Northern Myanmar Travel Guide
Discover the hidden gems of Northern Myanmar with our in-depth travel guide, featuring must-see attractions, local culture, food, and transportation options.
- Introduction to Northern Myanmar
- List of Places to Visit in Northern Myanmar
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Myanmar
- Best Things to Do in Northern Myanmar: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Myanmar
- Food and Drink Scene of Northern Myanmar
- Where to Stay in Northern Myanmar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Northern Myanmar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Northern Myanmar
- Best Time to Visit Northern Myanmar
- Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Myanmar
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Northern Myanmar: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Northern Myanmar
- Where to Go Next from Northern Myanmar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Northern Myanmar
Northern Myanmar, also known as Upper Myanmar, is a region filled with breathtaking landscapes, ancient architecture, and unique cultural experiences. It is a less-traveled area of the country that promises an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure to travelers looking to explore beyond tourist hotspots.
List of Places to Visit in Northern Myanmar
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Bagan Archaeological Zone
- Mandalay Palace
- Mahamuni Pagoda
- Shwenandaw Monastery
- Mingun Pahtodawgyi
- Inwa (Ava) Ancient City
Natural Attractions of Northern Myanmar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Hsipaw Trekking
- Pyin Oo Lwin Botanical Garden
- Gokteik Viaduct
- Mount Victoria National Park
- Hkakabo Razi Mountain
Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Myanmar
- Kalaw to Inle Lake Trek
- Putao Trekking
- Shan Hills Cycling Tour
- Dattawgyaik Waterfall Trek
- Pyin Oo Lwin Cycling Tour
Best Things to Do in Northern Myanmar: Activities and Tours
- Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Bagan
- River Cruises on the Ayeyarwady River
- Visit Traditional Hill Tribes
- Explore Local Markets
- Attend a Puppet Show
Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Myanmar
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Mandalay City Tour |
| Day 2 | Pyin Oo Lwin and Gokteik Viaduct |
| Day 3 | Hsipaw Trekking |
| Day 4 | Bagan Archaeological Zone |
| Day 5 | Mount Victoria National Park |
| Day 6 | Putao Trekking |
| Day 7 | Inle Lake and Surrounding Villages |
Food and Drink Scene of Northern Myanmar
Must-Try Dishes
- Shan Noodles
- Mohinga (fish noodle soup)
- Laphet Thohk (pickled tea leaf salad)
- Curry and Rice
- Samosas
Local Beverages
- Tea
- Myanmar Beer
- Local Whiskey
- Mandalay Rum
Where to Stay in Northern Myanmar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Bagan: Thante Nyaung U Hotel, Bagan King Hotel, Bagan Umbra Hotel
- Mandalay: Mandalay Hill Resort, Mandalay City Hotel, Hotel by the Red Canal
- Pyin Oo Lwin: Golden Dream Hotel, Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort, Hillview Hotel
What to Buy in Northern Myanmar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Shan Bags
- Lacquerware
- Longgyis (traditional Burmese sarongs)
- Jewelry, Precious Stones and Gems
Local Culture and Customs of Northern Myanmar
- Buddhism is the primary religion in Myanmar, and visitors should respect religious practices.
- Remove footwear before entering religious monuments or any homes.
- Dress modestly, particularly women. Sleeveless tops and shorts may be seen as disrespectful.
- Show deference to monks and nuns, and do not touch a monk if you are not one.
Best Time to Visit Northern Myanmar
The best time to visit Northern Myanmar is between November and February, when the weather is dry and cool.
Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Myanmar
Do:
- Learn some Burmese words.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat when trekking.
- Stay hydrated.
- Try local street food.
Don’t:
- Wear shoes in any religious buildings or homes.
- Touch anyone’s head, as it is considered sacred.
- Disrespect Buddhist culture.
Safety and Health
Safety in Northern Myanmar
Northern Myanmar is a safe place for travelers, with low levels of crime or violence. However, it is still important to take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas during nighttime.
Health in Northern Myanmar
Travel vaccinations are recommended before visiting Myanmar. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria are a risk, so use insect repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets where possible.
Getting to Northern Myanmar: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Northern Myanmar
- Mandalay International Airport
- Heho Airport
- Putao Airport
Bus Stations Near Northern Myanmar
- Mandalay Bus Station
- Lashio Bus Station
- Taunggyi Bus Station
Other Options
- Train travel: the Mandalay-Myitkyina rail route.
- Private car hires: available from Mandalay or Yangon.
How to Get Around in Northern Myanmar
- Taxis or private cars.
- Motorbikes for hire.
- Local buses and shared taxis.
Where to Go Next from Northern Myanmar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Yangon: the largest city in Myanmar and home to the incredible Shwedagon Pagoda.
- Inle Lake: a famous scenic destination with floating gardens, freshwater fish and traditional village life.
- Hoi An: a charming town in Vietnam, about an hour by flight.
Conclusion
Northern Myanmar’s unspoiled nature and vibrant culture provide adventure and tranquility in equal measure. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be well-equipped to discover all the wonders of this amazing region.
