient limestone caves dot the landscape, serving as natural Buddhist temple shrines filled with stunning statues, pagodas and wall carvings. Be sure not to miss the gigantic Sadan Cave, where you can explore towering chambers complete with Buddhas, huge stalactites, walls of crystals, flocks of bats and even a hidden internal lake.

Fishing in Irrawaddy

5. The Irrawaddy River

Flowing from the Himalayas to the Andaman Sea, this is Myanmar’s longest and most significant river. It passes many of the country’s major sites, including Bagan and Yangon and is fast developing as a popular river cruising destination . Travelers gain unparalleled insight into the heart of the country, passing small rural villages, fishing communities, pagodas, temples and colorful markets. Cruise past areas of serene natural beauty and witness some fantastic wildlife en route. Enjoy comfortable stylish surrounds, fantastic amenities and gourmet cuisine, and all without the hassles involved in independent overland travel.

Photogenic fishing style of Inle people

4. Inle Lake

This scenic freshwater lake in eastern Shan state is one of Myanmar’s greatest natural treasures. It’s a peaceful destination to come to relax, admire stilted houses, floating vegetable gardens, ancient stupas and monasteries, and simply watch the local fishermen and farmers go about their daily lives. Renting a canoe will enable you to tour some of the lake’s most interesting features and settlements. Inle lake is also surrounded by a mountainous landscape that makes it one of the country’s premier hiking spots. The route between Kalaw and Inle Lake is particularly popular, passing picturesque stilted villages and spectacular viewpoints.

Most important pagoda in Myanmar

3. Shwedagon Pagoda

Myanmar’s capital, Yangon , is brimming with fascinating sights, and none more awe-inspiring than the gold-clad Shwedagon Pagoda – one of Asia’s most impressive Buddhist monuments and important Myanmar destination . Nestled right in the heart of the city, this 2,500 year old stupa is adorned with 27 metric tons of gold leaf, along with thousands of gleaming diamonds that make it almost blinding in the sunlight. The interior is minimalistic and eerily quiet, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Yangon’s streets.

Mandalay Hill

2. Mandalay Hill

Most visitors to Myanmar’s former capital head straight for the iconic Mandalay palace, and rightly so. But don’t miss the chance to gain a breath-taking bird’s eye perspective over the city and its surrounding landscape from the 760 ft. Mandalay Hill. The walk up covered stairways, passing an abundance of beautiful shrines along the way, is an experience in itself and takes about half an hour. Up top, admire panoramic view over Mandalay, including the glistening Irrawaddy River snaking along the plain and the mist-shrouded green hills on the horizon. Be sure to make your way up for sunset for the best atmosphere.

Myanmar’s premier tourist attraction is undoubtedly the sublime medieval city of Bagan , home to more than 2,000 temples, pagodas and stupas that span the vast plains just east of the Irrawaddy River. Explore on foot or rent a bicycle or cattle cart to visit the highlights, including the famous Ananda temple with its glistening golden spires. Or venture off the beaten path and you never know what you might discover amongst the sprawling remains. For a truly memorable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over Bagan at sunrise and gain a breath-taking perspective over the sheer scale of this ancient city.

*Images of Golden Rock, Ngapali Beach, Mrauk U, Shwedagon Pagoda, Mandalay Hill are all courtesy of Wikipedia. Image of Hpa-An is courtesy of Trip Advisor.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Myanmar 

By Lauren Bailey · Last updated on November 2, 2023

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is the second-largest country in Southeast Asia. But it’s not just its size that makes it such a big destination for adventure travel. With thousand-year-old cities, sacred religious sites, extraordinary trekking routes, and even magnificent beaches, there’s so much to see in this captivating, culture-rich country.

While many parts of Myanmar are still off-limits to visitors, there are some truly incredible places waiting to be explored. As tourists are starting to catch on, it’s important to go now before it becomes too touristy.  We’re counting down to the best places to visit in Myanmar.

10. Pyin U Lwin [SEE MAP]

Pyin U Lwin – now known as Maymyo – is a scenic hill town tucked between Mandalay and Hsipaw. Dating back to the 19th century, it was once the summer retreat of the British Raj, and the military base of the Indian Army. Due to its location close to the border of China, it also has a distinct Chinese influence. The result? Pyin U Lwin is a multicultural town with an anglicized feel. Think British colonial mansions, Chinese and Hindu temples, and an English cemetery.

Get around on foot or by bike and explore Pyin U Lwin’s many cultural and historical attractions. Unlike the rest of Myanmar, this hill town offers so much more than pagodas.

Surrounded by botanical gardens, strawberry fields, and coffee bean plantations, you can trek to nearby waterfalls, taste local wine, and indulge your sweet tooth at one of the many Indian-owned sweet shops. Don’t miss the National Landmarks Garden, where you can see models of Myanmar’s famous landmarks!

9. Ngwe Saung [SEE MAP]

Ngwe Saung is an upmarket beach resort with a seemingly endless stretch of silvery coastline on the Bay of Bengal. More sophisticated than popular Chaung Tha Beach, Ngwe Saung is the sought-after destination for Yangon’s rich and famous.

Offering that get-away-from-it-all experience with beautiful white sand and brilliant blue ocean edged by palm trees, Ngwe Saung is simply paradise. Indulge in the slow life and do as much or as little as you like – both are encouraged here.

Take a leisurely stroll across the sandbar to Lover’s Island at low tide, admire the beachfront pagodas, go snorkeling at Bird Island, and indulge in a fresh seafood dinner at sunset. Don’t miss the fire dancing shows at Ume café every evening for your daily dose of vibrant Burmese culture!

8. Kyaiktiyo [SEE MAP]

You simply cannot visit Myanmar without planning a trip to Mount Kyaiktiyo, home to the famous golden rock and gilded pagoda – one of the most sacred sites in the country and a popular pilgrimage spot.

This enormous golden rock teeters precariously on the edge of a cliff and is said to be held in place by the hair of Buddha. While this boulder is surely the main attraction, you should also see the Shwedagon Pagoda and the Mahamuni Temple while you’re here.

Not to mention the enchanting views of the Mon State mountains you’ll enjoy from the top of the mountain! You can reach Kyaiktiyo by taking an open-top truck and cable car or by challenging yourself to the four-hour hike to the top. Bear in mind that while you can pay to place a gold leaf onto the rock, this is strictly limited to men only.  

7. Bago [SEE MAP]

Bago, also known as Pegu, was once the capital of the Mon Kingdom. While it doesn’t top many modern guidebooks already published, this city is packed full of history and authentic everyday culture. See the ruins of the ancient palace, admire the many nearby pagodas, or witness the traditions of the rice-making industry. As a new airport is set to open in the region in 2022, you should go now before the city is overrun by tourists!

The appeal of Bago is its authentic, non-touristy feel. There are only a select few hotels licensed to welcome foreigners, and the restaurants offer a truly local experience with traditional curries and typical Burmese dishes.

The local market is also a great spot to soak up the sights and sounds of everyday life in Bago. Other attractions you don’t want to miss include Shwethalyaung, an enormous reclining statue of Buddha, and Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the ‘Golden God Temple.’

6. Mrauk U [SEE MAP]

Mrauk U – once known as Mrohaung – is an abandoned city with strong archaeological importance. While its temples are similar to Bagan’s, they’re smaller and a lot more modern – made from stone instead of brick.

Surrounded by still-inhabited rural villages, rice paddies, and a panorama of rolling countryside, these temple ruins which were once part of a powerful Arakan kingdom are a sight to behold.

While Mrauk U was a thriving trading post during the First Anglo-Burmese War, it was relocated to Sittwe after the war ended, leaving Mrauk U behind. Since then, the temples and the city itself have been largely forgotten, left to crumble into dust. The isolation is what makes Mrauk U charming though; only 5,000 tourists make it here every year – so you’re likely to get the temples pretty much all to yourself.

5. Ngapali [SEE MAP]

Ngapali is the most popular beach destination in Myanmar. Located on the spectacular Bay of Bengal, this stretch of coastline boasts a total of three bays dotted with fishing villages, beaches, and coconut palm. It’s all about the slow life here in Ngapalai – swim, sunbathe, sleep, repeat.

When you’ve had your fair share of relaxation, you can go fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving to see the exotic fish in the bay. Back on land, there are golf courses, fishing villages, and seafood restaurants to discover on foot, by bicycle, or motorbike.

Or you can simply relax and indulge in the beach happy hour specials. Don’t miss the chance to climb or drive up to Tilawkasayambhu Buddha at the top of the hill – it offers the most exceptional views over the bay!

4. Inle Lake [SEE MAP]

The Lake Inle region is a picturesque place famous for its unusual floating villages, pretty gardens, and glorious temples. As there are no roads here, you’ll get around by wooden boat.

Staying in Lake Inle is a great way to immerse yourself entirely in local life on the lake. Stay in over-water villas located on stilts above the water, explore thousand-year-old pagodas, and see over 200 monasteries scattered around the lake – don’t miss the Jumping Cat Monastery!

Other attractions worth visiting in Lake Inle include the floating market at Ywama village and the gorgeous floating gardens of Nampan village. A traditional cooking class at Mr. Toe’s restaurant is a great way to bring a piece of Myanmar home with you.

3. Mandalay [SEE MAP]

Set at the foot of Mandalay Hill, Myanmar’s second-largest city is a charming yet convoluted place. Formerly the old royal capital, it’s filled with bustling markets, monasteries, Indian temples, mosques, and hillside pagodas that rightfully place it as the center of Burmese culture.

There’s a fair amount of ground to cover in Mandalay, but if you have time, you should spend a few hours exploring the Royal Palace of Mandalay – it’s home to 40 different buildings! Climbing up Yankin Hill, seeing the world’s largest book at Kuthodaw Pagoda, and watching a show at the Mandalay Marionettes are also great ways to experience Mandalay.

Other worthwhile Mandalay attractions include the Shwe In Bin Kyaung monastery, Mahamuni Paya, and Ta Moke Shwe Gu Gyi – the country’s third most significant archaeological site, after Mrauk-U and Bagan.

2. Yangon [SEE MAP]

Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is the largest city in all of Myanmar. There’s so much to see and do in this exciting and colorful metropolis – from Buddhist monuments to scenic parks and lakes. Take a stroll through the streets, and you’ll discover so much history. Colonial buildings, museums, art galleries, and markets adorn just about every corner of the city.

Take your time soaking up the essence of Yangon at many of its religious sites. Visiting Shwedagon Pagoda – a towering golden steeple – at sunset is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Discover Buddha hairs at Botataung Pagoda, visit a fresh local market and shop for souvenirs at Bogyoke Aung San Market.

However you choose to spend your time in Yangon, you cannot leave without indulging in the city’s mouth-watering Burmese street food! The samosa salad and street pancakes are definitely something to write home about.

1. Bagan [SEE MAP]

Bagan is the number one attraction in Myanmar – and for good reason – you simply cannot skip it! Home to over 2,000 enchanting stupas spread across the endless countryside, it’s a true feast for the eyes. The best part about Bagan is that, unlike other archaeological sites like it, it’s still fairly untouched by tourists. But it’s catching on, so don’t leave it too long!

The best way to experience the utter magic of Bagan is by taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. There are so many stupas you simply cannot appreciate them all from ground level.

Pagodas aside, you can explore one of Baga’s local markets – such as the Mani Sithu Market, cycle past the temples on a bike or e-bike, and shop for high-quality lacquer products. And if it’s a foodie experience you’re after, you won’t be disappointed in Bagan; you’ll find no shortage of Asian cuisine here – not just Burmese but Chinese, Thai, Indian, and even Tibetan, so come hungry!

Map of the best places to visit in Myanmar

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15 Best Places to Visit in Myanmar

Erstwhile Burma – now Myanmar – has slowly but surely been coming into the tourist fold in the last couple of decades. As the iron-fist of its military junta slackens and fair elections sweep across the nation, there’s a newfound love for the backpacker and adventure traveler. The country -sandwiched between India and the mainstays of Southeast Asia – certainly has its fair share of awesome things to see though. You can experience the frenetic pulse of modern Burmese life in the pagoda-topped metropolis of Yangon. Or, you can hike wild hills in the old lands of the Shan Kings, meeting lake farmers at Inle and the rusting relics of British rule in Kalaw.

There are oodles of ancient temples here too, with places like Bagan coming up trumps with its carved stupas and old Hindu motifs, not to mention fascinating Buddhist relics and some seriously sun-kissed beaches lining the Bay of Bengal.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Myanmar :

Breathtaking Bagan bags a well-deserved top spot on this list of the best places to visit in Myanmar.

The reason? Most all travelers who head this way leave with a distinct sense of awe and amazement.

And it’s easy to see why! A sea of countless temple tops pierce the clouds and the forests; plumes of dust coalesce at the spires of ancient stupas; the faded outlines of forgotten Hindu demigods beckon from the great platforms, and all the while the serrated tips of the Arakan Mountains loom in the background.

Seeing Bagan by balloon is becoming increasingly popular, and offers a truly unique view over this 26-square-mile land of temples.

Yangon found glory in the days of British rule, rising with the rise of the Raj and becoming a patchwork of elegant Victorian townhouses and Georgian builds.

Much of that side of the city remains intact too, and today you can navigate the tuk-tuk-packed roadways to see the likes of St Mary’s Cathedral and its Anglo spires.

However, the real piece de resistance (and what typically magnetizes travelers to this erstwhile Burmese capital) has to be the Shwedagon Pagoda.

This marks the sacred spot where the holy lotus buds once appeared to signal the coming of Gautama Buddha and guide the learned to Nirvana.

Be sure to visit the site and wonder and the glimmering gold construction, the prayer rooms, and the exquisitely carved pavilions for pilgrims.

Kalaw has risen and risen on the Myanmar tourist scene to become one of the favored destinations for trekkers and adventurers hitting the country’s eastern mountains.

Perched high up on the ridges of the Shan hills, the spot began life as a mountain town under British rule, intended to offer a respite from the Asian heat of the plains below.

Today, visitors can still enjoy the cooling breezes of the highlands, along with a clutch of laid-back guesthouses, excellent food markets, and – most importantly – hiking without the need for a permit!

4. Mandalay

You can only imagine just how resplendent the city of Mandalay would have looked when that mighty Shwenandaw Monastery glimmered with its coverings of gold leaf, and it’s easy to see why even the very name of this mysterious temple-topped town in the depths of central Myanmar has inspired poems and lines by perhaps Asia’s most prolific English eulogizer: Kipling.

However, modern Mandalay does well to balance all those elegant Bamar pagodas and carved stupas with a real bout of Burmese pandemonium.

This is, after all, the second-largest town in Myanmar, a pilgrimage site (thanks to the Maha Myat Muni Paya), and a famous tourist destination (known for its walled Royal Palace) all rolled into one!

5. Kyaiktiyo

It’s just a short jaunt east from Yangon to the soaring heights of Mount Kyaiktiyo, which are famed as the home of one of the most revered Buddhist relics in the nation: the precariously-placed Golden Rock.

This awesome, gravity-defying mass of granite can be found perched on its own ledge atop the rolling forests and green hills of south-central Burma.

Legend has it that it’s suspended by a single thread of Buddha’s own hair, and (male) pilgrims come to scale the winding steps to the wonder to leave gold leaf and gain inspiration.

The site is surrounded by its own temple and pagoda, complete with immersive little shrines to lesser-known Buddhist spirits.

6. Inle Lake

The moment you spot the curious leg rowers of Inle Lake, and hear the creaking splash of those carved canoes drifting across the water, you’ll know you’re in the heartlands of rustic Myanmar.

A place where time has stood still, this huge body of water is peppered with stilted villages made of wood.

The locals are known for their on-surface agricultural methods, and you’ll be able to see dashes of green gardens growing straight from the lake.

Major religious sites like the Hpaung Daw U Pagoda (which has an amazing festival in late-summer) also dot the banks, but the real draw has to be the food, which oozes fresh herbs, Chinese spices and lake-caught fish.

There’s no sand stretch in all of Myanmar as popular as Ngapali.

A large curve of yellow-white that arches its way around the Bay of Bengal, it’s got a lapping ocean of turquoise waves and a fringing of huge palm trees.

The occasional clutch of salt-washed fishing boats drift in and out of the bay during the day, feeding the kitchens with an endless supply of fresh seafood.

There are oodles of loungers dotting the sands too, and plenty of tour organizers offering SCUBA expeditions, water skiing, jet skiing, sea kayaking and more.

Ngapali also has its very own airport, making it one of the easier coastal spots to reach from the capital.

Pindaya is one of Myanmar’s more off-the-beaten-track religious sites.

It makes its home in the rising Shan Hills of the eastern Myelat region, and offers a unique glimpse at the deep Buddhist histories of the nation.

Formed from a series of deep caves, Pindaya is home to some 8,000 individual images of the Buddha, which can just be made out glimmering in gold and brass hues in the shadowy caverns.

You can also wallow on the lakeside in the town of Pindaya, which enjoys a prime location between the peaks, and at the start of the popular cross-mountain trekking routes to Kalaw to boot.

Prep the walking boots and thigh muscles for that trip to highland Hsipaw, because this onetime royal capital of the Shan peoples is slowly rising to compete with even aforementioned Kalaw on the trekking front.

Don’t be surprised if you get caught up in these deep northern mountains longer than you thought – not only are the sweeping views of sun-scorched forests to die for, but there’s a rich cultural tradition to uncover too.

You can experience this between the craft stalls of the town’s Central Market, or seek it out at the Shan Palace that still stands nostalgically atop the streets here.

Nestled between craggy, jungle-topped peaks and ringed by the reflective waters of the Thanlwin River, little Hpa-an is a rustic, rough-around-the-edges traveler town with some great hostels, guesthouses, and beer bars.

Head down the bustling strip of Zaydan Road to flit between the coffee joints and spice-scented roadside kitchens, or make a beeline for the pretty lakeside of Kan Thar Yar, which shimmers like a mirror within walking distance of the center.

And when it’s time to explore the karst peaks on the horizon, mysterious Mount Zwegabin and its hilltop monastery beckon.

11. Mawlamyine

A big city with a laid-back feel, Mawlamyine is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of other Burmese metropolises like Yangon and Naypyidaw.

It can be found deep in the territory of the Mon, just a stone’s throw from the border with Thailand, where it exudes a different sort of cultural character than many other places on this list.

You’ll be able to climb to soaring pagodas like the Mahamuni Paya, which oozes Mon architectural twists, or you can see the high-perched Uzina Paya stupa, dressed in gold thanks to the offerings of countless pilgrims.

Meanwhile, the town’s Central Market bustles with fruit and veg sellers, and there’s the opportunity to take a boat across to curiously-named Shampoo Island (home to some interesting Buddhist shrines, not hair products!).

The many names of the Mergui Archipelago (this smattering of countless land masses in the Andaman Sea is also called Myeik Archipelago and the Pashu Islands) reflects the eclectic character of the various destinations it contains.

Largely untrodden, the wealth of more than 800 islets here offers up everything from secluded sands that glow pearl-white under the Asian sun to wild mangroves stalked by macaques (look to the reserves of large Lampi Island for some of the best of those). Sailing is becoming big here too, and yachters flock to enjoy flitting between the uninhabited rocks and coves, salt-washed fishing villages and the settlements of sea nomads.

13. Ngwe Saung

Ngwe Saung might not have the tropical perfection of Ngapali, but thanks to a prime location on the edge of the Bay of Bengal, along with a clutch of pretty coconut groves and five-star resort hotels (check out how those sparkling infinity pools merge with the blues of the Indian Ocean!), it’s slowly rising to become another of Myanmar’s top beach destinations.

Made for relaxation and rest, the long golden sands here are the prime attraction, of course.

However, it’s also possible to sample fantastic Southeast Asian seafood – just look to the folksy restaurants that line up along the shore.

14. Naypyidaw

Naypyidaw is not like anything else in the country.

Purpose-built and proclaimed the capital in a shock move by the then Burmese military leader Than Shwe back in 2005, it’s laid out in a rigid grid of imposing palaces and governmental buildings, nationalist monuments and grand constructions.

Some see it as something of a hangover from the days when Burma was an iron-fist junta (even if that age is not completely vanished), others consider it a failed vanity project.

But whatever the impetus of Naypyidaw, its ambitious parliament complexes and colossal golden Uppatasanti Pagoda are certainly worth seeing!

15. Mrauk U

Something of a more off-the-beaten-track alternative to much-trodden Bagan, Mrauk U can be found between the dust-caked hills of Rakhine State, located in the far western reaches of the country.

It’s topped with countless stupas and temple spires, and offers an interesting glimpse of the age-old school of Arakanese religious building.

It’s also thought that Mrauk U grew into a powerful merchant center in the late Middle Ages, with boats drifting across the Bay of Bengal from trading partners like India and Persia, and even Portugal and Europe!

15 Best Places to Visit in Myanmar:

The 15 Best Things to Do in Myanmar

Hit the Highlights of Southeast Asia's Final Frontier

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Myanmar isn't at the top of most travelers' bucket lists but that makes it an even more exciting place to visit. An itinerary through Southeast Asia’s final frontier reveals one of the region’s most authentic experiences: Bagan’s temple plain, Mergui’s unspoiled diving sites, and Shwedagon’s golden stupendousness, all (as yet) undisturbed by overtourism despite the excellent value for your dollar .

Before you blaze a trail through Myanmar, read our list of the country’s highlights: combine with this list of Myanmar travel tips , dos and don’ts in Myanmar , and a suggested itinerary to create a one-of-a-kind Myanmar voyage.

Explore 2,000 Temples at Bagan

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A major power in Southeast Asia from the 11th to the 13th centuries, the Pagan Empire lives on through the arid Bagan temple plain .

Bagan's 2,000-odd temples range in size and grandeur, spread across an area of 40 square miles. Hire a bicycle, “e-bike” or car-and-driver to take you to some of the best , including the grand Shwezigon Pagoda (inspiring Shwedagon further south) and the cathedral-like Ananda temple.

Getting there: Fly in via Nyaung-U Airport (IATA: NYU, ICAO: VYBG), or take the bus. A US$20 entrance ticket is charged before entry. The authorities used to allow visitors to climb the temples, but that has since been limited to a few temples with a view .  

Take a Lakeside Breather at Inle Lake

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This massive lake measures 13 miles (22 kilometers) from north to south, and 6 miles (10 kilometers) from east to west. All along the fringes of this watery expanse, you’ll find towns populated by the Intha ethnic community. Long adapted to living by the waters’ edge, the Intha ride boats to get from place to place, cultivate floating farms, and row boats with one leg while fishing on the lake.

Stay near the Intha villages to enjoy the unique lakeside landscape and see more of the local color — from visiting the markets that rotate from village to village; to checking out the shops selling locally-made silver, knives and cigars; to seeking spiritual solace at the Hpaung Daw Oo and Shwe Indein Pagodas.

Getting there: Buses reach the town of Nyaungshwe from Mandalay and Yangon. from Nyaungshwe, you can take a speedboat to any of the towns around Inle Lake. A US$10 entrance fee to Inle Lake will be charged at Nyaungshwe.

Hit the Hiking Trails from Kalaw

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The former British hill station of Kalaw has become Myanmar’s de facto hiking capital . With an elevation of 4,000 feet above sea level, Kalaw offers a temperate climate and access to gentle downhill trails snaking through Shan State — the most popular being the two- to four-day hike to Inle Lake.

The trail takes you through farmlands dotted with villages and temples. The Pa-O, Palaung, Danu and Taung Yo ethnic groups are used to trekkers, and will happily wave as you walk by. At night, you’ll stay at a Buddhist temple, with meals provided by local families.

Trekking from Kalaw happens year-round, but the cool, dry season from October to April is the best time to go. Guides can be hired at Kalaw.

Getting there: Buses regularly reach Kalaw from major cities like Bagan and Yangon. By air, fly to Heho Airport (IATA: HEH, ICAO: VYHH), which is also the main air gateway to Pindaya and Inle Lake. Taxis take one hour to reach Kalaw from Heho Airport.  

Eat Myanmar’s Famous Mohinga Noodles

Even as Myanmar’s top tourist destinations have slowly become more Western-friendly, Myanmar’s food has managed to stick to the basics. Take mohinga , the noodle dish that is the nation’s absolute favorite breakfast.

It’s cheap, filling, but surprisingly complex. A catfish-based broth is spiced with lemongrass, coriander, turmeric, and a collection of other spices specific to the location where you're eating. The hot broth is then poured over rice noodles, and garnished with hard-boiled egg slices and crispy fritters.

You can find mohinga almost everywhere, eat it at any time of the day, and serve it to humble worker and highborn alike. (State Counsellor and former political prisoner Aung San Suu Kyi took solace in eating mohinga during her years of house arrest.)  

See a Shadow of Empire at the Pyu Ancient Cities

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Newly inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List , the ancient city-states of the Pyu are all that remains of a mighty civilization that ruled the floodbasins of the Irrawaddy River from 200 BC to AD 900.

The three Pyu cities listed by UNESCO – Halin, Beikthano and Sri Ksetra – still retain the remnants of palace citadels, massive walls, and Buddhist stupas. Each of these Pyu Ancient Cities have museums that allow visitors to see the context behind the structures, with curated artifacts like silver coins, pottery and stone slabs covered in Pyu writing.

Getting there: The Pyu cities are widely spaced, and must be reached from different cities. Sri Ksetra is the easiest to reach: take an eight-hour bus from Yangon to Pyay, a town some 5 miles west of the ruins. You can book a tour from Pyay to explore.  

Relax on White Sand at Ngapali Beach

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Ngapali Beach is the anti- Phuket : a quiet stretch of white-sand beach on the western coast of Myanmar facing the Bay of Bengal. No crowded beachfronts, high-traffic hotels or sleazy red-light districts blight the area. This beach is just a laid-back beach destination where fishermen still go about their business, sharing space with a steady tide of tourists.

Prices for accommodation and food here also compare favorably against the rest of the region. Enjoy steamed crab, lobster, and Rakhine curries, and wash them down with local beers , without breaking the bank.

Getting there: During peak months of October to February, fly to nearby Thandwe Airport from Yangon or Heho Airports . A direct bus service connects Ngapali with Yangon, but it’s a butt-busting 16-hour ride either way. 

Wonder How the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda Keeps its Balance

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Locals believe that a strand of the Buddha's hair helps Kyaiktiyo Pagoda balance on a cliff’s edge. It’s been hanging on like that for over 2,000 years, they say – and will probably stay for another 2,000 more.

The granite rock gets its brilliant sheen from generations of Burmese Buddhists sticking gold leaf onto its surface as a sign of devotion. Kyaiktiyo pilgrims make a four-hour trek from Kinpun Village at ground level, placidly walking the 10-mile uphill climb to the rock.

The pagoda is an all-year pilgrimage favorite for locals, but things get turned up to eleven during its festival season in March . 90,000 candles illuminate the rock at night, giving it an otherworldly glow.

Getting there: Buses and trains from Yangon regularly make the 5-6-hour voyage to Kinpun. If walking four hours up a mountain isn’t your thing, pick-up trucks at Kinpun can take you there in a few minutes.  

Pray for Victory at Shwedagon Temple

No sacred space in Myanmar contains as much history, culture and literal riches as the Shwedagon Pagoda. This massive gold stupa stands on a 46-hectare complex on a hill west of Kandawgyi Lake in Yangon .

As you climb one of four stairways up to the stupa, you can stop to have your fortune told, then buy offerings to the right shrines for good luck. Locals walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction, making merit at any of the different shrines or praying for success at the Victory Ground where Kings used to pray for triumph over their enemies.

Getting there: Take a taxi to Shwedagon; avoid coming at high noon, as your bare feet will not appreciate walking on the hot pavement.

Visit the Last Royal Capital at Mandalay

Mike Aquino 

Home to the last ruling kings of Burma, Mandalay still retains echoes of its royal status. Its side streets still ring with the sound of traditional crafts being performed, from marble carvers to silversmiths to gold leaf making.

Sacred temples like the Mahamuni Pagoda (home to Myanmar’s oldest Buddha image) and Kuthodaw Pagoda (home to the “world’s largest book”, an edition of the Buddhist Pali Canon).

Sadly, World War II destroyed the Royal Palace at the heart of Mandalay. A watch tower, the Royal Mint, and the Shwenandaw Monastery are all that’s left of the original, but the rest of the palace – reconstructed in the '90s using modern materials – can still (imperfectly) give you a glimpse of what life must have been like for Burma’s kings.

Getting there: Mandalay is a major air gateway into Myanmar , thanks to Mandalay International Airport (IATA: MDL, ICAO: VYMD).  

Have a Close Encounter with Nature at Pyin Oo Lwin

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In the days before air conditioning, the British Civil Service in Burma would spend the sweltering summers in the town they called Maymyo, now called Pyin Oo Lwin. Its elevation (3,500 feet above sea level) meant that visitors could enjoy nippy weather and flowering gardens.

Pyin Oo Lwin's tree-shaded avenues pale in comparison to the best botanical garden in Myanmar: the Kandawgyi National Gardens, a 177-hectare park in the heart of the city, combining parkland and unspoiled forest.

Over 700 species of trees, 300 species of orchids, 70 species of bamboo and 20 species of roses bloom year-round in the Gardens. (The Rose Garden is a major highlight; you can buy seeds in the Gardens to plant at home.)

Getting there: A train connects Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin, taking four hours to get there.  

Explore Mergui Archipelago Before Everyone Else Does

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While Andaman Sea island destinations like Ko Phi Phi are struggling from too many tourists, the Mergui Archipelago off Myanmar's west coast is only now being discovered by scuba divers and beach nuts.

You’ll kayak among secluded islands only visited occasionally by the people of the Moken tribe. You’ll strap on scuba gear and explore the untouched underwater landscape, with a massive complement of nudibranch, schools of tuna and trevallies, and large sharks that dart out of the depths.

Given the 13,900-square-mile coverage of the Mergui islands, you’ll need about a week or two to explore the archipelago in depth (pun intended).

Getting there: Book a liveaboard boat from Phuket, Khao Lak and Ranong in Thailand. Alternatively, you can fly from Yangon to Kawthaung (the Myanmar jump-off point to the Mergui Archipelago) and set sail from there. Even liveaboards from Thailand must stop at Kawthaung to fix their immigration papers and pay a visa fee.  

Watch Animal Balloons Fly at the Tazaungdaing Light Festival

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The end of Kahtein falls on the full moon of the eighth month of the Burmese lunar calendar (in 2019, this takes place on November 5-11). Taunggyi locals take this time to kick the kick off a major festival : the Tazaungdaing Light Festival, when locals launch fireworks and balloons made of papier-mache after dark.

There’s a method to the madness. The Tazaungdaing festival traditionally marks the Buddha’s return to Earth from visiting his mother in another spiritual plane; the fireworks and balloons are intended to guide the Enlightened One home. The Taunggyi locals add a certain whimsy to the homecoming balloons, shaping them into giant paper animals, turning the sky into a menagerie.

Getting there: Buses regularly reach Taunggyi from major cities like Bagan and Yangon. By air, fly to Heho Airport (IATA: HEH, ICAO: VYHH), which is also the main air gateway to Pindaya and Inle Lake. Taxis take 40 minutes to reach Taunggyi from Heho Airport.  

Meet and Greet 13 Tribes at Kyaingtong

Ministry of Hotels & Tourism, Myanmar 

The English writer Somerset Maugham visited Kyaingtong (spelled Keng Tung in his day), inspired by an acquaintance who “spoke of Keng Tung as a lover might speak of his bride.” Today’s Kyaingtong is much as Maugham found it: a laid-back retreat that also happens to be a cultural meeting-place for 13 Shan-state tribes, each with distinct cultures and costumes.

The distinct cultures that make up Kyaingtong gather at certain landmarks that were already old when Maugham found his way there in the 20th century: the Central Market, where hill tribe traders exchange goods and news; the Maha Myat Muni Pagoda, the city’s spiritual center; and the picturesque Lake Naung Tone.

At the latter, you can sit at a lakeside food stall and enjoy local cuisine after nightfall.

Getting there: fly in from Yangon or Mandalay via Kengtung Airport (IATA: KET, ICAO: VYKG).

Visit a Holy Cave (and Thousands of Buddhas) at Pindaya

Most of Pindaya in Shan State is farmland, as far as the eyes can see: rolling hills growing vegetables, sunflowers and tea. Its main attraction lies high up on a cliff overlooking town. Shwe Oo Min Cave hides over 7,000 Buddha statues, some dating back to the 11th century AD, left in the cave by Buddhist pilgrims.

Other local attractions cater to travelers thirsty for local culture – visit the Shan cultural center that converts locally-made mulberry paper into fans and umbrellas; the Myoma Market, a one-stop-shop for local goods and cheap food; and the Plan Bee apiculture center that sells honey, beeswax candles and balms.

Its elevation of 3,800 feet above sea level makes Pindaya a cool, comfortable stop relative to Myanmar’s lowlands. No wonder Pindaya remains a popular stop for hikers from Kalaw, heading to Inle Lake.

Getting there: Fly to Heho Airport (IATA: HEH, ICAO: VYHH) and take a taxi to Pindaya. 

Take a Cruise Down the Irrawaddy River

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There would be no Burma without an Irrawaddy River. This mighty waterway has nourished empires since the Pyu cities in 200 BC. Today, it continues to support trade and travel, from shipping teak logs to transporting tourists.

Myanmar river cruise lines now offer Irrawaddy itineraries lasting from a few days to several weeks. Shorter cruises shuttle between Mandalay and Bagan in four days. Longer cruises connect Bagan and Yangon, stopping by Pyay (home to Sri Ksetra, see “Pyu Cities” above at #5). Even longer voyages head to border towns like Bhamo (some 30 miles south of the border with China) and Homalin (12 miles east of the Indian border).

Where to go: Cruises depart from major riverside cities like Bagan, Mandalay and Yangon, all accessible by their respective airports . Cruise seasons often coincide with the monsoon season , to ensure high river levels — most Irrawaddy cruises run from September to April, while detours on the Chindwin River (to Homalin) occur between July and September.

Reliable cruise providers in Myanmar include Pandaw , Paukan Cruises , Avalon Waterways , and the Strand Cruise .

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Top 17 Things to Do in Myanmar: Unveiling the Must-Do Activities

A collage of four images showing different things to do in Myanmar

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a country in Southeast Asia that offers a rich and diverse travel experience. Whether you are looking for culture, history, nature, or adventure, you will find something to suit your taste in Myanmar. In this article, we will show you some of the best things to do in Myanmar, from exploring the ancient temples of Bagan and experiencing the unique culture of Inle Lake, to enjoying the scenic views from Mandalay Hill and visiting the golden Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.

We will also give you some tips on how to cruise along the Irrawaddy River, trek through the hills of Kalaw, relax on the pristine beaches of Ngapali, and join the colorful festivals of Myanmar. By the end of this article, you will have a better idea of what to expect and how to plan your trip to Myanmar.

Craving adventure with friends, a romantic honeymoon, or pure relaxation? Discover the 17 best things to do in Myanmar below and plan your perfect itinerary !

Table of Contents

Explore the ancient temples of Bagan

Experience the unique culture of inle lake, visit the golden shwedagon pagoda in yangon, visit the mandalay palace, visit temples in mandalay, visit kyaiktiyo pagoda (golden rock), enjoy the scenic views from mandalay hill, capture sunset moments in beautiful spots, ride a hot air balloon at sunrise, join the colorful festivals of myanmar, cruise along irrawaddy river, trek through the hills of kalaw, relax on the pristine beaches of ngapali, get off the beaten track to visit ethnic groups, relax on beautiful beaches in mergui archipelago, experience train journeys in myanmar, visit buddhist caves.

Exploring the ancient temples of Bagan is a must-do for any visitor to Myanmar, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history and stunning religious architecture. Bagan has over 2,000 temples remaining, dating from 11st to 13rd century. The majority of Bagan’s temples can be found within the Bagan Archaeological Zone with outstanding ones such as: Shwezigon Temple, Htilominlo Temple, Ananda Temple, Dhammayangyi Temple and Shwesandaw Temple.

Dhammayangyi Temple – the largest monument in Bagan

Some of the most famous and beautiful temples in Bagan are:

• Ananda Temple: This is one of the finest and best-preserved temples in Bagan, built in 1105 by King Kyanzittha. It is known for its four standing Buddha images that face each cardinal direction, as well as its exquisite carvings, paintings, and glazed tiles.
• Dhammayangyi Temple: This is the largest and most massive temple in Bagan, built in 1170 by King Narathu. It is known for its remarkable brickwork, which is so tight that a needle cannot be inserted between the bricks. It is also shrouded in mystery, as many of its inner passages and chambers are blocked by bricks.
• Shwesandaw Pagoda: This is one of the tallest and most visible pagodas in Bagan, built in 1057 by King Anawrahta. It is known for its five terraces that offer panoramic views of the surrounding plains, especially at sunrise and sunset. It is also believed to contain a sacred hair relic of the Buddha.
• Thatbyinnyu Temple: This is the highest temple in Bagan, built in 1144 by King Alaungsithu. It is known for its elegant and symmetrical design, as well as its two-storey structure that resembles a palace. It also contains a large seated Buddha image and a smaller reclining Buddha image.

Inle Lake is a beautiful and fascinating destination in Myanmar, where you can experience the unique culture of the local people who live on and around the water. Here are some of the ways you can immerse yourself in the culture of Inle Lake:

Watch the leg-rowing fishermen: One of the most iconic sights of Inle Lake is the fishermen who row their boats with one leg wrapped around an oar, while balancing on the other leg. This technique allows them to have both hands free for fishing, and to see over the floating plants that cover the lake. You can observe their skillful maneuvers and their traditional methods of fishing, such as using conical baskets and spears.

Visit the floating gardens: Another remarkable feature of Inle Lake is the floating gardens that are made of reeds and other plants. The locals grow vegetables, especially tomatoes, on these gardens, which are anchored to the lake bed with bamboo poles. You can see how they cultivate and harvest their crops, and even taste some of their fresh produce.

Learn about lotus weaving: Inle Lake is also known for its unique textile industry, which uses lotus fibers to weave fabrics. The lotus flowers grow abundantly on the lake, and the locals extract the fibers from the stems by hand. They then spin and dye the fibers, and weave them into scarves, shawls, robes, and other garments. You can visit some of the weaving workshops in the villages of Kyaing Khan and In Paw Khon, and see how they create these exquisite products. You can also buy some as souvenirs or gifts.

Explore the pagodas and monasteries: Inle Lake is also rich in religious and cultural heritage, with many pagodas and monasteries that reflect the Buddhist faith of the people. One of the most famous ones is the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, which houses five images of Buddha that are covered in gold leaf. Every year, a festival takes place in October or November, where the images are carried by boats to different villages around the lake. Another notable monastery is the Nga Phe Chaung Monastery, which is also known as the Jumping Cat Monastery, because of its trained cats that jump through hoops. You can visit these sacred sites and learn more about their history and significance.

Join the floating market: One of the most lively and colorful places to experience the culture of Inle Lake is the floating market, which is held every five days in different locations around the lake. The market is made up of vendors and customers in boats, who sell and buy everything from vegetables and fish to clothing and handicrafts. You can mingle with the locals, bargain for some goods, or just enjoy the atmosphere of this unique market.

Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar and local people have strong belief in their religion. You will see thousands of temples throughout the country, many of them are very big and gorgeous although local people are generally poor. A visit to Buddhist temples is a great way to learn more about Burmese culture and people. Many important pilgrimage sites now become the key sights for travelers.

Shwedagon Pagoda , the almost 100 – meter gold plated stupa of Yangon is one of the most majestic temples in Myanmar. This pagoda dominates the area with its diamond studded spire set on top of a small hill in Yangon. If you come at night, the pagoda is lit up by spotlights.

Local people come to pray at Shwedagon Pagoda – one of the most majestic pagodas in Myanmar.

The Shwedagon Pagoda is located on a hill that is 51 meters high, and the pagoda itself is 112 meters tall. It is covered with gold plates and topped with a stupa that contains thousands of diamonds, rubies, and other precious stones. The pagoda is visible from almost anywhere in Yangon, and it shines brightly in the sun.

The pagoda is believed to be over 2500 years old, and it contains relics of the four previous Buddhas of the present era. These relics include eight strands of hair from Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The pagoda is also a place of pilgrimage and worship for Buddhists, who come to pray, meditate, and make offerings.

The pagoda is open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., and there is an entrance fee of about $8 for foreigners. You need to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the pagoda complex. You can also leave your shoes at a designated area for a small donation. You can enter the pagoda from four different gates, each with its own attractions and vendors.

The pagoda complex consists of hundreds of colorful temples, stupas, statues, and shrines that reflect the different architectural styles and eras of Myanmar’s history. You can explore the various structures and learn about their meanings and stories. Some of the most famous ones are the Ananda Temple, the Dhammayangyi Temple, the Shwesandaw Pagoda, and the Thatbyinnyu Temple.

The best time to visit Shwedagon Pagoda is either at sunrise or sunset, when you can witness the stunning views of the city and the sky. The pagoda also glows with lights at night, creating a magical atmosphere. You can also join the locals in celebrating various festivals and ceremonies that take place throughout the year at the pagoda.

Visiting the golden Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon is a must-do activity for any visitor to Myanmar, as it’s not only the city’s symbolic landmark but also holds several world records.

If you travel to Mandalay, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the Mandalay Palace, the last royal residence of the Burmese monarchy. The palace is a magnificent complex of buildings, walls, and moats that reflects the glory and splendor of the Konbaung Dynasty, which ruled Myanmar from 1752 to 1885. The palace was built by King Mindon in 1857, who moved the capital from Amarapura to Mandalay. The palace was designed to be the center of the new city, and was surrounded by a square citadel with 12 gates. The palace itself consisted of more than 40 buildings, mostly made of teak wood, that housed the royal family, the court, and the administration. The palace was also a symbol of the king’s authority and legitimacy, as it contained the Lion Throne, the most important of the eight royal thrones.

The Mandalay Palace was the witness of many historical events, such as the coronation of King Thibaw, the last king of Myanmar, in 1878, and the British invasion and annexation of Myanmar in 1885. The palace was also the scene of the tragic end of the royal family, who were exiled to India by the British. The palace suffered extensive damage during World War II, when it was bombed by the Allied forces. The palace was reconstructed in the 1990s, based on the original plans and photographs. The reconstruction aimed to restore the palace to its former glory, and to preserve the cultural heritage of Myanmar.

Today, the Mandalay Palace is a major tourist attraction, as well as a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Burmese monarchy. Visitors can explore the palace grounds, which cover an area of 4 square kilometers, and admire the architecture and craftsmanship of the buildings. Some of the highlights of the palace include:

• The Lion Throne : This is the most sacred and impressive of the eight royal thrones, which represented the different directions and planets. The Lion Throne was used by the king for official ceremonies and audiences, and was located in the Great Audience Hall. The throne is made of gilded wood, and is decorated with lions, peacocks, lotus flowers, and other motifs. The throne is also surrounded by a golden canopy and a screen of glass mosaic.
• The Glass Palace : This is the main residence of the king and the queen, and the most luxurious building in the palace. The Glass Palace is named for its walls and columns, which are covered with mirrors and glass. The Glass Palace contains the royal bedchamber, the royal library, the royal treasury, and the royal bathroom. The Glass Palace also displays the personal belongings and portraits of the royal family, such as the king’s sword, the queen’s crown, and the king’s astrological chart.
• The Watch Tower : This is a 33-meter-high tower that offers a panoramic view of the palace and the city. The Watch Tower was used by the king and the queen to enjoy the scenery and the breeze, as well as to observe the stars and the planets. The Watch Tower is also known as the Nanmyin, which means the “bending tower”, because it leans slightly to the east due to an earthquake in 1839.
• The Royal Mint : This is a building that was used to produce the coins and the medals for the kingdom. The Royal Mint displays the machines and the tools that were used to mint the money, as well as the samples of the coins and the medals that were issued by the kings. The Royal Mint also exhibits the history and the evolution of the Burmese currency, from the ancient Pyu coins to the modern Kyat notes.

These are just some of the many attractions that you can find in the Mandalay Palace, each with its own story and significance. Visiting the palace will give you a glimpse of the life and the culture of the Burmese royalty, and will enrich your knowledge and appreciation of the history of Myanmar. If you are planning to visit Mandalay, make sure to include the palace in your itinerary, and you will not regret it.

Mandalay, the last royal capital of Myanmar, is a city rich in culture, history, and spirituality. One of the best ways to experience the essence of Mandalay is to visit its temples, which are scattered throughout the city and its surroundings. Whether you are looking for ancient architecture, serene meditation, or stunning views, you will find a temple that suits your interests and needs. Here are some of the most popular and impressive temples in Mandalay that you should not miss:

• Mahamuni Pagoda : This is one of the most revered and sacred temples in Myanmar, as it houses the Mahamuni Buddha image, which is believed to be one of the only five likenesses of the Buddha made during his lifetime. The image is covered with layers of gold leaf, which are applied daily by devout pilgrims. The temple complex also features six bronze statues of Khmer origin, which were brought from Angkor Wat by King Bodawpaya in the 18th century.
• Kuthodaw Pagoda : This is the site of the world’s largest book, which consists of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire Tipitaka, the Buddhist scriptures. The slabs are housed in white stupas arranged in rows around a central golden pagoda. The temple was built by King Mindon in the 19th century, who wanted to preserve the teachings of the Buddha for posterity. The temple is also known for its beautiful sunset views of Mandalay Hill.
• Shwenandaw Monastery : This is a stunning example of traditional Burmese wooden architecture, which was originally part of the royal palace of King Mindon. The king died in the building in 1878, and his son, King Thibaw, moved it to its current location and converted it into a monastery. The building is adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures, floral patterns, and scenes from the Jataka tales, which depict the previous lives of the Buddha.
• Sandamuni Pagoda : This is a temple complex that contains the world’s largest iron Buddha image, which weighs over 18 tons and stands over 4 meters tall. The image was cast by King Bodawpaya in 1802, and was moved to its present location by King Thibaw in 1874. The temple also has 1774 marble slabs inscribed with commentaries on the Tipitaka, which are placed in white stupas similar to those at Kuthodaw Pagoda.
• Mingun Pahtodawgyi : This is an unfinished pagoda that was intended to be the largest in the world, but was abandoned due to an astrologer’s prophecy that the king would die once it was completed. The pagoda was started by King Bodawpaya in 1790, and was supposed to reach a height of 150 meters, but only reached 50 meters before the work stopped. The pagoda was severely damaged by an earthquake in 1838, which left huge cracks on its facade. The pagoda is still impressive to behold, and offers a glimpse of the king’s grandiose ambition.

These are just some of the many temples that you can visit in Mandalay, each with its own unique history, architecture, and atmosphere. Visiting these temples will give you a deeper understanding of the culture and religion of Myanmar, and will leave you with unforgettable memories. If you are planning to visit Mandalay, make sure to include these temples in your itinerary, and you will not regret it.

Shwenandaw Monastery – known for its teak carvings of Buddhist myths, which adorn its walls and roofs.

Golden Rock is also one of the most beautiful temples in Myanmar. This rock covered in gold leaves seems to defy gravity. Situated on the top of a mountain, it offers some of the most incredible views in Myanmar.

Golden Rock, also known as Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda, is a 20-meter-high boulder that balances on the edge of a mountain, thanks to a strand of Buddha’s hair that is enshrined inside a pagoda on top of it. It is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in Myanmar, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists every year. However, visiting Golden Rock is not an easy task, as it involves some challenges and inconveniences. Some of the issues that users face are:

• The journey to the rock is long and uncomfortable. The nearest town is Kyaikto, which is about 160 kilometers east of Yangon. From there, visitors have to take a bus (rollercoaster-like ride in open trucks) that are crowded and bumpy. The ride takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can hike for about four hours from the base camp to the top of the mountain, but this requires good physical condition and stamina.
• The accommodation options are limited and expensive. There are only a few hotels near the rock, and they charge high prices for basic facilities and services. The cheapest option is to stay at a dormitory-style guesthouse. However, these guesthouses are often noisy, dirty, and lack privacy. Most visitors prefer to stay at Kyaikto or Yangon and make a day trip to the rock.
• The access to the rock is restricted and discriminatory. Only men are allowed to touch the rock and apply gold leaves to it, as a sign of devotion and merit. Women are not allowed to approach the rock or the pagoda, and have to watch from a distance. This is considered a sexist and unfair rule by many female visitors, who feel excluded and discriminated against. Moreover, visitors have to remove their shoes and socks before entering the shrine complex, which can be uncomfortable and unhygienic.
• The weather and the crowds can be unpredictable and unpleasant. The best time to visit Golden Rock is from November to March, when the weather is dry and cool. However, this is also the peak season for pilgrimages and tourism, which means that the rock can be very crowded and chaotic. Visitors may have to wait in long queues to board the trucks, find a place to stay, or get a glimpse of the rock. The off-season, from April to October, is less crowded but also less scenic, as the weather is hot, humid, and rainy. The rock can be covered by clouds or mist, and the roads can be slippery and muddy.

Despite these issues, many visitors still find Golden Rock to be a worthwhile and memorable experience. The rock is a stunning and miraculous sight, especially at sunrise and sunset, when it glows with a golden hue. The atmosphere is also very spiritual and festive, as visitors can witness the devotion and joy of the pilgrims, who chant, pray, and light candles around the rock. Golden Rock is a place that offers a unique and authentic glimpse into the culture and religion of Myanmar.

Golden Rock – an unique pagoda built on the top of a granite boulder covered with gold leaves.

Mandalay Hill is a great place to enjoy the scenic views of Mandalay, the second-largest city and the last royal capital of Myanmar. You can see the city from different perspectives, as well as the surrounding plains, hills, and rivers. Here are some of the things you can do to enjoy the scenic views from Mandalay Hill:

Climb up the hill by foot or by car . There are four covered stairways that lead up to the hill from different directions, each with its own attractions and sights along the way. You can also take a one-way motor road that saves time and energy, and then use an escalator and a lift to reach the top. The climb is considered a rewarding and meritorious deed by Buddhists, who often visit the hill as a pilgrimage site.

Visit the Sutaungpyei Pagoda at the summit of the hill. This is a beautiful pagoda that literally means “wish-fulfilling” in Burmese. It has a large terrace that offers panoramic views of Mandalay and its surroundings. You can also see many Buddha images, statues, paintings, and mosaics inside the pagoda.

Watch the sunrise or sunset from the hill. Many people come to Mandalay Hill to witness the spectacular sunrise or sunset over the city. The sky changes colors and creates a stunning contrast with the golden pagodas and temples below. You can also see the reflection of the sun on the Irrawaddy River, which is the longest river in Myanmar.

Explore the other pagodas and monasteries on the hill. There are many other religious and cultural sites on Mandalay Hill that you can visit, such as the Shweyattaw Buddha Pavilion, which has a large standing Buddha image that points towards the city; the Nga Htat Gyi Pagoda, which has a huge seated Buddha image with a golden crown; and the Nga Phe Chaung Monastery, which is also known as the Jumping Cat Monastery because of its trained cats that jump through hoops.

Learn about the history and legends of Mandalay Hill. Mandalay Hill has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. According to legend, the Buddha visited the hill and prophesied that a great city would be built at its foot in 2400 of the Buddhist Era (1857 CE). The city was founded by King Mindon in 1857 CE and named after the hill. Mandalay Hill also witnessed many historical events, such as the British invasion in 1885 CE, the Japanese occupation in 1942 CE, and the independence movement in 1948 CE.

I am pretty sure that you have been seen many stunning photos of sunset in Myanmar. So, you should not miss a chance to take your own shots when you are in the country. Myanmar offers so many magical places which you are hard to find anywhere else. The world’s largest teak bridge, the U Bein in Mandalay is one of Myanmar’s most photographed spots. This wooden wonder provides a perfect silhouette at sunset where visitors can catch glimpses of local farmers, fishermen, monks, and nuns as they cross this ancient landmark.

Magical sunset over Ubein Bridge

Sunset is also the favourite time to visit Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. Travelers prefer to come to the pagoda before sunset, so they have an opportunity to watch the city’s residents coming to pay their respects after finishing work or school, then find a quiet spot to sit and soak up this magical atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon and darkness falls in this most sacred of places.

Sunset over Bagan temples from high hills or boat trips along the river is highlight of any trip to Myanmar.

Go up in a basket and float into the sky when the dark gradually appears is once in lifetime experience. This, in our opinion, is the best way to appreciate the wonders.

Balloon flights are available in few destinations including Bagan, Inle Lake, Ngapali, Mandalay. However, the most magical place is absolutely Bagan. It is truly unforgettable to see Bagan waking up in the morning with many temples in the distance – no two of which are the same Sometimes you may fly over villages and see people on their early morning rounds, feeding their animals; or going to market.

Hot air balloon flights over Bagan temples

Myanmar is a country with a rich and diverse culture, and one of the best ways to experience it is by joining the colorful festivals that take place throughout the year. Whether you want to celebrate the new year, honor the Buddha, or learn about the local traditions and arts, there is a festival for every occasion. Here are some of the most popular and spectacular festivals of Myanmar that you should not miss:

The biggest one is Water Festival (Thingyan) . It lasts 5 – 7 days, usually in early April. This is the most famous festival in Myanmar, and it marks the beginning of the new year. It is similar to the Songkran Festival in Thailand, where people splash water on each other as a way of cleansing and blessing. The festival lasts for four days, and it is a time of joy and fun. You can join the water fights on the streets, or visit the temples and pagodas to pay respect to the Buddha. You will also enjoy the music, dancing, and food that are part of this festival.

Local people are truly enthusiastic to join Water Festival.

• Thadingyut Festival of Light : This festival celebrates the return of the Buddha from heaven, where he had preached to his mother. It is also the end of the Buddhist Lent, and a time of gratitude and forgiveness. People decorate their houses and streets with candles and lanterns, creating a beautiful sight at night. You can also enjoy the markets, food stalls, concerts, and plays that are held during this festival. You will also have a chance to make offerings to the monks and elders, and ask for their blessings.
• Kachin Manaw Festival : This festival is a joint celebration of the new year, battle victories, tribal reunions, and traditions of the Kachin people, one of the ethnic groups in Myanmar. The highlight of the festival is the Manaw dance, where men and women dance around decorated poles in colorful costumes. The festival also showcases the culture and cuisine of the Kachin people. You will also get to see their traditional instruments, weapons, and crafts.
• Taunggyi Balloon Festival : This festival is held during the full moon of Tazaungmon, which is usually in November. It is a competition of hot air balloons made of paper, which are released into the sky with fireworks and candles attached to them. The balloons are decorated with religious or cultural symbols, and they create a dazzling display in the night sky. The festival also features music, dancing, and carnival games. You will also witness the amazing skills and creativity of the balloon makers.

Several other celebrations, such as the light festivals of  Thadingyut   and Hot air balloon festival aren’t to be missed either. Thadingyut takes place for three days during the full moon of the seventh month of the Burmese calendar (usually near the beginning of October), and marks the end of Buddhist lent. It’s a time for families to come together and celebrate Buddha’s descent to earth after visiting his mother in heaven. Cities throughout the country are especially aglow during Thadingyut with fireworks, dangling lights or candles.

Hot air balloon festival in Taunggyi is the most explosively colourful. Once a year in early November, a field outside the Shan capital of Taunggyi becomes the venue for a spectacular hot-air balloon competition. The event becomes more raucous into the night, with drinking, dancing and gigantic balloons laden with thousands of fireworks that sometimes blow up in unplanned ways.

Taking luxury cruises along Irrawaddy River to visit rural riverside villages and watch local people doing their work.

The 2000-meter-long Irrawaddy (navigable all the way from Yangon to Putao near the Chinese border) is one of the world’s most fabled rivers, carrying barges and passenger cruise ships. Many activities of local people rely on The Irrawaddy .  Local ferries make the journey from Mandalay to Bagan in one day but there are also more comfortable options along the same route with overnight stays and cabins available. Hop aboard the luxury cruises and journey up the Irrawaddy River is a wonderful way to take in the river, as you float past rural riverside villages, and watch local life unfolding along the way.

A cruise along the Irrawaddy River is a great opportunity to explore Myanmar and discover its rich culture, history, and nature. Various cruise options are available to suit your preferences and budget, and you will enjoy a relaxing and memorable journey on the water. Here are some of the benefits and highlights of taking an Irrawaddy River cruise:

• The stunning scenery of Myanmar will amaze you from a different perspective, as you glide past lush green hills, golden pagodas, rural villages, and bustling cities. The sunrise and sunset over the river will create a magical atmosphere.
• Some of the most iconic and fascinating destinations in Myanmar await you, such as Mandalay, Bagan, Yangon, and Inle Lake. You will explore their cultural and historical attractions, such as temples, monasteries, palaces, markets, and museums. You will also learn about their local customs, traditions, and lifestyles.
• A luxury riverboat will provide you with comfort and convenience as you travel. You will have spacious cabins, gourmet dining, spa services, and entertainment. The crew and guides will be friendly and professional, and they will make sure you have everything you need.
• Other travelers who share your interest in Myanmar and its culture will be your companions. You will join in various activities and events on board, such as lectures, demonstrations, games, and shows. You will also have the option to participate in excursions and tours that will enrich your experience.

If you want to explore the rural and natural beauty of Myanmar, trekking through the hills of Kalaw is a wonderful way to do it. You will experience the diverse landscapes, cultures, and lifestyles of the local people, as well as enjoy the fresh air and scenic views. Trekking in Kalaw is different from trekking in other places, as you will mostly walk through farmland, villages, and forests, rather than steep mountains. You will also need a guide to show you the way and arrange your accommodation and meals.

There are different options for trekking in Kalaw, depending on your time, budget, and preference. You can choose from one-day, two-day, or three-day treks, which will take you to different destinations and attractions. Some of the most popular treks are:

• One-day trek: This option is suitable for those who have limited time or want a short introduction to trekking in Kalaw. You will visit some nearby villages and see their daily activities, such as farming, weaving, and cooking. You will also enjoy the views of the rolling hills and green fields along the way. A typical one-day trek covers about 15 to 20 kilometers and takes about 6 to 8 hours.
• Two-day trek: This option is ideal for those who want to experience more of the local culture and nature. You will stay overnight at a local home or monastery, where you will interact with the hosts and learn about their traditions and beliefs. You will also visit some of the most iconic and fascinating destinations in Myanmar, such as Inle Lake, where you will see the famous floating gardens, stilt houses, and leg-rowing fishermen. A typical two-day trek covers about 40 to 50 kilometers and takes about 12 to 16 hours.
• Three-day trek: This option is perfect for those who want to challenge themselves and explore more of the hidden gems of Myanmar. You will trek through various terrains and altitudes, such as bamboo forests, pine woods, tea plantations, and mountain peaks. You will also visit some of the most remote and authentic villages, where you will witness their unique customs and lifestyles. You will also enjoy some of the most stunning views of the countryside and the sky. A typical three-day trek covers about 60 to 70 kilometers and takes about 18 to 24 hours.

No matter which option you choose, you should prepare yourself both physically and mentally for the trek. You should pack some essentials, such as comfortable clothes, shoes, water bottles, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, flashlight, insect repellent, toiletries, snacks, and a camera. You should also have an open mind and respect the local culture and environment. You will be amazed by the hospitality and generosity of the people you meet along the way.

Ngapali is a beautiful beach destination in Myanmar, where you can relax on the pristine white sand, swim in the clear blue water, and enjoy the tropical scenery. Ngapali is also known for its fresh seafood, local culture, and peaceful atmosphere. If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Ngapali is a perfect choice.

There are many ways to experience Ngapali, depending on your preferences and budget. You can choose from different types of accommodation, ranging from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. You can also explore the nearby attractions, such as fishing villages, pagodas, and islands. You can also try some of the activities available, such as snorkeling, kayaking, cycling, golfing, or fishing.

Ngapali is a great place to visit all year round, but the best time to go is from November to March, when the weather is dry and sunny. You can reach Ngapali by plane from Yangon or Mandalay, or by bus from Thandwe. Ngapali is a popular destination among both locals and foreigners, so it is advisable to book your accommodation and transportation in advance.

With 135 ethnic groups, travelers have many chance to discover authentic culture and tradition which are not much influenced by outside world. If you are a bit stressed with religious sites, take time to travel out of cities to interact with local people.

Kalaw is an old hill station with a welcome cooler climate in Northeastern Shan State. It is a popular based for trekking lovers. From Kalaw, you can do one to few days to nearby villages where you can visit different tribes as Pa O, Danu, Palaung… To fully appreciate the charms of rural Myanmar, trek over the rolling hills from Kalaw to nearby Inle Lake. You will have a chance to stay in local monastaries, being lulled to sleep by chanting monks whilst during the day watch the farmers planting, tending or harvesting their crops – rice, chillies or corn depending on the season.

Closed for over half a century and only recently opened to visitors, Kayah state is home to nine distinct ethnic groups who still practice their indigenous customs, handed down for centuries and dress in their traditional costumes. The most well – known group is Kayan. The Kayan women wear many brass coils around their necks to make the necks longer. They believe that longer necks will make them more beautiful.  The sleepy capital Loikaw is a base to visit this tribe.

The Kayan women wear many brass coils around their necks to make the necks longer.

Chin State is homeland of Chin people who is known for tattooed face. Many of the women here sport full facial designs denoting which Christian-animist tribe they belong to. They were tattooed when they were just nine years old. It was an ancient custom to prevent invaders from stealing away the local women. To visit Chin people, you need to take 8-hour car journey from Bagan.

With Myanmar’s location next to the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea, Myanmar offers many stunning beaches to travelers. While the Mergui Archipelago offers exciting adventures, for honeymooners seeking serenity or families wanting to relax by the sea, simply unwinding on its beautiful beaches is one of the most delightful experiences.

Beaches in Myanmar are unspoiled and quiet.

After touring Myanmar’s main sites, laid back Ngapali Beach is a place to unwind, enjoy the balmy blue waters of the Bay of Bengal.  Unlike some resorts in neighbouring Thailand, Ngapali is still relatively unspoilt with just a small number of beachfront hotels. Travelers can take a boat trip for a spot of snorkelling and visit the traditional fishing villages that line the coast.

The Mergui Archipelago, a group of 800 islands scattered in the Andaman Sea off the western shore of Myanmar’s remote south, is one of the last untouched and unspoiled tropical destinations left on earth. Travelers can choose to stay in some cruises or eco resorts which are located in remote islands. Whether you stay on cruise or eco resorts, you will have a chance to immerse yourselves in clear and calm waters of Andaman sea, explore the wild jungles and visit the indigenous Moken people, also known as sea gypsies. In addition, surrounded by unexplored corals, fish and sea life, Mergui is the best place to do snorkeling and scuba diving which are provided by any cruises or resorts in Mergui.

Myanmar has very outdated railway system which make traveling by train uncomfortable and long. So, it is not a preferable mode of transportation to travel. However, there is no better way to really experience the Burmese culture than taking a train. If you mind long train which may take the whole day, just take a short ride in the Circular Train in Yangon.

Stunning view from the window on the train journey crossing Goteik Viaduct

Probably one of the cheapest trains in the world  (only $0.13) , the circular train will take you through local neighborhoods, villages and markets. Along the way, you’ll find yourself in the thick of local life, with all its chaos and color and excitement. As the train will make its way through Yangon and its suburbs, local vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables and local dishes will come through the wagons.  From the windows, you will see kids going to school, housewives doing their groceries and people going back home from work.

A train crossing Goteik Viaduct has gained popularity among tourists. Gokteik Viaduct is one of Myanmar’s most stunning man-made marvels built by the colonial British. It is on the railway which connects Mandalay and Lashio, a principal town near China border. Priced at $4, the train ticket is worth every cent for the magnificent landscapes it passes.

Famed for limestone terrain, incredible landscapes, and uncharted cave systems, you should not leave Myanmar without going underground and seeing beneath the surface of country.

Laid-back Hpa An, close to the Thai border, is home to impressive karst mountains similar to Vietnam’s famous Halong Bay – but less crowded. The highlight is Sadan Cave, a towering place full of pagodas and Buddhas, where you can walk under the entire mountain and take a tiny wooden boat back through the paddy fields.

Sadan Cave – a natural wonder opened into a vast arched room with walls adorned with thousands of tiny Buddha sculptures.

Boasting more than 8,000 images of Buddha from a variety of different time periods, the Pindaya cave is a unique attraction in Shan State. An overwhelming amount of Buddha figures covering the walls, corners, and ceilings of the cave, many visitors walk through the area slowly and silently to soak in the unique views of this stunning labyrinth. The cave is situated in a limestone hill near Inle Lake.

Phowintaung is another amazing cave complex in Monywa. The complex contains 947 small and large richly decorated caves. It is carved into a sandstone outcrop and contains numerous carved Buddha statues and mural paintings of geometric patterns and Jataka stories. The statues and paintings have been dated to between the 14th and 18th centuries. The drive to Monywa is 140 kilometres from Mandalay and takes around three hours.

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• Published on April 24, 2023

The Top 10 Famous Places In Myanmar

Top 10 tourist attractions in myanmar.

Wondering what to see in Myanmar ?

Myanmar, also called Burma or Burma, is a must-visit place in Southeast Asia for people who like Buddha and beaches, though not necessarily in that order. Buddhist temples can be found all over the country. Take this opportunity to travel off the beaten path, as tourism is still at its lowest in this country.

1. Shwemawdaw Paya

Undoubtedly the most famous place in myanmar Shwemawdaw Paya is surrounded by sparkling gold, giving it the nickname “Big Golden God” because it can be seen for miles in all directions. The diamond-encrusted top also contributes to some of the glitter. The daily hours of operation are from 7 a.m. to p.m. It is the tallest pagoda in Myanmar, standing about 114 meters (375 feet) tall, and is one of the country’s tourist attractions. It is important to Buddhism since it houses various Buddha relics.

2. Irrawaddy River Cruise

The longest river in Myanmar, the Ayeyarwady (also referred to as the Irrawaddy), originates in the Himalayas and divides the nation in half before flowing into the Andaman Sea. Large ships and boats can navigate it at lower altitudes, and it is quickly growing in popularity as a river cruise destination. Mandalay and Bagan , which both have numerous temples, pagodas, and Buddha statues, are connected by ships. Cruisers will pass through jungles and deep canyons as they travel between the two ports.

3. Shwenandaw Monastery

6. Inle Lake

7. Taung Kalat

8. Shwedagon Pagoda

The Shwedagon, also known as the Grand Dragon Pagoda, is Myanmar’s most revered Buddhist shrine due to the presence of a strand of Buddha’s hair and other priceless artifacts. The 2,500-year-old Pagoda is located atop Singuttara Hill in Yangon, the country’s largest city. The pagoda is believed to have been constructed by the Mon between the sixth and tenth centuries AD, during the Bagan era. 4,531 diamonds make up the stupa, which is covered in gold leaf. It is required that visitors to the pagoda wear jeans and modest tops and remove their shoes before entering the temple. Starting at 4 AM until 10 PM, the Pagoda is open for free public viewing. Don’t miss this top myanmar tourist attraction. 

9. Golden Rock

My personal favorite famous place in myanmar, Bagan has more Buddhist temples, pagodas, and stupas than any other place, so tourists interested in these structures will have a field day there. The First Burmese Empire had Bagan as its capital from the ninth to the thirteenth centuries, making it the most visited tourist destination in Myanmar. Around 13,000 Buddhist temples were located at the site that Marco Polo once referred to as the “gilded metropolis” at its height in the 11th century. Many temples, stupas, and pagodas still exist, including the well-known Ananda temple with its golden spires.

You can easily spend multiple days exploring due to the sheer number of myanmar tourist spots here. This is the most interesting of places in myanmar, rent an ebike and try and find the many thousand temples.

Common questions tourist attractions in Myanmar

Popular destinations include Yangon (with the stunning Shwedagon Pagoda), the ancient city of Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake, and the Golden Rock (Kyaiktiyo Pagoda).

Many solo travelers have had positive experiences in Myanmar. As with any destination, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings and follow safety precautions.

Most places take only cash, so be prepared to pay with local the currency or dollars.

Shwedagon Pagoda, 2500 years old, is the most known and sacred site in Myanmar due to its Buddist significance of containg a strand of Buddha’s hair and other relics.

The most popular destinations in Myanmar are Yangon and Mandalay, Both major cities with a variety of things to do and Buddist templates and monuments.

Start Planning Your Myanmar Trip Now!

Book Your Flight:

Use  Skyscanner   to find a cheap flights. A travellers favorite way to book flights, as it searches websites and airlines around the world with one click.

Book Your Bus or Transportation Within Myanmar:

There are two ways to book your transporation, ask your hotel or hostel , go to the local bus terminal, or book online, for a less stressful trip using Easybook or  12go.asia

Book Your Accomodation: 

Find the best hotels or hostels at HostelWorld , Booking.com,   Agoda.com . Perks include with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out and Free cancellations.

Dont Forget Your Travel Insurance:

Two popular choices are SafetyWing and WorldsNomads . A traveler should buy traveler’s insurance to protect themselves against unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen baggage. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Useful Apps?

Grab – Local Transportation

Food Panda – Food Delivery

Want More Information On Myanmar?

Be sure to check out my nomad travel guide on the Myanmar for even more tips

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.

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Myanmar (Burma)

It's a new era for this extraordinary and complex land, where the landscape is scattered with gilded pagodas and the traditional ways of Asia endure.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Shwedagon Paya

One of Buddhism's most sacred sites, the 326ft zedi (stupa) here is adorned with 27 metric tons of gold leaf, along with thousands of diamonds and other…

Mandalay Hill

To get a sense of Mandalay’s pancake-flat sprawl, climb the 760ft hill that breaks it. The walk up covered stairways on the hill's southern slope is a…

Bagaya Kyaung

This lovely 1834 teak monastery is Inwa’s most memorable individual attraction. It's supported on 267 teak posts, the largest 60ft high and 9ft in…

Ananda Pahto

With its 170ft-high, gold corn-cob hti (decorated pinnacle) shimmering across the plains, Ananda is one of the finest, largest, best-preserved and most…

Dhammayangyi Pahto

Visible from all parts of Bagan, this massive, walled, 12th-century temple – about 1600ft east of Shwesandaw – is infamous for its mysterious, bricked-up…

Mt Victoria

The highest peak in Chin State – 10,016ft – and the third-highest in Myanmar, stunning Mt Victoria is one of the principal attractions of southern Chin…

Mahamuni Paya

Every day, thousands of colourfully dressed faithful venerate Mahamuni's 13ft-tall seated buddha, a nationally celebrated image that’s popularly believed…

Shwethalyaung Buddha

Following the destruction of Bago in 1757, this huge reclining buddha was overgrown by jungle and not rediscovered until 1881, when a contractor unearthed…

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16 Places To Visit In Myanmar – Where To Go & What to See

Myanmar is one of the most underrated countries in SE Asia. It is unique and gorgeous and will leave you surprised. There are plenty of places to visit in Myanmar, whether you have just a week or a month.

From temples to waterfalls to hikes to beaches, you can do a bit of everything that the country offers. If you plan to visit Myanmar soon, here are the places to visit in Myanmar and things to do in each of them.

Top Places To Visit In Myanmar

The most visited destination in Myanmar is Bagan, which is on every traveler’s itinerary. And it is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar for one reason – temples.

Bagan is an ancient city built around the 12th century and was once home to over 20,000 Buddhist pagodas. Now over 1000 remain, scattered on the banks of the Ayeyarwady river beckoning history lovers, architectural enthusiasts and anyone wanting to go back in time!

Things to do in Bagan

Explore the best ancient temples – Temple hopping would be your thing to do in the city. Ananda temple, Bhu Paya, Dhammanyangi and Shwedansaw are some of the best Bagan temples not to miss. You can rent an e-bike for about MMK 4000 daily and explore it independently. Make sure to start early to avoid the hot sun.

Check out the 17 best temples in Bagan and a guide to visit them.

Watch the spectacular sunrise – Among the reasons to visit Bagan are the spectacles of sunrise and sunset over the temples. Watching the sunrise in Bagan is a phenomenal experience – You will watch the colours in the backdrop of temples emerge from silhouettes as the sun’s first rays kiss them with sparkle.

It was possible to climb atop the giant temple tops earlier to witness this, which is now banned. But there are still places in Bagan to watch sunrise and sunset, check them out here.

Take a hot air balloon ride – One of the fantastic ways to watch a stunning sunrise over Bagan is to ride in a hot air balloon. It is one of the lifetime must-do experiences while you are in Bagan.

Plan a few day trips – Many interesting places around Bagan are worth checking out. Plan 1 or 2-day trips to cover them. Check out these seven-day trips that you can plan from Bagan .

Take the slow boat cruise from Bagan to Mandalay –  One of the experiences in Myanmar is to travel from Bagan to Mandalay by boat. A cruise on the Irrawaddy river will take you through fishers, their villages, and paddy fields and you will get a peek at the life along this central river. It is a day’s journey worth your time and money.

Where to stay in Bagan

All ranges of hotels in Bagan are spread across Old Bagan, New Bagan and Nyaung-U. Nyaung-U has many budget accommodations and hostels for solo travelers and backpackers. Here are the recommended accommodation options in Bagan:

Check here for the latest prices and deals on Bagan hotels.

Inle is one of the most beautiful lakes in SE Asia and a top destination for tourists that visit Burma. It is not just a lake; this large water body supports over 80,000 inhabitants, many of which live on wooden stilt houses in the water villages.

On the lake, you will see rows and rows of houses, shops, industries and restaurants built on stilts – a whole town on the water. Isn’t it unique? No wonder it is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar. 

Things to do in Inle Lake

Take Inle Lake boat tour  – Taking a boat tour is one of the must-do things at Inle Lake and is one of the popular tourist attractions in Myanmar. A half-day or a full-day tour(private or group), you will visit unique, traditional means of occupation like cigar making, handloom made of lotus stem, umbrellas and hand-made paper making industries. You will also watch fishers at work – a unique way in which they use their leg to fish.

Rent a bicycle or a bike  – The town surrounding the lake is everything that speaks of the rugged countryside of Myanmar. You can cycle through green paddy fields surrounded by mountains, passing through wooden homes, where cheerful kids on the street will greet you.

Go wine tasting  – The Red Mountain Estate Vineyard is located atop the hills close to Inle Lake. If you are renting a bike or a cycle, it is one of the places to check out to take a tour and taste the local wine.

Check out the ruins at Indein temple  – Located a little further away from Inle Lake is the ancient Indien Pagoda, which is home to hundreds of stupas lined on a hill. The red, brown and white stupas surrounded by the green villages below is a lovely sight, apart from the rich history of temple ruins. Plan a half-day trip to Indein from Inle lake on your motorbike, enjoying a drive passing through the scenic villages.

Witness the sunrise & sunset at Inle Lake  – Take a trip on the long-tailed wooden boat on the Inle at the time of evening and in the early morning hours, both times when the sky looks incredibly magical with all that colours of dusk and dawn.

Visit Kakku –  Kakku is called pagoda with thousand stupas because of over 2000 sacred stupas, which were built hundreds of years ago. You can plan a half-day guided trip from Inle Lake.

Where to stay in Inle Lake

If you want to experience a unique stay, the best place to stay would be on the Inle Lake itself, in one of the resorts that are next to it. If you are traveling on a budget, there are a lot of hotels in Nyuangshwe, which is the nearest town to the lake. Here is what I’d recommend.

Check here for best deals and prices for Inle Lake hotels.

Mandalay is a unique town with a robust distinguishing character, which makes it one of the recommended places to visit in Myanmar. It is a city with the usual concrete culture consuming the suburbs, but move away a bit, and you will find different sides of the town.

Things to do in Mandalay

Watch the sunset over U-Bien bridge – The iconic wooden bridge is the oldest in the world, over 1 km across Taungthaman Lake. And watching gorgeous views during the sunset is Myanmar’s point of interest for travelers.

Check out Shwenandaw Kyaung Monastery & Mahamuni Pagoda – Mandalay has its fair share of temples and monasteries. But these two stand out.

Shwenandaw Kyaung is a beautiful monastery in Myanmar which has completely different architecture and design, making it a must-visit attraction. Mahamuni is the most sacred pagoda in Myanmar. The golden Buddha is blanketed in 6 tons of gold leaves offered by people who take a pilgrimage to the pagoda.

Climb Mandalay hill – One of the best spots for witnessing the sunset in the city is Mandalay hill, which is close to the city centre. Plan a small hike to the top in the evening for rewarding panoramic views of the sunset over the town.

Visit Sagaing – A little away from the city centre of Mandalay is Sagaing district, famous for its picturesque hill dotted with pagodas, whose white, golden and red stupas amidst greenery, which is every photographer’s delight.

There are several viewpoints at the top from where you can see beautiful views of the Irrawaddy and the Ava bridge. Spend an evening here to watch the sunset. You can reach by boat from Mandalay, a lovely short journey on the river.

RECOMMENDED – Check out these 17 Amazing Things to do in Mandalay

Where to stay in Mandalay

The attractions in Mandalay are all scattered; hence, no matter where you stay, you will have to rely on a tuk-tuk, a cab, or a bike to get around. The best area is downtown, with good restaurants and many accommodation options. Here are some of them to try.

Click here for the best deals on Mandalay hotels.

Many would brush off this thought of including the former capital city on their itinerary(I was one of them, too!). Still, Yangon has surprisingly a lot of exciting things to offer for all kinds of travelers. It might not be one of the best places to visit in Myanmar compared to other destinations that stand out, but if you have time, spare a day or two, although Three days in Yangon is perfect.

If you are contemplating between Mandalay and Yangon to choose only one for any reason, my vote would be for Yangon.

Things to do in Yangon

Visit the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda  – The most revered Buddhist temple, Shwedagon is the oldest and a top tourist attraction for visitors. Visit the temple during the daytime and around sunset after dark, as it looks completely contrasting both times.

Take the Yangon circle train – How about a heritage train ride? The circular train is a loop circuit that passes through different suburbs of Yangon, including a market. It is one of the experiences that can you can witness only here.

Take a walk in Kandawgyi Lake – Yangon’s notorious traffic can be intimidating if you are new in SE Asia. One best way to escape the chaos is strolling around Kandawgyi, a pleasantly well-maintained lake. Close to it is Bogoyoke Park, which is good for people-watching.

Try street food in Chinatown – A few streets famously known as China Town are at the heart of Yangon. There isn’t anything Chinese(except for a few restaurants), but it is an excellent place for savouring Burmese food and beer, which are also very cheap.

Where to stay in Yangon

The city centre is the best area to stay in Yangon, so you can visit a few of them on foot. There is no shortage of hotels, hostels and guesthouses in every budget range in the city. Here are a few of my recommendations.

Click here for some best deals and prices of hotels in Yangon.

Offbeat Places To Visit In Myanmar

If you want to venture off the touristy destinations, here are some options for you.

One of the towns I enjoyed a lot and was a total surprise was the tiny town of Hpa An. Tourism is still booming here, and you will see fewer tourists. Plus, if you love nature, the countryside and caves, you will love Hpa An.

The green rice and paddy fields will smite you, and here is one of the places where you will witness the natural beauty of Myanmar. It is similar to Ninh Binh and Tam Coc in Vietnam , gorgeous sites known for Karst mountains, paddy fields and pagodas.

Things to do in Hpa An

Go cave-hopping – Hpa An is a town of caves. There are at least three worth visiting, all of them if you want to see 10th-century murals and statues of Buddha.

Go to the top of Kyauk Kalat Pagoda – Kyauk Kalat is an ancient temple perched on the top of a rocky cliff surrounded by a lake. Its location amidst mountains itself should be a reason good enough for you to visit.

Rent a bike to drive through the countryside – Whether you opt for a bike or a bicycle, make sure to get out of the town of Hpa An because it’s where all the lovely things are. Pass through cows crossing the road, women waving at you and people working on their farms.

Where to stay in Hpa An

Staying in the city centre is the best option as you can access bike rentals and the right choice of restaurants and hotels. Here are some of the best hotels in Hpa An.

Click here for the best prices of hotels in Hpa An

Mount Zwegabin

Mount Zwegabin is close to Hpa An and is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar for a gorgeous sunrise over the mountains. A hike for about 2 to 3 hours will lead you to witness the spectacular sunrise.

If you are visiting during the monsoon from June to September, you cannot visit Mount Zwegabin as it is closed. Carry a torch and wear proper hiking shoes. You can reach the foot of the mountain, which is also home to Lumbini gardens, from Hpa An by bike.

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock)

The golden rock temple is one of the most photographed places in the country. It is only of the sacred sites for the locals. For tourists, it is one of the places worth visiting in Myanmar. A huge rock stands at the edge of another cliff inclined completely forward, which is a sight to behold. It is a popular day trip from Yangon. You can also plan a day trip from Hpa An.

If you intend to go further into the heart of Myanmar to get a sneak peek of destinations not developed or commercialized for tourists, then Mrauk-U is one of them. Ancient Buddhist temples and archaeological sites will keep you occupied for at least a day. I’d recommend keeping 3 days, given the distance and time required to travel.

Rakhine state, where Mrauk-U is located, is prone to some internal conflicts, because of which it was off-limits for tourists for a few years. If you intend to add Mrauk-U to your itinerary, check the status before.

Things to Do in Mrauk–U

Rent a bike to explore the archaeological ruins   – The best way to check out the temple ruins is to rent a cycle. If it’s too much for you, motorbikes are an option. It is best to start early, around sunrise, to skip the hot weather. Or head there around sunset.

Visit Chin villages –  The villages around Mrauk-U is home to the Chin community, an ethnic tribe known for its older women with tattoos all over their face, a tradition practised years ago to safeguard women from being kidnapped by men of other tribes. The tattoo tradition is long gone, but you can still see a few older women. 

Note – Be sensitive when you visit these communities. Ask before you click any pictures, engage with them, and try to get to know them instead of just clicking. 

Where to stay in Mrauk-U

The downtown is the best option as there are many hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the recommended hotels in Mrauk-U.

Mount Popa is a sacred monastery and is one of the cool places to visit in Myanmar. Perched atop a cliff, you need to climb 777 steps to the top, where you will enter the ancient pagoda dedicated to Nat spirits. It is a popular day trip from Bagan and Mandalay. Please beware of the notorious monkeys that snatch food and other stuff from you on the way up.

The Goteik Viaduct

Myanmar is known for a few memorable train journeys, and the most popular is the train over the iconic Goteik Viaduct. The Viaduct is Myanmar’s highest heritage bridge and earliest engineering feet. 

Trains from Pyin Oo Lwin going to Hsipaw and Lashio cross over the bridge, a snail-pace ride as you catch your breath absorbing the fantastic views. You can buy tickets at Pyin Oo Lwin and get down at either Hsipaw and Lashio or go the other way around. You can also get out early after the viaduct if you don’t want to make the entire train journey.

Places to visit in Myanmar – For Hikes

If you are a trekker, you will probably want to include a short hike. Kalaw is the best place to visit in Myanmar for this purpose. There is a trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake, which is very popular among advanced hikers. For those preferring a more leisurely route, there are alternative, less complicated trails from Kalaw to Inle Lake. So you can combine these two places to visit in Myanmar accordingly.

Apart from this, short hikes span for one or two days that will take you to nearby villages in the hills. Or you can opt for multiple-day treks where you can stay in village homes, taste local cuisine and interact with locals apart from witnessing spectacular views.

Where to stay in Kalaw

Here are some of the hotels in Kalaw that you can choose from.

Another offbeat destination located remotely amidst the mountains is Hsipaw , which receives only a handful of visitors. It is one of the fantastic places to visit in Myanmar to enjoy walks in nature. There are many guided hikes to nearby villages, which can be directly booked through operators once you arrive.

It is one of the restricted towns for foreigners, who are provided access based on the current political situation. So make sure to check the status before planning a trip to Hsipaw.

Things to Do in Hsipaw

Go on a hike – Based on your fitness, time, budget, and other preferences, pick a guided trek that will offer you some of the best sceneries.

Visit waterfalls, and hot springs – Close to the town is a waterfall which is great to be visited on a bike ride. Also, there are hot springs worth checking out if you have time.

Where to stay in Hsipaw

The downtown is the best place to stay in Hsipaw as you can access many restaurants and good hotels in all budget ranges. Some of the ones worth checking out are:

Lashio is one of the towns that’s slowly opening up for tourists. Thanks to the mountains, its colder climate provides an opportunity to escape the hot weather. If you enjoy hiking, there are plenty of guided hikes you can directly book downtown. These hikes range from 2 to 5 days and are done in small groups, so it is best if you are a solo traveler as you can join a group.

Where to stay in Lashio

The accommodation options are limited, but there are many decent hotels in Lashio in all budget ranges. Check these out.

Places to Visit in Myanmar – For beaches

If you are looking for places of recreation in Myanmar, these beach destinations and islands are the way to go.

Mergui Archipelago

If you are looking for only one beach destination, it should be Mergui . It is one of the hidden places in Myanmar, thanks to its location at the farthest southern end of the country. It is time-consuming to travel, but the journey is all worth when you have over 20 islands to explore out of 800 islands scattered across the Andaman sea.

Plenty of secluded white sand beaches with crystal clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, diving and snorkelling. You can stroll or rent a cycle to explore the tiny islands covered with tropical palms and pine trees.

If you are short on time or don’t prefer long journeys but still want to hit a beach, Ngapali is your choice. It is one of the closest beaches to Yangon and also very beautiful, making it one of the best places to visit in Myanmar if a few beach days are on your mind after exploring temple towns and cities.

You can enjoy all the water sports, pamper yourself in one of the luxurious resorts with all amenities or do nothing.

If a luxurious beach resort is not your idea, head to Ngwe Saung, everything like Ngapali, but only at lower, affordable prices. You will have more choices from accommodation to food without digging too deep into your pockets.

So these are the fabulous places to visit in Myanmar. I hope it helps you. Check out the resources for each destination to plan further.

OTHER POSTS FROM MYANMAR TO PLAN YOUR TRIP

• 17 Best Bagan Pagodas That You Should Visit (Among the 800+temples)
• How to get from Yangon to Mandalay –  Bus or Train?
• Watching Sunrise & Sunset in Bagan – Here is how to do it in 2019
• Ways To Reach Bagan From Yangon in Myanmar
• Offbeat Myanmar – 21 Awesome Things to Do in Hpa An
• Crossing Thailand-Myanmar By Land – Here is a complete guide to do it

35 Fantastic Facts About Myanmar That Will Blow Your Mind!

• 13 Fascinating Temples in Myanmar That You Shouldn’t Skip
• 10 Best Beaches In Myanmar That You Should Check Out
• Best Time To Visit Myanmar – What to see & do(By regions & months)
• 5 Day Trips from Hpa An That You Should Not Miss
• Yangon Circular Train – A Total Guide To Witness the Burmese Life (+Tips)
• 3 Days In Yangon – A Total Guide With Itineraries & Tips
• 11 Fantastic Day Trips From Yangon, Myanmar (+ Tips to plan them)
• 17 Awesome Places To Visit In Mandalay, Myanmar (+ Bonus Tips)
• 7 Top Day Trips From Bagan, Myanmar (+ Tips to Plan Them)
• How To Get From Mandalay to Inle Lake In Myanmar
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6 Things to do in Myanmar + Tourist Spots

I can’t help but pause each time when people ask me about the best country that I’ve visited in Southeast Asia (aside from my home country, The Philippines).

It is difficult to narrow it down to just one country, so I end up sharing my top picks. Most are surprised and get curious when I mention Myanmar.

First off, I often have to mention “Burma” because not everyone is familiar with its modern name. Secondly, most people don’t have it on their bucketlist, probably because it’s not the easiest to travel or they haven’t had a compelling reason to go yet.

Why Myanmar? The ancient temples here are breathtaking! Definitely enough to rival Angkor Wat & Borobudur.

I also loved its off-beat vibe! This former military-controlled state had only recently opened up to the outside world. So, you can still witness traditions & local culture that are not heavy influenced by the globalized world. Burmese people are very genuinely friendly and love to chat with tourists to practice their English.

If your itinerary permits, book a flight to Yangon & exit out from Mandalay (or vice-versa). Spend at least a week to visit travel-worthy sights in between. Including ancient cities, sacred Buddhist sites, and natural landscapes.

Inspire your trip with these beautiful places to see in Myanmar.

Location : Northern Myanmar . Save on Google Maps .

If there’s one place in Myanmar that you should take the time to visit, it’s definitely Bagan. The sheer scale of this ancient city is comparable to the leagues of Angkor Wat. The latter may have more massive single structures but Bagan one-ups it with a landscape filled with thousands of pagodas and temples that are extremely scenic at sunrise and sunsets.

How to go :

Bagan is located in Northern Myanmar. Most tourists arrive here by land from Yangon and Mandalay. The bus trip usually takes around 6 hours if you are coming from Mandalay and 10 hours from Yangon. You can also travel by train or private car. The most convenient way to get to Bagan is by booking a flight to Bagan-Nyaung U Airport.

From the Philippines, there are no direct flights to Myanmar. Consider booking a connecting flight via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Bagan Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Yangon and Bagan Bus – VIP Ticket (One Way)

Bagan Temples Cultural Full Day Tour

Myanmar Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Myanmar (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates | Best Reviews

Myanmar Fares & Transport

Myanmar Tours & Discounts

Myanmar WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to visit in Thailand  |  Where to go in Laos  |  Top Malaysia Attractions  |  Things to do in Singapore .

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my  Instagram feed . Use Instagram’s save feature for quick access to your travel/feed goals.

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2. Mandalay

This major gateway in Northern Myanmar is worth at least a day tour. See the Mandalay Fort, the last royal palace of the last Burmese monarchy, and some of the country’s most sacred Buddhist sites including the Mahamuni Buddha Temple and Mandalay Hill. Extend your visit with a nice excursion to the four ancient cities of Mingun, Sagaing, Amarapura, and Innwa.

Mandalay along with Yangon are the main international gateways to Myanmar. Mandalay International Airport serves direct flights from Bangkok, Hong Kong & Singapore. Bangkok to Mandalay flight duration is around 1 hour and 45 minutes. By land, buses and trains are available from major tourist spots. Land travel to Mandalay takes around 9 hours from Yangon, 6 hours from Bagan & 8 hours from Inle Lake.

From the Philippines, book a connecting flight via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. Cebu Pacific & Philippine Airlines fly directly to from Manila to Bangkok. Flight duration is 3 hours and 20 minutes. Then, fly from Bangkok to Mandalay on AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Myanmar Airways or Myanmar National Airlines.

Mandalay Travel Essentials

Location : Central Myanmar . Save on Google Maps .

Yangon is not only Myanmar’s primary international gateway and capital city, it is also a fascinating destination to explore. The main attraction here is the Shwedagon Pagoda, an architectural icon famous for its massive gold and diamond decorated spire. The city center is an interesting place to explore as well. Take your time to visit its many pagodas and well preserved British-era colonial buildings.

Yangon is the most popular gateway to Myanmar. Yangon International Airport serves direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, Hong Kong, Chiang Mai, Guangzhou, Seoul, Tokyo, Taipei & Doha. Flight duration from Bangkok to Yangon, the busiest route, is 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Kuala Lumpur, flight duration to Yangon is 2 hours and 40 minutes. Popular airlines include Nok Air, AirAsia, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Myanmar Airways & Myanmar National Airlines.

From the Philippines. In addition to flying via Bangkok, you can also arrive in Yangon on a connecting flight from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. KL-Yangon flights are served by AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines & Malindo Air. Meanwhile, SG-Yangon flights are served by Bangkok Airways, Myanmar Airways International, Myanmar National Airlines, AirAsia, Thai Airways & Lion Air

Yangon Travel Essentials

Yangon Highlights Private Tour

Yangon Full Day Walking Tour

Location : Mandalay region, Northern Myanmar . Save on Google Maps .

After finding out about the vintage train ride from Mandalay to Hsipaw as one of the best railway journeys in the World, I knew I just had to experience it. Before reaching this small town in Northern Myanmar, the train crosses a steel bridge that spans a massive and very picturesque gorge. Hsipaw itself is an excellent place to get a feel of rural Burma and go on nature treks.

The best way to get to Hsipaw, in North Myanmar, is to go abroad the scenic train from Mandalay. Travel time by train takes around 10 hours. On your way back to Mandalay, take the faster bus ride. Travel time by bus is around 6 hours.

Hsipaw Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

5. Kyaiktiyo

Before my first trip to Myanmar ended, I traveled a few hours south of Yangon to visit Kyaiktiyo. This place is famous for the gravity-defying Golden Rock Pagoda perched on top of a mountain. It is considered as one of the most sacred Buddhist sites by Burmese people. Sunset views here are unreal!

Kinpun, the starting point of the trek to Mt. Kyaiktiyo, is 4 hours south of Yangon by bus. Kinpun is the base camp village where you can find hotels & places to eat. From Kinpun, public trucks ferry pilgrims & tourists half-way to the summit. Then, it is another 45-minute hike up to the site of the Golden Rock Pagoda. If you want to skip the hike, you can pay human carriers to take you to the top, literally, on a throne.

Kyaiktiyo Travel Essentials

6. Inle Lake

Inle Lake Travel Essentials

Beyond Myanmar

Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

Laos Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall Day Tour from Luang Prabang

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

Vientiane – Vang Vieng Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

Malaysia Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts Check Fares

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Myanmar that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Myanmar

Myanmar tourist spots, things to do in Myanmar, where to go in Myanmar & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Myanmar

How much does it cost to travel to Myanmar? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Myanmar

Click below & search recommended Myanmar hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Myanmar Essentials & Top Discounts

Myanmar mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

See all discounts

Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Yago-Thanlyin Private Day Trip

Yangon-Bago Private Day Trip

Yangon Airport (RGN) – City Hotel Transfers

Yangon City Tour by Local Train

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June 6, 2016 at 12:10 pm

Ive been to Hsipaw, but to maintain 5 destination, I would like to replace it with Inle Lake for reason of scenery, or for reason of historical site maybe the unfinished rail The Myanmar Thailand Japanese Death Railway Line.

June 6, 2016 at 5:16 pm

Thanks for the tip subhapanyo. Inle Lake seems like an interesting visit as well!

September 10, 2016 at 12:50 pm

Hi there Marcos! First of all thanks for sharing your experiences, I was doubting whether to go to Myanmar but now that I’ve read your article I’m definitely going! I would like to ask you if you know what the best way to go from Myanmar to India. I’ve been looking but I haven’t found it. Cheers!

September 24, 2016 at 2:45 am

Go Lula, Myanmar is amazing to visit. You can fly direct with Air India or via Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur.

October 20, 2016 at 1:20 pm

Amazing blog about best places in Myanmar! Long time I am searching info about best amazing places in Myanmar! My search end today. Thanks dear for this amazing blog!

November 8, 2016 at 8:46 am

Hi Marcos Detourist. Nice blog about Myanmar! How about estimated budget similar to what you share in a 3 day visit to Siemp Riep? I believe it would be a big help for first time traveller. Thanks. :-)

June 19, 2019 at 9:24 am

How much do you pay the human carriers at Kyaiktiyo (on a throne) when you want to skip the hike?

June 20, 2019 at 12:24 pm

Not sure how much they charge Myra.

December 7, 2019 at 5:05 pm

6 BEST PLACES to visit in Myanmar + THINGS TO DO 2019 – Great post. I was checking constantly this blog and I’m impressed! Extremely useful information specially the final section : ) I handle such info much. I was seeking this particular information for a very long time. Thank you and good luck.

• The Top 10 Things To...

The Top 10 Things to Do in Myanmar

Myanmar (formerly known as Burma ) was coined the Golden Land for its rich cultural history and natural resources. A country that has endured several decades of rise-and-fall empires and military dictatorships, it is now a coveted tourist destination. In the past few years, Myanmar has opened up for tourism and holds a special place in many enlightened souls who pass through. Here are some must-do activities when visiting this vibrant place.

Shwedagon pagoda.

No visit to Yangon is complete without a visit to one of the most famous pagodas in the world. It is like the Eiffel Tower of Yangon—Yangon being the main commercial city of Myanmar. This massive golden icon can be seen from most rooftops in the city. In fact, many clubs and bars seek out prime rental spaces and shell out extra money for a view of this place. It is a symbol of pride for the people of Myanmar.

A visit here is absolutely breathtaking and magical. There are four entrances, each leading up a flight of steps to the pagoda’s platform. There are also eight planetary posts, one for each day of the week (Wednesday is split in two). Burmese Buddhists will go pray at the respective post where they were born. Each planetary post is ruled by an animal— garuda for Sunday, tiger for Monday, lion for Tuesday, tusked elephant for Wednesday morning, tuskless elephant for Wednesday afternoons, mouse for Thursday, guinea pig for Friday and naga for Saturday. The price for the pagoda is 8,000 kyats (US$6) for foreigners, and opening hours are 04:00 – 22:00 hrs (seven days a week).

Stilted houses at Inle Lake

The leg-rowers of Inle Lake will bring joy to any traveler. Riding in a long, skinny boat powered by an engine and boat driver at one end, tour-participants on this ecologically rich lake will go to silversmiths, silk weavers, and pagodas at Indein. Visitors find this idyllic place to be a sanctuary after long days of traveling and trekking around Myanmar. Stay in a hotel on stilts or in the nearby town Nyaungshwe for access to delicious local and international restaurants.

Diving in the Myeik Archipelago

This stretch of land around Myeik is surrounded by unexplored corals, fish and sea life. Several diving companies feature liveaboards where tourists can island hop, snorkel, and scuba dive to their heart’s content. Cruises and tour packages are available, since getting around isn’t easy.

Gokteik Viaduct

Train rides in Myanmar are notoriously uncomfortable. However, adventurous travelers often forego comfort and instead seek new experiences. This railway bridge is nestled between Pyin Oo Lwin and Lashio. Gokteik Viaduct is the highest bridge in Myanmar and was once the largest railway trestle in the world. Landscapes through the mountains and local villages are unbeatable for the price of a few dollars.

The temples of Bagan

Just like Shwedagon Pagoda , no visit to Myanmar is complete without a few days in Bagan . The best way to get around is by motorbike, which can be rented easily from one of the many stands or directly from hotels. Sunrises and sunsets are unbeatable here. Sunrise can be easily caught after taking the overnight bus from Yangon or Inle Lake—be ready to join many other bleary-eyed travelers climbing up a stupa in the dark. There are several tours available, but the temples are easy to navigate with a map. There are hundreds of temples here, so exploring the lesser known ones is also a great way to spend the day. You’re bound to run into some artists selling sand paintings and lacquerware, which are top souvenirs to bring home for friends.

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Walk barefoot in caves

A bit off the usual path of Yangon-Bagan-Inle Lake, Hpa An located in Mon State holds many splendors like Saddan Cave. This enormous cave is dotted with Buddha statues, pagodas, and drawings. There are also bats, mostly harmless, but sudden movements will cause a few to screech and fly around. All caves and temples in Myanmar require you to take off your shoes, so your toes will feel the cave’s muddy ground that sometimes floods during rainy season. The only way to return to where you started is either through the cave again or on a small hired boat that takes cave-goers back to the entrance. The opening hours for the cave are 6am – 6pm (seven days a week).

Take a ride in a hot air balloon

Go up in a basket and float into the sky. See the pagodas below. Not for those with a fear of heights or backpackers on a budget, because these rides don’t come cheap. But if you have money to spend, a hot air balloon ride over Bagan (or Inle Lake) is as mystical and wonderful as it sounds. Prices for these rides range from U$300–U$400.

Trek in Kalaw

Typical treks through Kalaw, the hill station in Shan State just minutes from Inle Lake, run from two days to a week. They work with local families to arrange homestays, which includes home-cooked local meals. Trekkers will see lots of green and see a completely different side of Myanmar, away from pagodas and dust. Multiple trekking companies arrange tours that are relatively inexpensive.

U Bein Bridge

U Bein Bridge is the world’s longest and oldest bridge, erected in 1850. It is made of teak wood and feels rickety when you walk along it at sunset with hundreds of other people. In recent years, the amount of tourists coming to this place has skyrocketed, but even the crowds don’t detract from the beauty. The bridge runs 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) across Taungthaman Lake .

Places to Stay

The most serene waterside hotels in inle lake.

The ‘Photo Fixer’ of Bagan, Myanmar Helps You Get the Perfect Shot

Architecture

A guide to myanmar's shwedagon pagoda.

See & Do

The best places to watch the sunset in myanmar.

Restaurants

The 10 best restaurants in bagan, myanmar.

The Ultimate Guide to Meaningful Travel in Myanmar

The Most Thrilling Adventure Activities in Myanmar

The Best Street Markets in Yangon, Myanmar

Health & Wellness

The intha people of myanmar who balance on one leg to row.

Guides & Tips

A cyclist’s guide to exploring yangon.

Inle Lake: the Calmest Commute in the World

This Lake in Myanmar is Shaped Like a Heart

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35 Best Places to Visit in Myanmar – Your Complete Travel Guide

This guide takes you through the best places to visit in Myanmar. You will find out what to visit, where to go, how to travel to a certain destination, how much does it cost or where to stay. General information and practical tips for traveling in Myanmar can be found in the Backpackers Travel Guide to Myanmar .

Obsah / Table of Contents

1) Places to visit in Myanmar – Yangon

Yangon is the starting point for the majority of travelers. This former capital of Myanmar offers nice activities for a couple of days.

Getting around the city

You can use local buses to get around the city, the price is as low as 100/200 MMK depending on the type of bus. You need an exact amount to put it in the box at the driver’s door. There are some mobile apps and maps (you can try Google maps), but it’s not easy to figure out where the bus line goes. The second option is to use Grab (Asian version of Uber). It’s simple, convenient and still relatively cheap.

Shwedagon Pagoda

Also known as the Golden Pagoda – Myanmar’s most sacred Buddhist pagoda. There is an admission fee of 10,000 MMK (for foreigners), but that’s definitely worth it! Shwedagon Pagoda is open daily from 4:00 to 22:00 . They will try to offer you guided tour around pagoda, but it’s only up to you if you want to pay extra money for it. We recommend visiting Shwedagon pagoda before sunset so as to enjoy the golden hour for photographing. You can wait there until it gets dark because it has its magic after dusk!

A basic lesson on clothing at places of worship: Always have covered shoulders and knees, and enter barefoot only. If you want to leave Shwedagon Pagoda by another exit, remember where you left your shoes. There are 4 similarly looking entrances/exits.

Yangon Circular Train

Taking the trip by Yangon Circular train is the easiest and cheapest way to explore Yangon with its local life. This circular railway is 46 km long, and it has 39 stops. Trains run every 45 – 60 minutes . You get a train ticket for just 200 MMK and you can hop off, explore and wait for the next train at any station. The whole circuit takes about 3 hours. The biggest experience is mainly the ride itself. You might notice that local people carry everything mostly on their heads. People are also walking through the train while selling food or other stuff. It is very interesting to watch all that “bustle” around.

Buddha Tooth Relic Pagoda (Swe Taw Myat)

One of the nice pagodas in Yangon with free entrance.

Chauk Htat Gyi Buddha Temple

A temple with a huge reclining Buddha inside.

Bogyoke market

If you like markets and souvenirs, you can enjoy this great place on your way to the train station. Opening hours are following – 10:30 to 17:00, every day except Monday.

Other places to visit in Yangon

Another favorite tourist destination in Yangon is Sule Pagoda. You can visit it on the way to ferry, which takes you across the river to the village of Dala Township . If you hire a local guide in Dala, they will take you for a tour around the village. Riding on handmade rebuild bike with a sidecar is an experience, plus they will tell you something about the village life as well. They asked 3500 MMK per person for 1,5 h ride. (Price is always negotiable, so it is up to you 🙂

Where to stay in Yangon

You will surely find some nice accommodation at Agoda.com . We stayed at Agga Youth Hotel in the city center. Nice room, shared bathroom, breakfast included.

Recommended time to spend in Yangon

We recommend at least one whole day (2 nights) for Yangon. You will have enough time to experience the Circular Train and visit the Shwedagon Pagoda.

2) Places to visit in Myanmar – Golden Rock

This giant golden stone (alias Golden Rock) with a pagoda on the top balances at the edge of a rock. It’s a sacred place for the locals. Thousands of Buddhists come from all across Myanmar to this place. As a foreigner, you won‘t avoid an entry fee of 10,000 MMK.

Warning for ladies: Unfortunately you can‘t get to the Golden rock directly. There is a zone, where women are forbidden to enter. Only men can touch the Golden Rock. But don’t worry, you’ll get close enough to take good photos.

How to get to Golden Rock?

You can take a train to Kyaikto from Yangon . The journey takes 3 hours . The ordinary class ticket costs 1 200 MMK (about $1). From Kyaikto you must take a shared pick-up for 500 MMK. Another option is hitchhiking or taxi.

The second and much more expensive option is to take a direct bus from Yangon (Highway Bus Station) to Kinpun. It costs 7,000 MMK and takes 5 hours.

From Kinpun to the Golden Rock

Kinpun is the starting point for giant sight-seeing pick-ups that will take you up the hill. Price is 2000 MMK per person for one-way ticket.

Comparison to the roller coaster is not far from the truth. You are going to feel it! There are several rows of benches in the back of the truck and drivers fear nothing. First, this vehicle makes a stop at the cable car – for those who want to pay some extra money for cable car experience. (There isn’t anything special about the cable car. It was built only as an attraction for people to enjoy it). The second stop is at the top (where you want to get out).

Although you are on the top of the hill now, you still have to walk to the Golden Rock. There are carriers on the final station offering their services. Tourists have to pay the entrance fee. The gate is about halfway up. You can leave there your backpacks and refill your water bottles. You have to walk the last 450 m to pagoda barefoot.

Recommended time for Golden Rock

One day should be enough for a trip to the Golden Rock. Of course, it depends on the direction you are going next. It is possible to start from Yangon early in the morning and continue your journey in the evening or simply stay in Kinpun. You can also stop by on your way from/to Hpa An.

Places to stay in Kinpun

A cheap option in Kinpun is Shwe Hinn Thar Hotel . You can also choose from other places .

3) Places to visit in Myanmar – Gwa and Kanthaya beaches

Gwa is a small coastal town about 8 hours bus ride from Yangon . If you are a beach lover, you will be excited to come. There are a white sand beaches with palm trees. Beaches are empty, and there is a minimal chance to meet a foreigner in a Gwa village. You can also witness an authentic village life of the Burmese people there.

Boat trip to Gwa island and snorkeling

If you want to have a nice relax on the beach, visit Gwa Island. The easiest way is to ask the hostel’s owner. He offered us two options: More expensive one for 25,000 MMK (for 2 people) with pick up from the hostel at 8 AM. Or less expensive, but a complicated option: we would have to take the motorcycle taxi to the bay area and take a regular boat to travel to the other side of the bay. This would be for 10,000 MMK for a trip to Gwa island (plus 500 MMK for motorbike taxi per person in 1 way and 3000 MMK per person for crossing the bay).

How did Gwa Island boat trip look like?

When we arrived at the island, our boatmen took us for a tour around the island. I’ve never seen so many mussels and seashells on the move! This island is perfectly abandoned with beautiful corals around! It makes the island a perfect place for snorkeling! There is only one bamboo construction on the beach (built by our boatmen for visitors) to have shade. He told us, that he takes tourists to Gwa island 2 – 3 times a week.

At 3 o’clock it was time to get back. On the way back, he wanted to show his village and “flower stones” – as we later understood – corals. They weren’t in the water because of the low tide. We tried to explain to him that these are living organisms, and he should definitely not walk on them.

If you go on a trip, please tell him the same thing and let us know if he stopped doing that (he promised us). Phone number of this boatmen is 09 770840575 / 09 263110436.

Beaches of Zik Hone and Kanthaya

Rent a scooter and explore the coast and beautiful beaches! Just ask at your hostel. You will pay 10 000 MMK for motorbike/scooter per day.

• Kanthaya – wide bay, coconut palm trees, and soft sand. If you drive from Gwa to Kanthaya you will arrive by a coastal road leading over small rocky cliffs. You can find several accommodation options directly on the road next Kantaya beach.

• Zik Hone – this beach is simply a hidden gem! Zih Hone looks like an undiscovered perfect beach at the end of the world. You can get there it if you turn into a small village of Nyaunggyaung towards the coast. After a while the dirty road disappears, and you will ride only on a tiny path through the grove. Looks as if there was no one before … so please consider it and leave no trash! Coordinates of the beach.

Accommodation in Gwa

We can recommend the Aung Chang Thar accommodation, which has cozy room, drinking water, clean bathroom, nice breakfast and very willing owner who arranged a trip to the island and scooter rental for us. It cost us only 15,000 MMK per night for a room for 2. There are also some other options, but they are not listed on Booking, neither Agoda , you just arrive in person and ask for free room and they will most likely have one. 

Where to eat in Gwa

Thanks to the recommendation of hostel owner we tried the KoKo Nyi Nyi restaurant. They have excellent fish, seafood, noodles, … We can only recommend it; the food was delicious!

Recommended length of stay in Gwa

It depends on how many days in total you have in Myanmar and if you are a beach lover or not.  In 2 days (3 nights) you can see the beautiful Zik Hone and Kanthaya beaches, including a trip to Gwa Island.

4) Places to visit in Myanmar – Ngapali beach

Ngapali is Myanmar’s number 1 beach destination. You will find luxurious hotels, resorts, restaurants, bike rentals (scooters are forbidden for tourists in Ngapali area) and other holiday activities. It is a wonderful area with white sand beaches, coconut palms, and amazing turquoise water! Like a paradise. Although, Burmese say it’s busy here, don’t believe them so much. There are more tourists than at other beaches, but it is still an uncrowded place compared to any other country or beach destination.

How to get to Ngapali

• Airplane – If you want to avoid looong journey on old bumpy roads, you can fly from Yangon. The nearest airport is in Thandwe (10 km north of Ngapali). There are flights on daily basis from Yangon and you can get the flight ticket for about 150 – 170 USD. Find your flight tickets at Momondo .

• By bus – Buses from Yangon to Ngapali depart at 7:00 and 15:00. Ticket costs about 12,000 – 16,000 MMK. The journey lasts 14-16 hours.

Buses from Gwa runs at 6:00, 8:00 and 15:30. But be careful, sometimes the bus is ahead of time (e.g. bus arrives at Gwa at 14.40 instead of 15.30). The bus from Gwa to Ngapali costs 5000 MMK and ride takes about 4.5 hours.

Accommodation in Ngapali

If you are looking for cheaper backpackers’ places, there are not many of those. You can try Northern Star Guesthouse 1 , but it’s just only a tiny basic room, not very nice shared bathroom and lot of people around. You might find something nice on Agoda or Booking .

Recommended length of stay in Ngapali

If you are a beach lover, you can spend here a week! It is also a nice stop after a long bus drive. We would say at least one whole day (2 nights) is a minimal time to properly enjoy the beach.

5) Places to visit in Myanmar – Mrauk – U

Mrauk-U is just a magical place. Ancient temples set between the hills, “wake up” each morning in a mystic haze that gives them a magical atmosphere. This place is so remote and poorly accessible, that it only has 2,000 to 5,000 visitors a year. We can confirm it, because we only met two other foreigners during the 3 days we spent here.

There is a universal fee of 5000 MMK to Mrauk U Archeological zone . The fee is collected only at the Shit Thaung pagoda.

We were nicely surprised that there is a bank and ATM in Mrauk U town .

Rent a bike in Mrauk U

Hiring a bike is definitely a great idea for exploring the surrounding area and the archeological zone. You can get a bike for 2000 MMK per day. Mrauk U is ideal for exploring temples and pagodas by your own. Just download the map of temples to the GPS on your phone and head out to discover ancient places.

Where to stay in Mrauk U

Agoda will surely offer you several nice options. We were happy to stay at the Prince Hotel .

Where to eat at Mrauk U

Locals recommended us Kaung Than , the restaurant where locals eat. It is cheap and so good! You will be nicely surprised by the amount of food you get. I promise you won’t regret visiting Kaung Than restaurant.

Chin villages

You will surely hear about Chin village or at least somebody from Mrauk U will offer you trip there. Chin village is a village of indigenous people living the old way. The biggest “attraction” are older women with face tattoos. These tattoos were made to them to protect them in their teenage years against kidnapping (by men from another tribe).

Recommended length of stay in Mrauk U

If you want to thoroughly explore the Mrauk U by bike, count with at least 2 days (3 nights) here.

Getting from Ngapali to Mrauk U

Getting to Mrauk U is quite challenging. There is not much information on the internet, so it can also be helpful to ask locals. Basically, you have the following options:

• By Bus – Bus to Mrauk U runs daily from Ngapali at 11.00 AM. The journey takes 15 hours and costs 18,000 MMK.

By Air + Bus / Ship – You can fly from Ngapali (Thandwe airport) to (prices start at $ 75). From Sittwe you can take a bus or boat to Mrauk U. Boat cost 15 000 MMK and we heard it is quite nice.

• Boat + bus – If you take a bus from Ngapali at 13.00, (via Thandwe) to Toungup, you can take a boat from Toungup to Sittwe. Bus from Ngapali to Toungup costs 3500 MMK. Beware: Ship departs from Toungup harbor to Sittwe only on selected days (2 to 3 times a week, early in the morning). It is always necessary to spend a night in Toungup.

We wanted to go by boat because we were already tired of bumpy and dusty roads.

Unfortunately, the boat was scheduled 2 days later. Another solution was to continue by bus. We didn’t want to waste time, so we took the Cargo bus (there was only one-third of the seats, rest of the bus was stuffed with anything possible), leaving at 17.00 from Toungup with arrival at Mrauk U about 3:30 in the morning.

From Mrauk U to Bagan

There is a bus going to Bagan every morning at 8:30 from Mrauk U . Price is 23,000 MMK. Be prepared for the long journey (whole day) and extremely dusty roads! Take a scarf on the bus! You will appreciate it very much because the bus is usually full of dust! Extremely full of dust!!!

Unfortunately, the Bagan station is far away from the Bagan city and taxi is the only way to travel to town during the night. There should be the bus/pickup for 1000 MMM per person, during the day.

6) Places to visit in Myanmar – Bagan

The town of thousands of monasteries, pagodas, and stupas. There are still more than 2200 temples and pagodas remaining (out of 10 000 original ones) in approximately 4 square kilometers! The most common photos you usually see from Myanmar were photographed in Bagan. It’s worth spending a few days in Bagan, which belongs among the most famous landmarks in Asia . There is an entrance fee of 25,000 MMK to the Archeological Zone. It is valid for 4 days and is collected at the largest and most famous pagodas. Keep the card always with you to be able to show it at next temple you visit.

Renting E-bike in Bagan

Foreigners are not allowed to drive motorcycles in Bagan. But you can rent an e-bike on every corner. E-bike is an electric scooter. If you are worried if the battery will last for a whole day you don’t have to, in this case, you have a phone number and you can call your bike rental to replace the e-bike for you. Simply tell them your location and they will come with a new e-bike. Usually, battery lasts the whole day. You can get e-bike from 6000 MMK/day in Bagan.

Climbing to pagodas is forbidden

If you have read some older articles, climbing on temples and pagodas used to be allowed. Since November 2017, the ban has been issued to protect monuments, and almost all the temples have staircases closed by gates. However, there were built observation platforms (artificial hills) where you can go to see Bagan from above. The terrace of Shwe Gu Gyi Temple is also open to the public (it is popular for sunset/sunrise – be sure to arrive in advance to take a nice spot, it is always crowded).

If you visit temples further away from the center, you may find smaller pagodas or temples guarded by or monks. They can give you a key so you can look inside or even climb up. It’s polite to leave a small tip in this case (about 300 MMK).

Sunrise in Bagan is magical. Especially photographs at sunrise or sunset are those that you will further show to your friends. We recommend going at some observation platform or at the Shwe Gu Gyi temple roof. Be there in advance, it will get crowded. Take also the admission card to Archeological Zone with you – they are checking it even before the dawn.

If you want to see Bagan from above, there is also a private lookout tower Nan Myint. There is an entrance fee of 5 USD (valid for the whole day). Although the observation tower is a little bit further from the center of Bagan you can still see the whole area. They serve a welcome drink as well.

Balloon flight

Balloon flights above Bagan are very popular. We didn’t do it because it was quite expensive. However, it could be just an amazing experience. If you would like to experience it, book your balloon flight here.

A trip to Mount Popa and the Taungkalat monastery is well worth visiting! This impressive monastery is built on top of the (already inactive) volcano. You can arrange this trip at your hotel reception desk nearly everywhere. Price for a shared trip is 10,000 MMK per person. Tour departs either at 9 AM or at 15.00 (to see the sunset). There is also a little excursion on the way there. You will stop at Palm workshop, where they make a palm liquor or palm caramel bonbons. We couldn’t resist buying palm caramels.

To get to the monastery, you need to climb a very long staircase. Be prepared for cheeky monkeys jumping around. They are everywhere, so beware of them and guard your stuff well – especially drinking bottles. Monkeys have no problem pulling them out of your amazing hiking backpack . Try to speak with your driver and set your meeting earlier to be able to see a sunset from the opposite hill (if you want to have sunset photos like the one above). Otherwise, you can enjoy a sunset from the Mount Popa hill.

Tamarind Flakes – a typical specialty of Bagan

If there’s anything typical for Bagan, it’s a Tamarind Flakes. It’s a thin flake of dried fruit wrapped in white paper like a candy. Our favorite were Tamarind Flakes branded with green letters on. You can get them in almost any store.

Where to stay in Bagan – Accommodation in Bagan

Based on recommendations, we found Shwe Na Di Guesthouse on Agoda. And we couldn’t choose any better. I think this was the best accommodation of our entire Myanmar trip. Beautiful rooms with private bathroom plus a luxurious breakfast and service. Room costs 13 EUR per night on Agoda. This guesthouse has its own e-bike rental (6000 MMK for the day). You can also arrange a trip to Mt. Popa there. They make excellent soup for 300 MMK right next to this hotel (on the left side).

The recommended time to stay – Bagan

Bagan deserves at least 2 days (3 nights) of your attention. Some travelers stay longer. We spent three days there (including a trip to Mt. Popa).

Cruise from Bagan to Mandalay on Irrawaddy river

If you are already tired of traveling by bus, the boat is an ideal option. The cruise from Bagan to Mandalay on Irrawaddy river takes 12 hours. Buy tickets for a cruise from Bagan to Mandalay here.

The journey in the opposite direction (from Mandalay to Bagan ) takes only 9 hours (it follows the stream). Buy tickets for a cruise from Mandalay to Bagan here.

To Bagan from Yangon

If you travel to Bagan directly from Yangoon, there are several options. The journey by bus takes 10 hours, by train around 18 hours. The easiest way is to fly. You can book all online tickets here .

7) Places to visit in Myanmar – Mandalay

Mandalay has disappointed us a little bit. It’s a big city where tourists are seen as a good source of money. Taxi drivers are sometimes rude, and the entrance fee is paid everywhere. However, there are still some places to visit.

U Bein Bridge

U Bein Bridge is probably the most photogenic place in Mandalay. One of the few places, where you don’t need to pay any entrance fee. If you are coming on a motorbike, ride from the east side (there is a path along the bridge which you can enter with your scooter). Approximately in the middle of the length of the bridge , there is a perfect spot to see the sunset. They sell coconut and drinks here. So, you can enjoy the sunset with a fresh coconut in your hand, sitting on one of the dozens of chairs there. Beautiful!

Kuthodaw Pagoda

One of the most beautiful pagodas in Mandalay. Unique unlike others. There is the largest book in the world in Kuthodaw pagoda. If you are walking around pagoda there and back, trying to find the book, look at these little white “chapels” around. There is a page of this huge book carved in the stone slab in each of these little “chapels”. Luckily, the entrance is free of charge.

Sandar Mu Ni Pagoda

Another beautiful and unique pagoda in Mandalay. Mainly from the aerial view. The main golden stupa is surrounded by a “forest” of little ones. There is s free entry.

King Galon Golden Leaf Workshop – Mandalay

There is something very interesting on 36th Street of Mandalay. You can visit the Golden Leaf Workshop and see the hammerers at work – turning 12 g pieces of gold into hundreds of sheets. They work 6 hours making the tiny golden leaves which are 0.0003 mm thick.

Burmese buy these leaves to stick them to sacred places (e.g. to the Golden Rock). Only men can touch these places, so some women usually ask men to stick a golden leaf for them.

They will be happy to show you a whole Golden Leaf Workshop. There are also souvenirs which you can buy.

Jade market in Mandalay

The Jade Market in Mandalay is a fascinating place. Hundreds of craftspeople are cutting and polishing jade in the area around 87th St . There’s a 2500 MMK entry fee to Jade Market (but it’s not always collected). Market is place in a large square area with a grid pattern, where you can find hundreds of crowded workshops, small shops and even game rooms! It is a giant market – Myanmar produces close to 70 % of the world’s jadeite.

Mandalay Hill

There is a beautiful view of the whole Mandalay city from the pagoda on the top of the Mandalay Hill. There is an entrance fee for foreigners of 1000 MMK. You must pay 200 MMK to get up the hill with your motorcycle and another 200MK for parking. Shoes must be left downstairs by staircase or elevator.

Mandalay Palace

Mandalay Palace was the biggest disappointment of our visit in Mandalay. Entry for foreigners is possible only by Eastern Gate and they made of it a profitable business. Palace itself is nothing super-special. You have to leave your passport and your motorcycle at the entrance. There is an entrance fee of 10,000 MMK per person (locals have free entrance and they can go there by motorbike/car). Palace is 1 km away from the gate. So, you can decide – walk or take a taxi for 5000 MMK! One way! Locals shared pickup for 200 MMK (we wanted to ride with them, but the driver refused and told us we have to take a taxi,…..what a nice cartel here!!)

Moreover, if you walk, they will not let you go anywhere else than on road leading to the Mandalay Palace.

However, if you choose to pay and visit the palace, you can visit also Atu Ma Shi Monastery and the Shwenandaw Wooden Temple . It is included in the entrance fee.

Shwenandaw Monastery

Shwenandaw Monastery used to be a part of the Mandalay Palace (later dismantled and rebuilt at a new place). It’s an example of a traditional Burmese wooden monastery.

Where to stay in Mandalay

There is a lot of accommodation on Agoda in Mandalay. We liked the Taim Phyu Hotel in the city center. They had a nice breakfast on the rooftop balcony! You can hire a motorbike there as well.

Transportation in Mandalay

The best and cheapest way of transportation is to rent a scooter/motorbike. Usually for 10 000 MMK per day. There is also public transport . Something like a larger shared bus/pickup. You can stop this bus by waving. The price is around 1000 MMK for the ride. The lines are numbered, but numbers are written in Burmese alphabet so it can be a little bit challenging to find the bus in the right direction.

Taxi drivers in Mandalay

Taxi drivers in Mandalay are a bit aggressive, unlike to other areas of Myanmar. When we arrived at Mandalay from Bagan, the boat was full of taxi drivers before we had a chance to get off the boat. Big argue with passengers started. They wanted 8000 MMK for a ride in the city. We tried to escape them and find some public transportation. Two taxi drivers were chasing us and shouting something at each other. One offered that he will take us for 3000 MMK, so we agreed. The other one was terribly upset. In other cases, the price for one ride was about 5000 MMK.

Yangon to Mandalay

If you travel to Mandalay from Yangon , there are 3 possible ways: bus, train or an airplane . Journey by bus takes 9 hours, by train 15 hours. There are day and night conections. The train has the advantage of sleeping cars. Flight is the fastest and most comfortable. You can book all conection between Ya ngon a Mandalay at 12GO portal .

8) Places to visit in Myanmar – Mandalay surroundings

Mingun is the place where you can see the largest functional bell in the world, a giant stupa and last but not least, there is another beautiful and unique pagoda.

Mingun Bell

Mingun Bell consists of 90,718 kg of bronze and it is the largest functional bell in the world.

Giant Pahtodawygi

This unfinished stupa is truly a GIANT building. Unfortunately, it is no longer possible to get on the roof due to the earthquake which caused huge cracks to appear on the face of the remaining structure.

Hsinbyume (Myatheindan) Pagoda

Hsinbyume pagoda is built in a slightly different style than the other pagoda in Myanmar.

How to get to Mingun?

There are two options how to get to Mingun from Mandalay. If you don’t want to ride a motorbike, there is a boat going every morning at 9:00 AM from Mingun Jetty . The boat costs 5000 MMK and includes entrance fees to the Mingun Archeological Zone. The journey takes about an hour. Returns time from Mingun is at 12.30.

The second option is to drive to Mingun (about 40 km drive). On the way back you can stop at the Sagaing hill . If you go by motorbike, you probably won’t even pay for the entrance fee to the Archeological Zone. There was one checkpoint which we have noticed on the way back from Mingun. Checkpoint area is placed by the walking path to the boat area.

Sagaing Hill

Sagaing Hill is a nice mountain area and surrounding hills are full of temples and pagodas. Some of them even play music. There is a beautiful view from the Sagaing Hill. You will pay the symbolic fee of 300 MMK for your camera.

Inn Wa village

Inn Wa (or Inva) village is known as one of the former capital cities of Myanmar. Today you can discover there remaining parts of the old town – massive walls and temple . Entrance fee of 5000 MMK is paid only at the main entrance at Me Nu Brick temple. If you are interested, you can ride a horse-pull hackney. The roads are not in the best conditions yet, but the locals diligently work on the construction.

How to get to Inn Wa?

The easiest way to get there is to rent a motorbike or scooter. If you would like to ride a ferry on the way to Inn Wa, the price is 1400 MMK per person. The nearest bridge is 6 km far from the ferry. If you drive around, surely stop at Lay Htat Gyi . This semi-destroyed temple has a very interesting atmosphere (reminding Dracula’s castle). It’s well worth stopping by!

Recommended length of stay for Mandalay and surroundings

Minimum for Mandalay and its surrounding area is 2 days (3 nights). Reserve one day for a trip to Mandalay surrounding area – Mingun, Sagaing, Inva and U Bein Bridge and the other day for the Mandalay (pagodas, Golden workshop, and others). Planning depends on what you want to see there.

9) Places to visit in Myanmar – Hsipaw

Hsipaw is a starting point for many tourists who came for some hiking in the area. Well-known is Mr. Charles Hotel , which offers guided hikes as well as accommodation in mountain villages with locals. Favorite is to go for 2-days (1 night) trek while staying with local people in their homes. This can be a nice cultural experience (since Couchsurfing is forbidden by the government). If you want to skip the cultural part and sleeping in the mountain village you can go for a walk by yourself. If you would like to join an organized trip, we recommend booking it in advance.

We arrived in the evening and there were no guides or tours left for the next day.

If you don’t do any hiking trip, rent a scooter/motorbike and explore the surrounding area! You can rent a motorbike for example at La Wun Aung . By the way – it’s an amazing restaurant, one of the best in whole Myanmar!

Hsipaw – Little Bagan

Little Bagan is a part of the of the town “suburb”. It has been named Little Bagan because of many old pagods in one place.

Hsipaw – Sunset Hill

If you staying in Hsipaw, Sunset Hill is the place to go to watch the sunset.

Hsipaw – Hot Spring

The hot spring in Hsipaw is just a small pond by the river with the thermal hot spring. You can take swim suits and try it. Locals use this spring for bathing.

Hsipaw – waterfalls

You can also visit the Nam Tuk or Nam Hun Nwe waterfalls. Nam Tuk waterfalls can be reached by motorbike. You have to hike only last 300 meters. They are bigger and more remote than Nam Hung Nwe.

Seems like locals are building a tourist destination from the area around Nam Hun Nwe falls, (they were building the concrete sidewalk, benches, tables, etc.) There is a parking fee of 500 MMK.

Where to stay in Hsipaw

We can highly recommend Mr. Charles . We also have one anti-recommendations for Yee Shin hostel – it was a nightmare! Cold room – 2×2 meters with the mattress on the ground. Wifi didn’t work and whenever someone walked through the corridor, the entire floor was moving.

Recommended length of stay – Hsipaw

At a place like Hsipaw, it matters the most whether you go on a trek or not and how long is it. One day is enough for exploration of the surrounding area on motorbikes.

How to get to Hsipaw

There are more ways how to get to Hsipaw from Mandalay . We can surely recommend taking the train at least in one direction (from or to Hsipaw) because train crosses the famous Gokteik Viaduct (see below). There is also a bus connection between Mandalay and Hsipaw. Bus departs at 14:00 from Pyi Gyi Myat Shin (Highway Bus Station, on the corner of 60th and 37th street). The bus costs 5000 MMK and the journey takes about 5,5 hours.

10) Places to visit in Myanmar – Train ride over Gokteik Viaduct

This route is one of the world’s most beautiful railways. The railway track from Hsipaw leads through mountains, villages, and countryside. It is truly a picturesque track. The most interesting and famous place of this track is the 689 meters long Gokteik Viaduct.

The train from Mandalay departs at 4:00 AM . In the opposite direction – from Hsipaw , the train departs at 9:30 in the morning. You can buy tickets from 8.30. If you want upper-class tickets (it’s worth the comfort) it’s better to be here at 8.15. There is usually a queue and not so many spaces left in upper class. Ticket to regular class costs 2 750 MMK and for upper class, it is 3 950 MMK.

Hsipaw – Mandalay – Inle Lake route

If you take a morning train from Hsipaw to Mandalay on the way to Inle Lake, you need to get off the train at Pyin Oo Lwin station. You can travel to Mandalay from Pyin Oo Lwin without any problem by shared pickup for 2000 MMK/person. This pickup/bus waits right in front of the train station and it waits until there are enough people heading to Mandalay. This shared ride takes you to the train station. To continue to Inle Lake you need to take a taxi to the bus station (it cost approximately 5000 MMK).

Mandalay to Inle Lake by bus

You can get from Mandalay to Inle Lake by night bus at 19:30 or at 20:30. There are also morning buses. Luxury buses operate on this route. Beware of strong air-condition. Night buses arrive at Inle Lake before 5 AM (if you take 20:30 bus).

11) Places to visit in Myanmar – Inle Lake

Inle Lake is a popular tourist destination for its town on the water. You can see famous Burmese fishermen who are known for their typical fishing style with giant “baskets” and one leg paddling style.

There is an entrance fee to Inle Lake Zone of 13,500 MMK per person and is collected right on the bus after arriving at Inle Lake area. The entry permission is valid for 5 days.

Boat trip around Inle Lake – what to expect

Boat trip around the lake is 100 % worth it. This excursion among the “floating” villages is like a trip 150 years back in time . It’s like history excursion. Your boatmen will take you from house to house. There are different kinds of workshops on the way, so you will visit a smith, tobacco workshop, jewelry workshop, weaving workshops, shipbuilders, temples, or long-neck ladies of Padaung tribe…. Well, a lot of great stuff is waiting for you all day long! Boatmen stops for you in a fish restaurant around lunch. There is a magnificent view of the lake from the restaurant. Well, we really enjoyed the whole trip.

Haggling at Inle Lake

You will most likely meet some boatman right after you get off the bus. Prepare for price negotiation. Our boatmen asked for 36,000 MMK for a trip, but we knew from our friends that they paid only 20,000 MMK a week ago. So, we asked for the same price and we got it. Well, we also wanted to go some extra miles to Indein (where there is a fascinating area of hundreds of stupas at one place), so we ended up paying 25,000 MMK.

Be prepared for a really cold morning and dress warmly if you want to go on the lake at sunrise. It gets warm again during the day.

At the same time, prepare a bunch of small banknotes for tips . Traditional crafts and workshops are waiting for you at every single stop. They serve you a tea in some places. If you like the workshop and they are nice to you, then you can leave them some small tip.

You don’t have to be worried that you won’t see a traditional Burmese fisherman . In addition to all these workshops, boats stop nearby fisherman. Burmese fishermen found a better business. Rather than fishing, they are waiting to pose for tourists. They also expect some tips afterward.

Other places and things you see during the Inle Lake boat trip

Ywama village and phaung daw oo pagoda.

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda is one of the holiest pagodas in the Shan state. Be sure to leave your shoes in the boat. There is an opportunity to buy some postcards (we haven’t seen postcards in many places in Myanmar).

Floating gardens

Your boatmen will surely take you around floating gardens. Vegetables and flowers are grown here.

Nga Hpe Kyaung monastery

A wooden monastery, known as the monastery of “jumping cats”. Monks used to train cats to jump through circles, but they don’t do that anymore. Although cats are not really jumping, I am sure you will at least meet some cat there.

Shwe Inn Thein pagoda in Indein is well worth visiting, even for an extra charge. Our boatman gave us 45 minutes to visit the Shwe Inn Thein pagoda, surrounded by hundreds of ancient stupas. It’s like walking through a forest of ancient stupas.

Where to go around Inle Lake?

If you are decided to spend some day on the land, we recommend hiring a bike. As a foreigner, you are unfortunately not allowed to ride motorbikes at Inle Lake area. There are several bike rentals . But don’t expect bikes in a good condition. If you can adjust the seat, you are lucky. If the derailleur works, you have won the lottery. Bike rental starts at 1500 MMK per day.

Maing Thouk Wooden Bridge

Stop at the village of Maing Thouk and walk through the wooden bridge that reminds the famous U Bein bridge in Mandalay. You can park your bikes at the beginning of the bridge in Maing Thouk. If you would like to get with bikes to the other side of the lake, won’t have a problem to get the boat willing to take you there.

Red Mountain Estate Vineyard

If you belong among the wine lovers, local vineyards can be another nice stop for you. As a reward for cycling up a steep hill, there is a nice view of vineyards, which you can enjoy with a glass of local wine.

If you have an extra day, you can go to Kakku. There is another large complex of incredible 2,478 stupas stacked in neat rows in the area of ​​one square kilometer.

How to get to Kakku?

Kakku is about 55 km far from Inle Lake and there is no public transport to Kakku. It is best to talk with other people from your hostel and arrange a bigger taxi together. The journey takes 2,5 hours in one way.

Where to stay at Inle Lake

We can recommend the Joy Hotel . Very nice room with own bathroom, nice personal and very good breakfast. Location is also great – in the central part of the town.

The recommended time to stay at Inle Lake

Again, it depends on your plan and the time you have in Myanmar. One day is enough to cruise the lake. Another day you can take a bicycle trip and visit Kakku.

12) Places to visit in Myanmar – Hpa An

The town of Hpa An is placed in a picturesque landscape. The landscape is perfectly flat with some rocky peaks rising of the flat land. Thanks to the nature of this countryside, Hpa An is ideal for exploring caves and cave temples. The best way to get around is to rent a motorbike (as usual).

At dusk, one million bats are flying out of the Bat Cave heading for a hunt every night. It’s an incredible number of bats. Flocks of bats are flying out of the cave continuously for 15-20 minutes! Incredible show!

The Soe Brothers hostel arranges a day trip to Bat Cave every day. We went 4 people together and we paid 2500 MMK/person for transport plus 1000 MMK/person for the entrance fee.

Mountain Zwegabin and the Lumbini Buddha Garden

Hike to a monastery at Mount Zwegabin is beautiful when you plan it later in the afternoon to see the sunset from the top of the mountain. There are few places on the way up. where you can buy a little snack or water. The view from the top is beautiful. But what shocked us was the Lumbini garden. On the way to the trailhead to the monastery, you must pass through this unique place. There are thousands of Buddhas standing in dozens of even rows – truly the Buddha Garden.

If they were doing different things than building Buddhas across the whole Myanmar, they could have better economy…

Kaw Ka Taung cave

Maybe more interesting than the Kaw Ka Taung cave itself is a long queue of sculptured monks along the entire road on the left of the cave entrance.

Saddan cave

There is an entry fee of 1,000 MMK in the Saddan Cave. The cave is long and because it is a sacred place you have to walk through the cave barefoot. If you don’t want to walk all the way back, you can take a boat around. Take shoes with you! Water channel ends on a different place from the cave entrance.

Kyauk Kalap pagoda and water Temple Chan Thar Gyi

Kyauk Kalap pagoda is situated right on the top of a rock in the middle of a pond. Right next to it is Chan Thar Gyi Temple.

Where to stay in Hpa An?

Favorite place is a Guest House Soe Brothers . You will pay 20 000 MMK for one room with a shared bathroom. They don’t serve breakfast, however, coffee, tea, and a barrel of water is available throughout the day. They will give you a map at the reception desk and willingly draw in everything you are interested in. Including good restaurants nearby. In case they don’t have, try Soe Brothers II .

How to get to Hpa An?

From Yangon , you can get to Hpa An via Bago . From Bago there are regular b uses for 9,000 MMK. The journey takes about 6 hours. The first bus from Bago leaves at 7:30 in the morning.

Recommended time to spend in Hpa An

You can explore the Hpa An area in one full day. We recommend spending 2 nights there, so you have a chance to see the Bat cave at the dusk.

13) Places to visit in Myanmar – Giant Buddha Win Sein Taw Ya

The largest reclining Buddha in the world (in open space). You have never seen anything that enormous before!!!

This monster measures 180 meters (big neatly as 2 football fields) and is 30 meters high. You can also go inside this Buddha (again only barefoot) There is a viewing terrace which can be reached through his ear. One giant Buddha wasn’t apparently enough, so they decided to start building another one.

How to get there?

From Mawlamyine you can take a shared bus to the village of Himeinkanein (about 6km north of Mudon). It is only 1.5 km from there, so you can either walk, hitchhike (it worked very well for us here) or take a moto-taxi (1000 MMK/person). Location here .

14) Places to visit in Myanmar – Dawei area

Beach lovers will surely like Dawei peninsula. Although there are only a few certified accommodations , it is well worth the trip. You won’t find many foreigners there, so locals (especially the children) are extremely enthusiastic to see foreigners. Hire a motorcycle and head to the magnificent beaches and explore Dawei peninsula.

Best Beaches at Dawei peninsula

Grandfather’s beach

Grandfather’s beach is a b eautiful white sandy beach with bamboo constructions and restaurants. You can get a fresh coconut for a few kyats or other food at low prices.

Teyzit beach

Teyzit beach is another empty beach is located at the end of the village and you can reach it by a footpath leading from the other village beach.

Paradise beach

There is the only accommodation on Dawei peninsula on Paradise Beach. You have 2 options there. Either sleeping in a tent on the beach for 25,000 MMKs or Bungalow for 42,000 MMK.

There are many other beaches you can discover. Maung Ma Gan beach was crowded by people because there is a big number of restaurants (basically one next to each other). San Maria Beach was quite dirty. We tried to get also to Sin Htauk Beach – an hour later, after a very bad, stony road, we gave up because we were afraid to get stuck with our motorbike in sand and mangrove area.

Sin Maw pagoda

At the far end of the Dawei peninsula, there is a pagoda on the cliff. If you have decided to explore peninsula, why not to have a break here.

Where to stay in Dawei

There are a couple of options, Best House Guest House  is located in the city center. You can also choose Coconut Guest House nearby the beach. At Dawei peninsula, there is the only certified place, which is Paradise Beach Bungalows.

Beware: City names are usually written in several different ways in Myanmar. You may find different names for the one, same place.

Map of all best places to visit in Myanmar

Here you can see a detailed map of all the best places to visit on your trip to Myanmar. You can export this map and import it to your mobile application such as Maps.me or Locus Map.

• Check here  all our travel planning maps .

Where to find more information about Myanmar?

You can read our Practical Travel Guide to Myanmar , which is full of all the useful information for travel or vacation.

If you are unsure whether to visit a certain place or not – read some reviews. The same applies for accommodation and restaurants. Reviews tell you a lot.

Are you decided? Great, just find the cheapest flight ticket !

Have you been backpacking in Myanmar and would you like to add something about Myanmar or update some information? Write us a comment !

And check this awesome video about best places to visit in Myanmar:

More tips for your travels:

We have prepared for you this comprehensive list of links, discounts, and resources for travel planning in one place. Bookmark this page and whenever you plan a vacation in the future, just open it and save yourself a lot of time.

1) Where to book accommodation?

• We prefer to find an accommodation using Booking.com .
• It's also worth it to compare with AirBnb .
• Read also our guide - How to search for the best accommodation .

2) How to find cheap flights?

• We recommend searching for flights on Skyscanner .
• Read also our complete guide - How to find cheap flights .

3) How to rent a car?

• We recommend a comparison portal RentalCars.com to compare the best offers of all available rental companies.

Pin best places to visit in Myanmar for later or for your friends:

Best Places to visit in Myanmar – FAQ:

Is there a downloadable map of the best places to visit in myanmar.

Here you can download a map of the best places to visit in Myanmar .

What are the best places to visit in Yangon?

Here you can read about the best places to visit in Yangon .

Where can I find practical information for visiting Myanmar?

You can read this Practical Backpacking Guide to Myanmar , which is full of all the useful information for travel or vacation.

What are the best places to visit in Mandalay?

Here you can read about the best places to visit in Mandalay .

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The Best of Myanmar: The Full Itinerary

03/03/2020 by Kristin Addis 28 Comments

This post was originally written by Ryan Brun for BMTM in 2014. While much of what he wrote is still true and remains in this post, I visited again in 2020 and have updated the post as well as added in new resources and spots to see. Enjoy! -Kristin

Myanmar isn’t a Southeast Asian country that is often on travelers “must see” lists, or planned for their great backpacking adventure. Which is a shame, because Myanmar is one of the most culturally preserved and exciting destinations in Asia.

Why isn’t Myanmar on everyone’s “must do” lists?

It honestly wasn’t on my list until I was invited by a friend. Before traveling to Myanmar, I didn’t know anything about the country except about how it was closed off from the world up until about a couple decades ago.

After backpacking through a large portion of Myanmar during their annual Thingyan Festival, I can without a doubt declare Myanmar as my favorite country in Southeast Asia.

Myanmar is a captivating and exciting country for many reasons. From floating villages, to valleys of ancient temples that beat out Angkor Wat, to multi-day jungle treks into mountain tea picking villages.

Ready to go yet? Awesome. Here’s my itinerary on the best of Myanmar, from where to go to what to do from my own personal experiences, and a few key tips and tricks to know before you go:

Yangon ( former capital city of Rangoon ) is the highest populated city in Myanmar, and most likely where you will arrive. It’s the country’s bustling economic capital filled with colonial-era buildings mashed up against modern high-rises and Buddhist temples.

On arrival, Yangon can feel just as overwhelming as a city like Bangkok or Jakarta, but take a deep breath, settle into a hotel, and go for a wander. Here in Yangon you’ll get to experience the everyday lives of Burmese (people of Myanmar) who are usually too busy to try and surround you with goods to sell, but are happy to flash a smile. Explore the old and new of a fast growing city, and enjoy Yangon’s endless opportunity for street photographers.

Stay:  Hotel Shwe Yee is perfectly situated walking distance from Shwedagon Pagoda and has great breakfast!

Most of the accommodation will be centered around the market streets and Chinatown area, and this is a great place to eat for your first night as you take everything in. 19th and 20th Street are the hotspots, and though it can be crowded and a bit funky smelling, there are plenty of restaurants to have a big meal with ample people watching.

Shwedagon Pagoda (Golden Pagoda)

Shwedagon Pagoda  is the most sacred temple in all of Myanmar, and a popular pilgrimage for Buddhists. Legend has it that this golden pagoda and complex was built more than 2,500 years ago, which theoretically would make it the oldest Buddhist temple in the world.

Colonial Markets

I love walking through markets – you can get a real sense of life in a country there. Especially when nobody bothers you! These sprawling, ornate ironwork markets date back to British rule almost 100 years ago and will be a good escape from the heat as well as the best place to buy clothes, bags, and other trinkets if you need anything. Bonus, the vendors don’t chase you down like many other markets.

Quick Tips: Eat eat eat! Yangon will have the most diverse selection of food in Myanmar. Book accommodation ahead of arrival , hostels and hotels fill up fast, especially during holidays. Yangon will be the best place to get toiletries and supplies so stock up. Get a SIM card here if you want one (they are easy to find, and the airport has reasonable prices.)

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda and Golden Rock

East of Yangon is one of the top three most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Myanmar. Kyaiktiyo Pagoda  is a massive golden rock barely balancing on the edge of an 1,100 meter tall mountain with breathtaking panoramic views of the jungle valley ( and a heart-pounding ride to the top ). To get to the pagoda, you’ll need to head out early in the morning and take a bus to Kinpun village. From there you will be packed into the back of a truck with monks and Burmese locals.

If you feel up for the challenge, you can hike the entire way to the top from the village which will be a 5+ hour trek through jungle and mountainous terrain, but it’ll be the ultimate way to experience the pilgrimage. Once at the top, buy a golden leaf and stick it onto the boulder (only men are allowed to do that)…just don’t be the one who finally pushes it over the edge!

Note from Kristin: Women are not permitted to touch the rock but are permitted in the outer courtyard. I don’t even have to tell you how I feel about that!

Stay:  This hotel is 30 minutes away from the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda. There are also a few hotels located at the foot of the pagoda that are a lot more expensive.

Inle was one of the most beautiful towns I visited in Myanmar, which is hard to choose because many are. But, let’s just say, it was the most lush. About 9-10 hours north of Yangon by bus sits Inle Lake, a sprawling and beautiful natural contrast to Yangon tucked into a valley surrounded by green hills. It is a network of canals, irrigation waterways, farms, and a giant freshwater lake. It’s a perfect escape after experiencing the bustling city life of Yangon.

Boat Ride through the Floating Villages

Once in Inle Lake, the most known attraction is the floating villages. It is essentially a neighborhood on stilts, where locals live in huts built above a network of marsh and grass waterways. Take a boat and see what life is like living on the water and relying off of food farmed in the grassland or fished. The scenery itself is beautiful, and it’s relaxing sitting in the canoe cruising through the maze of houses watching children climb from one house to the next to wave you along.

Table of Contents

About an hour and 45 minutes from Inle, you’ll find the pagoda forest of Kakku. Though it’s a long drive, I found that it was totally worth it to get away from the tourist center of Inle and enjoy this gorgeous temple complex almost all to myself. More on how to get there and avoid the crowds here .

Trekking to Inle Lake

If you’re trekking and outdoor inclined like myself, hit Kalaw first and do the 3-day trek to Inle Lake that takes you through valleys and small villages where you’ll stay each night, experiencing rural Myanmar life. The cost is low, the views are spectacular, and the trek is life-changing. No hot showers, no electricity, no internet, just pure experiences with the nicest people on earth? Sign me up!

Quick Tips: Inle Lake is one of the more popular destinations so it’s good to book accommodation ahead. Just outside of the town limits, there is a vineyard and winery that’s worth a visit after a bicycle ride around the country roads.

Stay:  Inle Cottage Boutique Hotel  is an amazing value for the money, and the staff is so nice!

Bagan was one of my favorite experiences during my time exploring the country. Whether you hit Bagan before or after Inle Lake, it is still a must see when visiting Myanmar. Considered the Angkor Wat of Myanmar ( but I think it’s better ), Bagan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and valley of more than 2,000+ ancient temples built between the 9th and 13th centuries, which included the golden era of Burma in the 11-12th century time period. During the summer months while I was there, the valley is arid and covered in rust-colored red sand, but in the monsoon season becomes a vibrant green jungle climate.

Temple Raiding

At times, we were surrounded by hundreds at the largest temples, and at other times, completely alone to crouch and crawl through narrow passages of empty temples. Rent a scooter or bicycle and cruise around to some of the 2000+ temples around Bagan – but there’s no way you’ll see them all! Get adventurous and go down some of the dirt roads to the smaller temples where you’ll find yourself alone to explore, living out your Indiana Jones or Lara Croft fantasies. Scooters can be rented for $5-$10 a day and will make it much easier than bicycles to explore.

Quick Tip: From late 2019 it’s no longer possible to climb any of the temples or pagodas for a sunrise or sunset overview. For the best places to catch sunrise and sunset these days, check out this post by Kristin.

Hot Air Balloons over Bagan

Now that the temples are closed, what’s the best way to get that awesome overview? Jump in the hot air balloons ! Just before sunrise you can take a ride up in a hot air balloon and see the entire valley change from purple to gold with ancient temples as far as the eye can see silhouetted against the horizon. The cheapest and best-reviewed ride we’ve found can be booked here .

Stay : You can get amazing balloon sunrise and sunset views at the  Aureum Palace Hotel , though it’s a pretty penny. To stay right in the heart of Old Bagan, I loved the  Hotel @ Tharabar Gate .

In central Myanmar, Mandalay is the second largest city in the country, and a good place to launch from for almost all activities and destinations. From Mandalay, you’ll be able to reach Inle Lake, Bagan, and Hsipaw in the far north. Since it’s another large metropolis, Mandalay will have plenty of delicious places to eat and a decent nightlife scene, with a couple swanky bars overlooking the river.

U Bein Bridge

I’m sure you’ve seen the photos of silhouetted monks walking across a long bridge with a fiery orange sunrise. That, my friends, is U Bein Bridge. By far one of the best sunrises I’ve ever experienced ( and I think it will be for you as well ), U Bein Bridge is the world’s oldest and longest teak wood bridge. I would have stayed there all day, but by 9am, it was swarmed with people, so make sure to arrive early! Just before sunrise, the monks follow the call to prayer and all walk across in their crimson robes to the temple across the river.

Mandalay Hill and Mandalay Fort

Get ready to break a sweat. I was panting by the time we reached the top, but it’s worth the long walk up to Mandalay Hill to the temple perched at the top for an incredible view at sunset ( and one helluva stair climb ).  In the city center and surrounded by a large moat, Mandalay Fort is worth checking out.

All the Temples!

Mandalay has an abundance of stunning temples, pagodas, and stupas to check out in and around the city. Check out the ancient capital, the amazing Hsinbyume Pagoda, and more. The best way to see it all is by car. You can find out more here .

Stay:  Hotel Yadanarbon was in a great location, has a rooftop pool, and an amazing breakfast!

Oh Hsipaw, how I miss those days. Mountains all around, trees that grow out of temples, lush farmland, waterfalls, and the best tea you’ll ever have — sound good? Hsipaw is the main township of the Shan State, and is located 200km northeast of Mandalay, perfect for anyone needing an escape into the outdoors. This will be the main destination for anyone wanting to do some serious multi-day trekking and to explore more untouched Myanmar in remote mountain villages.

We rented bicycles while in Hsipaw and explored for a couple of days. Though it can become quite hilly and rugged outside of town, every road you go down will have something fascinating to see. Don’t miss the ancient temple complex and check out the stupa that has a tree growing out of it. Watch young monks play games, wander the vibrant fruit and vegetable markets, and relax by the river.

Goteik Viaduct and Train to Hsipaw

For someone who is obsessed with train travel, I had to do what is said to be one of the greatest train journeys in the world. This, above most else, should be on your list of must-do’s in Myanmar. Along the 12 hour journey, you’ll also cross the Goteik Viaduct, considered a world masterpiece in engineering and at one time the world’s longest viaduct bridge at 2,260 ft long (and currently the highest in Myanmar at 335 feet!).

The old train to Hsipaw is a clunking and captivating journey that leaves Mandalay before dawn and takes you up mountains by zig-zagging its way forward and backwards, then down into lush valleys of rice and soy fields. Over 100 years old, it’s a technological marvel of its time period, and the coolest mode of transport to get to Hsipaw.

Quick Tips: Purchase tickets at the train station days before, and try to get first class seats for 2,000 kyat ($2.00). We could only get second class seats, and 12 hours on wooden benches is doable but brutal.

Hiking to Mountain Tea Villages

Hiking in the countryside was one of the best excursions we did in Myanmar. On the 2-3 day trek you’ll meet rural farmers, tea pickers, and even rebel soldiers who are happy that you are experiencing their small world and sharing their everyday life. Don’t worry, even the soldiers were the nicest people I’ve ever met. Plus, the tea leaves there are said to help with longevity in life, so drink away!

We stayed in a small traditional hut and ate home cooked meals with a local family, and I drank some rice wine with soldiers ( shhhh ). Our guide, Ax Sai, was extremely knowledgeable, spoke English very well, and even took us to some secret waterfalls after a scorching day of trekking.

Quick Tips: Wear a hat, sunscreen , and bring extra bottles of water and snacks. And proper shoes! Pack things like peanuts or apples that won’t go bad in the heat. Look for Ax Sai, he’s awesome.

Myanmar has a beautiful coastline with white sand beaches and beautiful sunsets. As an added bonus, there are no buckets, all-night parties, nor fire dancers, which kill the peaceful ocean vibe for me! Ngapali is one of the loveliest beaches, though there are many down south worth checking out. You can read more about Ngapali here .

BONUS: Thingyan Festival

Thingyan Festival, or the New Year celebration for Myanmar, will most likely be one of the craziest experiences of your life. Thingyan is Myanmar’s biggest holiday and a Buddhist celebration for the purpose of washing the previous year’s sins away and beginning the new year with a clean spirit. With millions of gallons of water.

From  my experience at Thingyan , it lasted the full week and there was no escaping the chaos. It’s fun, but it’s also exhausting, and after a few days you’ll probably lock yourself inside. Luckily I had goggles after taking on the Rickshaw Run in India to protect me from the blasts to my face.

Quick Tips: Book accommodation and transport WAY in advance – everything sells out. Get a waterproof bag for money and phones. Don’t carry your DSLR, it’ll get destroyed. Remember, it’s their holiday and there is no escaping it, so have fun and don’t get mad. Bring goggles, they are a life saver (especially from eye infections). And buy the biggest damn water blaster you can find!

Arrival & Getting Around

Before Myanmar relaxed its tourism policies, getting visas for the country, let alone most everything else, could be a huge hassle. SIM cards used to be thousands of dollars, banks were scarce, and much more of the country was closed off to travel. Luckily it’s become much easier now to travel to. I found it actually easier than a lot of other countries I’ve visited.

eVisa: For your Myanmar visa you’ll want to apply for the eVisa, which takes a couple of days to process, and after approval, you will receive a government issued letter to print and show on arrival. There are only a few countries that don’t need to do this, but if you’re from the USA, be sure to apply for one and double check that all of the information is correct. I found out the hard way that being even one day off on your passport expiry date can mean being denied boarding for your international flight.

Buses:  This was how Ryan mainly traveled through Myanmar. There are fancy VIP buses that are cheap and much comfier than much of Southeast Asia, with reclining seats, blankets, and snacks offered. Now that there is a main highway that runs from Yangon all the way to Mandalay, the road north isn’t too dicey.

Train:  I only got to ride the train in Myanmar once, but it was my favorite way to travel. Train travel is another good option and can be taken from Yangon all the way north to Hsipaw with transfers. My recommendation from experience is to book a 1st class ticket on the train which won’t be much more expensive, and it’ll save your back and bum from a lot of pain. I know from experience.

Private Taxi:  During our time in Myanmar, we mainly took buses when we could find them, but occasionally had to hire a private taxi to drive us to the next destination because nothing else was available. These drivers have nice cars with air-conditioning, but can be quite the speed demons even on roads with sheer cliffs dropping off the side. Our driver had to stop to hose off the breaks because they were smoking. A private taxi will run around $40-$65 for a full day drive to another city.

Flights: Much of Myanmar is accessible via air travel these days, particularly for Mandalay, Yangon, Bagan, Inle, and Ngapali. I flew  Air KBZ  and thought it was great.

Myanmar isn’t quite the wild east of Asia anymore because the country’s relaxed tourism policies are spurring growth, but it was one of the most authentic cultural experiences I’ve had. Getting around Myanmar is much easier than it was even 3 years ago, and if you prepare before arriving by having visas and accommodation sorted, you won’t run into many hiccups. With infrastructure improvements, WiFi and 3G/4G available almost everywhere, and banks in every town, there’s not much difficulty in getting around.

But I can’t forget the best part. The most memorable aspects of Myanmar are the people . Always smiling, displaying unending generosity, and not once did I feel I was trying to be scammed from every direction. This, combined with the culture and fascinating places to visit, made it my favorite destination in Southeast Asia. And it’s bound to become your favorite as well.

About the Author

Ryan Brown is a corporate escape artist with a severe disdain for the mundane, an adrenaline junky, and a hammock addict. On his adventure travel blog,  Lost Boy Memoirs , he shares his misadventures getting lost around the world through personal memoirs, photos, and videos. His mission is to experience cultures first-hand to break down barriers and to inspire YOU to escape your comfort zone. Not all who are lost need to be found.

*Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means that any booking you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we have stayed in and experiences that are priced right and well-loved.

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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05/27/2017 at 12:57 am

How long did you stay!?! I like to take my time, so wondering if a month is enough or if I should plan for longer! 🙂

10/26/2017 at 8:36 am

I stayed for 10 days, much of it was soaked by Thingyan water festival. A month would allow you to immerse yourself in the culture, and pick a spot you’d love to spend most of your time in!

05/27/2017 at 6:24 am

Thanks for the post Ryan!! I’m currently travelling around SEA and I wasn’t sure about going to Myanmar but after speaking with others I have definitely been swayed into visiting. I love catching trains too so I’ll be sure to check the train to Hsipaw out. Thank you for all the info.

10/26/2017 at 8:37 am

Hello Steph! Glad I could sway you into traveling through Myanmar. Did you ever make it through the country? And did you take trains for most of it?

Ijana Loss says

05/28/2017 at 1:15 am

Great information! Myanmar hasn’t really been on my radar, I guess that cause exactly like it says in the article, it’s a bit more off the path than Thailand, Laos, etc. But typically those turn out to be the best places 🙂

10/26/2017 at 8:41 am

Happy to give you the information you need Ijana, hopefully you get out to Myanmar and tell us all about it! Definitely off the beaten path but that’s exactly what I love about it too!

Nitin Khanna says

05/29/2017 at 4:22 am

Love the information provided by you. As I didn’t know about Myanmar. But after your article I am going to add into my bucket list. Great Writing Skills.

Cheers! Thanks!

11/07/2017 at 7:00 am

Thank you Nitin for the compliment, and I hope you have added it to your bucket list for sure. Make sure to tell us when you go!

12/05/2020 at 5:10 pm

Jeric Danao says

06/02/2017 at 3:52 am

I’m a Filipino and have always admired south east asian countries, from their mountains to their highlands, from cities – urban and rural – to provinces, Myanmar is definitely a place to go to. I couldn’t describe it any better than you do. Really appreciate it. Thank you so much for sharing this! Makes me wanna go back to them good old days.

11/07/2017 at 7:01 am

I’ve heard there is PLENTY to see in the Philippines though, and I’m aching to go and trek the jungles. Happy you liked the article and shared your thoughts! Maybe you should revisit your travels there sometime?

06/12/2017 at 9:24 am

Hi, i would like to know how much did you spend approximately per day?

Thank you in advance,

Ikam Acosta says

06/15/2017 at 7:19 am

I have a few friends who have been to Myanmar and loved it. It’s definitely on my to do list. I love the pictures you took. Really captures its beauty

Ikam Acosta

11/07/2017 at 7:03 am

Where did your friends visit in Myanmar Ikam? You have to at some point, it’s already on my list to revisit! Thank you for the compliment about the photos I really appreciate that.

TwoTravelTheWorld says

06/15/2017 at 11:39 am

Myanmar is on our RTW trip in November and we can’t wait to discover its temples and landscapes. We don’t know yet if we are going to see it from north to south or the other way but thanks for all those advices. It will definitely help us crafting our road map. Take care. David & Kro.

11/07/2017 at 7:05 am

Hey David and Kro, looks like November is here! Have you planned out your trip to Myanmar yet? i personally loved the north but all of it was incredible. Excited to see where it takes you!

The Open Route says

09/07/2017 at 6:46 am

Bagan is amazing! I agree it’s best to explore the pagodas and temples on two wheels. It’s faster that way plus you can discover other temples that are at par with popular ones. We were there around May, and it was raining most of the time. We also missed the hot air balloons, but we’re lucky enough to catch the sunrise and sunset.

11/07/2017 at 7:06 am

Ahh well if it was rainy season then you had the chance to see it in full bloom? I’ve been dreaming of visiting while the valley is lush and green!

10/26/2017 at 8:35 am

Hello Jade, apologies for the delayed reply! You absolutely must get over there now, my favorite Southeast Asia country. I’d say 7-10 days would be ideal to see most of these sights and destinations while being able to properly take it in.

Veronica says

10/30/2017 at 12:16 pm

Oh..I’m happy to see you wrote about Myanmar, which is my native land!!! There are many other amazing and interesting places to visit like Chin State hiking and Virgin Islands of Mergue!!! Please visit again to my native land for further visits. I’ll definitely take you there!! Warmly welcome from Myanmar Xoxo <3

11/07/2017 at 7:07 am

Hello Veronica, I may just have to take you up on that offer because I want to return to Myanmar next year. The Chin State hiking sounds wonderful, and I want to do much more hiking next year!

Byron Hartzler says

04/21/2018 at 6:30 am

Sometimes people view Myanmar as an off the beaten path country. Sure its emerging, but still in comparison to SE Asian neighbors, much of it is still to be explored, keeping off the beaten path because of decades of civil war. I live in a fringe area, trying to create opportunity further out, because even though Bagan & Inle are great, some of the most beautiful and untouched areas still are largely undiscovered. Like Lashio, the city beyond Hsipaw, which is great for trekking, but Lashio has some of, if not the best waterfall experiences in SE Asia, but nobody knows about it. Thanks for sharing your experience.

I have a social enterprise adventure guide company called Myanmar Adventure Outfitters, and with recent moronic moves by Myanmar’s government, many locals who are gaining new opportunities through tourism could see those opportunities fade, so please read Ryan’s article, keep coming, because the people you may want to hurt by boycotting this country are not the ones who will hurt, its the average locals.

Image Earth Travel says

11/11/2018 at 10:42 am

Spent a month in Myanmar back in 2014 and absolutely loved it – so much to see there… Sadly, areas near Hsipaw were closed due to Shan Rebels and government troops fierce fighting.

Ashlea says

04/30/2019 at 6:01 am

I’m glad this amazing country is getting the recognition it deserves! I spent nearly 1 month in Myanmar back in 2013 and have been itching to get back since.

Bagan is absolutely incredible and so much fun (Angkor Wat in Cambodia paled in comparison to Bagan for me). It was so much fun jumping on a electric bike every day and exploring. But my absolute favourite thing was that at the smaller temples you had to find the ‘key holder’ who would unlock the temple and maybe show you a secret staircase to climb to the top for amazing views. Indiana Jones eat your heart out!

Great list of the must-see highlights for your first trip to Myanmar.

Nway Kaz says

07/08/2019 at 11:12 pm

I loved Myanmar when the first time I came here. A nature place without many building or useless stuffs.

I’m planning to visit Myanmar again in 2020, can’t wait for it. If anyone want to join me, please let me know as well!

Harry Tumeric says

07/17/2019 at 9:12 am

Great that you put Bagan in your itinerary. Some important thing to note is “Temple climbing is now banned at Bagan”.

Tourrkub says

12/20/2019 at 3:31 am

Thanks for a great article.

Parjatakguru says

05/15/2024 at 11:21 pm

Your blog is so useful for us. The information about the place is amazing.

Places To Visit in Myanmar

Here are the top 13 tourist places in myanmar.

1 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 26 Tourist attractions

Fun fact: Yangon was actually known as the city of Rangoon - that is until the name was officially changed in 2006. This city combines bits of Asian and British cultures beautifully! A trip to Yangon is a trip that is perfect for any foodie, culture and history fan, or even someone who appreciates t...

Best Time: November to February

2. Mandalay

2 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 17 Tourist attractions

Mandalay is a city located on the banks of the Irrawaddy(Ayeyarwady) River in Central Myanmar. It is the second-largest city in the country after Yangon. Most people expect an old Burma when it comes to Mandalay, but end up getting welcomed by sprawling buildings, wide roads filled with motorcy...

Best Time: October to January

3 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 13 Tourist attractions

Bagan is an ancient city located on the banks of the Irrawaddy (Ayeyarwady) River in Mandalay region in Central Myanmar. Bagan was formerly a capital and a centre of a powerful Pagan empire which flourished for over 400 years. Today, it is a renowned UNESCO heritage site. The old town area is one of...

4 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 8 Tourist attractions

Bago, also called Pegu, is the capital city of the Bago region in Myanmar. It is one of the ancient cities that flourished on the banks of the Irrawaddy River and is known for ancient historical sites and pagodas. The town was formerly known as Hanthawaddy and is one of the most abundant archaeologi...

5 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 12 Tourist attractions

Kalaw is a hill station located in Taunggyi District in the Shan state of Myanmar. Its elevation at 1310 meters attracts thousands of travelers, both local and international. As it is 50 km from the popular Inle Lake, there are trekking activities available to Kalaw from Inle and back...

Best Time: February to April

6 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 10 Tourist attractions

Dawei, also called as Tavoy is a city on the northern bank of the Dawei River in southeastern Myanmar. Dawei is famous for its islands home to crystal clear beaches, tropical jungles, hot springs and a popular beach destination for locals and foreign tourists. Most of the beaches are secluded, which...

7 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 7 Tourist attractions

Mrauk U is a city located in northern Rakhine state in Myanmar. It is a medieval town and the capital of Mrauk-U Township. Mrauk U, formerly known as Mrohaung, is famous today for the ancient archaeological sites of Arakanese Kingdom. The city is an offbeat destination for tourists looking for quiet...

Best Time: November to March

8. Mawlamyine

8 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 13 Tourist attractions

Mawlamyine is a city located at the mouth of the Thanlwin (Salween) River in Myanmar. The city is the capital and largest city of Mon State, and also the fourth largest town in Myanmar. Tourism is growing in the area, attracting tourists looking for a quiet town, Myanmar countryside and Buddhist pag...

9 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 12 Tourist attractions

Monywa is a city located close to Mandalay on the eastern banks of the River Chindwin in Myanmar. It is the largest city in the Sagaing region. Monywa is known as a centre for poets, often described as the poetic centre of the north of Myanmar.

10. Mergui Archipelago

10 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 4 Tourist attractions

The Mergui Archipelago consists of over 800 islands of different sizes scattered off the western shore of the Malay Peninsula in the Andaman Sea in southern Myanmar. Also called Pashu islands due to its Malay inhabitants, it is a part of the Tanintharyi Region. The Mergui Archipelago is known f...

Best Time: January to April, November to December

11 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 7 Tourist attractions

Hsipaw is a hill town located on the banks of the Duthawadi River in Shan State, Myanmar. It was the royal capital of the Shan dynasty and is known for the rich history and culture of the Shan community. Also, the abundant natural beauty of Hsipaw and scenic villages surrounded by mountains make it ...

Best Time: December to February

12. Sagaing

12 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 14 Tourist attractions

Sagaing is a town located on the banks of the Irrawaddy River about 20km from Mandalay in Myanmar. It is the capital of Sagaing region and is known for many Buddhist temples and monasteries, making it an important monastic centre. Sagaing is a great day trip option for tourists visiting Mandalay who...

Best Time: November to December

13 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar

Inwa is a town located in the Mandalay region in Myanmar. It was the former imperial capital city, most of which are in ruins today. Iva translates to the city of lakes and the city of nine lakes. The town got these names because of its location at the confluence of the Irrawaddy, and Myitnge rivers...

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Myanmar ethnic armed group seizes tourist beachfront town

Tuesday, 25 Jun 2024

Related News

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YANGON (AFP): A Myanmar ethnic armed group has seized the country's most popular beach resort town, with junta troops holed up in a nearby airport, military and local sources told AFP on Tuesday.

Clashes have rocked western Rakhine state since the Arakan Army (AA) attacked the military there in November, ending a ceasefire that had largely held since the 2021 military coup.

For days, fighting has raged around Ngapali beach in the south of the state, where upmarket resorts dot the pristine, palm-fringed sands of the Indian Ocean.

The town of Thandwe, a few kilometres from the beach and home to the local airport, was largely deserted as of Monday, a resident who fled that day told AFP.

"Almost everyone in the town has fled... Very few people are now in Thandwe," said the resident, who requested anonymity for security reasons.

"A rocket shell landed in the town yesterday. We also heard continuous heavy artillery shelling."

A military source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP that security forces had retreated to the airport and were in control of the site.

A local hotel owner who was no longer in the town told AFP his staff said the military had carried out airstrikes near the airport on Monday.

His employees told him there were "some army and police trapped inside the airport building."

AFP was unable to reach a junta spokesman for comment and has contacted an AA spokesman.

Thandwe airport has been closed since early this month as AA fighters launched attacks in the area.

Analysts say many of the hotels and resorts at Ngapali are owned by businessmen close to the junta, or are part of the military's sprawling business empire that includes everything from gems to tourism to tobacco.

Since launching its offensive in November, the AA has seized territory along the border with India and Bangladesh, piling further pressure on the junta as it battles opponents elsewhere across the Southeast Asian country.

State capital Sittwe is one of the few holdouts for junta troops in Rakhine state.

The AA, which says it is fighting for autonomy for the state's ethnic Rakhine population, has vowed to capture the city, home to an India-backed deep sea port and around 200,000 people. - AFP

Tags / Keywords: Myanmar , Fighting , Raging On , Popular Beach Town , Rebels in Control

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