MYANMAR
OVERVIEW
Not too common to many people before, Myanmar has been an emerging destination in the Asia travel map in recent years. Myanmar attracts tourists by the inherent beauty of an enigmatic Buddhism country with plentiful ancient temples and majestic golden pagodas. Also, the country is the harmony of exotic culture and glamour authenticity. The charm of the local life and beautiful sceneries in Myanmar makes it become an inviting stop in Southeast Asia for any culture buff. If you’re dreaming of something that you’ve never experienced, Myanmar, the land of undiscovered things, is definitely well-worth your visit for an exciting voyage.
COUNTRY FACTS
Capital City Nay Pyi Taw
Time Zone GMT+6:30
International Dial Code +95
Currency Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
Population 54,6 million (Nov 2024)
Religion Theravada Buddhism, Christians, Muslims, Hindus
TOURISM ATTRACTIONS:
CENTRAL
Perhaps the most dazzling region of this surprising country in many ways.
Mandalay, the cultural capital of Myanmar, is its ambassador of charm with two incredible must-see attractions not to be missed: Bagan and Inle Lake.
Once, between the 9th and 13th centuries, Bagan was the first capital of the Pagan kingdom. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bagan is famous for its more than 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas and monasteries, of which about 2,200 are still alive. The ultimate experience in Bagan is a hot-air balloon ride over the site at sunset…
Surrounded by beautiful mountains, Inle Lake is the second largest lake in Myanmar. Nestled in the heart of the country, in Nyaung Shwe, in the southern part of the Shan State, it hosts in a rich natural setting an equally rich and varied cultural heritage. The floating gardens of the inthas are one of the most attractive aspects of Inle Lake, with the Nga Phe Chaung Monastery – the “Jumping Cat Monastery” – and the Phaung Daw Oo Temple in the center.
One will not fail to discover the amazing site of the Shwe in Dein pagoda, with its thousand ancient pagodas.
MANDALAY
After Yangon, Mandalay is Myanmar’s second city and its cultural heartland. Originally established by King Mindon as the focal city for the teachings of Buddhism, Mandalay did not survive the name of the ‘Golden City’. But, it remains an important cultural hub of Myanmar with sights such as the Mandalay palace, Mandalay Hill, the U-Bein bridge (the oldest teakwood bridge in the world), and stunning pagodas. Manadalay is also home to 300,000 monks. With investment from neighbouring China, Mandalay has undergone significant developments in recent years, drawing in visitors from all over the world. The three ancient capitals of Amarapura, Inwa (Ava) and Sagaing, as well as the town of Mingun, are all within reaching distance of Mandalay’s centre.
BAGAN
The sheer scale of BAGAN (formerly known as Pagan), which covers 67 square km and includes more than two thousand Buddhist structures, is almost impossible to take in. Individual temples, stupas and monasteries impress in different ways – for their evocative frescoes, their imposing bulk or their graceful simplicity – but it’s the broader sweep that tends to stay etched in visitors’ memories: the spectacle of hot air balloons rising from behind stupas at dawn, the cool, calm relief of temple interiors in the heat of the day, or grand sunset vistas viewed from terraces.
Old Bagan is an area that includes the site of the old walled palace and has the greatest concentration of must-see temples and pagodas – they’re packed in to the extent that you can walk between them, unlike in other parts of Bagan. New Bagan, a dusty and not especially engaging grid of streets to the south, was where the residents were relocated. It’s worth passing through even if you aren’t staying in one of its mid-range hotels, though, as there are a few impressive temples in the area.
INLE LAKE
Vast and serene Inle Lake is one of the undoubted highlights of most trips to Myanmar. Its attractions are not just in its considerable natural beauty, however, but also in the stilt villages of the Intha (“Sons of the Lake”, descendants of Mon people from the far southeast), for whom it is home.
A typical day-trip, taken in a long, narrow boat with a noisy outboard motor, will stick to the northern reaches of the lake. It will include visits to small workshops in stilt villages, some of the most interesting being cheroot making in Tha Lay and lotus fibre weaving in In Paw Khone, plus one or more pagodas and probably a market. You are also likely to see fishermen using traditional conical nets, propelling their boats using a distinctive leg-rowing technique, and other Intha residents of the lake tending to fruit and vegetables on floating gardens.
INWA (AVA)
Ava, which in Burmese means “city of gems”, was four times the capital of Burma between 1300 and 1800. It is located near the Irrawaddy River, a few kilometers from Amarapura, on the souther outskirts of Mandalay.
Many tourists visit Ava in a carriage, so they can enjoy the ruins of the stupas and the pagodas scattered here and there which make Ava look like the spectacular Pagan. Along the vast grasslands, palm groves and cultivated fields you can get a taste of the daily life of the farmers of the neighboring village Inwwa.
The wooden carts pulled by the oxen and the women who still wash the clothes on the banks of the river are a real hot broth for the soul.
SOUTH
The focal point of this part of Myanmar is undoubtedly Yangon (the ancient capital, formerly called Rangoon). It is at the same time the largest city, the most historical and also one of the most known cities of the country. With its large international airport, the country is well connected to the rest of the world and you can get to Yangon from almost all the national airports in the country.
Not to be missed in Yangon, the emblem of an all country: the incredible Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar’s most sacred Buddhist site. The sanctuary covers six hectares surmounted by a stupa of one hundred meters, entirely covered with gold leaves.
Do not miss to stroll through the street markets, present in each suburb. As the day draws to a close, head to the romantic Kandawgyi Lake: at sunset, the reflection of Swedagon Pagoda becomes magical on its peaceful waters.
And for a trip back in time, lose yourself in the old colonial district, with stunning and sumptuous buildings, with a charm somewhat similar to that of Havana.
Bago will probably be your first stop to discover the South of Burma. Known for its many Buddhist monuments including the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, it is also home to one of the largest reclining Buddha in the country, the Shwe Tha. A little further south, the Golden Rock is a very important sanctuary for all Burmese Buddhists, before arriving at the idyllic beaches of Myanmar: Ngapali, Ngwe Saung or Chaungtha are all lazy and cultural stops to finish your discovery of Myanmar, the Golden Land.
YANGON
Though no longer the capital, YANGON remains Myanmar’s commercial heart and also the core of its spiritual life, thanks to the glorious Shwedagon Paya (Pagoda), while its colonial-era buildings (decaying as many of them may be) give the downtown area a historical charm which new capital Nay Pyi Taw – and Mandalay for that matter – will never possess. Whether you get lost in the city’s animated markets, seek out beer and barbecue in Chinatown, visit Hindu temples or take an eye-opening ride on a commuter train, Yangon’s streets provide a vibrant and engaging introduction to the country.
Most travellers spend most of their time downtown, in the grid of streets north of the Yangon River that has Sule Paya at its heart. The main reason to head out of the downtown area is Shwedagon Paya, although there a number of other attractions further north including the shady shores of Kandawgyi Lake, busy (but almost tourist-free) Hledan Market and the enormous marble Buddha at Kyauk Taw Gyi.
BAGO
Bago, a historical gem in Myanmar, offers travelers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Located about 80 kilometers northeast of Yangon, Bago is a city rich in history, once serving as the capital of the Mon Kingdom and later as an important site for the Burmese monarchy. Known for its impressive temples, ancient monuments, and peaceful atmosphere, Bago provides visitors with a glimpse into Myanmar’s fascinating past.
Some of the city’s most captivating sites include the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, which stands as one of the tallest pagodas in Myanmar, and the reclining Shwethalyaung Buddha, one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world. Other highlights include the Kyaik Pun Pagoda, featuring four immense seated Buddhas, and the Kanbawzathadi Palace, a reconstructed palace of the 16th-century King Bayinnaung.
KALAW
Kalaw is a peaceful hill town in Taunggyi District, Shan State of Myanmar. Kalaw is famous for the idyllic beauty of rolling hills, verdant mountains, small local villages as well as the colorful daily life here. Tourists visiting Kalaw often take a short trek passing through scenic natural landscapes and hill villages besides exploring several religious spots here. Kalaw is well worth a short excursion for anyone desiring to get a deep immersion in Myanmar’s nature.
WHEN TO GO
Despite being the all-year-round destination, the best time to take Myanmar tours is in the winter season which is between November and February, when the weather is cooler (the average temperature is around 27°C) and fewer chances of rainfall. However, it’s also the peak season for travelers so you are recommended to book all services in advance.
Besides, depending on interests of travelling, we decide the best time to visit:
Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds
Even though November to February is said to be the best months to plan the Myanmar tour packages, this time of year can get very busy and the ability to secure the preferred accommodation can be problematic.
An alternative option is to look at travelling mid-season, which is the time before or after the peak travel period. At this time of year, the weather is still very favorable (albeit slightly cooler before the peak season and hotter after the end of the peak season) and the general tourist foot traffic is at a minimum.
For instance, a trip in October can give a fine balance of the agreeable weather and less crowds to contend with when exploring the sights.
Best Times to Visit for Good Weather
The best time to visit Myanmar is from November to February, during the cool, dry season when the weather is most pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20–30°C (68–86°F). This period is perfect for exploring iconic sites like Bagan, Mandalay, and Inle Lake under clear skies, while enjoying comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. For a quieter experience with good weather, consider visiting in late October or early March, just outside the peak tourist months. However, it’s best to avoid the monsoon season (June to September), as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.
Best Times to Visit for Lower Prices
The best time to visit Myanmar for lower prices is during the shoulder seasons of September to October and March to May, as well as the monsoon months from June to August. These periods see fewer tourists, leading to significant discounts on accommodations, tours, and flights. While the hot season (March–May) can be intense, early mornings and evenings are still pleasant for sightseeing. Similarly, the late monsoon season (September–October) offers lush landscapes with fewer disruptions from rain, making it an excellent time for budget-conscious travelers.
WHEN SHOULD NOT GO ☹
You should avoid traveling to Myanmar during the peak monsoon season, from June to August, when heavy rains and high humidity can significantly disrupt travel plans. This period brings frequent downpours, particularly in coastal regions like Ngapali and the Ayeyarwady Delta, which may experience flooding. Many roads, especially in rural and mountainous areas, become impassable, and trekking activities are often suspended. Although cities like Yangon and Mandalay are less affected, sightseeing can be uncomfortable due to unpredictable weather. Additionally, the wet season can limit access to some attractions and lead to cancellations of river cruises.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Myanmar is Burmese. While English is spoken in tourist areas and major cities, learning a few basic Burmese phrases can go a long way in building rapport with locals and enhancing your travel experience.
FOOD
The staples of Burmese cuisine are rice, noodles and curries. The main ingredient of the meal is usually rice and the curries are not as spicy as those from India. A clear soup called ‘hingyo’ accompanies most meals and a fermented fish sauce or paste called ‘ngapiye’ is usually served as a side dish to add flavor.
HEALTH
Prioritize your health and safety by taking necessary precautions. Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations before traveling to Myanmar. It’s advisable to drink bottled or boiled water and consume only cooked food from reputable establishments. Apply insect repellent, especially if you’re exploring rural areas where mosquito-borne diseases might be a concern.
ELECTRICITY
The electric current in Myanmar operates mostly on 220 volts. Two rounded pin or flat pin is the most common electric plugs.
INTERNET
While mobile networks are available in urban areas, connectivity might be limited in more remote regions. Consider purchasing a local SIM card if you need consistent access to the internet. Additionally, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you access blocked websites and maintain online security.
PHONE
To use your phone in Myanmar, it needs to be compatible with the GSM 900/1800 MHz bands. Most modern smartphones are designed to work on these frequencies, but it’s important to check your phone’s specifications or consult with your mobile service provider to ensure compatibility.
PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Myanmar national holidays include: Jan 4 (Independence day), Feb 12 (Union Day ), Mar 02 (Peasants’ Day ), Mar 13 (Full moon Day of Tabaung), Mar 27 (Armed Forces Day ), April 13-17 (Water Festival & Myanmar New Year), May 1 (May Day), May 11 (Full moon Day of Kason), Jul 9 (Full moon Day of Waso/ Beginning of Buddhist Lent), July 19 (Martyrs’ Day), Oct 6 (Thadingyut Festival of Lights/ End of Buddhist Lent), Nov 4 (Tazaungmon Festival of Lights), Nov 14 (National Day) and December 19 ( Kayin New Year), Dec 25 (Christmas Day).
SAFETY
Myanmar is a safe country for traveling. Bag grabbing, assaults, etc. are very rare. Foreign visitors are considered guests and are welcomed by the entire population with respect and curiosity. As a precaution it is of course always better not to leave money or valuable goods laying around in your hotel room or elsewhere but to carry your money with you or to store it in the safe in your hotel. Besides the normal precautions just don’t get involved in any political activities in the country
SHOPPING
As with most countries in Asia you will be expected to bargain. Things to look out for in Myanmar include lacquerware, woodcarvings, stone carvings, bronze work, paper umbrellas, silver, gem stones, silk items and hand-woven textiles.
NOTE: Do not be tempted to buy antiques. Not only do we believe these articles should be left in the country of origin, but your purchase is likely to be confiscated at the airport. Gemstones should only be bought from government-controlled outlets where authentic certificates are issued.
TIPPING
Tipping is not compulsory but it is greatly appreciated throughout Southeast Asia, especially in the tourism industry as well as in a country where the average annual income is below-average. If you are pleased with the services provided by your tour guide, driver, hotel, and restaurants staffs or cruise staffs then a tip for their hard work will be very much appreciated. The suggested tip for the guide, driver, hotel or restaurant staffs is around USD 5 – USD10/guide/ day and USD 3 – USD 5/driver/ day, but it is all depending on your satisfaction of the services.
WATER
You will need to drink bottled mineral water whilst in Myanmar. There are many brands of bottled mineral water and all are safe for consumption just ensure that the seal on the bottle is not broken! Showering and brushing teeth with tap water does not pose a problem in the big cities. Avoid ice cubes, undercooked food and unpasteurized dairy products.
