Southern Myanmar Travel Guide

Explore the best of Southern Myanmar with this complete travel guide, featuring the top attractions, activities, food, lodging, and more.


Introduction to Southern Myanmar

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Southern Myanmar is a land of ancient cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. Renowned for its pristine beaches, colorful temples, and rich history, this region is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Myanmar.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top places to visit, the best things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Southern Myanmar.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Myanmar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Southern Myanmar has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with numerous museums, historical sites, and religious monuments that tell the story of its fascinating past. Some of the top attractions in this category include:

  • Shwedagon Pagoda
  • Bagan Archaeological Zone
  • Golden Rock Pagoda
  • Mrauk U Archaeological Zone
  • National Museum of Myanmar

Natural Attractions of Southern Myanmar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

With its tropical climate and lush landscapes, Southern Myanmar is also a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From hiking and biking to river cruises and hot air balloon rides, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences to be had in this region. Some of the top natural attractions in Southern Myanmar include:

  • Inle Lake
  • Ngapali Beach
  • Mount Victoria
  • Hpa-An Caves
  • Irrawaddy River Cruise

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Myanmar

For those seeking to explore Southern Myanmar on foot or two wheels, there are plenty of hiking and biking routes to choose from. Many of them offer stunning views of the region’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Kalaw to Inle Lake Trek
  • Bagan to Mount Popa Cycling Tour
  • Pindaya to Kalaw Trek
  • Pyin Oo Lwin Waterfall Trek
  • Hpa-An to Zwekabin Mountain Hike

Best Things to Do in Southern Myanmar: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, Southern Myanmar also offers a range of exciting activities and tours. Whether you’re interested in learning about local crafts, tasting traditional cuisine, or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, there’s something for everyone in this region. Some of the top things to do in Southern Myanmar include:

  • Visit a tea plantation
  • Take a cooking class
  • Attend a traditional festival
  • Explore local markets
  • Join a meditation retreat

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Myanmar

If you’re planning to spend a week in Southern Myanmar, you can make the most of your time by following this itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Explore Yangon’s iconic landmarks, including Shwedagon Pagoda and the National Museum of Myanmar.
  • Day 3-4: Immerse yourself in Bagan’s ancient temples and pagodas.
  • Day 5-6: Relax on the pristine beaches of Ngapali and explore the nearby fishing village of Thandwe.
  • Day 7: Take a hot air balloon ride over Mandalay and enjoy the stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Myanmar

Must-Try Dishes

Southern Myanmar is also famous for its mouth-watering cuisine, which features a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Thai influences. Some of the must-try dishes in Southern Myanmar include:

  • Mohinga (rice noodle soup)
  • Shan-style noodles
  • Laphet Thoke (pickled tea leaf salad)
  • Fish curry
  • Samosas

Local Beverages

When it comes to beverages, Southern Myanmar is known for its refreshing tea and beer. Some of the popular local drinks include:

  • Yay Nwe (sweet tea with evaporated milk)
  • Mandalay Beer
  • Myanmar Beer
  • Palm wine

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

Southern Myanmar offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxurious beach resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. Some of the top places to stay in Southern Myanmar include:

  • Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort, Bagan
  • Bayview - The Beach Resort, Ngapali
  • Ostello Bello Mandalay
  • Hotel G7, Yangon
  • Thanakha Inle Hotel, Inle Lake

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

If you’re looking to bring home some unique souvenirs and gifts, Southern Myanmar has plenty to offer. From handicrafts and textiles to lacquerware and jewelry, there are many local products that make for great mementos of your trip. Some of the top items to buy in Southern Myanmar include:

  • Longyi (traditional cloth)
  • Lacquerware
  • Shan towels
  • Gems and jewelry
  • Handicrafts made by local artisans

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Myanmar

Southern Myanmar is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, each with their own unique traditions and customs. To show respect for the local culture and avoid cultural faux pas, it’s important to be aware of some basic customs and etiquette. Some of the key things to keep in mind include:

  • Removing shoes before entering homes and temples
  • Dressing modestly in religious sites
  • Using the right hand for eating and shaking hands
  • Avoiding public displays of affection
  • Asking permission before taking photos of people

Best Time to Visit Southern Myanmar

The best time to visit Southern Myanmar is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. During this time, the weather is mild and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The wet season, which begins in May and ends in October, can be hot, humid, and rainy, but it’s also a good time to experience the lush green landscapes of Southern Myanmar.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Myanmar

Do:

  • Learn some basic Burmese phrases
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking
  • Carry a reusable water bottle
  • Negotiate prices at markets and street vendors

Don’t:

  • Touch people’s heads or point with your feet
  • Disrespect Buddhist customs and rituals
  • Wear revealing clothing in religious sites
  • Take photos of military or police installations

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Myanmar

Southern Myanmar is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it’s important to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety, such as:

  • Avoiding protests and demonstrations
  • Staying alert in crowded public areas
  • Using a trusted guide or tour operator
  • Keeping valuables in a secure place

Health in Southern Myanmar

When traveling to Southern Myanmar, it’s important to take some basic health precautions to avoid getting sick. Some of the key things to keep in mind include:

  • Drinking only bottled or filtered water
  • Using insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases
  • Getting vaccinated before traveling if necessary
  • Bringing a basic first aid kit

Getting to Southern Myanmar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southern Myanmar

The two main airports serving Southern Myanmar are Yangon International Airport and Mandalay International Airport. Both airports have regular flights to domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Southern Myanmar

Southern Myanmar is well-connected by bus, with several major bus stations in Yangon and Mandalay. Some of the popular bus routes include Yangon to Bagan, Mandalay to Inle Lake, and Yangon to Ngapali Beach.

Other Options

Other transportation options for traveling within Southern Myanmar include taxis, private cars, and motorbikes. However, it’s important to be aware of the traffic conditions and road safety issues when using these modes of transportation.

How to Get Around in Southern Myanmar

When it comes to getting around in Southern Myanmar, there are several options available, including:

  • Taxis and private cars
  • Buses and minibuses
  • Motorbikes and bicycles
  • Boats and ferries

Some of the top modes of transportation for specific destinations include tuk-tuks in Yangon, trishaws in Mandalay, and long-tail boats on Inle Lake.

Where to Go Next from Southern Myanmar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve explored all that Southern Myanmar has to offer and are looking to continue your adventure, some nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • Myeik Archipelago
  • Mergui Islands
  • Kyaiktiyo Pagoda
  • Golden Rock
  • Mon State

Conclusion

Southern Myanmar is a vibrant and exciting destination, offering a wealth of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples and pagodas or trekking through lush jungles and pristine beaches, Southern Myanmar has something to offer everyone.



    Ngwe Saung
    Twante