 Myanmar (Burma)
After years of being closed to foreigners, Myanmar (or Burma as it's often still called) is a world away from the neighbouring tourist favourites of South East Asia. With a complicated social history, and still some problems to fix, the crowds have yet to reach this fascinating country sandwiched amidst India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. Venture away from the backpacker trail, to find breathtaking temples, spiritual Buddhist monuments, traditional village communities and stunning rural countryside.
Top Places in Myanmar
After reopening to international tourists in 2012, Myanmar has seen a massive increase in visitors. Accommodation in the main cities can get booked up months in advance. Hotspots like Yangon and Bagan can get particularly busy during high season, so make sure you plan ahead. There are still some areas of the country that are closed to foreigners due to ongoing political unrest, so please check the latest government advice prior to travel.
Yangon
Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar and home to an incredible collection of Buddhist pagodas. Previously known as Rangoon, the highlight of the city is the Shwedagon Paya: a dramatic golden temple that draws thousands of pilgrims every year. Add to the mix a dash of colonial architecture, bustling open-air markets and a variety of religious monuments and you've got a thriving city to explore.
Top things to do in Yangon
Shwedagon Pagoda.
Officially named Shwedagon Zedi Daw, this is the main attraction of Yangon. This shimmering pagoda draws thousands of pilgrims annually.
Sule Pagoda.
Located in the heart of the city, visit this smaller Burmese stupa before Shwedagon to fully appreciate it.
Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple.
This Buddhist temple houses a 65 meters long reclining Buddha image.
Yangon Circular Railway.
Book a ticket on the Yangon circular train, a popular commuter train, and travel around the city with the locals getting a real Burmese experience.
Bogyoke Aung San market.
This under cover market has lots of traditional stalls selling antiques, wood carvings and Burmese textiles.
Yangon's Tea Shops.
Tea lovers should explore the many different local teas on offer in the city's tea shops.
Inle Lake Region:
Serene Inle is fast-becoming a favourite amongst visitors to Myanmar. This large lake (nearly 14 miles long) is home to traditional floating villages and fishing communities. The unique way the locals steer their boats is fascinating and a chance to see a centuries old tradition. The Inle region is also a centre for hand-woven textiles and known for its focus on lotus fabric.
Top things to do in Inle Lake
Boat trips.
This is the most popular way to explore the lake. Head to Nyaungshwe to get on one of these boat trips, where you will be ferried around the lake, visiting the famous sights such as Phaung Daw Oo Paya and the floating gardens. However, the real attraction is the Intha fishermen who row the boat with one leg, using their hands to fish.
Sleep or eat on the lake.
It's possible to experience life living on the water, with lots of restaurants and hotels available on stilts in the water. Visit unique teahouses on the lake or stay overnight in a cat sanctuary hotel.
Cycling tours.
It's possible to experience life living on the water, with lots of restaurants and hotels available on stilts in the water. Visit unique teahouses on the lake or stay overnight in a cat sanctuary hotel.
 Bagan:
Once an ancient city, Bagan is a sensational collection of over 2,000 Buddhist monuments that spread out for miles. Rivaling even the highest regarded archaeological sites in the world, Bagan is a must for any visit to Myanmar. It's a quiet place to stay, with no nightlife and sometimes quite limited places to eat out, but head to the main hub of Nyaung U to get the most atmosphere.
Top things to do in Bagan.
Ananda Temple.
Shimmering gold on the horizon, Ananda Pahto is one of the best preserved temples in Bagan.
Shwezigon Paya.
Shwezigon Paya is the town's main religious temple. The temple is most famous for its link with the 37 nat.
Shwesandaw Pagoda.
This is Bagan's most popular viewpoint for sunset. Climb up the steps to the top of the white pagoda to get stunning panoramic views.
Balloon rides at sunset.
If you fancy getting an aerial view of Bagan's temples, you can book a balloon ride for early evening and sunset.
Dhammayangyi Pahto.
This huge 12th-century temple was built by King Narathu to atone for his murderous sins. A dark history, but a fascinating structure, this is a must on the temple trail.
Sulamani Guphaya Temple.
Climb the steep steps of this pyramid-style stupa and be rewarded with beautiful views. An alternative sunset spot to Shwesandaw Pagoda.
Mandalay:
Bustling Mandalay is a great opportunity to catch a glimpse of everyday life in Myanmar. Formerly the royal capital of Myanmar, Mandalay may not be as scenic as other cities in South East Asia, but there are some fascinating spots to explore. Hire a bike and cycle round the city for the real experience.
Top things to do in Mandalay.
Mandalay Hill.
For the best view of the city, climb up Mandalay Hill for sunset and take in the view over the palaces and surroundings.
Mandalay Palace.
Explore the last royal palace of the Burmese monarchy.
U Bein Bridge.
Cross over the world's longest teak footbridge. This is one of Myanmar's most photographed settings.
Cycle trips.
Exploring Mandalay's surrounding countryside by bike and get a glimpse of the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's famous poem.
Shwenandaw.
Shwenandaw Monastery is a beautiful teak Buddhist monastery located near Mandalay Hill.
Kuthodaw Pagoda.
This Buddhist stupa houses the world's largest book, made out of 729 marble pages. Confused? Go see for yourself!
When to go to Myanmar
Myanmar has a tropical monsoon climate, with a cool season, hot season and rainy season. November to February experiences warm and dry weather during the day in most of the country, whilst March to May is extremely hot. The rainy season in between June and October, where monsoons occur particularly in the Bay of Bengal coast and in Yangon. The best time to visit is during the cool season, but is also peak tourist season. |
