Myanmar Travel Guide (Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Myanmar

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a Southeast Asian country located in Asia. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, natural beauty and scenic landscape. It is a land of golden pagodas, lush green forests, pristine beaches, vibrant markets, and friendly locals. Myanmar offers endless opportunities for exploration, adventure, and relaxation.

List of Places to Visit in Myanmar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Myanmar has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many historical places and museums. The Bagan Archaeological Zone is a must-visit place for history lovers. It is home to over 2,200 ancient temples and pagodas dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. The Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon is another top attraction which dates back to over 2,500 years ago and is one of the most sacred Buddhist pagodas in Myanmar. The National Museum of Myanmar and the Mandalay Palace are two more places that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history.

Natural Attractions of Myanmar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Myanmar is a land of natural wonders and abundant outdoor activities. Inle Lake, located in the Shan Hills in Central Myanmar, is a famous spot for its scenic beauty, stilted villages, and floating markets. The Golden Rock, also known as Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, is a unique religious site, perched precariously on the edge of a cliff. For those seeking an adventure, trekking in the Himalayan foothills, cycling around Bagan temples, or exploring the caves of Hpa-An are the perfect getaways.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Myanmar

Myanmar offers several hiking and biking tours for travelers who seek an adventure. One of the most popular routes is the Kalaw to Inle Lake trek, which takes trekkers through rural villages and scenic farmland. Another popular activity is cycling around the temples of Bagan, which gives tourists a chance to discover some of the region’s best-kept secrets.

Best Things to Do in Myanmar: Activities and Tours

Myanmar offers various activities and tours for travelers. A hot air balloon ride over the majestic landscapes of Bagan, boat tours on the Irrawaddy River, and beach hopping to discover the untouched islands of the Myeik Archipelago are some of the must-do things in Myanmar.

Week-Long Itinerary for Myanmar

For travelers looking to explore Myanmar in-depth, a week-long itinerary is a great way to experience the country’s best offerings. Starting with a two-day exploration of Yangon, followed by a three-day trip to Bagan and Mount Popa, and finishing with a two-day tour of Mandalay and surrounding villages, the itinerary gives visitors a chance to experience the country’s main highlights.

Food and Drink Scene of Myanmar

Myanmar offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, with its mix of Indian, Chinese, and Thai influences. There are many dishes to try, including the famous mohinga, a fish-based soup considered Myanmar’s national dish, Shan noodles, and tea leaf salad. Drinks such as Myanmar beer, Mandalay Rum, and Green Tea are also worth savoring.

Where to Stay in Myanmar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Myanmar offers accommodation options to suit all budgets, including luxury hotels, mid-range hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Some of the top options include the Rosewood Yangon, Sanctuary Ananda, and Belmond Governor’s Residence for luxury travelers, while budget-friendly travelers can opt for hostels and guesthouses in the main tourist hubs of Yangon and Bagan.

What to Buy in Myanmar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Myanmar’s unique handicrafts, such as lacquerware, hand-woven textiles, and jade, make for great souvenirs to take back home. Local markets such as the Bogyoke Aung San Market in Yangon and the Mani Sithu Market in Bagan are the perfect places to shop for these unique, locally made products.

Local Culture and Customs of Myanmar

Myanmar’s culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, and its traditions are closely tied to its religious practices. Religious festivals such as the Thingyan Water Festival and the Ananda Pagoda Festival are the perfect opportunities to experience the country’s customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Myanmar

The best time to visit Myanmar is from November to February when the skies are clear, and the weather is pleasant. However, visitors can also visit between March to May, which is the dry season, but it can get very hot. The monsoon season, from June to October, brings heavy rains and can cause floods and landslides.

Do’s and Don’ts of Myanmar

Do:

Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites
Learn a few Burmese phrases to communicate with locals
Respect the country’s customs and traditions

Don’t:

Wear shoes in religious buildings
Touch people on the head, as it is considered disrespectful
Take photographs of military personnel or installations without permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Myanmar

Myanmar is generally considered a safe country to travel. However, travelers are advised to take normal safety precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and not carrying large sums of cash.

Health in Myanmar

Visitors must be up to date on their vaccinations, including hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. Malaria and dengue fever are prevalent in some parts of the country, so travelers should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Myanmar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Myanmar

The main international airports in Myanmar are Yangon International Airport and Mandalay International Airport. These airports serve flights from major international cities such as Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.

Bus Stations Near Myanmar

There are several bus stations throughout Myanmar, with Yangon being the central hub. Buses offer an affordable way to travel within the country, but can be uncomfortable due to bumpy roads and a lack of air conditioning.

Other Options

Travelers can also enter Myanmar by boat, with cruise ships docking at ports in Yangon and Mandalay.

How to Get Around in Myanmar

Myanmar offers several ways to get around, including domestic flights, buses, taxis, and motorbikes. Taxis are available in most major cities, while motorbikes can be rented for those looking for an adventurous way to explore.

Where to Go Next from Myanmar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Myanmar’s neighboring countries, such as Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, are easily accessible and offer great opportunities to explore the region. Thailand’s Chiang Mai, Laos’ Luang Prabang and Cambodia’s Angkor Wat are popular destinations for further travel.

Conclusion

Myanmar is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its golden pagodas, scenic landscapes, and friendly locals, it’s a destination that should be on any traveler’s bucket list. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or relaxation, Myanmar offers something for everyone.