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A beautiful and culturally rich country cursed for decades with a brutally oppressive regime, Myanmar (Burma) has in recent years been making headlines for its tentative steps towards democracy. Following the softening and then removal of a fifteen-year tourism boycott led by the National League for Democracy – Myanmar’s leading political opposition party – tourist numbers have swollen but the infrastructure has not yet grown to accommodate them all. Although this means that finding a cheap bed is harder than before, it does make this a fascinating time to discover Myanmar’s glittering golden stupas, bountiful rice fields, enigmatic ruined temples and picturesque mountain paths. Most memorable of all, though, are the encounters with people eager to introduce foreigners to their country and their culture. What remains to be seen is whether today’s modest political reforms translate into lasting change.

Where to go in Myanmar (Burma)

The ethics of visiting myanmar, travel ideas for myanmar (burma), created by local experts.

Old World Myanmar

Myanmar offers visitors a tantalisingly exotic culture of gilded stupas, red-robed monks and elaborately carved teak palaces. Discover the country’s rich cultural heritage as you take in its spectacular charms.

Myanmar Family Adventure

An ideal short tour for families and first-time visitors to get a glimpse of what Myanmar is all about, discover the land of rice and rivers, breath-taking pagodas and stupas. Meet the locals in Mandalay, Yangon and Inle Lake and sleep on the Ayeyarwady for a real family adventure.

Love Yangon

Explore the intriguing architecture, captivating art and delightful culinary scene of Yangon with a visit to Myanmar’s bustling former capital.

Myanmar Dreams

One of the least developed countries in Southeast Asia, Myanmar offers a magical visitor experience. From your base in some of the country's most deluxe resorts, get out and explore the untouched treasures that Myanmar has to offer.

Classical Myanmar

Experience the best of Myanmar with this trip of a lifetime. See historic Yangon, before moving on to the great plains of beautiful Bagan with its ancient Buddhist pagodas. Discover Mandalay’s hidden gems, see ancient capitals and boat around Inle Lake.

Famous Waterways of Myanmar: Inle Lake and the Irrawaddy River

Experience Myanmar as never before: cruise along the Irrawaddy River, take a boat trip around Inle Lake and Sagar, and fly over Bagan and its many temples in a hot-air balloon. This comprehensive trip also explores the cities of Yangon and Mandalay.

Although there are now affordable flights from Bangkok to Mandalay, most people still start their visit in Yangon (Rangoon). This former capital makes a great introduction to the country, with evocative colonial-era buildings, some of the country’s best restaurants and the unmissable Shwedagon Paya – the holiest Buddhist site in the country. Relatively few tourists head southeast from Yangon, other than to the precariously balanced Golden Rock at Kyaiktiyo, but Mawlamyine and Hpa-an are great places to hang out, whether you’re exploring caves full of Buddhist art, sleeping at a mountain-top monastery or visiting home-based workshops.

West of Yangon are a handful of beaches, with Ngapali the most highly regarded, but Chaung Tha and Ngwe Saung much more affordable. Most travellers instead hasten north to Mandalay, the hub for ‘Upper Burma’ and the base for visiting the remains of several former capital cities, or to Bagan further west for its stunning temple-strewn plains. East of Mandalay is Kalaw, the starting point for some great walks. A trek from Kalaw is one way to reach the magnificent Inle Lake, with its stilt villages and famous leg-rowing fishermen. If time allows, a trip on the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River around Katha and Bhamo offers a great chance to meet locals, as do the hiking routes around Hsipaw in Shan State, which pass through ethnic minority villages.

Discover more places in Myanmar Burma

• Southeastern Myanmar Travel Guide
• Yangon (Rangoon) Travel Guide
• Mandalay and around Travel Guide

The question of whether to visit Myanmar – and if so, how to minimize any negative impact of that decision – has long been a complicated one. For many years, the official position of the National League for Democracy (NLD), the opposition political party of which Aung San Suu Kyi is the Chairperson and General Secretary, was to urge foreigners not to visit the country as it put money directly into the pockets of the regime. Still, some tourists did visit each year, arguing that the majority of their money was actually going to individuals and private businesses. Similarly, many people within Myanmar felt it was important that foreigners visited to see the truth of what was happening. In 2010, the NLD softened its stance, saying that it only opposed package and cruise tourism. Then, in May 2012, in the wake of the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon urging an easing of international sanctions against Myanmar, the NLD dropped the boycott entirely.

Nevertheless, it would be a mistake to think that the ethical dilemma has completely gone away. Although the new government is nominally civilian, in reality the same military figures are still largely in charge. In addition the prominent business leaders commonly described as cronies – who became rich through dealing with the regime, and in some cases allegedly through trading in arms or drugs – still own many of the country’s largest businesses, including hotel groups, banks and airlines. And although the government is praised internationally for reforms such as the release of some (but not all) political prisoners and a reduction in censorship (so that NLD posters are now a common sight), some people within the country see these as surface changes intended to please foreigners – particularly the US, which hopes to lure Myanmar away from its main trading partner, China – rather than anything more fundamental.

Furthermore, it should be remembered that the suppression of dissent and suspension of the democratic process were not the military junta’s only crimes. It was also fighting what has been described as the world’s longest-running civil war , with policies that amounted to ethnic cleansing and – in the eyes of some observers – attempted genocide. Although ceasefires have been signed with some of the ethnic militias, vast swathes of the country – particularly in northern Kachin State – remain off-limits to tourists while the new government continues to fight with rebel armies (some of which, it must be admitted, are motivated as much by profit from the drug trade as they are by a thirst for democracy). If free and fair elections are held in 2015 then the NLD is expected to win a landslide victory, but it remains to be seen how they propose to keep the peace with ethnic minority groups who consider the NLD to represent only the Bamar majority – particularly if the military’s stranglehold is weakened as democracy takes root. Already the NLD has been accused of becoming too close to the generals and their cronies as it seeks their political support and funding for social projects. Some compromise is inevitable, not least because the military can veto a proposed change to the constitution to allow Aung San Suu Kyi (as someone who married a foreign national) to run for President.

Bearing all this in mind, travellers should consider limiting the amount of their money that makes it to the government and its associates. Some expenses are unavoidable, including visa fees, while others are hard to avoid if you want to see some of the main tourist attractions, such as the $10 multi-site fee in Mandalay. It can also be difficult to know exactly which businesses in Myanmar are affiliated with the government or its cronies. On the other hand, by staying in budget accommodation your money is already more likely to be going to ordinary individuals or small family businesses than to companies with strong government links (and in this guide we have tried to avoid recommending such places). The same goes for services such as vehicle hire or trekking guides – there are plenty of opportunities to use small companies and freelancers, which often leads to a better experience anyway. Some visitors also consider avoiding planes and even trains (which are operated by the government).

For more information, see

tourismconcern.org.uk/burma .

Population 55 million

Language Burmese (Myanmar)

Currency Kyat (K)

Capital Nay Pyi Taw

International phone code +95

Time zone GMT + 6hr 30min

Top image: Mount Popa © Boyloso/Shutterstock

Travel advice for Myanmar (Burma)

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Myanmar (Burma)

• Travel Tips Myanmar (Burma) for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in Myanmar (Burma)
• Eating and drinking in Myanmar (Burma)
• Getting around Myanmar (Burma): Transportation Tips
• How to get to Myanmar (Burma)
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Myanmar (Burma)
• Best time to visit Myanmar (Burma)

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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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…

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…

National Museum (Yangon)

Even though the museum's collection is poorly labelled and often badly lit, the treasures that lie within this cavernous building deserve a viewing. The…

This small, heart-shaped lake has huge spiritual significance for the Mizo people, who inhabit both sides of the nearby Myanmar–India border. Rih Lake…

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A Complete Myanmar Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

December 24, 2019 · In: Myanmar

Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar is a county that may not be at the top of your must visit list. However, I’m here to tell you that it should be! Myanmar completely surprised me with it’s kind people, raw beauty and deep rooted history! I’ve put together this beginner’s guide to Myanmar and have included all my top travel tips so that you are prepared before you even go!

Having only recently opened its doors to tourism, the infrastructure isn’t exactly up to the same standards as some other Southeast Asia countries. However, it is a constant work in progress and the people are really working hard to make it easier for visitors to travel around.

This beginners guide to Myanmar is a good starting point if you’re planning to visit so save this guide and use as a reference before you land in this beautiful country!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you use these links to purchase a product or service I will receive a small compensation at no additional cost to you. Everything I recommend are products or services that I personally use and have been essential for me as a travel blogger. 

Traveling to Myanmar? Don’t leave home without getting travel insurance! You never know when something could go wrong and you’ll definitely want to be covered by insurance! Click HERE to get a quote!

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Table of Contents

Where is Myanmar? A Myanmar Map

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is located in Southeast Asia. It is surrounded by India and Bangladesh in the west, China in the north and Thailand and Laos on the east.

Is Myanmar Safe?

The short answer: yes. As long as you stick to the main tourist route. These destinations usually include Mandalay, Bagan Kalaw, Inle Lake, Yangon, Hpa-An and Ngapali. It was not that long ago that Myanmar opened its doors for tourism so there are still a lot of things they are figuring out. Also there is still a lot of conflict going on within Myanmar so it is advised to stick to the main areas and not go off exploring in other parts of the country.

How to Get to Myanmar

Most visitors will enter Myanmar through one of the main international airports. These would be Mandalay International Airport (MDL) and Yangon International Airport (RGN). When you fill out your e-visa form you will need to enter in the destination at which you will be arriving in country.

There are other smaller airport in which you can enter however they may be more expensive than arriving via the larger ones.

I had also read that it is not recommended to do any border crossings by land and that it is best to fly into one of the main airports. However, if you choose to do a border crossing then Thailand might be your best entry point.

When you arrive into Myanmar you will need to have a copy of your e-visa printed to show to immigration. I did not have to show an onward flight or a flight out of the country upon arrival but have heard that sometimes they will ask. Therefore I would be prepared with either a pre-booked flight to another destination or be ready to book one in the moment at the airport.

How to Get Around Myanmar

The first thing to include in this beginner’s guide to Myanmar and quite possibly the most important is how to get around! Myanmar has many different modes of transportation.

How you choose to travel throughout the country depends entirely on your budget, length of stay and personal preference. These are a few of the main options that you can use to travel around Myanmar and within the cities.  

Myanmar by Airplane

The majority of travelers with either fly in and out of Mandalay or Yangon as they have the larger international flight options. There are also many domestic flights available which would be beneficial for those needing to save time. They will be more expensive than the bus or train so keep that in mind.  

Myanmar by Train

I didn’t personally take the train while in Myanmar as I had heard some bad experiences from some friends. They had said that the trains we less organized and very uncomfortable compared to the buses. Also in some circumstances the trains actually took longer than the buses.  

Travel Myanmar by Bus

For every single journey in Myanmar I took the JJ’s VIP Express Bus. The bus had large, reclining seats, a working tv with english movies, water and either a snack or meal. They also provided a blanket because the bus gets very cold. I’d also recommend you bring a sweater and wear pants. Mostly all of the journeys are overnight usually leaving around 9 or 10PM. The travel time is around 6-10 hours depending on your destination.

The only issue I had with the night buses is that you’d arrive at your destination around 4 or 5AM and weren’t always allowed to check into your room. I did get lucky with a few of my hotels as they had the room available and let me in early so I could rest.

You can book your tickets on bookaway.com , 12go.asia , through your hotel or travel agency in town. If you want to pay with credit card it is best to book through one of the mentioned websites above! You can also book directly through the JJ’s website but I didn’t use that since the prices seemed to be the same and their website was a bit confusing.  The tickets cost anywhere from around $15-25 depending on your destination.

The bus stations for the JJ bus all have bathrooms which you can use just before leaving. The bus will also make stops along the way for the bathroom but just know that it usually is every few hours so I don’t recommend drinking a ton.  All of the restrooms that we stopped at along the way had toilet paper, however I would still recommend you bring your own.

I had a wonderful experience with the buses in Myanmar and would highly recommend them if you are traveling around the country.  

Use the GRAB App in Myanmar

In the bigger cities, Mandalay and Yangon, Grab Taxi is available. If you have a SIM card it will be super easy to use and save you the hassle of trying to haggle with the tuk tuk drivers at 4 in the morning when your bus arrives. The Grab app gives you multiple options for the type of vehicle and they even have the tuk tuk as an option. You will need to pay in cash for your ride but that’s the same with any other mode of transportation.  

If you don’t already have the Grab app downloaded to your phone be sure to do that prior to arriving to Asia as they will need to send you a verification code via text message.  

Myanmar Travel by Tuk Tuk

The tuk tuk is pretty much a standard option in many of the SE Asia countries. It is no different in Myanmar. If you decide to take a tuk tuk that you do not book through Grab make sure to negotiate hard. They will give you an outrageous price so be ready to haggle or walk away.  

Rent Motorbikes & E-Bikes

You can rent a motorbike in Myanmar but I would only do so in the bigger cities if you are a confident driver. The prices are around 8K kyat ($5.31 USD) for a manual bike or 15K kyat ($10 USD) for an automatic. The price is for 24 hours and includes a helmet.  These prices were the highest I have seen compared to many other countries in SE Asia. 

In Bagan, tourists can only rent the e-bike. This costs 8K kyat ($5.30 USD) per day and can be rented through your hotel or rental shops in town. The prices all seem to be around the same. The downside to the e-bike is that the battery doesn’t last that long and you’ll most likely have to return to your hotel at some point during the day to swap out your bike.  

Use a Myanmar Taxi

Another option to get around town is to hail a taxi. They will probably not be metered so you’ll have to agree on a price before stepping into the vehicle. I noticed that the prices for taxis were similar to Grab and cheaper than a tuk tuk. One time in Yangon I got quoted a cheaper price for a taxi than a Grab so it doesn’t hurt to ask around!

Archaeological Zone Fees in Myanmar

In Myanmar they have what’s called Archaeological Zone Fees. Now this only applies to a few of the cities and not everywhere. These fees are also only for tourists. In Inle Lake you have to pay 15,000 kyat ($10 USD) per person to enter the entire area. If you arrive by bus they will make you pay the archaeological zone fee as soon as you get off the bus or even while you are still on the bus.

In Bagan, the zone fees of 25,000 kyat ($16.75 USD) are paid once you exit the bus and drive via tuk tuk into town to get to your hotel. Here they will take a picture of you and give you a printed receipt. Keep this receipt on you or take a picture of it just in case you are asked to show it in the future.

In Mandalay you will have to pay zone fees which include your entrance fee into certain temples or sights. For example, the zone fee of 10,000 kyat ($6.50)  in Mandalay town covers the Mandalay Palace, Shwenandaw Monastery, Kuthodaw Pagoda and a few more. You will have to pay an additional zone fee of 5,000 kyat ($3.30 USD) for Mingun town to see the Mingun Pagoda and the Hsinbyume Pagoda.

Fees for Temples or Sights in Myanmar

At some of the temples you will will have to pay an entrance fee. The amount is usually smaller than the zone fee and you should only be required to pay this in places like Yangon. You should only be charged a fee for a specific temple or sight if there is not a zone fee or if there is a camera usage fee. This happened to me only in Inle Lake where I was charged a very small amount of 500 MMK ($0.30 USD) for a camera fee.

TIP: Only pay for your digital camera and say that you won’t be using your phone. They will try to charge for you for each device and no one is checking or cares once you’re in.

Phone Service Options including Data & Wifi

Once you arrive at the airport you will see a few different options for data plans and SIM cards for your phones. The two main ones we saw were Ooredoo and Mytel which offer a tourist pack depending on how long you will be in country and how many GB’s you think you’ll need.

Purchasing a SIM in the airport is about the same price as doing it out in town and it’ll save you a ton of hassle later so just do it there.

I chose to use Ooredoo and it was not that great but neither was the wifi anywhere we went. Therefore, I’m not sure if the other option would be much better. I think in general the wifi and internet just isn’t very stable in Myanmar.

Even if you stumble upon a cafe or restaurant that offers free wifi, as well as your hotel, the connection will be slow and almost non-existant.

I paid 11,500 MMK ($7.75 USD) for my data package which was for 9500 MB and good for 30 days.

Photography in Myanmar

Capturing the perfect photograph on your Myanmar holiday is very easy to do! Tripods are allowed everywhere and they don’t have any specific rules against photography. There are a few temples that require you to pay a “photography fee” and two of them were in Inle Lake.  

Drones are allowed in the country but are NOT allowed to be flown unless you have retained a permit. Even then they have some pretty strict laws on where you can and cannot fly. If you have a drone and have not received permission to fly I would not risk it. Our hotel in Bagan said that if you got caught flying a drone over the temples you would either receive a 500,000 kyat ($332) fine or get your drone confiscated.  Not sure how accurate that information is or whether the punishment is much harsher but I decided it wasn’t worth finding out. In summary, just don’t fly a drone. 

» Click HERE for my full Travel Photography Gear Guide!

Myanmar Visa: How to Apply for an e-Visa to Myanmar

Most passport holders from other countries will need to apply online for a visa to Myanmar prior to visiting. You will need to do this about 5 days before your arrival as it can sometimes take that long and you’ll need to find a place to print out your visa.

To apply, you will need a copy of your passport and a passport sized photo that you can upload. The cost is $50 per person and it is good for 28 days.  

NOTE: You CANNOT get a visa on arrival in Myanmar so make sure to apply online. 

» Click HERE to apply for your online (e-visa) to Myanmar!

Vaccination Recommendations

Many counties around the world recommend getting the same vaccinations prior to your trip. A few of these you may have already gotten when you were a child and some you may need to get or update before leaving your country. I know that some of these vaccinations can come with a hefty price tag but I guarantee you’d rather be safe than sorry.

As always it is best to talk to your doctor or a travel medical clinic to determine what the best options are for you.

The CDC (Center for Disease Control) recommends the following vaccinations for travelers heading to Myanmar: Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus, varicella (chickenpox), polio and the flu. Polio is actually a bit one right now due to recent outbreaks in Asia. If you had your polio vaccination as a child then confirm that you’ve also had your adult booster.

Other recommended vaccinations are: Hepatitis A, Thypoid, Japanese Encephalitis and Hepatitis B. You could also consider getting the Rabies series and you would need proof of Yellow Fever if you’ve come from a country where YF is present.

Another thing to keep in mind are the mosquitos. It is recommended to take anti-malarial medication while you are in Bagan but again, it is best to speak to a medical professional. Additionally, always wear insect repellent with DEET to prevent contracting Dengue Fever as it is very common in Asia.

The Currency in Myanmar & ATMS

The currency in Myanmar is the kyat or MMK. The conversion rate as of December 2019 is 1 USD = ~1,500 MMK. Most places, including your hotel, restaurants, motorbike rentals and entrance fees will only take cash so it’s best to have enough on you.

I only used kyat which I withdrew from an ATM in town. ATM’s can easily be found throughout the cities but as always I recommend using one attached to a bank just in case something happens and the machine doesn’t return your card.

Another thing to note is that sometimes your card will not work at certain ATM’s and will be rejected. Just try it in another machine before worrying that something is wrong with your card. Also keep in mind that some of the smaller towns like Inle Lake might be more difficult to get cash so I recommend bringing enough with you for the duration of your stay there.

Myanmar Weather: Best Time to Go

There are three different seasons in Myanmar. From October to around March is their dry, winter season. I went in November and the temperature during the day would get quite warm but at night it was cool and pleasant. There will be a brief time when it becomes very hot and that is from March to May.

Then from May to October is will be their wet, rainy season. However, don’t let that deter you from visiting during those months. Low season is often the best time to go due to less tourists and cheaper prices.

» TIP: Visit from the beginning of October until the beginning of April to see the hot air balloons. They do not fly during the rest of the year!

What to Wear in Myanmar

While traveling around Myanmar it is important to keep your shoulders and legs covered when entering the temples. This applies to both men and women. Many of the temples have strict rules and will either deny entry or have a skirt or shawl that you can borrow or rent. Also, wear easily removable shoes when you are visiting the temples as you will have to leave your shoes outside.

Since the weather is very hot, you’ll want to have light weight clothing that will keep you cool when out exploring for the day. However, in the evenings the temperature gets cooler and the overnight buses can be freezing. Therefore you’ll also want to pack a sweater, pants and maybe even a scarf! I bought one at the lotus & silk factory in Inle Lake!

Haggling in Myanmar

Since Myanmar is newer to the Southeast Asia travel circuit, haggling is not exactly common practice in the country. I found that the price given is usually the price you will end up paying. Granted I didn’t do much shopping there but you won’t find the same sort of haggling or negotiating game that is so commonly used throughout most of Southeast Asia.

The only thing I bought in Myanmar was a scarf at the lotus, silk & cotton factory in Inle Lake and the price was set.

Myanmar Travel Budget

Just like traveling anywhere in the world, your budget depends entirely on you. Myanmar is definitely a budget friendly destination but you could also splurge here if you wanted.

A hot air balloon ride in Bagan for example will set you back $350 USD a person. A fancy hotel could cost you well over $200 a night. However, you can also travel through Myanmar very inexpensively. Most rooms that I stayed in were under $20 a night for 2 people including breakfast. They were equipped with hot water, A/C and wifi even if the connection wasn’t that strong.

Dining in Myanmar can also be inexpensive if you eat at a local restaurant and stick to the standard dishes like fried noodles and fried rice.

Overall we spent on average around $45-60 a day for the 2 of us including hotel, food and transportation. Our daily expenses were a little higher on the days we had to pay the zone fees.

The Myanmar Time Zone

When checking the time you may notice that Myanmar has a 30-minute time difference compared to most of the world. However, this is not that uncommon. The same goes for India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and a few other countries so don’t think something is wrong with your phone!

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December 28, 2019 at 11:05 am

Myanmar looks absolutely incredible guys! Dying to go there 😍

December 29, 2019 at 4:09 am

Thank you Alina! It was such a stunning destination!

February 17, 2020 at 9:06 am

Thank you Alina! It is just a beautiful place with friendly people that you should definitely add it to your bucket list!

December 28, 2019 at 3:46 pm

Myanmar looks beautiful! It was never a place that had crossed our minds to visit but I think it might have earned a spot on the bucket list. Thanks for the fantastic guide!

February 17, 2020 at 9:05 am

Thank you Hannah! You would definitely love it here and you should add it to your bucket list to go asap!

December 28, 2019 at 3:57 pm

What excellent tips on traveling to Myanmar! I have been wanting to visit and these tips are super helpful to know prior to going. Thanks! 😁

January 23, 2020 at 3:38 am

Thank you so much Vanessa! I appreciate that so much and I am so glad that this post was helpful!

December 28, 2019 at 5:34 pm

Great tips! Look like a beautiful place to visit, thanks for sharing, I haven’t heard much on the destination

Thank you so much! It was a beautiful place and definitely one of my favorites for this trip!

December 28, 2019 at 5:52 pm

Ok how beautiful is Myanmar? This is such a helpful guide and answered all the questions I had. Can’t wait to actually visit Myanmar. I know I’ll get there at some point.

December 29, 2019 at 4:07 am

Thank you Emma! It really is such a beautiful country and let me know if you have any other questions when you finally make it there!

January 4, 2020 at 11:13 am

Such beautiful pictures! We’ve spent most of the past couple years in Southeast Asia, and we were planning to FINALLY visit Myanmar last fall and then ended up changing our plans. I’ve been wanting to go there for so long – hopefully on the next trip!

January 23, 2020 at 3:40 am

Thank you so much Jen! Such a bummer that you didn’t make it there during your time in SE Asia but now you’ll have something to look forward to when you go back!

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Myanmar Travel Guide

Myanmar (formerly Burma) is one of the best kept secrets of Southeast Asia travel. This is a wild, beautiful country with very friendly people.

Even though it hasn't been spoiled by tourism yet, that may change before long because there are so many amazing things to see here. We felt like time travelers stepping into some of the old temples and ruins of Bagan .

Read through this complete Myanmar travel guide for more info on what to expect!

Quick Facts

Burmese; 'Thank you' is 'chay-tzoo-beh'

Kyats & US Dollars

VOA or eVisa for 100+ nationalities

Tropical; hot & humid year round

Power Plugs

Type C / D / F / G

As a tourist, your main airports in Myanmar will be Yangon (code: RGN) and Mandalay (code: MDL). These have lots of direct flights from other countries in Southeast Asia and beyond. There's a small airport in Bagan (NYU), but most people drive there from Mandalay. You can shop for flights to Myanmar on Skyscanner.

In general, Myanmar is a pretty safe travel destination, with a low violent crime rate from the UN of 2.3 per 100k inhabitants (66% lower than the global average). There are a few areas not advised for travel because of unrest, but these are well away from the popular tourist spots. I’ve traveled in many parts of the country and didn't witness any crime. Myanmar got 4.5 million tourist arrivals in 2019.

The climate of Myanmar is tropical, so the weather is hot and humid year round, although the months from November to February are a bit cooler. The rainy season runs from June to September/October. It's still possible to visit Myanmar during the rainy season, but you might want to give yourself some extra days as a buffer in case of bad weather.

Myanmar can be a very cheap place to travel, with hostels and private hotels available from $8 USD . Meals are also cheap, costing about $1 to $3 depending on location.

Transportation in Myanmar is generally by motorbike or car, and these can be rented to self drive, but hiring a driver is cheap and often preferable. The Grab transportation app is great for getting around cities like Mandalay.

The best Myanmar tours & activities

Bagan Travel Guide

My latest blog posts about Myanmar

How To Visit The Temples Of Bagan In Myanmar

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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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Myanmar Travel Guide (Burma)

Your ultimate myanmar travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in myanmar. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Visiting  Myanmar  (Burma) was one of our most fulfilling travel experiences, but it wasn’t without its hardships. The 30 hours in transit from Kyaikto to Inle Lake was definitely a difficult journey. We transferred from bus, to van, to the back of a truck to a taxi. 

It was hot, it was crowded, it was long.  But the people were so friendly.  Not many could speak English, but it didn’t stop them from practicing with us every chance that they got.  

When we talked to the people on the street, they welcomed us.  They were happy that we were not staying in the big resorts run by the government and that we hired local guides, took local transit and stayed in small guest houses. 

The situation in Myanmar may break our hearts, but we think that if more people visit, opting to travel locally, maybe one day the doors will open up. This Myanmar travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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Fast Facts about Myanmar

• Myanmar power voltage is 230 V 50 Hz; Power sockets C, D, F, & G
• The local currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK) and is around 1,000 MMK o 1 USD
• Water is not potable in Myanmar.  Avoid water that is not boiled or bottled. Avoid raw vegetables and pre-cut fruit as much as possible.
• As of early 2014, functional ATMs have started to pop up around tourist areas and airports that take Visa/MasterCard as well as debit cards with  Plus  logos. Visa is more common than MasterCard while travellers cheques are still  not accepted  in Myanmar. It is also recommended the travellers.
• Bring cash in another major currency (preferably in US dollars or Euros) just in case. Only crisp, uncreased, unfolded, unmarked bills without any tears will be accepted. They must also be a 2009 series or later so make sure to double check the issue date of the bills.
• Photography and videography restrictions may apply in certain areas along with “shooting” fees. Some museums restrict photography while taking photographs in airports, railway stations and near any military installation is forbidden.

Things to See and Do in Myanmar

• Go Diving –  Myanmar has lots of places where you can go diving and snorkeling. For example, the Myeik Archipelago has many unexplored corals and aquatic life waiting to be seen.
• Take a Ride in a Hot Air Balloon –  If you like to go high into the sky, then a ride in a hot air balloon may be just the thing for you. They aren’t cheap, but if you can afford them, take a ride over Inle Lake.
• Visit Myanmar’s Golden Rock  – it is a sacred monument balancing on the side of Mount Kyaiktiyo. This giant boulder perched on the side of a mountain threatens to plunge into the valley below.  A pagoda is built on its top and it is covered in solid gold leaves that people leave as an offering to the Gods.
• Walk on U Bein Bridge –  U Bein Bridge is the oldest and longest bridge in the world. Although it was built in 1850, it still carries all the tourists that walk across its 1.2-kilometer length every year.
• Visit the Incredible Temples of Bagan  – Built between 1000 and 1300 AD, Bagan has to be one of the least visited temple complexes in South East Asia, and yet it is hands down, one of the most beautiful. 
• Explore Inle Lake  – Known for it’s one legged rowers and handmade craft shops, we spent days exploring the villages that line the second largest lake in the country formerly known as Burma.
• Take a Walking Tour –  Myanmar is a beautiful country, and lovers of the outdoors will enjoy just walking around and learning about the nation’s history. Try taking a guided walking tour of Yangon.

Myanmar Travel Guides

The Incredible Temples of Bagan, Myanmar

• Experiencing Mandalay: Myanmar’s Hidden Gem
• Kyaiktiyo Pagoda – The Golden Rock of Myanmar

Accommodation

Budget  – If you are looking to stay in a low budget hotel room in Myanmar, it will cost around $25. If you are good with a bed in a hostel dorm, it will cost about $10 per night. Most will come with a hot shower, free wifi, and breakfast.

Mid Range  – Mid-range hotels in Myanmar usually cost between $40 – $60 per night. At this budget, the hotel rooms will have private bathrooms, amenities like air conditioning and free wifi, offer breakfast services, and have a fitness center.

High End  – Staying at a high-end hotel in Myanmar can cost anywhere between $100 – $350. These expensive residences are usually elegantly designed, their rooms come with flat-screen television sets, their bathrooms come with jacuzzis, and there is generally at least one outdoor pool.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and VRBO     for the best deals on accommodation in Myanmar.

Tea leaf salad –  Tea leaf salad is the most popular food in Myanmar. It is made hand-mixing sour leaves with shreds of cabbage, slices of tomatoes, as well as nuts and peas.

Shan-style rice –  This fish-based rice is served at most eating houses in Myanmar. It is made by mixing cooked rice with turmeric and then topping it with fresh fish and garlic oil.

Curry –  Myanmar curry is delicious and is best served with fish, shrimp, mutton, or pork. 

Tea Shop Meals –  The people of Myanmar value their tea shops, and you can go there to enjoy delicious tea and Myanmar snacks like deep-fried bread served alongside a potato curry.

Shan-style Noodles –  This delicious dish includes a thick porridge cooked with chickpea flour. This porridge is served over a bed of rice noodles and chicken or pork and then topped with chili oil.

The Best Ways to Get Around Myanmar

Getting to myanmar:.

Flights:  Yangon International and Mandalay International Airports have flights coming in from dozens of other countries in Asia.

You can check for the best flights to Myanmar on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : There are many bus services in Myanmar. Depending on where you are going, you can get on a public city bus, an overnight sleeper bus, or a long-distance day bus for relatively cheap.

Taxis / Uber : Most taxi services in Myanmar involve sharing with other passengers. However, if you want a private taxi, you can call an Uber.

Car Rental:  If you want to rent a car, you will be able to do so in Myanmar. However, this is rather expensive, and car rentals cost about $75 per day on average.

You can also compare  prices here .

When to go To Myanmar

• Myanmar can get pretty hot during the year, and so most people prefer to visit between November to February when it is winter. However, this is also a peak period in Myanmar, so it is advisable to visit during Myanmar’s rainy season from May to October.

Where to Stay in Myanmar

30th Corner Boutique Hostel –  This clean hostel is located in the heart of downtown Yangon. The beds are comfortable, the rooms are spacious and well furnished. This is an excellent way to save money while exploring the city.

Best Western Chinatown Hotel –  Best Western Chinatown Hotel is a superb mid-range hotel that gives excellent quality at an affordable price. Their private rooms are tastefully furnished and come with airconditioning, satellite TV, and wifi.

The Strand Yangon –  The Strand Yangon is a classic hotel that was built in 1901 and refurbished in 2016. This elegant hotel rocks her guests in the lap of luxury with modern-day comforts and a colonial feel.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

What to Pack for Myanmar

Myanmar is also known for its high temperatures (which can surpass 40°C) from March – June while the colder months follow the end of the rains (October – January).

Altitude also effects temperatures and as a result, hill stations, lakes and Himalayan foothills are cooler than the southern lowland and coastal regions.

• Insect Repellent  – Along with natural beauty and hot weather, Myanmar is known for its pretty vicious mosquitos. Travellers are advised to bring a mosquito net, insect spray or a mosquito headnet, as these products are hard to find outside of Yangon.
• Flashlight  –  The power is not that great in Myanmar and the streets are dark at night, so make sure to have a flashlight or head torch handy at all times.
• Female Sanitary Products  – tampons are harder to come by than sanitary pads, so make sure to bring your preferred brand form home if you use the former.
• Modesty is key.  Myanmar is still considered a conservative country. Travellers are recommended to wear appropriate clothing: women should ideally wear long pants or skirts to cover their knees and avoid deep V necks or sleeveless tops, while men should try to keep their shoulders and legs covered.
• Warm clothes  – it does cool off at night, so make sure to pack a light-weight sweater, cardigan or pashmina to keep you warm on those chilly nights.
• Refillable water bottle  – as mentioned above, the water is not potable in Myanmar. Consider taking a portable water bottle on your trip.

See our packing tips:  packing tips

Myanmar Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Myanmar Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Myanmar  click here .

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda – The Golden Rock of Myanmar

Myanmar Travel Guide: Customize a Personalized Trip

The best duration for a first Myanmar tour is 7-9 days, allowing wide-ranging visits, from the remnants of four royal capitals in Mandalay and the tranquil glassy Inle Lake, to the wonders of the ancient ruins of Bagan and the cultural hub of the largest city Yangon. If you have a few more days to spare, consider a trekking trip from Kalaw, or a leisurely holiday at Ngapali beach; or move on to explore Thailand.

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Known as the “Golden Land,” Myanmar is an alluring tourist destination. Cut off from the rest of the world during an extended period of self-imposed isolation, the country formerly known as Burma rarely fails to weave its spell on modern-day visitors. After being cocooned for much of the 20th century, things are changing rapidly now. Luxury tourism, in particular, has a secure foothold in such popular destinations as temple-rich Bagan and tranquil Inle Lake, as well as in some less well-known places. With a democratically elected government now steering the nation, further progress seems assured. Nevertheless, with its kaleidoscopic mix of ethnicities and enduring traditions, Myanmar so far remains endearingly unchanged when compared with neighbouring countries in the region. Even the biggest city, Yangon, with its condos and growing selection of bars, retains an old world allure. With Myanmar continuing to open up to visitors, now is the perfect time to sample its heady and distinctive offerings.

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When’s the best time to go to Myanmar?

Picking the optimum time to travel is vital in Myanmar, which tends to have more extreme weather than other countries in the region. The southwest monsoon brings rain from May to October and roads can become impassable during this period. The post-monsoon window between November and February is dry and cool-ish and is the best time to visit most of Myanmar. From March to May, the country becomes extremely hot and travel can be highly uncomfortable.

How to get around Myanmar

Although there are now several open land borders between Thailand and Myanmar, the vast majority of visitors enter the country by air at either Yangon or Mandalay. There is also an international airport in Nay Pyi Daw, but the capital is of limited interest to tourists. The cheapest way to reach Myanmar from outside the region is to fly to a regional hub such as Bangkok or Singapore and then hop on a connecting flight to Yangon or Mandalay.

With much of the country still off-limits to foreign visitors due to ongoing ethnic conflict, forward planning is necessary when visiting Myanmar.

For major destinations in the country, the best option is usually to fly domestically. If you are on a budget, buses are faster and cheaper than trains, but don’t expect much in the way of comfort. Taxis are cheap and plentiful in Yangon, but be warned: The city’s traffic is reliably appalling and short journeys can take a long time, especially during peak hours.

Food and drink to try in Myanmar

Drawing on techniques from neighboring countries such as India, Thailand, China, and Bangladesh, Myanmar’s cuisine is a mélange of influences that varies wildly from region to region. In the west, Rakhine State specializes in spicy curries while the food in Shan State is very similar to that of northern Thailand. Salads are a feature of Myanmar cuisine. Known as athouq , they include maji-yweq thouq , made with young tamarind leaves, and leq-p’eq , better known as tea-leaf salad. The best places to sample the delights of Myanmar cuisine are in tourist centers like Yangon and Inle Lake where upscale venues rub shoulders with more humble, but still desirable, options.

Culture in Myanmar

Myanmar’s cultural highlights are very much intertwined with the country’s rich spiritual fabric. Buddhism is practiced by an estimated 89% of the population and the country is scattered with ornate pagodas and stunning temple complexes. The apex of this spirituality can be found at Yangon’s Shwedagon Pagoda and also at leading attractions like Bagan and the archeologically rich site of Mrauk U in Rakhine State. The country is well-known for its arts and crafts, which are also heavily influenced by Buddhism. Artisanal traditions include woodcarving, stone carving, turnery, painting, and lacquerware. The best place to sample contemporary Myanmar culture is in Yangon, the country’s biggest city, which has a smattering of modern art galleries, museums, and venues for live music and DJs.

Myanmar’s colorful and lively festivals are based on the lunar calendar and can really enhance your trip if it happens to coincide with one. The most popular festival in the calendar is Thingyan, the annual water festival where locals take to the streets with water pistols and buckets of water as the temperatures soar. November is the date for the Fire Balloon Festival at Taunggyi, east of Inle Lake. At night, balloons are released with fireworks strapped underneath them—with predictably explosive consequences. Also worth catching are the New Year celebrations in Shan State, one of the country’s most ethnically diverse regions. Expect live bands, traditional dancing, and—on New Year’s Eve itself—fireworks and a party vibe.

Local travel tips for Myanmar

Don’t expect super-fast internet. Coverage in the country (especially outside Yangon and Mandalay) is still limited and speeds are notoriously spotty and slow, even in the big population centers. There are now plenty of ATMs in Yangon and other major population centers so access to cash is not as much of an issue as it was previously. If you are carrying U.S. dollars to exchange, try to make sure they are in mint condition as there’s a distinct possibility they won’t be accepted otherwise. Try to book a hotel well in advance of your trip. Hotels remain in short supply in the country and can be expensive for what they are. If you don’t book your preferred choice ahead of time you might be forced to pay over the odds for something substandard.

Guide Editor

Duncan Forgan After arriving on something of a whim, Duncan Forgan has been living and working in Bangkok since 2013. In a previous life he was a features writer for the national newspapers in his native Scotland, an editor of various travel guides in the Middle East, and a long-term freelancer in Vietnam. Now he prefers to discover new street food and to drive his motorbike around the sois. When he’s not comparing venues for Isaan food, he writes and broadcasts for a variety of outlets worldwide on Asian travel, culture, and cuisine.

Introducing Myanmar

About myanmar.

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Myanmar travel guide

Once a pariah state, Myanmar – previously known as Burma – is fast becoming the must-see destination in Southeast Asia, helped by an incredible array of tourist sights: golden stupas as tall as skyscrapers, ancient ruins, fascinating hill tribes, unexplored jungles, peaceful beach resorts, legions of monks, and mesmerising cities made legendary by writers like Rudyard Kipling and George Orwell.

Ruled by a secretive military junta, Burma was closed for decades to the outside world. When it finally opened, travellers were initially restricted to a handful of locations: the magnificent temples of Bagan, the floating villages of Inle Lake, the monasteries of Mandalay, and Yangon, the former capital, with its colonial relics and towering pagodas.

That was then. With the end of the travel boycott called by Aung San Suu Kyi, travellers are queuing up to visit Myanmar, captivated by the idea of seeing what Asia was like before the tourists arrived. Nevertheless, the government still controls where visitors can go and what they can see, and many people have qualms that their tourist dollars help fund the military, which stands accused of widespread abuses.

Those who do visit discover a fascinating, and famously friendly culture on the threshold between tradition and modernity. Monasteries are the foundation of Burmese society and even in rapidly expanding Yangon life is focused on Buddhist rituals. The sense of devotion is tangible at the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Paya, which towers over Yangon like an enormous golden pillar.

As Myanmar has opened up to the outside world, travellers have pushed beyond the Bagan-Inle-Mandalay triangle, visiting peaceful outposts like Kalaw, Hsipaw and Kengtung and trekking to remote tribal villages. Smaller numbers make it to the jungles of northern Myanmar or the rain-drenched ports of the far south and west. Myanmar even has its own patch of the Himalaya, accessed from remote Putao in the far north.

Through it all, the mighty Irrawaddy River snakes like a twisting Burmese python, offering some of the most atmospheric river journeys in Southeast Asia. Nevertheless, Myanmar remains a controversial destination, promising significant challenges as well as rewarding experiences.

676,578 sq km (261,227 sq miles).

54,363,426 (UN estimate 2016).

83.2 per sq km.

Nay Pyi Taw.

Acting President Myint Swe since 2021, transferred all authority to Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing.

Travel Advice

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• Kachin State
• Kayah State
• Rakhine State
• Sagaing and Magway regions
• Tanintharyi Region, excluding Myeik township, and the archipelago and townships south of Tanintharyi township
• Shan State North
• North Mandalay Region; the townships north of Mandalay City and Pyin Oo Lwin
• East of the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway in Bago region

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• Shan State South and East
• Mandalay Region
• Tanintharyi Region south of Tanintharyi township
• the rest of Bago region

The conflict is Myanmar is increasingly volatile. The security situation may deteriorate at short notice. Exercise caution, and consider any travel plans carefully.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Myanmar’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Myanmar set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Myanmar Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Myanmar.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Myanmar, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive.

Visa requirements

British nationals must apply for a visa to enter Myanmar. If you have any queries about visas or entry requirements, check with your nearest Myanmar embassy.

If you overstay your visa, you will be liable to pay a fine and could face detention.

Applying for a visa

You can apply for a tourist visa online .

To apply for a business e-visa you need to be sponsored by a registered Myanmar company or a registered Chamber of Commerce association. Submit the proof of the invitation with your visa application in the form of a letter personally addressed to you, along with a copy of the company’s registration certificate . The letter must state the purpose and timeframe of your visit.

Non-governmental organisations and international non-governmental organisations are not eligible to sponsor visas.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Myanmar, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk .

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Myanmar guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Myanmar. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Importing unmanned aerial systems (drones) without prior permission from the authorities is potentially illegal.

Taking money into Myanmar

There is significant disruption to banking services. You may find that some ATMs are out of operation. Some bank branches may be closed, and some banks have limits to daily withdrawals. Electronic payments and transfers are mostly working, but many commercial outlets will only accept cash.

Expect to rely on cash for most of your stay. If you plan to bring more than 10,000 US dollars-worth of any foreign currency, you must declare this to customs on arrival or risk imprisonment. 

If you have to pay a visa fine or for excess baggage on departure, you will need to pay in US dollars.

Once you’re in Myanmar it can be difficult to change US dollars into kyats. Many moneychangers are closing due to pressure from the authorities. Notes are typically inspected very carefully.

Due to concerns over counterfeit money, exchange counters may refuse dollars with the letters AB and CB at the start of the serial number (top left-hand corner of the note).

Check your US dollars are in good condition, with no pen marks, folds or tears. Exchange counters prefer high-denomination bills.

If you want to pay for hotels or restaurants with a credit or debit card, phone ahead to check this will be possible.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.  

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Myanmar

Terrorist attacks in Myanmar cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of trusted local sources.

Political situation

In 2021, the Myanmar military took control of the country by force and declared a state of emergency. There has been widespread political violence involving the deaths of hundreds of ordinary people and active clashes between armed actors.

After the executions of high-profile political prisoners in July 2022, tensions across the country have increased. There have been a number of explosions in public places. Visitors to Myanmar should be extra vigilant.

There is a higher likelihood of opposition attacks after sunset and an increased presence of security forces on occasions of national significance, including:   

• Myanmar National Day (4 January)
• the anniversary of the 2021 coup (1 February)
• Union Day (12 February)
• Peasants Day (2 March)
• Armed Forces Day (27 March)
• Martyrs’ Day (19 July)
• the anniversary of the execution of political prisoners (23 to 25 July)
• the lapsing of the state of emergency (1 August)
• the 8888 uprising (8 August)

Some areas in Myanmar are under martial law; others have curfews or ‘stay at home’ orders. In Yangon, a number of townships have a curfew from 1am to 3am. Ensure you are aware of local rules and restrictions before you arrive in an area.

Access to any parts of Myanmar can be restricted by the authorities at any time. Review and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Opposition activists regularly detonate small-scale improvised explosive devices across the country. While small-scale, these devices are becoming increasingly sophisticated and the attacks more deadly. The main targets are:

• military and government buildings
• police stations
• businesses, hotels and restaurants linked to the military, or seen as such

There have also been attacks on schools and hospitals.

Be cautious and avoid all demonstrations, large crowds and political gatherings. Do not attempt to photograph any gatherings. If you ignore military instructions or curfews, you could be detained and, if you’re convicted, you could face a lengthy prison sentence. Curfews are in place nationwide. Local wards may unexpectedly change rules and curfew times, so keep up to date with local rules.

The most common crimes in Myanmar are non-violent crimes of opportunity, including:

• bag snatching
• gem or confidence scams
• pickpocketing
• theft of unattended possessions in public places or hotel rooms

Myanmar is largely a cash society. Make sure you have access to your cash, but avoid displaying it or other valuables in public.

Protecting your belongings

Thieves often distract their victims by asking questions, begging for money, offering items for sale, or simply bumping or jostling. Take extra care of your belongings and be wary of strangers who approach you.

Be wary of merchants offering to sell gems, gold or semi-precious stones. You could lose your money or get drawn into an illegal activity. Do not buy gems or minerals from an unlicensed source.

Be cautious of job offers that appear too good to be true in Myanmar and neighbouring countries. There are cyber scam centres operating in eastern Myanmar, particularly in the Myawaddy district in eastern Kayin and Tachileik township in eastern Shan. Victims are trafficked into Myanmar to carry out online scams. They are held in poor living conditions and subjected to severe mistreatment. Some victims have had their passports confiscated, and held to ransom.

FCDO is aware of fraudulent emails being sent by individuals claiming to work for British firms seeking loans to advance their business interests in Myanmar. These have falsely stated they are acting on the advice of the British Embassy.

The risk of landmines in rural areas is serious, particularly in northern and central Rakhine, northern Shan and Kachin states. There is evidence of landmine use having spread to other areas since the coup in 2021. Some areas with known mines are marked by signs, but this practice is not widespread. Be extremely cautious if you must leave the main roads in these areas.

Mobile phones and internet

The Myanmar authorities periodically cut off access to the internet and have blocked some websites.

Many visitors travel with a spare mobile phone and buy a SIM card for a nominal fee when they arrive. They can top up as needed.

Laws and cultural differences

Detention and arrest.

There is a risk of arbitrary detention and arrest, particularly for journalists and human rights activists. The criminal justice process followed in such cases falls below international standards. Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality. If you are a dual national with Myanmar nationality you will be treated as a Myanmar national by local authorities.

In February, Myanmar authorities announced that Myanmar men and women could be required, by law, to serve in the armed forces. Length of service can depend on criteria such as age, occupation, and whether there is a state of emergency. Myanmar does not recognise dual nationality. If you are a British-Myanmar dual national, holding a British passport may not exempt you from this law. The plans for implementation of this law remain unclear.

Myanmar’s defamation laws give broad scope for individuals to bring arbitrary charges, which could result in criminal penalties, including a prison sentence. Foreigners have been subject to criminal investigations for acts such as posting a critical review of a hotel online.

If you’re arrested and convicted of a crime in Myanmar, you can expect a long prison sentence. Conditions in detention are extremely poor. Pre-trial detention can also last many months.

The legal process in Myanmar is unpredictable, lacks transparency and is open to interference from powerful political and business interests. The investigation and trial process falls far below the standard expected in the UK. There are limits to the assistance the British Embassy can offer to those with concerns about the fairness of their trial, as we are unable to interfere in the legal processes of a host country.

Religious customs

Respect religious customs when visiting Buddhist religious sites. Shorts and sleeveless tops will cause offence. You should remove shoes and socks before entering a pagoda or monastery.

Under Myanmar law, insulting religion is a prosecutable offence. Insulting religion is a broad term and can include any disrespectful depiction or image of Buddha or other religious representation. This includes tattoos of Buddha.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for drug trafficking include a prison sentence of a minimum 15 years or even the death penalty.

For possession of illegal drugs in Myanmar, you could get a fine and a prison sentence of a minimum 5 years to a maximum of 10 years, regardless of the quantity of drugs.

Photography and drones

Do not take photographs or videos of the police, demonstrations, military installations or military personnel.

Using a drone around government buildings, religious buildings or even tourist sites can result in criminal penalties, including prison sentences. If you wish to bring and use a drone in Myanmar, get permission from the Myanmar authorities.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Myanmar for men and women, although in practice these laws are not consistently enforced. If convicted, the punishment can be up to life imprisonment. There have been reports of police using threats of prosecution to extort bribes. This is alleged to include arbitrary arrest and detention.

Public attitudes towards LGBT+ people can be mixed. Up until recently, there have been increasingly large Pride festivals and growing visibility of the LGBT+ community, including gay bars and clubs. Public displays of affection, whether heterosexual or LGBT+, are frowned upon in Myanmar culture.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

Myanmar is a party to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Over 800 species of animals and plants are banned from international trade and a further 30,000 are strictly controlled by legislation. The restrictions cover some exotic souvenirs, such as those made from turtle shell.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Myanmar, see information on driving abroad .

The permits and licenses needed to drive in Myanmar may change at short notice. Contact your car hire company at the earliest opportunity to find out the latest requirements. At a minimum, you should carry both the 1969 international driving permit ( IDP ) and your UK driving license. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Overland travel can be hazardous, particularly in the rainy season from May to October. Roads can become impassable and bridges are sometimes damaged. Travel outside the key destinations of Yangon, Mandalay, Bago and Irrawaddy regions is often restricted.

Road safety standards are significantly lower than in the UK. Serious road accidents are common. Under Myanmar law, the driver of a car involved in an accident with a pedestrian is always at fault.

Many vehicles, including taxis and buses, are in a poor condition. Although driving is on the right in Myanmar, the majority of cars are right-hand drive.

Rail travel

Railway safety standards are significantly below those in the UK.

Sea and river travel

River transport may not meet internationally recognised safety standards and search and rescue facilities may be limited.

During the monsoon season from May to October, heavy rains can cause flooding. Make sure life jackets are available if you travel by boat or ferry, and check local weather conditions before undertaking a river journey.

Get local advice about where it is safe to swim or dive. Bathing in fresh water carries a risk of catching schistosomiasis .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

Myanmar normally experiences cyclones between mid-April and mid-May, and during October and November. You can monitor the progress of tropical cyclones on the website of the World Meteorological Organization . Floods and landslides may occur. Check local weather reports before travelling, particularly in coastal areas.

Earthquakes

There is a risk of earthquakes and tremors. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami .  

This section has safety advice for regions of Myanmar. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Border areas

Myanmar has suffered from prolonged internal conflicts, involving a number of ethnic armed organisations in the country’s border areas. Violence is severe and the situation is unpredictable in most ethnic states and border areas.

The Myanmar authorities restrict travel to most border areas. There are active military operations involving the use of air strikes, artillery bombardments and ground troops.

• North Mandalay Region – the townships north of Mandalay City and Pyin Oo Lwin

In October 2023, ethnic armed organisations launched a military offensive in Shan State North. Travellers on the Mandalay-Lashio road should remain vigilant and exercise caution due to a heightened risk of attacks – particularly after dark.

Yangon Region

While FCDO no longer advises against all but essential travel to Yangon Region, there is still a heightened risk.

The security situation remains volatile and can change at short notice. If you are visiting Yangon Region, remain vigilant, exercise caution and seek local advice, especially if travelling to townships which are under martial law. The townships under martial law are subject to change and include:

• Hlaing Thayar
• Shwe Pyithar
• North Okkalapa
• North Dagon
• South Dagon
• Dagon Seakkan

Security incidents in Yangon, like in the rest of Myanmar, continue primarily to target military locations and personnel affiliated to the military. Attacks may affect civilians and bystanders, including in areas regularly frequented by foreign nationals. This may include hotels, restaurants and accommodation complexes. Military installations, such as checkpoints, are also targets.

If you encounter a threatening or intimidating situation, do not try to make your way through it. Turn around and move to safety.

Yangon-Mandalay Expressway

There are recent reports of attacks on the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway and National Highway 1 that links Yangon to Mandalay. Attacks have included the use of landmines and improvised explosive devices. There is an increased risk of attacks after dark, and an unofficial curfew is in place. Take care and use these roads during daylight only.

Police and military checkpoints

If you travel in Myanmar, you are likely to pass through police or military checkpoints. Always carry your passport containing your visa.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 192 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip: 

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Myanmar
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page  

See what health risks you’ll face in Myanmar including: 

• schistosomiasis – a parasitic infection caught in river water
• Hepatitis A
• chikungunya

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Myanmar. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .  

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Prescriptions from the UK are not accepted in pharmacies in Myanmar. Pharmaceutical products for sale could be counterfeit.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Healthcare in Myanmar

The Myanmar public health sector is under severe strain. Private medical facilities continue to operate. In areas where an overnight curfew is in place, such as Yangon, you may struggle to access emergency healthcare during the night.

You’re unlikely to find competent medical advice and treatment easily outside Yangon and Mandalay, and any services provided will not be to the standard of those in the UK. Evacuation is likely to be necessary for serious illness or injury.

You’ll usually need to make cash payments up front to get medical treatment in Myanmar. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. The UK government cannot pay for medical expenses overseas.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Myanmar where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Myanmar .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Myanmar

Ambulance: 192         

Police: 199

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers , funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters  in Myanmar
• dealing with a  death in Myanmar
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Myanmar
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Myanmar and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Yangon .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Myanmar  on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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MYANMAR: UPCOMING FESTIVAL

Inle Lake is usually crowded in September. Thousands of locals and visitors flock to Inle Lake to witness the highly anticipated Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival that features enshrined Buddha images. Offer donations to the pagodas and watch locals sing and dance to folk songs, and watch the thrilling one-legged boat race participated by male locals. Manuha Pagoda Festival is also celebrated in September, with locals parading the streets with offerings and paper figurines of Lord Buddha’s reincarnations.

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MYANMAR TRAVEL GUIDE

Land of golden pagodas; of ancient kingdoms and capitals; of temples and ruins. Land of green forests, plateaus and mountains; of miles and miles of coastline; of the Rivers Ayeyarwady, Salween and Mekong. Land of a people yearning and striving for democracy. The largest country in South East Asia, Myanmar, or Burma, as it was once called and as many people still prefer, is a culturally rich country, one that remains largely unexplored by tourists.

Whether or not you should visit Myanmar depends on your personal circumstances and travel preferences. The country has a rich culture and history, and many tourists enjoy visiting its temples and pagodas. However, Myanmar has been facing political and economic turmoil in recent years and there are safety concerns in some parts of the country, particularly in areas affected by ongoing conflict. It's always best to stay informed and check the latest travel advisories before planning any trip.

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• Capital : Naypyidaw
• Currency : kyat (MMK)
• Area : 678,500 km²
• Population : 53,71 million (2018)
• Language : Burmese (official), English, Shan dialects, Kayin, Mon, Chinese dialects (Hokkien, Cantonese), Hindi, Tamil
• Religion :Buddhist 89%, Christian 4% (Baptist 3%, Roman Catholic 1%), Muslim 4%, animist 1%, other 2% (mostly Hindu)
• Electricity : 220V/50Hz (American and/or Central Europe plug)
• 4 January, Independence Day
• 12 February, Union Day
• 2 March, Peasants’ Day
• 27 March, Armed Forces Day
• 13–16 April, Thingyan (New Year)
• 1 May, Labor Day
• 19 July, Martyrs’ Day

Also, the full moon dates according to the Buddhist calendar of Tabaung, Kasone (Buddha Day), Waso (beginning of Buddhist Lent), Thadingyut (end of Buddhist Lent), and Tazaungmon (Festival of Lights), as well as National Day on the tenth waning moon of Tazaungmone.

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Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

Peak Season

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BEST TIME TO VISIT MYANMAR

Myanmar has three main seasons:

• The Hot Season (March to May): The temperatures in Myanmar can get quite hot during this time, with temperatures often reaching over 35°C (95°F). This is also the time when the country starts to experience the monsoon season, which brings heavy rain and humidity to many parts of the country.
• The Rainy Season (June to October): The rainy season is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity. This is the time when the countryside is at its greenest, and many waterfalls and rivers are at their fullest. It can also be quite challenging to travel during this time, as the rain can make some roads impassable and make it harder to see the sights.
• The Cool Season (November to February): This is the best time to visit Myanmar as the weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and less chance of rain. The skies are also generally clearer during this time, making it easier to see the country's many temples and pagodas.

It is important to note that Myanmar is a large country with varied climates, and the seasons can vary depending on the region.

The best time to visit Myanmar depends on what you want to see and do during your trip.

• For those looking to explore the country's temples and pagodas, the best time to visit is during the cool and dry season from November to February when temperatures are comfortable and there is less chance of rain.
• If you want to see the famous Bagan hot air balloons, the best time to visit is from October to April.
• For those looking to explore the natural beauty of Myanmar, the best time to visit is during the rainy season from June to October when the countryside is lush and green, and waterfalls are at their fullest.

It is also important to note that Myanmar is a large country with varied climates. Some parts of the country can get quite hot, while others can be quite cool and damp.

BEST TIME FOR:

Snow Sports

The best time for outdoor activities in Myanmar is from October to April. You will still find snow on the higher summits over this period.

The best time Myanmar's beautiful beaches is from November to April, with the peak season from December to February. May to October is the monsoon season and beaches close. Some of the best beaches are: Ngapali Beach, Mergui Archipelago, Ngwe Saung, Chaung Tha Beach, Kanthaya Beach, Nabule Beach, Pa Nyit Beach, Po Po Kyauk Beach, Teyzit Beach, Kabyar Wa Beach, Kanthaya Beach and Nabule Beach.

The most consistent surf swells in Myanmar are from mid May to late September, however, these reliable waves also bring with them a pretty steady supply of rain, since it is the monsoon season. 

The best time to venture out for a surf is either towards the beginning or end of the season, when you can enjoy the waves without the rain.

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MYANMAR TRAVEL COSTS

The cost of traveling to Myanmar can vary depending on your travel style and the length of your trip. Some estimates for a budget trip to Myanmar include:

• Accommodation : Budget-friendly options such as guesthouses and hostels can cost around $10-$20 per night. Mid-range options such as hotels can cost around $30-$60 per night.
• Food : Local street food and market food can be very cheap, with prices ranging from $1-$3 per meal. Eating at restaurants can cost around $5-$15 per meal.
• Transportation : Local buses and trains are very cheap and can cost around $1-$5 per journey. Taxis and private cars are also available but are more expensive.
• Entrance fees : Many of the temples and pagodas in Myanmar have entrance fees, which can range from $1-$10 per site.
• Activities : Visiting markets, temples, pagodas, and other cultural sites are free in Myanmar. However, activities such as hot air balloon ride, trekking, and boat rides can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from $50-$200.

It's worth noting that prices are subject to change and may fluctuate depending on the time of year and the current economic climate.

Here is a sample budget for a one-week trip to Myanmar, assuming a budget-friendly travel style:

• Accommodation: $140 for 7 nights in budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels
• Food: $70 for 7 days, eating mostly street food and market food
• Transportation: $50 for local buses and trains to get around
• Entrance fees: $50 for visiting temples and pagodas
• Activities: $0 (not including any activities)
• Miscellaneous expenses: $50 for incidentals such as souvenirs, laundry, and other small expenses.

Total cost: $360

It's important to note that this is just a rough estimate and your actual costs may vary depending on your specific travel plans and preferences. Also, prices are subject to change and may fluctuate depending on the time of year and the current economic climate. It's always best to check current prices and budget accordingly.

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Find discount flights to myanmar, travel tips for myanmar.

Here are some travel tips for Myanmar:

• Respect the culture : Myanmar is a predominantly Buddhist country, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas, and remove your shoes before entering.
• Be prepared for power outages : Power outages are common in Myanmar, so it's a good idea to bring a power bank to charge your devices.
• Bring cash : Credit cards are not widely accepted in Myanmar, so it's best to have cash on hand for expenses.
• Learn a few basic words in Burmese: Knowing a few basic words in the local language can be helpful when communicating with locals.
• Be flexible with your itinerary : Myanmar is a developing country and infrastructure can be limited. Be prepared for delays and unexpected changes to your plans.
• Get a SIM card : It is recommended to get a local SIM card for internet access as it will be needed for transportation and booking accommodation.
• Be mindful of the political situation : Myanmar has been facing political and economic turmoil in recent years, and there are safety concerns in some parts of the country. Stay informed and check the latest travel advisories before planning any trip.
• Do your research : Myanmar is a large country with many different regions and ethnic groups, each with its own unique culture and history. Doing some research beforehand can help you make the most of your trip.
• Be prepared for the heat : Myanmar can get very hot, especially during the hot season, so make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
• Be prepared for the rainy season : Be prepared for heavy rainfall, high humidity and muddy roads during the rainy season, bring a good rain jacket and comfortable shoes.

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF MYANMAR

Myanmar is a large country with many different regions, each with its own unique culture and history. Some of the main regions of Myanmar and their highlights include:

• Yangon : Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar and the former capital. Highlights of Yangon include the Shwedagon Pagoda, the largest and most sacred pagoda in Myanmar, and the Sule Pagoda, which is over 2,000 years old. The city also has a number of colonial-era buildings and a lively street food scene.
• Bagan : Bagan is an ancient city located in central Myanmar and is known for its thousands of temples and pagodas. Highlights of Bagan include visiting the many temples and pagodas, such as the Ananda Temple, the Shwezigon Pagoda, and the Dhammayangyi Temple. Visitors can also take a hot air balloon ride over the temples or a sunset boat ride on the Irrawaddy River.
• Inle Lake : Inle Lake is a large freshwater lake located in the Shan Hills of eastern Myanmar. The lake is known for its floating gardens and stilt houses, as well as its unique leg-rowing fishermen. Visitors can also explore the many temples and monasteries located around the lake, such as the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the Indein Pagoda complex and the Nga Hpe Chaung Monastery.
• Mandalay : Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar and the former royal capital. Highlights of Mandalay include the Mandalay Palace, the Kuthodaw Pagoda, and the Mahamuni Pagoda, which houses a Buddha statue covered in gold leaf. Visitors can also take a day trip to the nearby ancient city of Amarapura, home of the U Bein Bridge, which is the oldest and longest teakwood bridge in the world.
• Kyaing Tong : Kyaing Tong is a remote town in the east of Myanmar and is known for its many ethnic minority villages and traditional cultures. Visitors can explore the many hill tribes and their traditional ways of life, such as the Akha, Lahu, and Lisu tribes. Kyaing Tong is also home to the Golden Triangle, a scenic area with a beautiful waterfall and the confluence of three rivers.
• Rakhine state : Rakhine state is located in the west of Myanmar, and it is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional fishing villages and ancient cities. Visitors can explore the Mrauk U, an ancient city that was once the capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, as well as visit local traditional fishing village.
• Chin state : Chin state is located in the northwest of Myanmar and is known for its traditional Chin villages and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the many traditional Chin villages, where they can see traditional Chin tattoos and houses made of bamboo.

These are just some examples of the many regions of Myanmar and their highlights, there are many more places to discover and explore in this beautiful country.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN MYANMAR

Myanmar is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, and there are many things to see and do when visiting. Some of the best things to see and do in Myanmar include:

• Explore the temples and pagodas : Myanmar is home to thousands of temples and pagodas, many of which are ancient and steeped in history. Some of the most notable temples and pagodas to visit include the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the Bagan Temples in Bagan, and the Mahamuni Pagoda in Mandalay.
• Take a boat trip on Inle Lake : Inle Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake located in the Shan Hills of eastern Myanmar, known for its floating gardens and stilt houses. Visitors can take a boat trip on the lake to explore the local villages, temples, and monasteries, as well as see the unique leg-rowing fishermen.
• Visit the Golden Rock : The Golden Rock, also known as Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, is a famous pilgrimage site located in the Mon State of Myanmar. The pagoda is perched on top of a granite boulder covered in gold leaf and is said to be held in place by a single strand of the Buddha's hair.
• Explore the ancient cities : Myanmar has many ancient cities that are worth visiting, such as Bagan, which is home to thousands of temples and pagodas, and Mrauk U, which was once the capital of the Rakhine Kingdom.
• Visit the hill tribes : Myanmar is home to many ethnic minority groups, each with their own unique culture and traditions. Visitors can explore the hill tribes and their traditional ways of life, such as the Akha, Lahu, and Lisu tribes in Kyaing Tong.
• Take a scenic drive : Myanmar has many beautiful scenic drives, such as the journey from Bagan to Mandalay, which takes you through the picturesque countryside of central Myanmar.
• Relax on the beaches : Myanmar has some beautiful beaches, such as Ngapali beach and Chaungtha beach, where visitors can relax, swim and enjoy the sun.
• Visit the local markets : Myanmar has many local markets where visitors can see the local produce and purchase traditional handicrafts.
• Take a hot air balloon ride : A hot air balloon ride over Bagan's temples and pagodas is an unforgettable experience for visitors, as it offers a bird's-eye view of the ancient city.
• Attend a traditional performance : Myanmar has a rich tradition of dance and music, and visitors can attend a traditional performance such as a puppet show or a traditional dance performance.

These are just a few examples of the many things to see and do in Myanmar. The country is full of surprises and it's a journey of discovery.

WHAT TO EAT IN MYANMAR

Myanmar's cuisine is a unique blend of Indian, Chinese, and Thai influences, and there are many delicious dishes to try when visiting the country. Some of the most popular and traditional dishes in Myanmar include:

• Mohinga : This is considered the national dish of Myanmar and is a rice noodle and fish soup that is often served for breakfast.
• Lahpet thoke : This is a traditional Burmese salad made with fermented tea leaves and mixed with peanuts, sesame, dried shrimp, and other ingredients.
• Curry : Myanmar has a variety of curries, such as chicken curry and fish curry, which are often served with rice or noodles.
• Samosas : These are deep-fried or baked pastries filled with meat or vegetables and are a popular snack in Myanmar.
• Shan noodles : These are a type of thin rice noodles that are often served in a spicy broth with various toppings, such as chicken or shrimp.
• Mango salad : This is a popular dish made with ripe mangoes, chili, and fish sauce.
• Nan gyi thoke : This is a Burmese dish made from flat rice noodles and served with chicken or beef curry.
• Fried rice : This dish is a popular in Myanmar, and it's usually served with chicken or seafood.
• Roti : This is a type of Indian-style flatbread that is often served as a side dish with curry.
• Burmese desserts : Myanmar has a variety of sweet treats, such as Burmese-style ice cream, sweet glutinous rice cakes, and traditional Burmese desserts made with coconut milk and jaggery.

When eating in Myanmar, it's important to note that many restaurants and street vendors may not have high hygiene standards, so it's best to be cautious about where you eat and what you eat. Also, it's better to avoid raw food, such as salads and fresh fruits, as the water used to clean them might not be potable.

LGBTQ IN MYANMAR

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WHERE TO STAY IN MYANMAR

When visiting Myanmar for the first time, choosing the right area to stay is crucial for experiencing the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating history of this Southeast Asian gem.

Where To Stay In Yangon:

As the largest city and commercial hub of Myanmar, Yangon showcases a blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and iconic landmarks such as the Shwedagon Pagoda, offering a vibrant introduction to the country's culture and history.

Budget:   Backpacker Hostel provides budget-friendly accommodation with dormitory rooms, a communal kitchen, and a central location near Yangon's attractions, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Mid-range:   Pan Pacific Yangon offers mid-range accommodations with stylish rooms, excellent amenities, and a convenient location in downtown Yangon, ensuring comfort and accessibility during your stay.

Luxury:   The Strand Yangon provides luxurious accommodations in a historic colonial building, featuring opulent suites, personalized service, and fine dining options, offering an unforgettable stay in the heart of Yangon.

Where To Stay In Bagan:

Bagan, with its thousands of ancient temples dotting the landscape, offers a mesmerizing journey back in time and is a must-visit destination for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike.

Budget:   Ostello Bello Bagan provides budget-friendly accommodation with comfortable beds, a rooftop terrace, and a social atmosphere, offering a unique backpacker experience in Bagan.

Mid-range:   Bagan Lodge offers mid-range accommodations with spacious bungalows, a swimming pool, and lush gardens, providing a peaceful retreat after exploring the temples of Bagan.

Luxury:   Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort offers luxurious accommodations with elegant villas, private pools, and panoramic views of the Bagan temples, ensuring a truly indulgent experience in this ancient city.

Where To Stay In Inle Lake:

Inle Lake, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and traditional floating villages, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, with opportunities for boat tours, cycling, and cultural encounters with the local Intha people.

Budget:   Remember Inn provides budget-friendly accommodation with simple rooms, lake views, and friendly staff, offering a cozy stay on the shores of Inle Lake without breaking the bank.

Mid-range:   Inle Heritage Stilt Houses offers mid-range accommodations in traditional wooden cottages, eco-friendly practices, and a focus on sustainable tourism, providing an authentic experience on Inle Lake.

Luxury:   Sanctum Inle Resort offers luxurious accommodations with spacious suites, lakefront villas, and upscale amenities, including a spa and gourmet dining options, ensuring a lavish retreat in the tranquility of Inle Lake.

CHOOSE ANOTHER DESTINATION

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FLIGHTS Find a cheap flight by using  Sky scanner  or  Momondo . These are our favourite  flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com , we have found  Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. 

TRANSPORT ​

DiscoverCars.com is a leader in online car rental bookings; we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.  12Go   connects the world door-to-door, from transfers to flights, under the same user-friendly ticket.

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Culture
• 4.4 Politics
• 4.5 Climate
• 4.8 Holidays
• 4.9 Units of measure
• 4.10 Tourist information
• 6.1.1 Visa-free
• 6.1.2 E-Visa
• 6.1.3 Visa on arrival
• 6.1.4 Visa at an embassy or consulate
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3.1 Thailand
• 6.3.2 China
• 6.3.3 India
• 6.3.5 Bangladesh
• 6.4 By boat
• 7.1 Restricted areas
• 7.2 By plane
• 7.3 By train
• 7.4 By boat
• 7.6 By pick-up
• 7.8 By taxi
• 7.9 By ride-hailing
• 7.10 By motorbike
• 7.11 By bicycle
• 7.12 On foot
• 10.1.1 US dollars
• 10.1.2 ATMs
• 10.1.3 Credit cards
• 10.1.4 Money exchange
• 10.1.5 Travellers cheques
• 10.2.1 Tipping
• 10.2.2 Costs
• 10.2.3 What to buy
• 12.1 Teahouses
• 15.2 Illegal substances
• 15.3 Begging
• 15.4 Fake monks
• 15.5 Corruption
• 15.6 Driving conditions
• 15.7 Civil conflict
• 15.8 Politics
• 16.2 Healthcare
• 17.1 Politics
• 17.2 Religion
• 18.1 Telephone
• 18.3 Internet

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Myanmar (မြန်မာ myanma ), or Burma is a country in Southeast Asia .

Since the 1960s, the country, which was previously a part of the British Raj , has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development.

Setting aside its challenges, the country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike.

• 19.7475 96.115 1 Naypyidaw ( formerly Pyinmana ) — newly designated capital of the country
• 17.343333 96.498056 2 Bago ( formerly Pegu ) — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights
• 9.983333 98.55 3 Kawthaung — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets
• 21.983056 96.084444 4 Mandalay — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar
• 16.484722 97.625833 5 Mawlamyine ( Moulmein ) — capital of Mon State and the third largest city
• 22.028056 96.470556 6 Pyin U Lwin ( Maymyo ) — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station
• 20.780556 97.037222 7 Taunggyi — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle
• 16.733333 95.966667 8 Twante — a delta town that is famous for pottery
• 16.795 96.16 9 Yangon ( formerly Rangoon ) — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture

Other destinations

• 20.55 96.916667 2 Inle Lake — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk
• 21.291389 99.603889 3 Kengtung — between Mong La (on the border with China) and Tachileik (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the Ann (black teeth people) and Akha tribes and trekking
• 17.3 97.016667 4 Kyaiktiyo — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site
• 20.920278 95.253889 5 Mount Popa — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan
• 20.59 93.1925 6 Mrauk U — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era
• 18.43716 94.3232 7 Ngapali — beach resort in western Rakhine State , on the Bay of Bengal
• 16.858333 94.391667 8 Ngwe Saung — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach
• 18.82 95.215556 9 Pyay — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site Sri Kittara , the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE
• 16.766667 94.733333 10 Pathein — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches

Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from India , while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through Tibet and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on Bagan . The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of Thailand ( Ayutthaya ) and India ( Manipur ), and shrank under attacks from China and internal rebellions.

Eventually, Britain conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to Ratnagiri in what is today India . Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The Burma Road was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from Kanchanaburi in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour — Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of Mandalay , were severely damaged during the war.

Burmese independence fighters led by General Aung San initially cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British, with the Japanese promising to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name Union of Burma was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence.

The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system.

The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed Myanmar .

Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years.

Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections.

In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the USA imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens.

The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including Sittwe , Mandalay and Yangon ). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, Australia , Canada and the European Union to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders.

Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended.

In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's de facto head of government.

In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the military regime controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight.

Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring Thailand , Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions.

One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the Nats , or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha.

The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities.

The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia.

Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country.

Myanmar, officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and de jure head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper Amyotha Hluttaw (House of Nationalities), and a lower Pyithu Hluttaw (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the de facto head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship.

Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay).

In the highlands such as Inle Lake and Pyin U Lwin , winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in Kachin State , there are permanently snow-capped mountains.

• From the Land of the Green Ghosts by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ( ISBN 0007116829 )
• The Glass Palace by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture.
• The River of Lost Footsteps by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and Mrauk-U ) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ( ISBN 0374163421 )
• The Trouser People by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ( ISBN 0140294457 )
• Finding George Orwell in Burma by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ( ISBN 1594200521 )
• Burma Chronicles by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ( ISBN 9781897299500 )
• Insight Myanmar was formerly a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021.
• Myanmar Musings is the podcast of the Myanmar Research Centre at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than Insight Myanmar , it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar.
• 4 January: Independence Day
• January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho
• 12 February: Union Day
• March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung
• 27 March: Armed Forces Day
• April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand
• May: Full Moon Day of Kason
• July: Full Moon Day of Waso
• October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut
• 19 July: Martyrs Day
• November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon
• 25 December: Christmas Day

Units of measure

Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the metric system (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and new road signs. However, much usage of imperial system and the traditional Burmese units of measurement persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial.

Tourist information

• Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism website

The official language of Myanmar is Burmese (မြန်မာစကား mien ma za ga ) (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and Sanskrit .

There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak Mandarin and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly Hokkien or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages.

Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English.

Entry requirements

The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for visa policy .

Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter by air , and their stay does not exceed the following number of days:

• 14 days: Brunei , Cambodia , Laos , Philippines , Thailand
• 30 days: Russia , Vietnam

Citizens of Singapore may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry.

These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance.

E-Visa are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the Myanmar Immigration's web-site , which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours).

Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at Kawthaung

Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is not allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker.

Visa on arrival

As of October 2019, visas on arrival are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas).

There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member.

Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa.

Visa at an embassy or consulate

You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there — especially for Bangkok and Chiang Mai in Thailand, Delhi in India, Hong Kong in China, and Washington D.C. in the US.

Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee.

Myanmar's main international airport is located at Yangon , the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either Singapore or Bangkok , both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon.

Myanmar also has a second international airport at Mandalay , which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries.

For a current list of airlines and destinations, see Airport of Yangon . The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier Myanmar National Airines and privately owned Myanmar Airways International .

Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted.

Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and Thailand at Tachileik / Mae Sai , Myawaddy / Mae Sot , Htee Kee / Ban Phunamron and the Three Pagoda Pass . The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order.

Foreigners can enter Myanmar at Muse via Ruili (in Yunnan ), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from Mandalay to Kunming , and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay.

A land border crossing exists between India and Myanmar at Moreh/ Tamu and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are not valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance.

This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible.

It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of Manipur which borders Myanmar.

The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects Shan State in Myanmar with Luang Namtha Province in Laos , in a very remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance.

It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and Bangladesh independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted landmines along the frontier to discourage smugglers.

Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between Ranong , Thailand and Kawthaung , Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected.

Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward.

Restricted areas

Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to Mrauk U , Kalewa , Putao , Kengtung ). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to Kalewa can be made in Shwebo ) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in Yangon . Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours) office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes:

• Mrauk U Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you.
• Myitkyina - Indawgyi Lake . Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you.
• Shwebo - Kalewa . A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat.
• Pa-O Self-Administered Zone in Shan State (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in Taunggyi , but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this.

All other permits must be obtained in Yangon.

Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance

Myanmar is not North Korea , and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance.

Companies that can help with internal visas:

• Mr Myanmar Travel
• Remote Asia Travel
• Travel Myanmar

The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances.

Flag carrier Myanmar National Airlines operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety.

There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop.

All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal.

Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing.

A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from Mandalay , up hairpin bends to Pyin U Lwin , and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay.

Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects Mawlamyine to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175   km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours.

There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices)

Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices.

There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days.

Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option.

Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel.

A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey.

The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates.

Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car.

The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ( Bhamo - Katha , for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat.

You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters.

Traffic drives on the right in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand.

Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, Vietnam . Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake.

In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse!

Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar.

All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate.

By ride-hailing

The main ride hailing app is Grab , which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted.

By motorbike

In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them.

In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money.

Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings.

Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around Yangon brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the Shwedagon Pagoda , add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are Bago with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of Twante known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of Kyaiktiyo with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff.

It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information.

The former city of Bagan is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. Mrauk U is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from Mandalay is Inwa , another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss Pyin U Lwin , a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures.

The country has its fair share of natural attractions . Inle Lake is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few beaches , such as Chaung Tha and Ngapali . If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself.

Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major independent Burmese kingdoms dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country.

Myanmar is an excellent country for trekking . Kalaw is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. Kengtung is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while Hsipaw has some great treks to waterfalls. Birdwatching can be done around Inle Lake .

Myanmar's national sport is chinlone , played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible.

Spectacular scuba diving and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in southeastern Myanmar .

Myanmar's currency is the kyat , pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of K (singular or plural) or Ks (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is MMK . Wikivoyage articles will use kyat to denote the currency. Pya are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats.

You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 kyat and 50 pya banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable.

The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition.

Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as Singapore will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates.

Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver.

Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places.

There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots.

If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM.

Note : Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country.

Credit cards

Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places.

Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card ( cash advance ), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy.

Money exchange

The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out.

The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, once again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market (as high as 5000/dollar as of 2024). Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the black market is highly illegal, with sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracking down.

Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate.

Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks.

Ensure that foreign notes are:

• Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged.
• Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn.
• Undamaged – No tears, missing bits, holes, repairs or anything of that sort.
• Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded.
• For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago.
• There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy.
• Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten.
• When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans.

Travellers cheques

Travellers cheques are not accepted in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon).

When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to bargain hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the Way Way Nay Boycott app .

Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you.

Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive.

It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to loose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat.

What to buy

• Antiques – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.)
• Art – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market.
• Gemstones – Myanmar is best known as for its jade and rubies (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in Mogok was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine sapphires . These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in Yangon has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in Mandalay is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off.
• Lacquerware – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is Bagan in Central Myanmar , and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality.
• Tapestries – Known as kalaga , or shwe chi doe . There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the jatakas ) or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the hintha , and the kalong are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique shwe chi doe !
• Textiles – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong).

Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, fish sauce (ငံပြာရည် ngan bya yay ) is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay.

The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead.

Specific dishes include:

• Curry – Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries.
• Samosa thoke (samosa salad) – A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa.
• Mohinga (pronounced mo-HIN-ga ) – A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions.
• Mote lin-mayar (Couples snacks) – Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs.
• Sticky rice – Served plain or with turmeric or black rice
• Nan Gyi Thoke (pronounced nan gyi thou ) – A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar.
• Onnokauswe (pronounced oun-NO-kao-sui ) – A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore.
• Shan food – The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily.
• Shan tofu – Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad.
• Laphet thote (pronounced la-peh THOU ) – A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice.
• Chinese food – Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain.
• Kachin food – Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking.

Tap water in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. Bottled water is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit.

Similar to Chinese tea, Yenwejan is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give Yenwejan . Be sure to order it with Laphet thote (customary/good combination). Milk tea (လက်ဖက်ရည် La-Phet-Yay ) is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, very sweet.

Alcohol is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. Toddy juice ( ta-YEI ) is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is Shwe le maw , and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong.

Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as alcohol which does not burn when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage.

There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza).

Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles.

Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness:

• bone mahn : balanced
• cho seh : sweet
• kyaw p'daung : sweeter
• pan brown : bitter and sweet
• jah hseent : light, with milk, not strong
• pancho : strong
• bow hseent : less strong
• noe hseent dee : milk tea without sugar

You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese.

Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea sheh - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a tankie and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least something .

Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in Thailand or Vietnam . Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except in Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room.

The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive.

Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night.

At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military.

Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring Thailand .

The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in Thailand or Malaysia . However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars.

Since 2005, Yangon and Mandalay have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in Bago .

Illegal substances

Despite traditional taboos against it, begging has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as Bago and Bagan . Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is very generous.

Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud.

Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese.

Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month.

Driving conditions

The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, Vietnam , which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents.

Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads.

Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around.

Civil conflict

Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations.

Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government.

Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight.

Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics.

However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles.

Stay healthy

Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. Never drink tap water . Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as dengue fever , Japanese encephalitis and malaria are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals.

As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it".

The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019).

Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to Thailand or Singapore for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly.

The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good international medical clinic at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery.

Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting.

Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided.

Both men and women wear a longyi , a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance.

When giving and receiving business cards , always use your right hand, with your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude.

Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as bo , which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with U (pronounced "oo", as in s oo n) or "Uncle" for men, and Daw or "Auntie" for women.

Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in Thailand ) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands.

Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead.

Tread carefully when discussing relations with China . Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups.

Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century.

As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake.

Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect.

Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken very seriously in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with no degree of leniency if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do.

Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese.

Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and should not be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism.

Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00

Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format +95 1 234-5678 where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number.

You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries.

If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites.

International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels.

Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store.

With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services 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

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Yangon and Bagan Bus – VIP Ticket (One Way)

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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

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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.

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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

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Laos Travel Essentials

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

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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.

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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.

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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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Myanmar Travel Guide

Myanmar travel essentials.

Ideal Duration: 10-14 days for exploring Yangon, Bagan, and Inle Lake; longer for a comprehensive exploration including Mandalay and the northern regions

Currency: Burmese Kyat (MMK)

Accommodation Cost (per night in USD): Dorm bed: $5-15 Budget: $20-40 Mid-range: $50-80 Luxury: $100 and above

Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD): Budget: $5-15 Mid-range: $20-40

Visa Policy for Indians: Visa required

Visa Policy for Other Nationals: Visa required for most countries

Getting In Myanmar: Yangon International Airport (RGN), Mandalay International Airport (MDL) Read More

Getting Around Myanmar: Buses, trains, boats, domestic flights Read More

"Myanmar, Be Enchanted"

Myanmar tourism.

Officially known as the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, this country is the largest of the mainland Southeast Asian states by area. Nestled at the base of the Himalayas and bordered by India, Thailand, Laos, Bangladesh, China, and the Bay of Bengal, Myanmar promises a beautiful journey of culture, history, and adventure. 

One of the cheapest countries to travel to, Myanmar boasts of stunning mountain ranges, nature trails, pristine beaches, and thriving cities in equal measure. With a history dating back to more than two thousand years, Myanmar is home to gorgeous Pagodas like the golden Shwedagon Monastery and huge statues of the Buddha that sit atop valleys with breathtaking mountain backdrops. The ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites of Pyu and Bagan promise a trip into the glorious past of the country, while the serene and idyllic beaches at Ngwesaung and Thandwe are the perfect getaway from the bustle of the city.  Adrenaline junkies are in for a treat here, with hot air balloon rides, high treks, snorkelling, paragliding, and camping opportunities aplenty – these are easy on the pocket too, so budget travellers can try their hand at adventure too. The mirror-like Inle Lake offers a charming boat ride serenaded by the mountains and swaying palms. In contrast, the bustling night street markets ensure the perfect mix of culture, history, and fun! This predominantly Buddhist country is famous for its arts and crafts, especially its sand paintings and drapes. With the perfect blend of Tibetan, Indian, Chinese and Thai cuisine, the multicultural Burmese food is a must-try for its delectable spices, decadent meat, and creamy sauces. The country holds a host of surprises for solo travellers, honeymooners, and families alike, so be prepared to be enchanted by the Golden Land of Myanmar!

Tourist Places to Visit In Myanmar

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Holidify's opinion on Travel to Myanmar

What's great about travelling to myanmar.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Two-thousand year old cities, Huge golden Pagodas, Pleasant weather

What's Not So Great about Travelling to Myanmar?

Certain areas are politically troubled, and may break out in riots

Who should Travel to Myanmar?

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• Interview: Chinese tourists crucial for Myanmar's tourism industry, says Myanmar's minister

BAGAN, Myanmar, Aug. 24 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar's Union Minister for Hotels and Tourism Thet Thet Khine said that as China has a large population and strong economy, Chinese tourists have a big impact on tourism, not just in Myanmar but worldwide.

In an exclusive interview with Xinhua on Friday, Thet Thet Khine said, "China has a large population and a strong economy. It also has significant spending power."

She also mentioned that Thailand and China were the top contributors to tourist arrivals in Myanmar in 2023, and China is an important market for Myanmar's tourism industry.

"China is a very big tourism market for Myanmar. That's why Myanmar offers visa-on-arrival and e-visa options for Chinese visitors. The arrival of Chinese visitors is crucial for us," she said.

She added that many Myanmar citizens also visit China, and there are mutual benefits of tourism between the two countries. "Tourism allows people from both countries to get in touch, build trust, and understand each other better, which will lead to stronger friendships. This will also increase trade and investment through tourism, benefiting both sides," she said.

In an effort to attract more Chinese tourists, the ministry organized a familiarization trip in May for 43 Chinese participants, including tour operators, social influencers, and media personnel, to visit popular tourist destinations in Myanmar.

Addressing the language barrier, Thet Thet Khine also said that Chinese language courses of HSK 1 and 2 have been offered to the ministry staff. "We also plan to offer more Chinese language courses for those working in the tourism industry, including hotel staff," she added.

Additionally, the union minister stressed the need for joint efforts to revive Myanmar's tourism industry after the pandemic, highlighting the importance of working with other ministries and the private sector. "We must work hard to strengthen our tourism industry. Tourism will boost cultural exchange, mutual understanding, respect, cooperation, and trade," she explained.

Thet Thet Khine also said that there are broader economic benefits and cooperation fostered by tourism, saying, "Through economic collaboration, we can achieve shared prosperity, reduce the development gap, and enjoy development and prosperity together."

"Building a community with a shared future is crucial," she added. Enditem

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