Eastern Myanmar Travel Guide
Discover the hidden gems of Eastern Myanmar with this comprehensive tour guide. Find out about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.
- Introduction to Eastern Myanmar
- List of Places to Visit in Eastern Myanmar
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Myanmar
- Best Things to Do in Eastern Myanmar: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Myanmar
- Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Myanmar
- Where to Stay in Eastern Myanmar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Eastern Myanmar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Myanmar
- Best Time to Visit Eastern Myanmar
- Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Myanmar
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Eastern Myanmar: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Eastern Myanmar
- Where to Go Next from Eastern Myanmar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Eastern Myanmar
Situated in Southeast Asia, Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a beautiful country with a diverse range of cultures, traditions, and landscapes. Eastern Myanmar, the least explored region in the country, boasts stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and warm and welcoming locals. This comprehensive tour guide will help you plan a memorable trip to Eastern Myanmar.
List of Places to Visit in Eastern Myanmar
Eastern Myanmar is filled with hidden gems and unexplored destinations. Below are some must-visit places when you are in Eastern Myanmar:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Golden Palace Monastery
Located in Mandalay, Golden Palace Monastery is an architectural marvel. Built entirely out of teak wood, it was the residence of King Mindon during the late 19th century. The monastery houses beautiful carvings and impressive sculptures.
Hpa-an
Hpa-an is the capital of Kayin State and is famous for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is surrounded by mountains and has some of the most stunning caves, monasteries, and temples. Visit Kyauk Ka-Lat Pagoda, Saddar Cave, and the famous Kawgun Cave.
Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock)
Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is a spectacular Buddhist temple located on top of a granite boulder. It is believed that Buddha’s hair is enshrined inside the pagoda, making it a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world.
Natural Attractions of Eastern Myanmar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Inle Lake
Inle Lake is one of the most picturesque destinations in Eastern Myanmar. It is situated in the Shan State and is surrounded by beautiful mountains. The lake is famous for its fishermen who use a unique leg-rowing technique.
Popa Mountain National Park
Popa Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. It is home to Mount Popa, an extinct volcano that offers stunning panoramic views. You can go hiking or opt for a guided tour to experience the beauty of the national park.
Ngapali Beach
Ngapali is a breathtaking beach destination in Myanmar. It offers crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush green foliage. The beach is perfect for swimming, beachside walks, and sunbathing.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Myanmar
Eastern Myanmar is a paradise for adventure lovers, with its diverse terrains and landscapes. Here are some recommended hiking/biking routes:
- Hiking in Inle Lake – explore villages and go on treks in the Shan Hills.
- Trekking to the Peak of Mount Popa – climb one of Myanmar’s iconic mountains and experience the beauty of the Popa Mountain National Park.
- Biking in Bagan – bike through the country’s most iconic destination, Bagan, and explore the breathtaking temples and pagodas.
Best Things to Do in Eastern Myanmar: Activities and Tours
Eastern Myanmar has something for everyone. From cultural tours to outdoor adventures, here are some activities and tours that you should not miss:
- Hot Air Ballooning in Bagan – experience a bird’s eye view of the thousands of temples and pagodas in Bagan.
- Boat Trip on Inle Lake – explore the lake and surrounding villages with a boat tour.
- Yoga Retreats in Eastern Myanmar – Eastern Myanmar offers some of the most serene and beautiful natural settings for yoga retreats.
Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Myanmar
A week-long itinerary would allow you to explore some of the best destinations in Eastern Myanmar. Here is a recommended itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Mandalay and visit Golden Palace Monastery.
Day 2: Fly to Hpa-an and explore the city’s caves, monasteries, and temples.
Day 3: Continue exploring Hpa-an and visit the famous Kyauk Ka-Lat Pagoda and Saddar Cave.
Day 4: Fly to Heho and take a boat tour of Inle Lake.
Day 5: Take a Hot Air Balloon ride over Bagan to experience the breathtaking sunrise.
Day 6: Go on a trek to Mount Popa and the surrounding national park
Day 7: Take a relaxing day trip to Ngapali Beach.
Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Myanmar
Myanmar’s cuisine is diverse and unique. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages when in Eastern Myanmar:
Must-Try Dishes
- Mohinga – this is Myanmar’s most famous breakfast staple and is made from fish broth, rice noodles, and various herbs and spices.
- Shan-style Rice – this dish is a combination of rice, chicken, garlic, ginger and onions, and is a popular dish in Shan State.
- Tea Leaf Salad – this is considered to be a national dish of Myanmar and is a tangy and spicy salad made from pickled tea leaves, onions, peanuts, and tomatoes.
Local Beverages
- Chin State Rice Wine – this wine is brewed in Chin State and is made from rice and honey.
- Mandalay Beer – Myanmar’s famous lager beer.
- Myanmar Tea – Burmese tea is a dark brew with a unique taste and is a staple beverage in Myanmar.
Where to Stay in Eastern Myanmar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Eastern Myanmar is filled with accommodations for every budget. From luxury resorts to home-stays, here are some recommended places to stay:
- Inle Resort & Spa – a luxury resort located on the edges of Inle Lake, offering stunning views and unparalleled luxury.
- Bagan Lodge – an eco-friendly resort that offers a unique and authentic experience to visitors.
- Hpa-An Lodge – a boutique lodge located in Kayin state and surrounded by beautiful mountains and rice fields.
What to Buy in Eastern Myanmar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Eastern Myanmar is known for its unique and traditional handicrafts. Here are some items that you should definitely bring back home:
- Longyi – a traditional and colorful Burmese garment that is worn by both men and women.
- Shan Paper – a handmade paper that is used for writing and painting
- Lacquerware – a traditional Burmese art form that is a beautiful souvenir to bring back home.
Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Myanmar
Myanmar has a unique and diverse culture, and Eastern Myanmar is no exception. The people of Eastern Myanmar are warm and friendly, and their customs and traditions are deeply ingrained in their daily life. When visiting Eastern Myanmar, it is important to respect local customs and traditions.
Best Time to Visit Eastern Myanmar
The best time to visit Eastern Myanmar is during the cooler months, between November and February. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature is comfortable for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Myanmar
Do:
- Dress appropriately when visiting temples and monasteries.
- Remove your shoes before entering temples and homes.
- Try the local cuisine and interact with the locals.
Don’t:
- Touch or climb on religious structures.
- Disrespect local customs and beliefs.
- Don’t discuss politics or criticize the government.
Safety and Health
Safety in Eastern Myanmar
Eastern Myanmar is generally a safe place to visit. However, it is important to be aware of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft.
Health in Eastern Myanmar
It is recommended to take all necessary precautions to avoid getting sick while on vacation. Avoid tap water and only drink bottled water, and make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling.
Getting to Eastern Myanmar: Transportation Options and Logistics
Getting to Eastern Myanmar is easy, and there are several transportation options available.
Airports Near Eastern Myanmar
The closest airport is Mandalay International Airport, which is well connected to major cities in Myanmar and Southeast Asia. Other options include Heho Airport and Hpa-An Airport.
Bus Stations Near Eastern Myanmar
Myanmar has an extensive bus network, and buses are a cheap and convenient way to travel. Buses connect major cities in Myanmar and neighboring countries.
Other Options
Private taxis, rental cars, and trains are also available options to explore Eastern Myanmar.
How to Get Around in Eastern Myanmar
Getting around Eastern Myanmar is easy, with several transportation options available. Taxis, motorbikes, bicycles, and tuk-tuks are readily available.
Where to Go Next from Eastern Myanmar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Eastern Myanmar is well connected to several other destinations in Myanmar, making it easy to plan your next adventure.
- Head south to the stunning coastal town of Mawlamyine.
- Travel to Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city, known for its Buddhist heritage and colonial architecture.
- Explore the Shan State, including the famous tourist spot of Kalaw and the serene town of Pindaya.
Conclusion
Eastern Myanmar is a hidden gem that has much to offer to visitors. From natural beauty to cultural heritage, the region has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your trip and discover the beauty of Eastern Myanmar.