Myanmar

Myanmar: general info for travelers

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a country in Southeast Asia bordered by Thailand, Laos, China, India, Bangladesh and the Bay of Bengal. It is the largest country in mainland Southeast Asia and has a population of approximately 54 million people. Myanmar has a diverse landscape with both mountains and coastline. Its culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism and the country is known for its beautiful temples, including the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. The people of Myanmar are friendly and welcoming, and the food is a fusion of Chinese, Indian and Thai flavors with some unique local dishes.
Myanmar has had a challenging history with political turmoil and conflict, but in recent years has been making strides towards democratic reforms and economic development. Travelers to Myanmar can experience a unique and authentic culture, stunning landscapes, and historic landmarks.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Myanmar, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Myanmar: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the top places to visit in Myanmar: 1. Bagan - Bagan is an ancient city filled with thousands of stunning temples and pagodas, spread across a vast plain. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in Myanmar and a must-visit for history and culture lovers.
2. Inle Lake - Inle Lake is a picturesque freshwater lake surrounded by lush mountains and dotted with traditional floating villages. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the lake and witness the unique lifestyle of the Intha people who live in stilted houses.
3. Yangon - The largest city in Myanmar, Yangon (formerly known as Rangoon) is a bustling metropolis filled with colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and impressive religious sites. The famous Shwedagon Pagoda is located here and is a must-visit attraction.
4. Mandalay - Mandalay is the cultural and spiritual heart of Myanmar and is famous for its traditional crafts such as silk weaving and puppetry. There are also several impressive monasteries and temples to explore in the city, including the Mahamuni Pagoda.
5. Golden Rock - Perched precariously on the edge of a cliff, the Golden Rock (also known as Kyaiktiyo Pagoda) is one of the most iconic sights in Myanmar. Legend has it that a Buddha hair relic lies inside the pagoda.
6. Ngapali Beach - If you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Ngapali Beach is the perfect destination. The white sandy beach is lined with resorts and restaurants, and there are plenty of water sports and activities to keep you entertained.
7. Hpa-An - Hpa-An is a charming town located in the Karen state, surrounded by limestone mountains and rice paddies. The area is famous for its stunning natural scenery and unique caves, such as the Bat Cave and the Kawgun Cave.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
There is more to see and do in Myanmar: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Myanmar: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Myanmar, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Myanmar has three distinct seasons: the hot season (March to May), the rainy season (June to October), and the cool season (November to February). The best time to visit Myanmar is during the cool season, from November to February, when the weather is dry and pleasant, with lower temperatures and humidity. This is the peak tourist season, however, and accommodation prices can be higher than other times of the year. The hot season can be quite uncomfortable, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in some areas. The rainy season can also be a challenge for travelers, as heavy rainfall can cause flooding and make transportation difficult. Overall, if you prefer cooler temperatures and want to avoid the rain, the best time to visit Myanmar is during the cool season from November to February.

Myanmar: activities and what to do

There are a variety of activities and sports to enjoy on a holiday in Myanmar. Some of the popular activities and sports to experience are: 1. Trekking and Hiking: In Myanmar, you can find different trekking opportunities. The Shan states around Inle Lake or Hsipaw offer beautiful trekking routes to see the rural lifestyle and stunning landscapes.
2. Biking: Biking in Myanmar is also a popular activity and it's a great way to explore the country and gain new experiences while breathing fresh air.
3. Hot-air ballooning: Ballooning over the temples of Bagan at sunrise provides a once in a lifetime experience.
4. Rock Climbing: Myanmar offers some fantastic climbing locations in the mountains of Putao.
5. Water Sports: Myanmar is a beach-goer's paradise, with pristine beaches in Ngapali and Ngwe Saung with the opportunity to enjoy water sports like swimming, fishing, boating, and snorkeling.
6. Cultural and Heritage Sites: The country is rich in history and culture. You can visit the ancient pagodas in Bagan, explore Mandalay’s royal palace or learn about local traditions and cultures at Inle Lake.
These are some of the best activities and sports to experience in Myanmar.

Myanmar: few words on history and culture

Myanmar, also known as Burma, has a rich history that includes multiple empires and kingdoms dating back to the 11th century. The country has also been under colonial rule by British India from 1885 to 1948. Myanmar's culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism, which is the major religion in the country. The Burmese people have a distinct language, cuisine, art, and music. Traditional festivals, such as Thingyan (water festival) and Thadingyut (festival of lights), are widely celebrated. Myanmar also boasts an impressive array of historical and cultural landmarks, including the ancient city of Bagan and the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, which are popular tourist destinations.

Myanmar: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Myanmar depends on where you are coming from and where you plan to go within the country. If you are coming from another country, the most common means of transportation are by air. The major international airport in Myanmar is the Yangon International Airport, followed by the Mandalay International Airport. There are also smaller airports in several other cities across the country.
Once you are in Myanmar, the best means of transport for getting around the cities are taxis, buses, and trains. Taxis are easily available, but it's always a good idea to negotiate the price before getting in. Buses are cheap and frequent, but they can be crowded. Trains are slower than buses but offer a more scenic view of the countryside.
To visit the more remote areas of the country, you might consider renting a car or hiring a private driver, especially if you want to explore off the beaten track. Boat trips are also a popular option for exploring the Irrawaddy River and Inle Lake areas. To hire a car to visit Myanmar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Myanmar: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Myanmar with a full stomach:D
The cuisine of Myanmar is a fusion of Indian, Chinese and Southeast Asian influences. Here are some popular dishes: 1. Mohinga - It is the national dish of Myanmar and is a popular breakfast food. It is a fish-based soup with vermicelli noodles, fish sauce, lemongrass, onion, garlic, and ginger. It is usually served with boiled eggs, fritters, and crispy vegetables.
2. Shan-style noodles - This is a rice noodle dish with slices of meat, tomatoes, onions, and peanuts. The broth usually contains turmeric and garlic, adding a savory taste to the dish.
3. Tea leaf salad - This is a traditional and famous Myanmar dish, usually made of fermented tea leaves, tomatoes, peanuts, sesame seeds, dried shrimp, and garlic. It's sour and salty, with a bit of a nutty flavor.
4. Curry - Myanmar curries are usually made with a mix of spices and herbs, including ginger, garlic, lemongrass, turmeric, and cumin. Depending on the region, the curries may be made with fish, meat, or vegetables.
5. Samosas - Popular as a snack food, samosas are savory pastries filled with spiced potato and peas or meat. 6. Mandalay-style mont lin ma yar - This is a famous Myanmar version of fried doughnut, made with rice flour, sugar, and boiled chickpeas, usually served with coffee or tea.
7. Htamin thoke - This is a traditional salad made of sticky rice, tomato, garlic, and fish. It can be served as a side dish or as a main course.
8. Moh let saung - This is a popular dessert in Myanmar, which is a coconut milk based sweet soup with sago, jelly, and bread. It's usually served chilled and is perfect for hot weather.

Myanmar: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Myanmar can be considered a relatively affordable tourist destination compared to neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam. However, the cost of a trip to Myanmar can vary depending on the season, the type of accommodation, transportation and activities that the traveler chooses. During the peak season (November to February), the cost of accommodation and transportation can increase significantly. Also, if you choose to stay in high-end hotels or eat at upscale restaurants, the prices can be higher. On the other hand, if you opt for budget accommodations, eat at local restaurants, and use public transportation, the cost of traveling in Myanmar can be reasonable. It is always a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance and do some research to find the best deals on flights, accommodations, and tours.

Myanmar: where to find accodation

There are several options for finding accommodation in Myanmar. 1. Hotels and Resorts: Myanmar has a wide range of hotels and resorts that cater to different budgets. You can search for hotels and resorts on booking websites like Booking.com, Agoda or Expedia.
2. Homestays and Guesthouses: For a more immersive experience, you can try staying in a homestay or guesthouse. These are run by locals and offer a more authentic experience. Websites like Airbnb also offer a variety of homestay options.
3. Hostels: For budget travelers, hostels are a great option. Hostelworld is a popular website to search for cheap and reliable hostels.
4. Couchsurfing: It is a platform where locals offer free accommodation to travelers. It is a great way to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the local culture.
5. Myanmar Tourism Board: Finally, you can check with the Myanmar Tourism Board for information and recommendations on accommodation options.
You can check hotel prices in Myanmar here:
Booking.com

Myanmar: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, Myanmar received approximately 3.5 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism has significantly decreased in recent times.
In terms of crowded periods, the peak tourism season in Myanmar is during the months of November to February, when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is lower. During this time, popular destinations such as Bagan and Inle Lake can become quite crowded. It's important to book accommodation and activities in advance during these months. The summer months, from June to September, are typically less crowded, but the weather can be very hot and humid with occasional rain.
Myanmar is generally considered a safe country for tourists to visit. However, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in larger cities. It is also important to stay up-to-date on current events and any travel warnings issued by your home country or local authorities.
There are a few areas in Myanmar that are currently considered to be more dangerous or volatile, including parts of Rakhine state and northern Shan state. It is recommended to avoid these areas and to exercise caution when traveling in other parts of the country.
Overall, though, Myanmar is a beautiful and welcoming country with much to offer tourists. By staying aware and taking necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Myanmar on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Myanmar: events for tourists

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a beautiful country located in Southeast Asia that offers many unique and interesting events for tourists. Here are some of the most popular: 1. Thingyan Water Festival: This is the biggest event in Myanmar and takes place in mid-April. It is a five-day celebration where people throw water over each other to cleanse them of their bad deeds and start fresh for the new year.
2. Full Moon Festival: This festival is celebrated every full moon in Myanmar, and it is a time when people visit pagodas and offer food and other items to monks.
3. Hot Air Balloon Festival: This is a unique and colorful event that is held in Taunggyi in November. During this festival, hot air balloons of different shapes and sizes are released into the sky, and it is a sight to behold.
4. Thadingyut Festival: This is a three-day festival that marks the end of Buddhist Lent and is celebrated in October. It is a time where people light candles, lanterns and decorate their homes with lights.
5. Chin National Day: This festival is celebrated in the Chin State, in the remote western part of Myanmar, in February. It is a colorful event where the Chin people showcase their traditional costumes and dances.
These are just a few of the many events that Myanmar offers. I hope this information helps you plan your trip!

Myanmar: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Myanmar, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a suggested itinerary for a two-week trip to Myanmar that covers the most popular destinations and experiences: Day 1-3: Yangon Explore the largest city of Myanmar and its incredible range of historic and cultural landmarks including the Shwedagon Pagoda, Sule Pagoda, Bogyoke Market, and more.
Day 4-5: Bagan Marvel at the thousands of ancient temples and pagodas spread out over the Bagan archeological zone. You can explore them by e-bike or hot air balloon for an unforgettable experience.
Day 6-7: Mandalay Visit the last royal capital of Myanmar, Mandalay, and see the royal palace, take a boat ride down the Irrawaddy river, and visit nearby U-Bein Bridge in Amarapura.
Day 8-9: Inle Lake Experience the enchanting Inle Lake by boat, gazing out at floating villages, gardens and temples and learning about the unique culture of the lake's Intha people.
Day 10-12: Ngapali Beach Relax on one of Myanmar's most stunning and picturesque beaches. Ngapali offers a range of luxury resorts and water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Day 13-14: Yangon Spend your last days in Yangon to do any last minute shopping and attractions, before departing for your next destination.
Of course, there are many more destinations throughout Myanmar worth exploring, but this itinerary offers a great introduction to the diverse range of landscapes, culture, and history that make this country so special.

Myanmar: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Myanmar described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Bagan is an ancient city located in the Mandalay region of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). It was the capital of the Bagan Kingdom from the 9th to the 13th century and is renowned for its impressiv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bagan
- Bago is a city located in the southern part of Myanmar, about 80 kilometers northeast of Yangon. It is the capital of the Bago Region and has a population of around 250,000 people. The city is famous ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bago
- Chauk is a town located in central Myanmar, in the Magway Region. It is situated on the eastern bank of the Irrawaddy River and has a population of approximately 90,000 people. The town is known for i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chauk
- Chaung Tha is a small beach town located in the Ayeyarwady Region of Myanmar, approximately 154 km west of Yangon. It is a popular vacation destination for both locals and tourists due to its white sa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chaung Tha
- Dawei is a town located in the southernmost part of Myanmar. It is the capital of the Tanintharyi Region and is situated on the Dawei River, about 616 km southeast of Yangon, the country's largest cit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dawei
- Gangaw is a town located in the Magway Region of Myanmar (Burma), located approximately 300 kilometers from the city of Mandalay. The town is situated on the eastern bank of the Chindwin River and is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gangaw
- Hpa-An is a charming town and the capital of Kayin State in Myanmar. Nested amid breathtaking karst mountains overlooking a peaceful river, Hpa-An offers a unique blend of off-beat travel experiences.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hpa-An
- Hsihseng is a town located in the Shan State of Myanmar (formerly Burma). It has a population of approximately 16,000 people and is situated at an altitude of around 1,200 meters (3,900 ft) above sea ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hsihseng
- Hsipaw is a small town located in the Shan State region of Myanmar. It is known for its beautiful scenery and for being a starting point for trekking in the surrounding hills and villages. The town it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hsipaw
- Indawgyi Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Myanmar, located in the northern region of the country, near the town of Mohnyin in Kachin State. The lake is approximately 24 miles long and 11 miles w... CONTINUE here for a trip to Indawgyi Lake
- Inle Lake is a freshwater lake located in the Shan State of Myanmar. It is surrounded by mountains and has a surface area of approximately 116 square kilometers. The lake is home to a diverse range of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Inle Lake
- Kalaw is a small hill town located in the Shan State of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). It is situated at an altitude of 1,320 meters above sea level and was established by the British as a hill st... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalaw
- Kanpetlet is a small town located in the Chin State of Myanmar. It is situated in the midst of lush green mountains, and is known for its scenic beauty and unique culture. The town's population mainly... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kanpetlet
- Kengtung, also known as Kyaingtong, is a town located in eastern Myanmar. It is the capital of the Shan State's Kengtung District and lies close to the border with Thailand and Laos. Kengtung is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kengtung
- Kyaiktiyo is a famous pilgrimage site located in the Mon State of Myanmar. It is best known for its incredible Golden Rock, a massive boulder that seems to defy gravity as it balances precariously on ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kyaiktiyo
- Kyaukme is a town located in the Shan State of Myanmar. It is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and is known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and trekking trails. The town has a rich history... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kyaukme
- Loikaw is the capital city of the Kayah State in Myanmar (also known as Burma). It is situated in the eastern part of the country, and is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and lush green forests... CONTINUE here for a trip to Loikaw
- Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar, located in the central part of the country. It was the last royal capital of the Burmese monarchy and is known for its rich cultural heritage, including... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mandalay
- Mawlamyaing is the fourth largest city in Myanmar and the capital of the Mon State. It is also known as Moulmein and is situated near the mouth of the Thanlwin River, on the southeast coast of Myanmar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mawlamyaing
- Mawlamyine is the fourth largest city in Myanmar and the capital of Mon State. It is located in the southeastern part of the country, along the banks of the Salween River. The city is known for its co... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mawlamyine
- Mindat is a town located in the southern part of Chin State in Myanmar (formerly Burma). It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, with rolling hills and lush forests. The town is also known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mindat
- Monywa is a city located in central Myanmar, situated on the banks of the Chindwin River. It is the largest city in the Sagaing region and is well-known for its numerous Buddhist temples, ancient monu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Monywa
- Mrauk U is an ancient city located in the Rakhine State of Myanmar. It was the capital of the Mrauk U Kingdom from the 15th to 18th century and is now an important archaeological site. The city is fam... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mrauk U
- Myawaddy is a town located in the southeastern part of Myanmar near the Thai border. It is a popular trading hub for goods and produce between Myanmar and Thailand. The town is named after the legenda... CONTINUE here for a trip to Myawaddy
- Myeik is a town located in the southern part of Myanmar, near the border with Thailand. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Myeik is a major center for trade and c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Myeik
- Myitkyina is the capital city of Kachin State, located in the northernmost part of Myanmar. It is situated on the banks of the Irrawaddy River, about 1,480 kilometers from Yangon. The city has a popul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Myitkyina
- Ngapali Beach is a beautiful beach located on the west coast of Myanmar, facing the Bay of Bengal. The beach has soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, with palm trees lining the shore. It is a pop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ngapali Beach
- Ngwe Saung Beach is a popular tourist destination located in Myanmar. It is situated in the Ayeyarwady Region, on the western coast of the country; about 48 kilometers from the town of Pathein. The be... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ngwe Saung Beach
- Nyaung U is a town located in the Mandalay Region of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). It is situated close to the ancient city of Bagan, which is famous for its thousands of temples and pagodas. Nya... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nyaung U
- Putao is a town located in the far north of Myanmar. It is the northernmost town in Myanmar and it is situated in the Kachin State. Putao is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges, including the Hima... CONTINUE here for a trip to Putao
- Pyay is a city located in the Bago Region of Myanmar. It sits on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwady River and is approximately 260 kilometers northwest of Yangon, the country's largest city. The city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pyay
- Pyin Oo Lwin is a picturesque town located in the Mandalay Region of Myanmar. It was formerly known as Maymyo and was founded during the British colonial era as a hill station to escape the heat of lo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pyin Oo Lwin
- Sittwe is a city located in the western part of Myanmar, near the Bay of Bengal. It is the capital of the Rakhine State and has a population of around 200,000 people. Sittwe is known for its historica... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sittwe
- Tachileik is a city located in eastern Myanmar, near the border with Thailand. It is the capital of the Tachileik District in the Shan State. The city is a popular entry point for travelers into Myanm... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tachileik
- Taunggyi is the capital city of Shan State in Myanmar. It is located in eastern Myanmar, at an altitude of 4,712 feet (1,436 meters) above sea level. The city is famous for its annual Tazaungdaing Fes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taunggyi
- Thandwe is a coastal town located in the southwest of Myanmar (also known as Burma), specifically in the Rakhine State. It is situated on the Bay of Bengal and is known for its beautiful beaches, incl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thandwe
- Yangon, also known as Rangoon, is the largest city and former capital of Myanmar. It is located in the southern part of Myanmar and has a population of over 7 million people. The city is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yangon


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