Myawaddy Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Myawaddy with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, food and drink scene, accommodations, local customs, and more.


Are you looking for a new adventure in Southeast Asia? Why not explore the quaint and charming city of Myawaddy, located in southeastern Myanmar? Whether you’re a culture buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this travel guide will give you an insider’s look at the best things to do, see, and taste in Myawaddy.

Introduction to Myawaddy

Myawaddy is a small city in Kayin State, located on the Thai-Myanmar border. Its name means “victorious city” and it serves as a gateway between Myanmar and Thailand. The city is known for its vibrant markets, lush greenery, and stunning natural attractions such as waterfalls and hot springs.

List of Places to Visit in Myawaddy

Below is a comprehensive list of top places to visit in Myawaddy, divided into two categories: culturally important attractions and natural attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Three Pagodas Pass - A historical landmark that represents the long-standing friendship between Myanmar and Thailand. The area features three pagodas, including two of them in Thailand’s territory.

  • Gaw Kham Paung Pagoda - One of the most important Buddhist sites in the region, featuring a stunning golden stupa and temple.

  • Kayin State Cultural Museum - A museum that showcases the rich culture and history of the Kayin people, through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.

Natural Attractions of Myawaddy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kywe Ka Baung Nature Park - A serene park featuring lush foliage, a sparkling lake, and a breathtaking view of the Dawna Mountain range.

  • Tha Htay Kone Hot Springs - A popular destination where visitors can soak in the natural hot springs, which is believed to have medicinal benefits.

  • Pha An Hills - A network of colorful hills located in the neighboring town of Pha An, featuring limestone caves, temples, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Myawaddy

For those who love outdoor activities, there are several scenic routes for hiking and biking around the city. Here are a few popular options:

  • Ban Khaung Kone to Three Pagoda Pass - This route takes you through the lush jungles and hillsides, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Myawaddy to Kywe Ka Baung Nature Park - A relatively easy route that takes you through rice paddies, lush forests, and scenic countryside.

Best Things to Do in Myawaddy: Activities and Tours

No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone in Myawaddy. Here are some of the best activities and tours to consider:

  • Explore the Local Markets - A visit to Myawaddy would not be complete without exploring the bustling local markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to fabrics to handcrafted souvenirs.

  • Take a Kayin Cooking Class - Learn how to cook traditional Kayin dishes, such as mohinga (fish noodle soup) and palaung thar chin gyaw (spinach and prawn curry) from a local chef.

  • Visit a Kayin Village - Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a Kayin village, where you can meet the friendly locals, learn about their traditional way of life, and witness traditional dance and music performances.

Week-Long Itinerary for Myawaddy

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Myawaddy, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Myawaddy’s local markets
Day 2 Visit Gaw Kham Paung Pagoda and Kayin State Cultural Museum
Day 3 Take a Kayin cooking class
Day 4 Hike to Tha Htay Kone Hot Springs
Day 5 Visit Pha An Hills
Day 6 Bike to Kywe Ka Baung Nature Park
Day 7 Visit a Kayin village and witness traditional dance and music performances

Food and Drink Scene of Myawaddy

One of the highlights of visiting Myawaddy is experiencing the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages to taste during your stay:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mohinga - A popular breakfast dish that consists of fish soup with noodles and various toppings such as fried garlic, onions, and crispy chickpeas.

  • Kyay Oh - A warm and comforting noodle soup made with fresh vegetables, meat, and broth.

  • Shan-Style Tofu Noodle Soup - A hearty and flavorful dish that includes noodles, tofu, and vegetables, in a rich broth.

Local Beverages

  • Green Tea - Myanmar is known for its delicious green tea, which is often served with jaggery (a sweetener made from palm sugar).

  • Beer - Myawaddy has several local breweries that produce refreshing and crisp beers, such as Myanmar Beer and Dagon Beer.

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

Myawaddy offers various options for accommodation, from affordable hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some top picks:

  • Golden Sea Hotel - A modern and spacious hotel located in the heart of the city, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.

  • Myawaddy Hotel - A budget-friendly option that features clean and cozy rooms, with friendly staff.

  • Garden House Hotel - A charming guesthouse located in a quiet and peaceful neighborhood, offering a beautiful garden and a relaxing atmosphere.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to bring home from Myawaddy, here are some local products to consider:

  • Kayin Traditional Clothes - You can find beautiful and colorful traditional clothing, such as the pa longyi (sarong) and htamein (long skirt).

  • Handmade Souvenirs - Myawaddy’s local markets offer a variety of handmade souvenirs, such as woven baskets, wooden carvings, and handmade jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Myawaddy

Myawaddy is home to a diverse population of ethnic groups, including the Kayin, Mon, and Bamar people. The locals are warm and friendly, and they take great pride in their cultural traditions and festivals. Some of the most important festivals in Myawaddy include the Thingyan Water Festival (Burmese New Year) and the Kayin New Year Festival.

Best Time to Visit Myawaddy

The best time to visit Myawaddy is from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry. The rainy season starts from June to September, and it can get quite humid and rainy during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Myawaddy

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local villages.

  • Learn some basic Burmese phrases, as it will help you communicate with the locals.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Do not disrespect the Buddhist religion or its customs in any way.

  • Do not take pictures of military facilities or personnel without obtaining permission.

  • Do not litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Myawaddy

Myawaddy is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, it’s always best to take the usual precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding dark alleys, and not carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Myawaddy

Before visiting Myawaddy, it’s recommended to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, and Japanese encephalitis. It’s also advisable to drink only bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

Getting to Myawaddy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Myawaddy is easily accessible by various means of transportation.

Airports Near Myawaddy

The nearest airport to Myawaddy is in Yangon. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Mawlamyine, which is a 2-hour drive away from Myawaddy.

Bus Stations Near Myawaddy

Myawaddy has a bus station that offers regular services to nearby cities such as Yangon, Mawlamyine, and Hpa-an.

Other Options

Alternatively, you can take a taxi or hire a private car from Yangon or Mawlamyine.

How to Get Around in Myawaddy

The best way to get around Myawaddy is by bike, which you can rent at various shops around the city. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or hire a private car for day trips.

Where to Go Next from Myawaddy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time to spare, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to visit from Myawaddy. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Mawlamyine - A charming coastal city that features colonial architecture, local markets, and stunning views of the Andaman Sea.

  • Hpa-an - A peaceful and picturesque town that features breathtaking caves, scenic lakes, and traditional villages.

  • Golden Rock Pagoda - A sacred pilgrimage site located on a mountaintop, featuring a giant golden boulder that’s balanced on the edge of a cliff.

Conclusion

Myawaddy is a hidden gem that offers an authentic and unforgettable travel experience in Southeast Asia. From exploring the local markets to soaking in natural hot springs, this city has plenty to offer for travelers of all interests and budgets. Plan your next trip to Myawaddy, and discover the beauty, culture, and adventure of Myanmar.

Pagodas by Buddhist temple in Myawaddy Pagodas by Buddhist temple in Myawaddy On the Myanmar side of the border On the Myanmar side of the border Onward travel beyond Myawaddy in the not so distant past Onward travel beyond Myawaddy in the not so distant past