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• 37 Places To Visit In Myanmar In 2024 For Your Fix Of History And Adventure

23 Mar 2023

Myanmar is country rich in history, culture and tradition. It’s midway between undergoing urbanization so that when you visit, you see an incredible mix of modern and old. Pagodas seem scattered across the landscape and nowhere is this more apparent than in Bagan. They even grace balancing rocks and the center of cities. But, while pagodas are some of the biggest attractions here, the country also boasts stunning natural landscapes and tourist-friendly beaches. Along with this, it is a popular place among the Buddha followers as it is home to several Buddhist temples. Check out our list of places to visit in Myanmar for a look at what this land in Southeast Asia has to offer.

37 Best Places To Visit In Myanmar In 2023

Check out the perfect list of places to visit in Myanmar while you are on your trip. Keep scrolling down and read along. Choose what all places are you going to cover. From pagodas to lakes, there is no dearth of places to explore in Myanmar.

• Sule Pagoda : Place For Meditation
• Mount Popa : Paradise For Hikers
• Chauk-Htat-Gyi Buddha Temple : Pay A Visit
• Shwedagon Pagoda : The Most Sacred Pagoda
• Bagan : For Breathtaking Views
• Inle Lake : Go For Boating
• Ngwe Saung : Laze Around On The Beach
• Kyaiktiyo Pagoda : Witness The Balanced Rock
• Kakku Pagodas : Gape At The Symmetry
• Mahamuni Buddha Temple : Take A Dip In The Culture
• Kalaw : Ideal For Adventure Fanatics
• Mandalay : A Popular Pilgrimage Site
• Ngapali : Opt For Watersports
• Pindaya : Trek & Explore Places
• Hsipaw : Hiker’s Dream Location
• Hpa-An : For Mesmerizing Views
• Mawlamyine : Perfect Rustic Countryside
• Mergui : Sail Around The Place
• Naypyidaw : For A Vivid Experience
• Mrauk U : Most-Visited Site
• Shan State : Offbeat Destination
• Gokteik Viaduct : Opt For A Train Ride
• Macleod Island : Witness The Bucolic Nature
• Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda : Admire The Lush Greenery
• Thanboddhay Paya : Colorful Interior & Exterior
• Kandawgyi Park : Spend Recreational Time
• Mandalay Palace : For The Most Beautiful Views
• Bagan Archaeological Museum : Check Out The Murals
• Dukkanthein : See The Spiral Structure
• Bodhi Tataung : For Buddha Statues
• Taukkyan War Cemetery : Salute To The Brave Soldiers
• Maha Bandoola Garden : Relax & Unwind Here
• Mingun Temple : Explore The Ruins
• Thatbyinnyu Temple : Pay A Visit With Family
• Htilominlo Temple : Admire The Intricate Work
• Saddar Cave : Haven For Buddhist Followers
• Purcell Tower : In The Heart Of Myanmar

1. Sule Pagoda: Place For Meditation

Downtown Yangon is the home of the Sule Pagoda, a place of peace and meditation in the middle of the busy city. It’s believed to be more than 2,000 years old. It figures high on the list of Myanmar destinations especially among devotees because it houses a hair relic of Buddha. The Sule Pagoda is often overlooked by tourists but it should figure in your Myanmar travels because it’s one of the only points of interest in this part of Yangon.

Ideal for: History

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2. Mount Popa: Paradise For Hikers

If you’re in Mandalay, make it a point to visit Mount Popa. It’s one of the best Myanmar points of interest especially if you love to hike. The extinct volcano is not just magnificent to look at in itself but it’s topped by the Popa Taungkalat Monastery that’s perched on an outcrop. 777 steps will take you all the way to the top and reward you with panoramic views of the plains.

Ideal for: Hiking

3. Chauk-Htat-Gyi Buddha Temple: Pay A Visit

Myanmar is known for its Buddhist temples and the Chauk-htat-gyi Buddha Temple is one of them. It houses a huge 65-meter reclining Buddha. This is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar especially if you’re on a tour of the country’s temples. Even if you’ve seen many reclining Buddhas, the relaxed pose and peaceful expression of this image are extremely calming.

Ideal for: History and culture

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4. Shwedagon Pagoda: The Most Sacred Pagoda

No Myanmar sightseeing is complete without a visit to the fabulous gilded Shwedagon Pagoda. It’s considered to be one of the most sacred pagodas in Myanmar. Over 2,000 years old, with hundreds of gold plates and more than 4,500 diamonds encrusting the top of the stupa, it’s an architectural wonder that will take your breath away. If there’s only one pagoda you can visit during your travel and tour in Myanmar, this is it!

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5. Bagan: For Breathtaking Views

The ancient city of Bagan is perhaps one of the most interesting places in Myanmar. Over 2,000 Buddhist monuments dot the Bagan Archeological Zone that’s spread across 26 square miles. The best way to take in the entirety of this breathtaking city is to hop into a hot air balloon and fly over it. The rides take place in the wee hours of the morning. Carry a good camera so you can take photos of the monuments from above.

Ideal for: History and hot air ballooning

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6. Inle Lake: Go For Boating

Next on our list of what to see in Myanmar is Inle Lake, which is the second largest in the country and occupies one of the highest elevations. It’s located in Shan and is home to numerous endemic species of snails and fish. Unfortunately, their numbers have dwindled but that should not be a deterrent. Stilt houses pepper the waterway and the only way to see them is by boat. As you head towards the village of In Dein, you’ll be greeted by two groups of old pagodas, the Shwe Indein pagodas and Nyaung Ohak pagodas. Some are in ruins while others have been restored.

Ideal for: History and boating

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7. Ngwe Saung: Laze Around On The Beach

Myanmar beaches aren’t exactly the first places you think of going to when visiting the country. But these little known gems are incredibly picturesque and have all the hallmarks of great beaches. Palm trees, blue seas and pale sands offer the perfect place to spend lazy days soaking in the sun. Ngwe Saug or Silver Beach is one of the most popular. There are scuba diving and snorkeling facilities too if you want to explore the water. Cafes and restaurants nearby serve up dish after dish of lip-smacking seafood and snacks. Beaches in Myanmar are best visited during December-April when spring lends itself to deliciously warm weather. You can also catch the Water Festival (Thingyan) in April where everyone comes out to celebrate.

Ideal for: Leisure

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8. Kyaiktiyo Pagoda: Witness The Balanced Rock

It may be small but Kyaiktiyo Pagoda or Golden Rock in Mon State is one of the most striking pagodas because of its location. It’s perched on a boulder that’s covered with gold leaves. The boulder itself seems to defy gravity as it perfectly balances itself on another rock atop Mt. Kyaiktiyo. It’s believed that the boulder remains in its unusual position by virtue of the hair relic enshrined in the pagoda. And, legend has it that the boulder is supported by a strand of hair from Buddha. Whatever the reason, the unusual and dramatic attraction makes it one of the most sought-after Myanmar places to visit. You can get to the pagoda by bus but if you want to get up close with nature, you can hike the 16-kilometer trail. As tiring as it can be, you won’t be alone as pilgrims often choose to walk to the top.

Ideal for: History and leisure

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9. Kakku Pagodas: Gape At The Symmetry

A visit to Kakku Pagodas, believed to date back over 2,000 years, makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world, one that’s filled with stupas and little else. Almost 2,500 of them dot the hills near Inle Lake. Some of them have fallen into ruin but many are well-preserved. You can also see a few restored stupas. For all those looking for a touristy vacation, this is the perfect place to make it happen.

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10. Mahamuni Buddha Temple: Take A Dip In The Culture

Our list of where to go in Myanmar ends with the Mahamuni Buddhist Temple, an important pilgrimage site that houses one of the most revered Buddha images, a 13-foot tall sculpture. It’s covered in gold leaves so much so that parts of the sculpture appear distorted. The temple complex is also home to the Mahamuni Museum that educates visitors on Buddha’s life. There are also shops selling offerings in case you come without.

Ideal for: Culture

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11. Kalaw: Ideal For Adventure Fanatics

Image Source

If visiting Myanmar is solely to calm your adventurer inside, Kalaw is the place you need to be in. This place was one of the least explored places around in Myanmar but has gradually crept its way through the tourist scene because of its amazing trekking trails and beautiful picturesque destinations. The eastern mountains of the country are what is currently taking up on the overall seam of every trekker’s dream around in Myanmar. It is located atop the beautiful and majestic stature of the Shan Hills which was initially considered a mountain town under the British rule back in the initial days. Owing to the altitude it was located in, it was considered as an amazing spot to beat the scorching Myanmar heat. It is packed with resorts and hotels alongside an amazing food market and the best part is that you can hike all the way through without any kind of permit whatsoever.

Ideal For: Trekking and relaxing

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12. Mandalay: A Popular Pilgrimage Site

Mandalay is one of those towns in Myanmar that is known around the world for its rich culture and heritage owing to the contributions made by some of the dynasties that existed back then. The place highlights the doings of the mighty Shwenandaw Monastery and all in all is considered around for its plethora of not just prose but poetry pieces too. This temple has been considered to be one of the most important influencing factors when it comes to the rich history and literature of the place around. This is the second largest town in Myanmar and is best for pilgrimage and people who love visiting temples and amazing picturesque destinations around. Maha Myat Muni, otherwise known as the Royal Palace is also one of the most visited sites of pilgrimage around.

Ideal For: Pilgrimage

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13. Ngapali: Opt For Watersports

Yet another of the must visits around in Myanmar is Ngapali. This is possibly the most popular sand stretch around in Myanmar and does make up for one of the most popular relaxing spots in the entirety of Myanmar. The combination of the yellow-white sand is what makes it one of the most beautiful spots that you can sit and tan yourself and let loose of the thoughts that do intrigue you. It is located around the Bay of Bengal, the vibrant hues of the blue of the waves adding to the beauty of the place even further. The salt washed boats often come ashore, in and out of the bay, making it one of the most amazing spots to enjoy the freshly caught seafood in. Apart from the relaxing experience, you can also sign up with a tour organizer around the place and get into some of the most popular water sports like scuba diving, jet skiing, sea kayaking and the whole lot.

Ideal For: Relaxing on the seaside, Watersports

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14. Pindaya: Trek & Explore Places

Myanmar is known vividly around for their religious beliefs and Pindaya is one of the off the beaten track sites that you will possibly come across. Even this is located in the rise of the majestic Shan Hills, predominantly in the eastern Myelat region and does make up for one of the sites infiltrated by the tourists. It is predominantly known around to provide a glimpse into the Buddhist histories in the nation. The entire landmark has completely formed from a series of deep caves and alone is home to over 8000 images of Lord Buddha. The statues and images are adorned in beautiful hues of gold and brass with the glimmering effect under the shadowy caverns. Apart from the spots around celebrating the religion, you will also find an amazing influx of tourists visiting the lake beside Pindaya. You can also trek through the region and cross mountains from Kalaw to Boot.

Ideal For: Trekking, Pilgrimage

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15. Hsipaw: Hiker’s Dream Location

As hard to spell as the name is, Hsipaw is an enthralling location which is loved and adorned by the tourists the entire year around. This is every adventurer and trekker’s dream destination in Myanmar owing to the amazing range of trekking trails they sport. It was the royal capital of the kingdom of Shan back in the days which then slowly became a trekking spot for the tourists over the course of years. It is even fighting off to take the place of Kalaw as one of the most loved trekking spots around in Myanmar. The mystique views of the sun-scorched forest along with the rich cultural traditions can often keep you locked with its beauty longer than you could have possibly imagined. Check out the town’s Central Market around for an amazing experience and to get along some gifts.

Ideal For: Trekking

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16. Hpa-An: For Mesmerizing Views

Hpa-An is a very popular traveler town around in Myanmar which is not necessarily a lot visited around by the tourist but does make up for providing you with an amazing experience altogether. The rugged and rustic vibes from this specific town are what makes it unique and loved by the majority of the tourists who visit it. It is nestled across the tranquil and reflective waters of the Thanlwin River. One of the most important and popular spots to visit around in Hpa-An is the Zaydan Road which is littered around with coffee joints and amazing spots to just sit down and have a relaxing day. The lakeside of Kan Thar Yar is yet another of the amazing spots to be around in and make sure to enjoy the reflective transparency of the water when you walk along it. The other important site to visit around is the Mount Zwegabin and the monastery that is located there.

Ideal For: A relaxing day, Lakes, Mountains, and Monastery

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17. Mawlamyine: Perfect Rustic Countryside

If you are done with the rustic countryside and small towns, Mawlamyine can be quite a good change in those terms. It provides you with a break from the same and does contribute to your city demands. It is situated in the deep territory of Mon, very close to the borders of Thailand and is known and appreciated around for its amazing cultural forefront. Apart from the hustling of the city, you can also visit the pagodas like that of the Mahamuni Paya which is famous for its architectural creativities. Apart from that, you can also visit the Uzina Paya stupa which is one of the most popular sites for the pilgrims. If possible, charter a boat and visit the mysterious Shampoo Island t get to know the place even better and witness the Buddhist shrines with your own eyes.

Ideal For: Pagodas, Shampoo Island

18. Mergui: Sail Around The Place

The Mergui Archipelago is known around the globe with its pool of the destinations it showcases. Some of its scattered parts around in the Andaman Islands are often regarded as the Myeik Archipelago and the Pashu Islands. Each one of these places has a unique character of its own which is what sets it apart from the others. The beautiful sand that glistens under the direct rays of the sun further adds to the beauty of the place. Not just a relaxing day in there but even a good chunk of the activities around in here include that of the amazing sailing expeditions. More and more people are relegating to the yachts to have an even better time on this piece of land.

Ideal For: Sailing, Relaxing day

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19. Naypyidaw: For A Vivid Experience

Next on the list of the amazing places to visit around in Myanmar includes the authority and delegates it as the capital of the place owing to the mesmerizing beauty of the place around. It is not a destination like every other one that you will come across. The place was announced as the capital of Myanmar back then by the Burmese military leader Than Shwe back in 2005. The decision was made rightfully so because of the littered presence of a wide range of government buildings and nationalist monuments that are found around the place. While there, make sure that you visit the parliament complexes along with the infamous Uppatasanti Pagoda to add to the already vivid experience you will have there.

Ideal For: Visiting the Government Buildings and Landmarks

20. Mrauk U: Most-Visited Site

Yet another one of the picturesque and popular sites of attraction around in Myanmar is the off the beaten track destination of Mrauk U. It is often considered as one of the best alternatives to visiting Bagan because of the kind of similarities both of these places inflict on the geography of Myanmar. It is located between the majestic hills of the Rakhine State, in the far western reaches of the country. The place is rich of a wide range of stupas and temples which is what makes up for the primary source of attraction in that specific tourist site. You must also visit the age-old Arakanese religious building which is situated there. It grew to become a popular site of being a powerful merchant center during the late Middle Ages, trading between India, Portugal and several other places.

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21. Shan State: Offbeat Destination

While you might often come across destinations to visit in and around the Shan State, you won’t necessarily come across someone suggesting you explore the Shan State itself. Once you are done exploring around the popular sites of attraction in and around Shan, make sure to keep a day or two to simply and casually stroll around the Shan State and get engrossed in its beauty altogether. The place is known around for its picturesque landscape, immaculate sceneries and the best part about this place is the wide range of delectable cuisine you get to try around in here. The tiny villages around in the Shan State add to its beauty and authenticity even further. One of the most popular sites to visit while there is the Keng Tawng Falls that often go unnoticed by the majority of the tourists because of the fact that it is often a lot less unexplored.

Ideal For: A wholesome tour around the place with amazing tourists and sightseeing spots

22. Gokteik Viaduct: Opt For A Train Ride

If the history of Myanmar and just history, in general, is something that intrigues you, you definitely want to visit Gokteik Viaduct. The best way to reach this bridge ride is by taking the train ride across the longest railway bridge in Myanmar. The entire bridge was completed building around in 1901 which further adds to the overall excitement and the history of the place around. The entire bridge is around 2300 feet in length and is situated around 30 miles away from Pyin Oo Lwin. You will encounter this bridge on the way to Mandalay and the overall experience riding through is something you would be a complete fool to miss out on. The stunning gorge and the mystique beauty of the greenery around while traveling on the train is something you would be a fool to miss out on.

Ideal For: A long train ride.

23. Macleod Island: Witness The Bucolic Nature

While you must need a recluse from constantly visiting the places of pilgrimage around in Myanmar, Macleod Island is actually a good enough place to visit. It is situated in the far southern end of Myanmar and is one of the 800 untouched islands in the Andaman Sea. Not only do you get to witness an amazing view all around, but the island is also rich in a vivid variety of flora and fauna which further makes up for the overall experience of visiting this place. If tropical weather is something you wanted to experience while in Myanmar, visiting Macleod Island is an ideal option for you to venture into.

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24. Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda: Admire The Lush Greenery

Last but not the least on the list of sightseeing spots is the Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda which is located nearby Hpa An. The limestone tower of the Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda is what leaves every single one of the tourists speechless and in awe. Apart from the Pagoda itself, you also get to experience the beauty of the lush greenery surrounding the place which further adds to the beauty even further.

25. Thanboddhay Paya: Colorful Interior & Exterior

You will be left amazed after knowing that this temple boasts 5,823,631 pictures of Buddha in its premises. Now you know it is not famous just like that. Also, the colorful interior and exterior of this temple will impress you. So, make sure you add this to your itinerary while holidaying in Myanmar with your family. This is one of the interesting places to visit in Myanmar.

26. Kandawgyi Park: Spend Recreational Time

If you are a person who is looking for peace and tranquility on a holiday then, this is the perfect place for you. The park was built during the colonial period and was very important to the british rulers. Now it is the best place to relax your mind and soul. It offers picturesque views too. So, make sure that you include it in your list of tourist places in Myanmar .

27. Mandalay Palace: For The Most Beautiful Views

This is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar. The palace consists of a watchtower which you can climb and soak in the beautiful views of the city it offers. The most compelling thing about this palace is a pyramid which is made of gilt filigree built above the main throne of the palace. This is one of the important places to visit in Myanmar.

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28. Bagan Archaeological Museum: Check Out The Murals

This museum is run by government and offers an insight into a huge collection of the pieces of the ruins of Bagan. From inscribed images to murals, it has a vast collection which you should look into. It also has proofs that show how people of Bagan lived in old times. This is the reason why it forms a part of the famous places in Myanmar .

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29. Dukkanthein: See The Spiral Structure

This is one of the unique temples in Myanmar. Its spiral structure in the interiors will take your breath away. It has three different sides which are lead by wide stones steps. Each side showcases different things. There are various Buddha images in the temple that are just beautiful. So, this is one of the best places to go in Myanmar.

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30. Bodhi Tataung: For Buddha Statues

You haven’t been to Myanmar if you have not visited this place. Translating to ‘1000 Buddhas’, this temple features the world’s second largest Buddha statue which is the most incredible in itself. The statue comprises of 31 storeys which you can climb and witness the paintings. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Myanmar.

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31. Taukkyan War Cemetery: Salute To The Brave Soldiers

Image Source If you are looking for historical Myanmar tourist places then you must visit the famous Taukkyan War Cemetery which was built for the soldiers who gave their life in the battle of Burma during World War II. The cemetery is located in the Taukkyan village at a distance of 25 kilometers from Yangon. The place receives a heavy tourist footfall every year and is still maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Ideal for: Historical places and exploring

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32. Maha Bandoola Garden: Relax & Unwind Here

Image Source Searching for recreational places to visit in Myanmar ? Then, you must head to Maha Bandoola Garden which is a public place in Yangon. After sightseeing, you can relax here with your friends or family and unwind for a while. Earlier the place was called Fytche Square and it was dedicated to Albert Fytche, the then Chief Commissioner of British Burma. The place was remodelled over the years and the park that we see has been existing since 2012.

Ideal for: Relaxing

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33. Mingun Temple: Explore The Ruins

Image Source Another one of the list of famous places in Myanmar is Mingun Temple which is an unfinished project. The construction for started by the King Bodawpaya in the year 1790 which was left unfinished. People like nature lovers and history buffs head to this place to explore the ruins and know more about the history of the place. The story of this place fascinated several tourists so you must explore this place too on your vacation to Sri Lanka.

Ideal for: For exploring ruins

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34. Thatbyinnyu Temple: Pay A Visit With Family

Image Source This history of Thatbyinnyu Temple can be dated back to the 12th century during the reign of King Alaungsithu. It is located in Bagan and is one of the top places to see in Myanmar . A vacation to this place with family definitely calls for a visit to Thatbyinnyu Temple. The temple is shaped in an asymmetrical cross and has two storeys, one of which bears the image of Buddha.

Ideal for: Sightseeing and praying

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35. Htilominlo Temple: Admire The Intricate Work

Image Source There is no dearth of Buddhist temples in Myanmar so the other one is Htilominlo Temple which is situated in Bagan. It is believed that this is one of the oldest temples in Myanmar and the construction of this one can be dated back to the reign of King Htilominlo which was during 1211-1231. With a height of 46 meters in total, the temple is three storeys tall and is built mainly with red brick. The best part to explore here are the intricate plastic moldings so make sure that you include it in your list of places to visit in Myanmar .

Ideal for: Praying and exploring the intricate designs

36. Saddar Cave: Haven For Buddhist Followers

Image Source Saddar Cave is one-of-its-kind in Myanmar as it is adorned with hundreds of Buddhist idols over the years. Once you reach and enter the cave, you will see several miniatures of Buddha adding to the beauty of the place. Apart from this, you will also get to witness brilliant rock formations that get illuminated with a flash inside the cave. There should be no doubt in the fact that it is one of the top Myanmar tourist places to explore.

Ideal for: For Buddhist miniatures

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37. Purcell Tower: In The Heart Of Myanmar

Image Source Wondering where to go in Myanmar ? Well, there is just the right place for you and it goes by the name Purcell Tower. You will find this off-white and red tower in the heart of Myanmar with a clock studded on the top. It is definitely a must-visit place otherwise your Myanmar vacation will remain incomplete. So, scribble it down to include it in your itinerary.

Ideal for: Sightseeing

Further Read: Places To Visit In Asia In December For An Extravagant Vacation

Now, you know about the best places to visit in Myanmar. Clearly, Myanmar is a complete package when it comes to a fun filled and interesting holiday, you see. So, what do you think? Do you have anymore places to add? Do let us know in the comments section below. Plan a trip to Myanmar to visit these 10 places now.

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Myanmar

What is Myanmar famous for?

Myanmar is famous for sand paintings, gems, pearls and much more.

How many days do I need in Myanmar?

Nine days are needed to explore the best of Myanmar.

What is the most popular food in Myanmar?

Shan-style noodles, tea leaf salad, mohinga are some of the popular food in Myanmar.

What can I buy in Myanmar?

Gemstone paintings, sand paintings, arts and crafts, lotus silk shawls and scarves and more.

What is the most beautiful place in Myanmar?

Famed for its stunning Pagodas and rich culture, Mynamar has a plethora of places that are a definition of beauty like Scenic Shan State, floating gardens of Inle Lake and the historical buildings. If you are wondering which is the most beautiful place in Myanmar, then Shwedagon Pagoda will top the list as it looks mesmerizingly beautiful at night.

Is Myanmar safe to travel?

There are a lot of ethnic issues going on in Myanmar but this Southeast Asian country is absolutely safe for tourists. There are some areas like the northern parts of Shan State, Southern Chin and Rakhine state where tourists are not allowed but all the other popular places to visit in Myanmar and the impeccable hotels are completely safe.

Can you drink the water in Myanmar?

No, you shouldn’t drink tap water in Myanmar but you can have bottled water. It is advised that you should not even brush your teeth with tap water but you can use bottled water instead of it.

What is the best month to visit Myanmar?

The best time to visit Myanmar is between November and February as the weather is pleasant and you can easily roam around the country. You can enjoy your vacation to the fullest in these months as the weather is not hot but cool breezes blow throughout the country.

What vaccinations do I need for Myanmar?

Some of the vaccinations that you must take before heading to Myanmar are cholera, rabies, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, yellow fever, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, and polio.

How expensive is Myanmar?

If the total numbers of people traveling to Myanmar are two then the total cost for traveling and staying for a week will come out to be MMK 1,298,448 which is INR 70,500 appx. So, the destination is not that expensive. If you are on a budget crunch, then you can plan your vacation for lesser number of days.

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Home » Travel Guides » Myanmar » 15 Best Places to Visit in Myanmar

15 Best Places to Visit in Myanmar

Erstwhile Burma – now Myanmar – has slowly but surely been coming into the tourist fold in the last couple of decades. As the iron-fist of its military junta slackens and fair elections sweep across the nation, there’s a newfound love for the backpacker and adventure traveler. The country -sandwiched between India and the mainstays of Southeast Asia – certainly has its fair share of awesome things to see though. You can experience the frenetic pulse of modern Burmese life in the pagoda-topped metropolis of Yangon. Or, you can hike wild hills in the old lands of the Shan Kings, meeting lake farmers at Inle and the rusting relics of British rule in Kalaw.

There are oodles of ancient temples here too, with places like Bagan coming up trumps with its carved stupas and old Hindu motifs, not to mention fascinating Buddhist relics and some seriously sun-kissed beaches lining the Bay of Bengal.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Myanmar :

Breathtaking Bagan bags a well-deserved top spot on this list of the best places to visit in Myanmar.

The reason? Most all travelers who head this way leave with a distinct sense of awe and amazement.

And it’s easy to see why! A sea of countless temple tops pierce the clouds and the forests; plumes of dust coalesce at the spires of ancient stupas; the faded outlines of forgotten Hindu demigods beckon from the great platforms, and all the while the serrated tips of the Arakan Mountains loom in the background.

Seeing Bagan by balloon is becoming increasingly popular, and offers a truly unique view over this 26-square-mile land of temples.

Yangon found glory in the days of British rule, rising with the rise of the Raj and becoming a patchwork of elegant Victorian townhouses and Georgian builds.

Much of that side of the city remains intact too, and today you can navigate the tuk-tuk-packed roadways to see the likes of St Mary’s Cathedral and its Anglo spires.

However, the real piece de resistance (and what typically magnetizes travelers to this erstwhile Burmese capital) has to be the Shwedagon Pagoda.

This marks the sacred spot where the holy lotus buds once appeared to signal the coming of Gautama Buddha and guide the learned to Nirvana.

Be sure to visit the site and wonder and the glimmering gold construction, the prayer rooms, and the exquisitely carved pavilions for pilgrims.

Kalaw has risen and risen on the Myanmar tourist scene to become one of the favored destinations for trekkers and adventurers hitting the country’s eastern mountains.

Perched high up on the ridges of the Shan hills, the spot began life as a mountain town under British rule, intended to offer a respite from the Asian heat of the plains below.

Today, visitors can still enjoy the cooling breezes of the highlands, along with a clutch of laid-back guesthouses, excellent food markets, and – most importantly – hiking without the need for a permit!

4. Mandalay

You can only imagine just how resplendent the city of Mandalay would have looked when that mighty Shwenandaw Monastery glimmered with its coverings of gold leaf, and it’s easy to see why even the very name of this mysterious temple-topped town in the depths of central Myanmar has inspired poems and lines by perhaps Asia’s most prolific English eulogizer: Kipling.

However, modern Mandalay does well to balance all those elegant Bamar pagodas and carved stupas with a real bout of Burmese pandemonium.

This is, after all, the second-largest town in Myanmar, a pilgrimage site (thanks to the Maha Myat Muni Paya), and a famous tourist destination (known for its walled Royal Palace) all rolled into one!

5. Kyaiktiyo

It’s just a short jaunt east from Yangon to the soaring heights of Mount Kyaiktiyo, which are famed as the home of one of the most revered Buddhist relics in the nation: the precariously-placed Golden Rock.

This awesome, gravity-defying mass of granite can be found perched on its own ledge atop the rolling forests and green hills of south-central Burma.

Legend has it that it’s suspended by a single thread of Buddha’s own hair, and (male) pilgrims come to scale the winding steps to the wonder to leave gold leaf and gain inspiration.

The site is surrounded by its own temple and pagoda, complete with immersive little shrines to lesser-known Buddhist spirits.

6. Inle Lake

The moment you spot the curious leg rowers of Inle Lake, and hear the creaking splash of those carved canoes drifting across the water, you’ll know you’re in the heartlands of rustic Myanmar.

A place where time has stood still, this huge body of water is peppered with stilted villages made of wood.

The locals are known for their on-surface agricultural methods, and you’ll be able to see dashes of green gardens growing straight from the lake.

Major religious sites like the Hpaung Daw U Pagoda (which has an amazing festival in late-summer) also dot the banks, but the real draw has to be the food, which oozes fresh herbs, Chinese spices and lake-caught fish.

There’s no sand stretch in all of Myanmar as popular as Ngapali.

A large curve of yellow-white that arches its way around the Bay of Bengal, it’s got a lapping ocean of turquoise waves and a fringing of huge palm trees.

The occasional clutch of salt-washed fishing boats drift in and out of the bay during the day, feeding the kitchens with an endless supply of fresh seafood.

There are oodles of loungers dotting the sands too, and plenty of tour organizers offering SCUBA expeditions, water skiing, jet skiing, sea kayaking and more.

Ngapali also has its very own airport, making it one of the easier coastal spots to reach from the capital.

Pindaya is one of Myanmar’s more off-the-beaten-track religious sites.

It makes its home in the rising Shan Hills of the eastern Myelat region, and offers a unique glimpse at the deep Buddhist histories of the nation.

Formed from a series of deep caves, Pindaya is home to some 8,000 individual images of the Buddha, which can just be made out glimmering in gold and brass hues in the shadowy caverns.

You can also wallow on the lakeside in the town of Pindaya, which enjoys a prime location between the peaks, and at the start of the popular cross-mountain trekking routes to Kalaw to boot.

Prep the walking boots and thigh muscles for that trip to highland Hsipaw, because this onetime royal capital of the Shan peoples is slowly rising to compete with even aforementioned Kalaw on the trekking front.

Don’t be surprised if you get caught up in these deep northern mountains longer than you thought – not only are the sweeping views of sun-scorched forests to die for, but there’s a rich cultural tradition to uncover too.

You can experience this between the craft stalls of the town’s Central Market, or seek it out at the Shan Palace that still stands nostalgically atop the streets here.

Nestled between craggy, jungle-topped peaks and ringed by the reflective waters of the Thanlwin River, little Hpa-an is a rustic, rough-around-the-edges traveler town with some great hostels, guesthouses, and beer bars.

Head down the bustling strip of Zaydan Road to flit between the coffee joints and spice-scented roadside kitchens, or make a beeline for the pretty lakeside of Kan Thar Yar, which shimmers like a mirror within walking distance of the center.

And when it’s time to explore the karst peaks on the horizon, mysterious Mount Zwegabin and its hilltop monastery beckon.

11. Mawlamyine

A big city with a laid-back feel, Mawlamyine is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of other Burmese metropolises like Yangon and Naypyidaw.

It can be found deep in the territory of the Mon, just a stone’s throw from the border with Thailand, where it exudes a different sort of cultural character than many other places on this list.

You’ll be able to climb to soaring pagodas like the Mahamuni Paya, which oozes Mon architectural twists, or you can see the high-perched Uzina Paya stupa, dressed in gold thanks to the offerings of countless pilgrims.

Meanwhile, the town’s Central Market bustles with fruit and veg sellers, and there’s the opportunity to take a boat across to curiously-named Shampoo Island (home to some interesting Buddhist shrines, not hair products!).

The many names of the Mergui Archipelago (this smattering of countless land masses in the Andaman Sea is also called Myeik Archipelago and the Pashu Islands) reflects the eclectic character of the various destinations it contains.

Largely untrodden, the wealth of more than 800 islets here offers up everything from secluded sands that glow pearl-white under the Asian sun to wild mangroves stalked by macaques (look to the reserves of large Lampi Island for some of the best of those). Sailing is becoming big here too, and yachters flock to enjoy flitting between the uninhabited rocks and coves, salt-washed fishing villages and the settlements of sea nomads.

13. Ngwe Saung

Ngwe Saung might not have the tropical perfection of Ngapali, but thanks to a prime location on the edge of the Bay of Bengal, along with a clutch of pretty coconut groves and five-star resort hotels (check out how those sparkling infinity pools merge with the blues of the Indian Ocean!), it’s slowly rising to become another of Myanmar’s top beach destinations.

Made for relaxation and rest, the long golden sands here are the prime attraction, of course.

However, it’s also possible to sample fantastic Southeast Asian seafood – just look to the folksy restaurants that line up along the shore.

14. Naypyidaw

Naypyidaw is not like anything else in the country.

Purpose-built and proclaimed the capital in a shock move by the then Burmese military leader Than Shwe back in 2005, it’s laid out in a rigid grid of imposing palaces and governmental buildings, nationalist monuments and grand constructions.

Some see it as something of a hangover from the days when Burma was an iron-fist junta (even if that age is not completely vanished), others consider it a failed vanity project.

But whatever the impetus of Naypyidaw, its ambitious parliament complexes and colossal golden Uppatasanti Pagoda are certainly worth seeing!

15. Mrauk U

Something of a more off-the-beaten-track alternative to much-trodden Bagan, Mrauk U can be found between the dust-caked hills of Rakhine State, located in the far western reaches of the country.

It’s topped with countless stupas and temple spires, and offers an interesting glimpse of the age-old school of Arakanese religious building.

It’s also thought that Mrauk U grew into a powerful merchant center in the late Middle Ages, with boats drifting across the Bay of Bengal from trading partners like India and Persia, and even Portugal and Europe!

15 Best Places to Visit in Myanmar:

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10 Best Places to Visit in Myanmar 

By Lauren Bailey · Last updated on November 2, 2023

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is the second-largest country in Southeast Asia. But it’s not just its size that makes it such a big destination for adventure travel. With thousand-year-old cities, sacred religious sites, extraordinary trekking routes, and even magnificent beaches, there’s so much to see in this captivating, culture-rich country.

While many parts of Myanmar are still off-limits to visitors, there are some truly incredible places waiting to be explored. As tourists are starting to catch on, it’s important to go now before it becomes too touristy.  We’re counting down to the best places to visit in Myanmar.

10. Pyin U Lwin [SEE MAP]

Pyin U Lwin – now known as Maymyo – is a scenic hill town tucked between Mandalay and Hsipaw. Dating back to the 19th century, it was once the summer retreat of the British Raj, and the military base of the Indian Army. Due to its location close to the border of China, it also has a distinct Chinese influence. The result? Pyin U Lwin is a multicultural town with an anglicized feel. Think British colonial mansions, Chinese and Hindu temples, and an English cemetery.

Get around on foot or by bike and explore Pyin U Lwin’s many cultural and historical attractions. Unlike the rest of Myanmar, this hill town offers so much more than pagodas.

Surrounded by botanical gardens, strawberry fields, and coffee bean plantations, you can trek to nearby waterfalls, taste local wine, and indulge your sweet tooth at one of the many Indian-owned sweet shops. Don’t miss the National Landmarks Garden, where you can see models of Myanmar’s famous landmarks!

9. Ngwe Saung [SEE MAP]

Ngwe Saung is an upmarket beach resort with a seemingly endless stretch of silvery coastline on the Bay of Bengal. More sophisticated than popular Chaung Tha Beach, Ngwe Saung is the sought-after destination for Yangon’s rich and famous.

Offering that get-away-from-it-all experience with beautiful white sand and brilliant blue ocean edged by palm trees, Ngwe Saung is simply paradise. Indulge in the slow life and do as much or as little as you like – both are encouraged here.

Take a leisurely stroll across the sandbar to Lover’s Island at low tide, admire the beachfront pagodas, go snorkeling at Bird Island, and indulge in a fresh seafood dinner at sunset. Don’t miss the fire dancing shows at Ume café every evening for your daily dose of vibrant Burmese culture!

8. Kyaiktiyo [SEE MAP]

You simply cannot visit Myanmar without planning a trip to Mount Kyaiktiyo, home to the famous golden rock and gilded pagoda – one of the most sacred sites in the country and a popular pilgrimage spot.

This enormous golden rock teeters precariously on the edge of a cliff and is said to be held in place by the hair of Buddha. While this boulder is surely the main attraction, you should also see the Shwedagon Pagoda and the Mahamuni Temple while you’re here.

Not to mention the enchanting views of the Mon State mountains you’ll enjoy from the top of the mountain! You can reach Kyaiktiyo by taking an open-top truck and cable car or by challenging yourself to the four-hour hike to the top. Bear in mind that while you can pay to place a gold leaf onto the rock, this is strictly limited to men only.  

7. Bago [SEE MAP]

Bago, also known as Pegu, was once the capital of the Mon Kingdom. While it doesn’t top many modern guidebooks already published, this city is packed full of history and authentic everyday culture. See the ruins of the ancient palace, admire the many nearby pagodas, or witness the traditions of the rice-making industry. As a new airport is set to open in the region in 2022, you should go now before the city is overrun by tourists!

The appeal of Bago is its authentic, non-touristy feel. There are only a select few hotels licensed to welcome foreigners, and the restaurants offer a truly local experience with traditional curries and typical Burmese dishes.

The local market is also a great spot to soak up the sights and sounds of everyday life in Bago. Other attractions you don’t want to miss include Shwethalyaung, an enormous reclining statue of Buddha, and Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the ‘Golden God Temple.’

6. Mrauk U [SEE MAP]

Mrauk U – once known as Mrohaung – is an abandoned city with strong archaeological importance. While its temples are similar to Bagan’s, they’re smaller and a lot more modern – made from stone instead of brick.

Surrounded by still-inhabited rural villages, rice paddies, and a panorama of rolling countryside, these temple ruins which were once part of a powerful Arakan kingdom are a sight to behold.

While Mrauk U was a thriving trading post during the First Anglo-Burmese War, it was relocated to Sittwe after the war ended, leaving Mrauk U behind. Since then, the temples and the city itself have been largely forgotten, left to crumble into dust. The isolation is what makes Mrauk U charming though; only 5,000 tourists make it here every year – so you’re likely to get the temples pretty much all to yourself.

5. Ngapali [SEE MAP]

Ngapali is the most popular beach destination in Myanmar. Located on the spectacular Bay of Bengal, this stretch of coastline boasts a total of three bays dotted with fishing villages, beaches, and coconut palm. It’s all about the slow life here in Ngapalai – swim, sunbathe, sleep, repeat.

When you’ve had your fair share of relaxation, you can go fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving to see the exotic fish in the bay. Back on land, there are golf courses, fishing villages, and seafood restaurants to discover on foot, by bicycle, or motorbike.

Or you can simply relax and indulge in the beach happy hour specials. Don’t miss the chance to climb or drive up to Tilawkasayambhu Buddha at the top of the hill – it offers the most exceptional views over the bay!

4. Inle Lake [SEE MAP]

The Lake Inle region is a picturesque place famous for its unusual floating villages, pretty gardens, and glorious temples. As there are no roads here, you’ll get around by wooden boat.

Staying in Lake Inle is a great way to immerse yourself entirely in local life on the lake. Stay in over-water villas located on stilts above the water, explore thousand-year-old pagodas, and see over 200 monasteries scattered around the lake – don’t miss the Jumping Cat Monastery!

Other attractions worth visiting in Lake Inle include the floating market at Ywama village and the gorgeous floating gardens of Nampan village. A traditional cooking class at Mr. Toe’s restaurant is a great way to bring a piece of Myanmar home with you.

3. Mandalay [SEE MAP]

Set at the foot of Mandalay Hill, Myanmar’s second-largest city is a charming yet convoluted place. Formerly the old royal capital, it’s filled with bustling markets, monasteries, Indian temples, mosques, and hillside pagodas that rightfully place it as the center of Burmese culture.

There’s a fair amount of ground to cover in Mandalay, but if you have time, you should spend a few hours exploring the Royal Palace of Mandalay – it’s home to 40 different buildings! Climbing up Yankin Hill, seeing the world’s largest book at Kuthodaw Pagoda, and watching a show at the Mandalay Marionettes are also great ways to experience Mandalay.

Other worthwhile Mandalay attractions include the Shwe In Bin Kyaung monastery, Mahamuni Paya, and Ta Moke Shwe Gu Gyi – the country’s third most significant archaeological site, after Mrauk-U and Bagan.

2. Yangon [SEE MAP]

Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is the largest city in all of Myanmar. There’s so much to see and do in this exciting and colorful metropolis – from Buddhist monuments to scenic parks and lakes. Take a stroll through the streets, and you’ll discover so much history. Colonial buildings, museums, art galleries, and markets adorn just about every corner of the city.

Take your time soaking up the essence of Yangon at many of its religious sites. Visiting Shwedagon Pagoda – a towering golden steeple – at sunset is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Discover Buddha hairs at Botataung Pagoda, visit a fresh local market and shop for souvenirs at Bogyoke Aung San Market.

However you choose to spend your time in Yangon, you cannot leave without indulging in the city’s mouth-watering Burmese street food! The samosa salad and street pancakes are definitely something to write home about.

1. Bagan [SEE MAP]

Bagan is the number one attraction in Myanmar – and for good reason – you simply cannot skip it! Home to over 2,000 enchanting stupas spread across the endless countryside, it’s a true feast for the eyes. The best part about Bagan is that, unlike other archaeological sites like it, it’s still fairly untouched by tourists. But it’s catching on, so don’t leave it too long!

The best way to experience the utter magic of Bagan is by taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. There are so many stupas you simply cannot appreciate them all from ground level.

Pagodas aside, you can explore one of Baga’s local markets – such as the Mani Sithu Market, cycle past the temples on a bike or e-bike, and shop for high-quality lacquer products. And if it’s a foodie experience you’re after, you won’t be disappointed in Bagan; you’ll find no shortage of Asian cuisine here – not just Burmese but Chinese, Thai, Indian, and even Tibetan, so come hungry!

Map of the best places to visit in Myanmar

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Myanmar

Hit the Highlights of Southeast Asia's Final Frontier

K'Nub / Getty Images

Myanmar isn't at the top of most travelers' bucket lists but that makes it an even more exciting place to visit. An itinerary through Southeast Asia’s final frontier reveals one of the region’s most authentic experiences: Bagan’s temple plain, Mergui’s unspoiled diving sites, and Shwedagon’s golden stupendousness, all (as yet) undisturbed by overtourism despite the excellent value for your dollar .

Before you blaze a trail through Myanmar, read our list of the country’s highlights: combine with this list of Myanmar travel tips , dos and don’ts in Myanmar , and a suggested itinerary to create a one-of-a-kind Myanmar voyage.

Explore 2,000 Temples at Bagan

Supoj Buranaprapapong / Getty Images

A major power in Southeast Asia from the 11th to the 13th centuries, the Pagan Empire lives on through the arid Bagan temple plain .

Bagan's 2,000-odd temples range in size and grandeur, spread across an area of 40 square miles. Hire a bicycle, “e-bike” or car-and-driver to take you to some of the best , including the grand Shwezigon Pagoda (inspiring Shwedagon further south) and the cathedral-like Ananda temple.

Getting there: Fly in via Nyaung-U Airport (IATA: NYU, ICAO: VYBG), or take the bus. A US$20 entrance ticket is charged before entry. The authorities used to allow visitors to climb the temples, but that has since been limited to a few temples with a view .  

Take a Lakeside Breather at Inle Lake

 lim_jessica / Getty Images

This massive lake measures 13 miles (22 kilometers) from north to south, and 6 miles (10 kilometers) from east to west. All along the fringes of this watery expanse, you’ll find towns populated by the Intha ethnic community. Long adapted to living by the waters’ edge, the Intha ride boats to get from place to place, cultivate floating farms, and row boats with one leg while fishing on the lake.

Stay near the Intha villages to enjoy the unique lakeside landscape and see more of the local color — from visiting the markets that rotate from village to village; to checking out the shops selling locally-made silver, knives and cigars; to seeking spiritual solace at the Hpaung Daw Oo and Shwe Indein Pagodas.

Getting there: Buses reach the town of Nyaungshwe from Mandalay and Yangon. from Nyaungshwe, you can take a speedboat to any of the towns around Inle Lake. A US$10 entrance fee to Inle Lake will be charged at Nyaungshwe.

Hit the Hiking Trails from Kalaw

Jason Gallant / Getty Images

The former British hill station of Kalaw has become Myanmar’s de facto hiking capital . With an elevation of 4,000 feet above sea level, Kalaw offers a temperate climate and access to gentle downhill trails snaking through Shan State — the most popular being the two- to four-day hike to Inle Lake.

The trail takes you through farmlands dotted with villages and temples. The Pa-O, Palaung, Danu and Taung Yo ethnic groups are used to trekkers, and will happily wave as you walk by. At night, you’ll stay at a Buddhist temple, with meals provided by local families.

Trekking from Kalaw happens year-round, but the cool, dry season from October to April is the best time to go. Guides can be hired at Kalaw.

Getting there: Buses regularly reach Kalaw from major cities like Bagan and Yangon. By air, fly to Heho Airport (IATA: HEH, ICAO: VYHH), which is also the main air gateway to Pindaya and Inle Lake. Taxis take one hour to reach Kalaw from Heho Airport.  

Eat Myanmar’s Famous Mohinga Noodles

Even as Myanmar’s top tourist destinations have slowly become more Western-friendly, Myanmar’s food has managed to stick to the basics. Take mohinga , the noodle dish that is the nation’s absolute favorite breakfast.

It’s cheap, filling, but surprisingly complex. A catfish-based broth is spiced with lemongrass, coriander, turmeric, and a collection of other spices specific to the location where you're eating. The hot broth is then poured over rice noodles, and garnished with hard-boiled egg slices and crispy fritters.

You can find mohinga almost everywhere, eat it at any time of the day, and serve it to humble worker and highborn alike. (State Counsellor and former political prisoner Aung San Suu Kyi took solace in eating mohinga during her years of house arrest.)  

See a Shadow of Empire at the Pyu Ancient Cities

bianca polak / Flickr /  CC BY-NC 2.0

Newly inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List , the ancient city-states of the Pyu are all that remains of a mighty civilization that ruled the floodbasins of the Irrawaddy River from 200 BC to AD 900.

The three Pyu cities listed by UNESCO – Halin, Beikthano and Sri Ksetra – still retain the remnants of palace citadels, massive walls, and Buddhist stupas. Each of these Pyu Ancient Cities have museums that allow visitors to see the context behind the structures, with curated artifacts like silver coins, pottery and stone slabs covered in Pyu writing.

Getting there: The Pyu cities are widely spaced, and must be reached from different cities. Sri Ksetra is the easiest to reach: take an eight-hour bus from Yangon to Pyay, a town some 5 miles west of the ruins. You can book a tour from Pyay to explore.  

Relax on White Sand at Ngapali Beach

Si Thu Win / Flickr /  CC BY-NC 2.0

Ngapali Beach is the anti- Phuket : a quiet stretch of white-sand beach on the western coast of Myanmar facing the Bay of Bengal. No crowded beachfronts, high-traffic hotels or sleazy red-light districts blight the area. This beach is just a laid-back beach destination where fishermen still go about their business, sharing space with a steady tide of tourists.

Prices for accommodation and food here also compare favorably against the rest of the region. Enjoy steamed crab, lobster, and Rakhine curries, and wash them down with local beers , without breaking the bank.

Getting there: During peak months of October to February, fly to nearby Thandwe Airport from Yangon or Heho Airports . A direct bus service connects Ngapali with Yangon, but it’s a butt-busting 16-hour ride either way. 

Wonder How the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda Keeps its Balance

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Locals believe that a strand of the Buddha's hair helps Kyaiktiyo Pagoda balance on a cliff’s edge. It’s been hanging on like that for over 2,000 years, they say – and will probably stay for another 2,000 more.

The granite rock gets its brilliant sheen from generations of Burmese Buddhists sticking gold leaf onto its surface as a sign of devotion. Kyaiktiyo pilgrims make a four-hour trek from Kinpun Village at ground level, placidly walking the 10-mile uphill climb to the rock.

The pagoda is an all-year pilgrimage favorite for locals, but things get turned up to eleven during its festival season in March . 90,000 candles illuminate the rock at night, giving it an otherworldly glow.

Getting there: Buses and trains from Yangon regularly make the 5-6-hour voyage to Kinpun. If walking four hours up a mountain isn’t your thing, pick-up trucks at Kinpun can take you there in a few minutes.  

Pray for Victory at Shwedagon Temple

No sacred space in Myanmar contains as much history, culture and literal riches as the Shwedagon Pagoda. This massive gold stupa stands on a 46-hectare complex on a hill west of Kandawgyi Lake in Yangon .

As you climb one of four stairways up to the stupa, you can stop to have your fortune told, then buy offerings to the right shrines for good luck. Locals walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction, making merit at any of the different shrines or praying for success at the Victory Ground where Kings used to pray for triumph over their enemies.

Getting there: Take a taxi to Shwedagon; avoid coming at high noon, as your bare feet will not appreciate walking on the hot pavement.

Visit the Last Royal Capital at Mandalay

Mike Aquino 

Home to the last ruling kings of Burma, Mandalay still retains echoes of its royal status. Its side streets still ring with the sound of traditional crafts being performed, from marble carvers to silversmiths to gold leaf making.

Sacred temples like the Mahamuni Pagoda (home to Myanmar’s oldest Buddha image) and Kuthodaw Pagoda (home to the “world’s largest book”, an edition of the Buddhist Pali Canon).

Sadly, World War II destroyed the Royal Palace at the heart of Mandalay. A watch tower, the Royal Mint, and the Shwenandaw Monastery are all that’s left of the original, but the rest of the palace – reconstructed in the '90s using modern materials – can still (imperfectly) give you a glimpse of what life must have been like for Burma’s kings.

Getting there: Mandalay is a major air gateway into Myanmar , thanks to Mandalay International Airport (IATA: MDL, ICAO: VYMD).  

Have a Close Encounter with Nature at Pyin Oo Lwin

Melvyn Longhurst / Getty Images 

In the days before air conditioning, the British Civil Service in Burma would spend the sweltering summers in the town they called Maymyo, now called Pyin Oo Lwin. Its elevation (3,500 feet above sea level) meant that visitors could enjoy nippy weather and flowering gardens.

Pyin Oo Lwin's tree-shaded avenues pale in comparison to the best botanical garden in Myanmar: the Kandawgyi National Gardens, a 177-hectare park in the heart of the city, combining parkland and unspoiled forest.

Over 700 species of trees, 300 species of orchids, 70 species of bamboo and 20 species of roses bloom year-round in the Gardens. (The Rose Garden is a major highlight; you can buy seeds in the Gardens to plant at home.)

Getting there: A train connects Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin, taking four hours to get there.  

Explore Mergui Archipelago Before Everyone Else Does

John Seaton Callahan / Getty Images

While Andaman Sea island destinations like Ko Phi Phi are struggling from too many tourists, the Mergui Archipelago off Myanmar's west coast is only now being discovered by scuba divers and beach nuts.

You’ll kayak among secluded islands only visited occasionally by the people of the Moken tribe. You’ll strap on scuba gear and explore the untouched underwater landscape, with a massive complement of nudibranch, schools of tuna and trevallies, and large sharks that dart out of the depths.

Given the 13,900-square-mile coverage of the Mergui islands, you’ll need about a week or two to explore the archipelago in depth (pun intended).

Getting there: Book a liveaboard boat from Phuket, Khao Lak and Ranong in Thailand. Alternatively, you can fly from Yangon to Kawthaung (the Myanmar jump-off point to the Mergui Archipelago) and set sail from there. Even liveaboards from Thailand must stop at Kawthaung to fix their immigration papers and pay a visa fee.  

Watch Animal Balloons Fly at the Tazaungdaing Light Festival

 Joel Carillet / Getty Images

The end of Kahtein falls on the full moon of the eighth month of the Burmese lunar calendar (in 2019, this takes place on November 5-11). Taunggyi locals take this time to kick the kick off a major festival : the Tazaungdaing Light Festival, when locals launch fireworks and balloons made of papier-mache after dark.

There’s a method to the madness. The Tazaungdaing festival traditionally marks the Buddha’s return to Earth from visiting his mother in another spiritual plane; the fireworks and balloons are intended to guide the Enlightened One home. The Taunggyi locals add a certain whimsy to the homecoming balloons, shaping them into giant paper animals, turning the sky into a menagerie.

Getting there: Buses regularly reach Taunggyi from major cities like Bagan and Yangon. By air, fly to Heho Airport (IATA: HEH, ICAO: VYHH), which is also the main air gateway to Pindaya and Inle Lake. Taxis take 40 minutes to reach Taunggyi from Heho Airport.  

Meet and Greet 13 Tribes at Kyaingtong

Ministry of Hotels & Tourism, Myanmar 

The English writer Somerset Maugham visited Kyaingtong (spelled Keng Tung in his day), inspired by an acquaintance who “spoke of Keng Tung as a lover might speak of his bride.” Today’s Kyaingtong is much as Maugham found it: a laid-back retreat that also happens to be a cultural meeting-place for 13 Shan-state tribes, each with distinct cultures and costumes.

The distinct cultures that make up Kyaingtong gather at certain landmarks that were already old when Maugham found his way there in the 20th century: the Central Market, where hill tribe traders exchange goods and news; the Maha Myat Muni Pagoda, the city’s spiritual center; and the picturesque Lake Naung Tone.

At the latter, you can sit at a lakeside food stall and enjoy local cuisine after nightfall.

Getting there: fly in from Yangon or Mandalay via Kengtung Airport (IATA: KET, ICAO: VYKG).

Visit a Holy Cave (and Thousands of Buddhas) at Pindaya

Most of Pindaya in Shan State is farmland, as far as the eyes can see: rolling hills growing vegetables, sunflowers and tea. Its main attraction lies high up on a cliff overlooking town. Shwe Oo Min Cave hides over 7,000 Buddha statues, some dating back to the 11th century AD, left in the cave by Buddhist pilgrims.

Other local attractions cater to travelers thirsty for local culture – visit the Shan cultural center that converts locally-made mulberry paper into fans and umbrellas; the Myoma Market, a one-stop-shop for local goods and cheap food; and the Plan Bee apiculture center that sells honey, beeswax candles and balms.

Its elevation of 3,800 feet above sea level makes Pindaya a cool, comfortable stop relative to Myanmar’s lowlands. No wonder Pindaya remains a popular stop for hikers from Kalaw, heading to Inle Lake.

Getting there: Fly to Heho Airport (IATA: HEH, ICAO: VYHH) and take a taxi to Pindaya. 

Take a Cruise Down the Irrawaddy River

Peter Stuckings / Getty Images 

There would be no Burma without an Irrawaddy River. This mighty waterway has nourished empires since the Pyu cities in 200 BC. Today, it continues to support trade and travel, from shipping teak logs to transporting tourists.

Myanmar river cruise lines now offer Irrawaddy itineraries lasting from a few days to several weeks. Shorter cruises shuttle between Mandalay and Bagan in four days. Longer cruises connect Bagan and Yangon, stopping by Pyay (home to Sri Ksetra, see “Pyu Cities” above at #5). Even longer voyages head to border towns like Bhamo (some 30 miles south of the border with China) and Homalin (12 miles east of the Indian border).

Where to go: Cruises depart from major riverside cities like Bagan, Mandalay and Yangon, all accessible by their respective airports . Cruise seasons often coincide with the monsoon season , to ensure high river levels — most Irrawaddy cruises run from September to April, while detours on the Chindwin River (to Homalin) occur between July and September.

Reliable cruise providers in Myanmar include Pandaw , Paukan Cruises , Avalon Waterways , and the Strand Cruise .

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16 Places To Visit In Myanmar – Where To Go & What to See

Myanmar is one of the most underrated countries in SE Asia. It is unique and gorgeous and will leave you surprised. There are plenty of places to visit in Myanmar, whether you have just a week or a month.

From temples to waterfalls to hikes to beaches, you can do a bit of everything that the country offers. If you plan to visit Myanmar soon, here are the places to visit in Myanmar and things to do in each of them.

Top Places To Visit In Myanmar

The most visited destination in Myanmar is Bagan, which is on every traveler’s itinerary. And it is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar for one reason – temples.

Bagan is an ancient city built around the 12th century and was once home to over 20,000 Buddhist pagodas. Now over 1000 remain, scattered on the banks of the Ayeyarwady river beckoning history lovers, architectural enthusiasts and anyone wanting to go back in time!

Things to do in Bagan

Explore the best ancient temples – Temple hopping would be your thing to do in the city. Ananda temple, Bhu Paya, Dhammanyangi and Shwedansaw are some of the best Bagan temples not to miss. You can rent an e-bike for about MMK 4000 daily and explore it independently. Make sure to start early to avoid the hot sun.

Check out the 17 best temples in Bagan and a guide to visit them.

Watch the spectacular sunrise – Among the reasons to visit Bagan are the spectacles of sunrise and sunset over the temples. Watching the sunrise in Bagan is a phenomenal experience – You will watch the colours in the backdrop of temples emerge from silhouettes as the sun’s first rays kiss them with sparkle.

It was possible to climb atop the giant temple tops earlier to witness this, which is now banned. But there are still places in Bagan to watch sunrise and sunset, check them out here.

Take a hot air balloon ride – One of the fantastic ways to watch a stunning sunrise over Bagan is to ride in a hot air balloon. It is one of the lifetime must-do experiences while you are in Bagan.

Plan a few day trips – Many interesting places around Bagan are worth checking out. Plan 1 or 2-day trips to cover them. Check out these seven-day trips that you can plan from Bagan .

Take the slow boat cruise from Bagan to Mandalay –  One of the experiences in Myanmar is to travel from Bagan to Mandalay by boat. A cruise on the Irrawaddy river will take you through fishers, their villages, and paddy fields and you will get a peek at the life along this central river. It is a day’s journey worth your time and money.

Where to stay in Bagan

All ranges of hotels in Bagan are spread across Old Bagan, New Bagan and Nyaung-U. Nyaung-U has many budget accommodations and hostels for solo travelers and backpackers. Here are the recommended accommodation options in Bagan:

Check here for the latest prices and deals on Bagan hotels.

Inle is one of the most beautiful lakes in SE Asia and a top destination for tourists that visit Burma. It is not just a lake; this large water body supports over 80,000 inhabitants, many of which live on wooden stilt houses in the water villages.

On the lake, you will see rows and rows of houses, shops, industries and restaurants built on stilts – a whole town on the water. Isn’t it unique? No wonder it is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar. 

Things to do in Inle Lake

Take Inle Lake boat tour  – Taking a boat tour is one of the must-do things at Inle Lake and is one of the popular tourist attractions in Myanmar. A half-day or a full-day tour(private or group), you will visit unique, traditional means of occupation like cigar making, handloom made of lotus stem, umbrellas and hand-made paper making industries. You will also watch fishers at work – a unique way in which they use their leg to fish.

Rent a bicycle or a bike  – The town surrounding the lake is everything that speaks of the rugged countryside of Myanmar. You can cycle through green paddy fields surrounded by mountains, passing through wooden homes, where cheerful kids on the street will greet you.

Go wine tasting  – The Red Mountain Estate Vineyard is located atop the hills close to Inle Lake. If you are renting a bike or a cycle, it is one of the places to check out to take a tour and taste the local wine.

Check out the ruins at Indein temple  – Located a little further away from Inle Lake is the ancient Indien Pagoda, which is home to hundreds of stupas lined on a hill. The red, brown and white stupas surrounded by the green villages below is a lovely sight, apart from the rich history of temple ruins. Plan a half-day trip to Indein from Inle lake on your motorbike, enjoying a drive passing through the scenic villages.

Witness the sunrise & sunset at Inle Lake  – Take a trip on the long-tailed wooden boat on the Inle at the time of evening and in the early morning hours, both times when the sky looks incredibly magical with all that colours of dusk and dawn.

Visit Kakku –  Kakku is called pagoda with thousand stupas because of over 2000 sacred stupas, which were built hundreds of years ago. You can plan a half-day guided trip from Inle Lake.

Where to stay in Inle Lake

If you want to experience a unique stay, the best place to stay would be on the Inle Lake itself, in one of the resorts that are next to it. If you are traveling on a budget, there are a lot of hotels in Nyuangshwe, which is the nearest town to the lake. Here is what I’d recommend.

Check here for best deals and prices for Inle Lake hotels.

Mandalay is a unique town with a robust distinguishing character, which makes it one of the recommended places to visit in Myanmar. It is a city with the usual concrete culture consuming the suburbs, but move away a bit, and you will find different sides of the town.

Things to do in Mandalay

Watch the sunset over U-Bien bridge – The iconic wooden bridge is the oldest in the world, over 1 km across Taungthaman Lake. And watching gorgeous views during the sunset is Myanmar’s point of interest for travelers.

Check out Shwenandaw Kyaung Monastery & Mahamuni Pagoda – Mandalay has its fair share of temples and monasteries. But these two stand out.

Shwenandaw Kyaung is a beautiful monastery in Myanmar which has completely different architecture and design, making it a must-visit attraction. Mahamuni is the most sacred pagoda in Myanmar. The golden Buddha is blanketed in 6 tons of gold leaves offered by people who take a pilgrimage to the pagoda.

Climb Mandalay hill – One of the best spots for witnessing the sunset in the city is Mandalay hill, which is close to the city centre. Plan a small hike to the top in the evening for rewarding panoramic views of the sunset over the town.

Visit Sagaing – A little away from the city centre of Mandalay is Sagaing district, famous for its picturesque hill dotted with pagodas, whose white, golden and red stupas amidst greenery, which is every photographer’s delight.

There are several viewpoints at the top from where you can see beautiful views of the Irrawaddy and the Ava bridge. Spend an evening here to watch the sunset. You can reach by boat from Mandalay, a lovely short journey on the river.

RECOMMENDED – Check out these 17 Amazing Things to do in Mandalay

Where to stay in Mandalay

The attractions in Mandalay are all scattered; hence, no matter where you stay, you will have to rely on a tuk-tuk, a cab, or a bike to get around. The best area is downtown, with good restaurants and many accommodation options. Here are some of them to try.

Click here for the best deals on Mandalay hotels.

Many would brush off this thought of including the former capital city on their itinerary(I was one of them, too!). Still, Yangon has surprisingly a lot of exciting things to offer for all kinds of travelers. It might not be one of the best places to visit in Myanmar compared to other destinations that stand out, but if you have time, spare a day or two, although Three days in Yangon is perfect.

If you are contemplating between Mandalay and Yangon to choose only one for any reason, my vote would be for Yangon.

Things to do in Yangon

Visit the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda  – The most revered Buddhist temple, Shwedagon is the oldest and a top tourist attraction for visitors. Visit the temple during the daytime and around sunset after dark, as it looks completely contrasting both times.

Take the Yangon circle train – How about a heritage train ride? The circular train is a loop circuit that passes through different suburbs of Yangon, including a market. It is one of the experiences that can you can witness only here.

Take a walk in Kandawgyi Lake – Yangon’s notorious traffic can be intimidating if you are new in SE Asia. One best way to escape the chaos is strolling around Kandawgyi, a pleasantly well-maintained lake. Close to it is Bogoyoke Park, which is good for people-watching.

Try street food in Chinatown – A few streets famously known as China Town are at the heart of Yangon. There isn’t anything Chinese(except for a few restaurants), but it is an excellent place for savouring Burmese food and beer, which are also very cheap.

Where to stay in Yangon

The city centre is the best area to stay in Yangon, so you can visit a few of them on foot. There is no shortage of hotels, hostels and guesthouses in every budget range in the city. Here are a few of my recommendations.

Click here for some best deals and prices of hotels in Yangon.

Offbeat Places To Visit In Myanmar

If you want to venture off the touristy destinations, here are some options for you.

One of the towns I enjoyed a lot and was a total surprise was the tiny town of Hpa An. Tourism is still booming here, and you will see fewer tourists. Plus, if you love nature, the countryside and caves, you will love Hpa An.

The green rice and paddy fields will smite you, and here is one of the places where you will witness the natural beauty of Myanmar. It is similar to Ninh Binh and Tam Coc in Vietnam , gorgeous sites known for Karst mountains, paddy fields and pagodas.

Things to do in Hpa An

Go cave-hopping – Hpa An is a town of caves. There are at least three worth visiting, all of them if you want to see 10th-century murals and statues of Buddha.

Go to the top of Kyauk Kalat Pagoda – Kyauk Kalat is an ancient temple perched on the top of a rocky cliff surrounded by a lake. Its location amidst mountains itself should be a reason good enough for you to visit.

Rent a bike to drive through the countryside – Whether you opt for a bike or a bicycle, make sure to get out of the town of Hpa An because it’s where all the lovely things are. Pass through cows crossing the road, women waving at you and people working on their farms.

Where to stay in Hpa An

Staying in the city centre is the best option as you can access bike rentals and the right choice of restaurants and hotels. Here are some of the best hotels in Hpa An.

Click here for the best prices of hotels in Hpa An

Mount Zwegabin

Mount Zwegabin is close to Hpa An and is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar for a gorgeous sunrise over the mountains. A hike for about 2 to 3 hours will lead you to witness the spectacular sunrise.

If you are visiting during the monsoon from June to September, you cannot visit Mount Zwegabin as it is closed. Carry a torch and wear proper hiking shoes. You can reach the foot of the mountain, which is also home to Lumbini gardens, from Hpa An by bike.

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock)

The golden rock temple is one of the most photographed places in the country. It is only of the sacred sites for the locals. For tourists, it is one of the places worth visiting in Myanmar. A huge rock stands at the edge of another cliff inclined completely forward, which is a sight to behold. It is a popular day trip from Yangon. You can also plan a day trip from Hpa An.

If you intend to go further into the heart of Myanmar to get a sneak peek of destinations not developed or commercialized for tourists, then Mrauk-U is one of them. Ancient Buddhist temples and archaeological sites will keep you occupied for at least a day. I’d recommend keeping 3 days, given the distance and time required to travel.

Rakhine state, where Mrauk-U is located, is prone to some internal conflicts, because of which it was off-limits for tourists for a few years. If you intend to add Mrauk-U to your itinerary, check the status before.

Things to Do in Mrauk–U

Rent a bike to explore the archaeological ruins   – The best way to check out the temple ruins is to rent a cycle. If it’s too much for you, motorbikes are an option. It is best to start early, around sunrise, to skip the hot weather. Or head there around sunset.

Visit Chin villages –  The villages around Mrauk-U is home to the Chin community, an ethnic tribe known for its older women with tattoos all over their face, a tradition practised years ago to safeguard women from being kidnapped by men of other tribes. The tattoo tradition is long gone, but you can still see a few older women. 

Note – Be sensitive when you visit these communities. Ask before you click any pictures, engage with them, and try to get to know them instead of just clicking. 

Where to stay in Mrauk-U

The downtown is the best option as there are many hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the recommended hotels in Mrauk-U.

Mount Popa is a sacred monastery and is one of the cool places to visit in Myanmar. Perched atop a cliff, you need to climb 777 steps to the top, where you will enter the ancient pagoda dedicated to Nat spirits. It is a popular day trip from Bagan and Mandalay. Please beware of the notorious monkeys that snatch food and other stuff from you on the way up.

The Goteik Viaduct

Myanmar is known for a few memorable train journeys, and the most popular is the train over the iconic Goteik Viaduct. The Viaduct is Myanmar’s highest heritage bridge and earliest engineering feet. 

Trains from Pyin Oo Lwin going to Hsipaw and Lashio cross over the bridge, a snail-pace ride as you catch your breath absorbing the fantastic views. You can buy tickets at Pyin Oo Lwin and get down at either Hsipaw and Lashio or go the other way around. You can also get out early after the viaduct if you don’t want to make the entire train journey.

Places to visit in Myanmar – For Hikes

If you are a trekker, you will probably want to include a short hike. Kalaw is the best place to visit in Myanmar for this purpose. There is a trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake, which is very popular among advanced hikers. For those preferring a more leisurely route, there are alternative, less complicated trails from Kalaw to Inle Lake. So you can combine these two places to visit in Myanmar accordingly.

Apart from this, short hikes span for one or two days that will take you to nearby villages in the hills. Or you can opt for multiple-day treks where you can stay in village homes, taste local cuisine and interact with locals apart from witnessing spectacular views.

Where to stay in Kalaw

Here are some of the hotels in Kalaw that you can choose from.

Another offbeat destination located remotely amidst the mountains is Hsipaw , which receives only a handful of visitors. It is one of the fantastic places to visit in Myanmar to enjoy walks in nature. There are many guided hikes to nearby villages, which can be directly booked through operators once you arrive.

It is one of the restricted towns for foreigners, who are provided access based on the current political situation. So make sure to check the status before planning a trip to Hsipaw.

Things to Do in Hsipaw

Go on a hike – Based on your fitness, time, budget, and other preferences, pick a guided trek that will offer you some of the best sceneries.

Visit waterfalls, and hot springs – Close to the town is a waterfall which is great to be visited on a bike ride. Also, there are hot springs worth checking out if you have time.

Where to stay in Hsipaw

The downtown is the best place to stay in Hsipaw as you can access many restaurants and good hotels in all budget ranges. Some of the ones worth checking out are:

Lashio is one of the towns that’s slowly opening up for tourists. Thanks to the mountains, its colder climate provides an opportunity to escape the hot weather. If you enjoy hiking, there are plenty of guided hikes you can directly book downtown. These hikes range from 2 to 5 days and are done in small groups, so it is best if you are a solo traveler as you can join a group.

Where to stay in Lashio

The accommodation options are limited, but there are many decent hotels in Lashio in all budget ranges. Check these out.

Places to Visit in Myanmar – For beaches

If you are looking for places of recreation in Myanmar, these beach destinations and islands are the way to go.

Mergui Archipelago

If you are looking for only one beach destination, it should be Mergui . It is one of the hidden places in Myanmar, thanks to its location at the farthest southern end of the country. It is time-consuming to travel, but the journey is all worth when you have over 20 islands to explore out of 800 islands scattered across the Andaman sea.

Plenty of secluded white sand beaches with crystal clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, diving and snorkelling. You can stroll or rent a cycle to explore the tiny islands covered with tropical palms and pine trees.

If you are short on time or don’t prefer long journeys but still want to hit a beach, Ngapali is your choice. It is one of the closest beaches to Yangon and also very beautiful, making it one of the best places to visit in Myanmar if a few beach days are on your mind after exploring temple towns and cities.

You can enjoy all the water sports, pamper yourself in one of the luxurious resorts with all amenities or do nothing.

If a luxurious beach resort is not your idea, head to Ngwe Saung, everything like Ngapali, but only at lower, affordable prices. You will have more choices from accommodation to food without digging too deep into your pockets.

So these are the fabulous places to visit in Myanmar. I hope it helps you. Check out the resources for each destination to plan further.

OTHER POSTS FROM MYANMAR TO PLAN YOUR TRIP

• 17 Best Bagan Pagodas That You Should Visit (Among the 800+temples)
• How to get from Yangon to Mandalay –  Bus or Train?
• Watching Sunrise & Sunset in Bagan – Here is how to do it in 2019
• Ways To Reach Bagan From Yangon in Myanmar
• Offbeat Myanmar – 21 Awesome Things to Do in Hpa An
• Crossing Thailand-Myanmar By Land – Here is a complete guide to do it

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• Best Time To Visit Myanmar – What to see & do(By regions & months)
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• 11 Fantastic Day Trips From Yangon, Myanmar (+ Tips to plan them)
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The 10 best places to visit in Myanmar

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Myanmar is a spectacular country and, full to the brim of iconic sights, it stole a piece of our hearts the moment we stepped off the plane and landed into the crazy, wonderful and inspirational country. Myanmar boasts an incredible array of things to do: from stepping back in time at Inle Lake to the chaotic royal capital of Yangon to the breathtaking Bagan temple plain, Myanmar remains as one of South East Asia’s hidden gems. Here’s our 10 best places to visit in Myanmar!

1 | Watch the sunrise over the Bagan temple plain

Bagan sunrises are truly breathtaking and, watching the sun light up the Bagan temple plain, is an iconic Myanmar moment. The temples stretch as far as the eye can see, a morning mist rises over the plain, a rainbow coloured sky emerges through the darkness and hot air balloons drift over the horizon.

Where to stay in Bagan

Hotels in Bagan are located across Old and New Bagan and Nyaung-U. Nyaung-U, a mix of boutique hotels and local residents about 3km from the temples, is our favourite. 

• ZFreeti Hotel, Nguang-U:  we stayed in the Zfreeti, a small hotel with lots of great restaurant options in the surrounding streets and an inviting swimming pool – click here for prices!
• Other good options in Nguang-U include the Sky View Hotel and Hotel Zein
• Aureum Palace Hotel and Resort, Old Bagan: located within the Bagan Archaeological Preservation Zone among the ancient temples this hotel has best views of the Bagan plains – click here for prices!
• Bagan Lodge, New Bagan: If you prefer New Bagan this might be your best option – click here for prices!

Click here for the best Bagan hotel Prices

2 | Climb the 777 steps of Mount Popa

Mount Popa is a Myanmar postcard sight: a sacred monastery, with stupas glistening gold, perched atop an extinct volcano. 777 steps lead the way to the top of Mount Popa, the headquarters of Myanmar’s most powerful Nats, and the route is lined with monkeys keen to get up to mischief with the tourists in their search for food! Mount Popa is a popular half day trip from Bagan.

Click here to book the Mount Popa Resort now!

3 | Get lost among the thousands of Stupas at Kakku, Inle Lake

One of Myanmar’s most spectacular pagodas, Kakku is a Shan State hidden gem ane of the most incredible things to do at Inle Lake . It is a collection of 2,478 stupas commissioned 2,000 years ago and it is a religious centre for the Pa’O people, a Buddhist tribe from Myanmar. It’s accessible by a half day trip from Inle Lake and, due to local laws, it is required to take the trip with a local guide – check tour prices here!

Click here to book a Kakku tour!

Where to stay in Inle Lake

A visit to Inle Lake centres around the lake itself and we found staying on the lake itself an unforgettable experience. We highly recommend staying at one of the resorts on the lake, which all offer direct access to the lake from the hotels.

• Inle Princess Hotel: We stayed in the beautiful Inle Princess Resort which is situated on the shores of Inle Lake. The villas are stunning, the food excellent and the views unbeatable – check prices now!
• Myanmar Treasure Resort : A collection of stilted luxury rooms overlooking the lake – check prices now!
• Royal Nyaung Shwe Hotel: an excellent budget friendly option in Nyaung Shwe – check prices now!

Click here for the best Inle Lake Hotel Prices

4 | Take a sunset boat ride on Inle Lake

Inle Lake is one of the most stunning lakes in the world and the stilt houses and Buddhist temples rising from the marshy reeds only add to its appeal. The best way to experience Inle Lake is to take a ride on one of the slender long tail wooden boats and experiencing the silence and emptiness of the lake is an absolute privilege as is watching local village life while floating by. Inle Lake can certainly hold its own on the sunset front: the beautiful colours of the Myanmar sunset reflect from the glass like lake making for a picture perfect setting.

5 | Be amazed at the sight of hundreds of ancient stupas at Indein, Inle Lake

Hundreds of red, white and brown stupas stand in varying states of disrepair on a hill in Indein, a Myanmar village located at the end of a narrow creek directly off Inle Lake. The journey to Indein is a joy: the twists and turns of the creek took us past farmers, accompanied by water buffalo, tilling the rice paddies and families bathing along the banks.

6 | Experience the calmness of Shwedagon Pagoda at night

Shwedagon Pagoda is a real treat at any time of the day but there’s something special about the quiet calm of visiting after dark. The pagoda is the most sacred Buddhist Pagoda in Myanmar as it is believed to contain the relics of four previous Buddhas and, at night it’s filled mostly with worshipers. The golden beauty of the Pagoda is breathtaking after darkness falls and it one of the unmissable things to do in Yangon .

Where to stay in Yangon

• Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon: Where we chose to stay during our time in Yangon and we couldn’t recommend it more highly. With a great location close to the lake and the Shwedagon Pagoda this is our favourite hotel in Yangon – check prices now!
• The  Novotel Yangon Max and the Loft Hotel are both excellent mid range options in great locations.
• Luxury options include the Belmond Governor’s Residence  and the colonial favourite, The Strand , where we enjoyed afternoon cocktails.

Click here for the best Yangon Hotel Prices

7 | Cruise the Irrawaddy River from Bagan to Mandalay

Cruising along the Irrawaddy River, Myanmar’s longest river, brings the promise of a glimpse into life both on its waters and along its banks. Passing rural villages and local fishermen while watching Myanmar daily life unfold along the banks of the river is an authentic and peaceful experience – check boat prices here!

Click here for the boat tickets

8 | Step back in time at the Shwenandaw Kyaung Monastery, Mandalay

Once part of the Roayl Palace, the Golden Palace Monastery near Mandalay Hill is adorned with spectacular teak carvings of Buddhist myths. It’s completely different from any of the other religious sights in Myanmar and an absolute highlight of Mandalay.

Where to stay in Mandalay

We stayed in central Mandalay which was a great base for exploring the city. The main sights are dotted around Mandalay so staying in a central hotel makes exploring the city much easier.

• Smart Hotel:  where we stayed is basic (upgrade to one of the better rooms if you can) but was perfect for exploring the city.   It’s a good budget hotel and has a low key rooftop bar/restaurant with traditional puppet shows in the evening – click here for prices!
• The Link 78 Mandalay Boutique Hotel:  a boutique hotel in central Mandalay and a perfect base for exploring the city. Enjoy the sunset from the rooftop restaurant – click here for prices!
• Hotel by the Red Canal Mandalay the perfect location for exploring the Golden Palace and Mandalay Hill, with a beautiful pool and spa – click here for prices!

Click here for the best Mandalay hotel Prices

9 | Mahamuni Pagoda, Mandalay

The Mahamuni Pagoda is one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrim sites in Myanmar and houses the Mahamuni Buddha image which is the most highly revered Buddha image in the country. Only men are permitted to enter the inner chamber and place a gold leaf on the Buddha while women watch on.

10 | Watch the sunset over the U Bein Bridge, Mandalay

Stretching over 1 km across the Taungthaman Lake, sunset at the traditional teak U Bein Bridge is one of the most photographed sights in Myanmar and is more than worthy of the accolade. As the sun sets on another Myanmar day the local monks make their way across the bridge returning to their monastery and it makes for an iconic Myanmar scene.

For more Myanmar travel inspiration check out

• Our Myanmar itinerary – click here
• The best sights in Yangon – click here
• Things to do in Inle Lake – click here
• Cruising the Irrawaddy River – read here
• The best pics from our Myanmar travels – check them out here

6 thoughts on “The 10 best places to visit in Myanmar”

Beautiful Myanmar ♥

How did you get to each city?

Hi Samantha

We used buses to travel around, we have a Myanmar itinerary here which has all the details.

Hi I’ve made your site my go-to for my trip to Myanmar and Vietnam. I was going to follow your entire trip but from Mandalay to Yangon. I hate small planes and was going to go the bus route but my husband isn’t entirely keen as he has read some horror stories…what are your comments on the following: Inle-Yangon night bus Mandalay -Bagan trip Bagan-Inle

I’m not too sure about the Poppa trip..is it in between Bagan and Inle?

Thank you so much

I loved the buses but Dave wasn’t as much of fan and would have preferred to fly – I sleep great on buses though while he doesn’t at all! I’m not sure about horror experiences, especially if you use one of the reputable VIP companies – their buses are really comfortable. We took the boat from Bagan to Mandalay (it’s very pleasant if you are there when water levels allow an easy journey). The other two routes were perfectly fine. Do be aware that the night buses get in very early so you might have to wait for your room while exhausted!

I’m wanting to go to Myanmar for my 60th birthday next year,We have traveled extensively in Asia in the past doing a mix of private tours and totally independent travel. We like to go to a place, spend a few days and spend the time at the sites/things we are interested in and just observe local life, not follow a flag and a clock.

So how easy is it to sort the travel between towns from the UK or did you do that when you got there? You refer to private drivers did you engage these via a tour company or just flag down a taxi?

We will have some time constraint so can’t just wing it the whole trip.

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Myanmar (Burma)

It's a new era for this extraordinary and complex land, where the landscape is scattered with gilded pagodas and the traditional ways of Asia endure.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Shwedagon Paya

One of Buddhism's most sacred sites, the 326ft zedi (stupa) here is adorned with 27 metric tons of gold leaf, along with thousands of diamonds and other…

Mandalay Hill

To get a sense of Mandalay’s pancake-flat sprawl, climb the 760ft hill that breaks it. The walk up covered stairways on the hill's southern slope is a…

Bagaya Kyaung

This lovely 1834 teak monastery is Inwa’s most memorable individual attraction. It's supported on 267 teak posts, the largest 60ft high and 9ft in…

Ananda Pahto

With its 170ft-high, gold corn-cob hti (decorated pinnacle) shimmering across the plains, Ananda is one of the finest, largest, best-preserved and most…

Dhammayangyi Pahto

Visible from all parts of Bagan, this massive, walled, 12th-century temple – about 1600ft east of Shwesandaw – is infamous for its mysterious, bricked-up…

Mt Victoria

The highest peak in Chin State – 10,016ft – and the third-highest in Myanmar, stunning Mt Victoria is one of the principal attractions of southern Chin…

Mahamuni Paya

Every day, thousands of colourfully dressed faithful venerate Mahamuni's 13ft-tall seated buddha, a nationally celebrated image that’s popularly believed…

Shwethalyaung Buddha

Following the destruction of Bago in 1757, this huge reclining buddha was overgrown by jungle and not rediscovered until 1881, when a contractor unearthed…

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Must Visit Places in Myanmar

Sule pagoda.

Chaukhtatgyi Paya

Shwedagon Pagoda

Bagan Golden Palace

Inle Floating Gardens

Kakku Pagodas

Best of Sri Lanka

Mandalay Palace

Ngapali Beach

Macleod Island

Thanboddhay Paya

Kandawgyi Park

Dukkanthein

Best of Kathmandu

Bodhi Tataung

Taukkyan War Cemetery

The Taukkyan War Cemetery is a memorial dedicated to allied soldiers who died during the Second World War in Myanmar. It has 6,374 graves of World War II soldiers whereas its pillars have over 27,000 names of Commonwealth soldiers who died during battles in Burma but do not have graves. The cemetery is amongst the peaceful places in Myanmar and is visited by history buffs to pilgrims who come here to pay respects to a loved one. The area is meticulously maintained and complete with fresh flowers that enhance the serenity of the place. Location: Yangon - Pyay Rd, Yangon, Myanmar Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 

Maha Bandoola Garden

Mingun Temple

Thatbyinnyu Temple

Htilominlo Temple

Other Places to Visit in Myanmar

Nga htat gyi pagoda.

Best of Nepal

Myanmar Gems Museum

Kyauk daw kyi.

Shwenandaw Monastery

Kuthodaw Pagoda

Renowned for housing “the world’s largest book”, the Kuthodaw Pagoda is amongst the most impressive places in Myanmar offering spectacular architecture and a gilded appearance. The pagoda complex boasts of 729 shrines each holding a single marble slab inscribed on both sides with Buddhist teachings. The pagoda complex houses a gilded pagoda in the center, four large golden Chinthe, a Galon, and an open pavilion with a Buddha image set in the “Calling the Earth to witness” posture. Location: Mandalay, Myanmar Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Entry Fees: 7,047 MMK 

Snake Pagoda

Ananda Temple

Dhammayangyi Temple

Best of Bhutan

Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue

Shwezigon Pagoda

Sulamani Temple

Nathlaung Kyaung Temple

Shwesandaw pagoda.

Gubyaukgyi Temple

Upali Thein

Best of Pokhara

Manuha Temple

Gawdawpalin Temple

Bagan Viewing Tower

Abeyadana Temple

Bagan Archaeological Museum

Purcell Tower

Best of China

National Kandawgyi Gardens

Win Sein Taw Ya - Reclining Buddha

Saddar Cave

Adorned with hundreds of Buddhist statues, the Saddar Cave mesmerizes the visitors with its incredible rock formations and an azure lagoon.The stalactites, dripping from the ceiling, and stalagmites, rising from the ground, make unique patterns inside the cave providing a picturesque scene. The cave ends in open waters from where a local boatman will take you out of the cave in its canoe onto a pristine blue lagoon. Saddar Cave is a true natural wonder but indeed a great place to experience inner connection and ultimate rejuvenation. Location: Kayin, Hpa-An, Myanmar

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6 Things to do in Myanmar + Tourist Spots

I can’t help but pause each time when people ask me about the best country that I’ve visited in Southeast Asia (aside from my home country, The Philippines).

It is difficult to narrow it down to just one country, so I end up sharing my top picks. Most are surprised and get curious when I mention Myanmar.

First off, I often have to mention “Burma” because not everyone is familiar with its modern name. Secondly, most people don’t have it on their bucketlist, probably because it’s not the easiest to travel or they haven’t had a compelling reason to go yet.

Why Myanmar? The ancient temples here are breathtaking! Definitely enough to rival Angkor Wat & Borobudur.

I also loved its off-beat vibe! This former military-controlled state had only recently opened up to the outside world. So, you can still witness traditions & local culture that are not heavy influenced by the globalized world. Burmese people are very genuinely friendly and love to chat with tourists to practice their English.

If your itinerary permits, book a flight to Yangon & exit out from Mandalay (or vice-versa). Spend at least a week to visit travel-worthy sights in between. Including ancient cities, sacred Buddhist sites, and natural landscapes.

Inspire your trip with these beautiful places to see in Myanmar.

Location : Northern Myanmar . Save on Google Maps .

If there’s one place in Myanmar that you should take the time to visit, it’s definitely Bagan. The sheer scale of this ancient city is comparable to the leagues of Angkor Wat. The latter may have more massive single structures but Bagan one-ups it with a landscape filled with thousands of pagodas and temples that are extremely scenic at sunrise and sunsets.

How to go :

Bagan is located in Northern Myanmar. Most tourists arrive here by land from Yangon and Mandalay. The bus trip usually takes around 6 hours if you are coming from Mandalay and 10 hours from Yangon. You can also travel by train or private car. The most convenient way to get to Bagan is by booking a flight to Bagan-Nyaung U Airport.

From the Philippines, there are no direct flights to Myanmar. Consider booking a connecting flight via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Bagan Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Yangon and Bagan Bus – VIP Ticket (One Way)

Bagan Temples Cultural Full Day Tour

Myanmar Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Myanmar (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates | Best Reviews

Myanmar Fares & Transport

Myanmar Tours & Discounts

Myanmar WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to visit in Thailand  |  Where to go in Laos  |  Top Malaysia Attractions  |  Things to do in Singapore .

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my  Instagram feed . Use Instagram’s save feature for quick access to your travel/feed goals.

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2. Mandalay

This major gateway in Northern Myanmar is worth at least a day tour. See the Mandalay Fort, the last royal palace of the last Burmese monarchy, and some of the country’s most sacred Buddhist sites including the Mahamuni Buddha Temple and Mandalay Hill. Extend your visit with a nice excursion to the four ancient cities of Mingun, Sagaing, Amarapura, and Innwa.

Mandalay along with Yangon are the main international gateways to Myanmar. Mandalay International Airport serves direct flights from Bangkok, Hong Kong & Singapore. Bangkok to Mandalay flight duration is around 1 hour and 45 minutes. By land, buses and trains are available from major tourist spots. Land travel to Mandalay takes around 9 hours from Yangon, 6 hours from Bagan & 8 hours from Inle Lake.

From the Philippines, book a connecting flight via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. Cebu Pacific & Philippine Airlines fly directly to from Manila to Bangkok. Flight duration is 3 hours and 20 minutes. Then, fly from Bangkok to Mandalay on AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Myanmar Airways or Myanmar National Airlines.

Mandalay Travel Essentials

Location : Central Myanmar . Save on Google Maps .

Yangon is not only Myanmar’s primary international gateway and capital city, it is also a fascinating destination to explore. The main attraction here is the Shwedagon Pagoda, an architectural icon famous for its massive gold and diamond decorated spire. The city center is an interesting place to explore as well. Take your time to visit its many pagodas and well preserved British-era colonial buildings.

Yangon is the most popular gateway to Myanmar. Yangon International Airport serves direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, Hong Kong, Chiang Mai, Guangzhou, Seoul, Tokyo, Taipei & Doha. Flight duration from Bangkok to Yangon, the busiest route, is 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Kuala Lumpur, flight duration to Yangon is 2 hours and 40 minutes. Popular airlines include Nok Air, AirAsia, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Myanmar Airways & Myanmar National Airlines.

From the Philippines. In addition to flying via Bangkok, you can also arrive in Yangon on a connecting flight from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. KL-Yangon flights are served by AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines & Malindo Air. Meanwhile, SG-Yangon flights are served by Bangkok Airways, Myanmar Airways International, Myanmar National Airlines, AirAsia, Thai Airways & Lion Air

Yangon Travel Essentials

Yangon Highlights Private Tour

Yangon Full Day Walking Tour

Location : Mandalay region, Northern Myanmar . Save on Google Maps .

After finding out about the vintage train ride from Mandalay to Hsipaw as one of the best railway journeys in the World, I knew I just had to experience it. Before reaching this small town in Northern Myanmar, the train crosses a steel bridge that spans a massive and very picturesque gorge. Hsipaw itself is an excellent place to get a feel of rural Burma and go on nature treks.

The best way to get to Hsipaw, in North Myanmar, is to go abroad the scenic train from Mandalay. Travel time by train takes around 10 hours. On your way back to Mandalay, take the faster bus ride. Travel time by bus is around 6 hours.

Hsipaw Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

5. Kyaiktiyo

Before my first trip to Myanmar ended, I traveled a few hours south of Yangon to visit Kyaiktiyo. This place is famous for the gravity-defying Golden Rock Pagoda perched on top of a mountain. It is considered as one of the most sacred Buddhist sites by Burmese people. Sunset views here are unreal!

Kinpun, the starting point of the trek to Mt. Kyaiktiyo, is 4 hours south of Yangon by bus. Kinpun is the base camp village where you can find hotels & places to eat. From Kinpun, public trucks ferry pilgrims & tourists half-way to the summit. Then, it is another 45-minute hike up to the site of the Golden Rock Pagoda. If you want to skip the hike, you can pay human carriers to take you to the top, literally, on a throne.

Kyaiktiyo Travel Essentials

6. Inle Lake

Inle Lake Travel Essentials

Beyond Myanmar

Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

Laos Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall Day Tour from Luang Prabang

Vientiane – Vang Vieng Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

Malaysia Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts Check Fares

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Myanmar that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Myanmar

Myanmar tourist spots, things to do in Myanmar, where to go in Myanmar & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Myanmar

How much does it cost to travel to Myanmar? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Myanmar

Click below & search recommended Myanmar hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Myanmar Essentials & Top Discounts

Myanmar mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

See all discounts

Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Yago-Thanlyin Private Day Trip

Yangon-Bago Private Day Trip

Yangon Airport (RGN) – City Hotel Transfers

Yangon City Tour by Local Train

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June 6, 2016 at 12:10 pm

Ive been to Hsipaw, but to maintain 5 destination, I would like to replace it with Inle Lake for reason of scenery, or for reason of historical site maybe the unfinished rail The Myanmar Thailand Japanese Death Railway Line.

June 6, 2016 at 5:16 pm

Thanks for the tip subhapanyo. Inle Lake seems like an interesting visit as well!

September 10, 2016 at 12:50 pm

Hi there Marcos! First of all thanks for sharing your experiences, I was doubting whether to go to Myanmar but now that I’ve read your article I’m definitely going! I would like to ask you if you know what the best way to go from Myanmar to India. I’ve been looking but I haven’t found it. Cheers!

September 24, 2016 at 2:45 am

Go Lula, Myanmar is amazing to visit. You can fly direct with Air India or via Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur.

October 20, 2016 at 1:20 pm

Amazing blog about best places in Myanmar! Long time I am searching info about best amazing places in Myanmar! My search end today. Thanks dear for this amazing blog!

November 8, 2016 at 8:46 am

Hi Marcos Detourist. Nice blog about Myanmar! How about estimated budget similar to what you share in a 3 day visit to Siemp Riep? I believe it would be a big help for first time traveller. Thanks. :-)

June 19, 2019 at 9:24 am

How much do you pay the human carriers at Kyaiktiyo (on a throne) when you want to skip the hike?

June 20, 2019 at 12:24 pm

Not sure how much they charge Myra.

December 7, 2019 at 5:05 pm

6 BEST PLACES to visit in Myanmar + THINGS TO DO 2019 – Great post. I was checking constantly this blog and I’m impressed! Extremely useful information specially the final section : ) I handle such info much. I was seeking this particular information for a very long time. Thank you and good luck.

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18 Must-See Myanmar Attractions you Absolutely Cannot Miss

Visiting Myanmar? Trying to whittle your itinerary down to all the best the country has to offer? Myanmar is jam-packed with unique attractions and exciting hikes so I decided to compile a list of all the best Myanmar has to offer. To help you craft the perfect itinerary let’s go over the 18 must-see attractions in Myanmar.

Myanmar is in my personal “ Top 3 Countries I’ve Ever Visited ” list. It’s a true gem of natural beauty in Southeast Asia & a killer backpacker destination. There is just so much to do!! This list of things you absolutely cannot miss, really just scrapes the surface of all there is to do in the country.

If you’re just starting to plan your trip to Myanmar check out my guide on everything you need to know before you visit.

The easiest way to cover this is to divide attractions up by city. I’m going to go by my route through Myanmar but everything can be done just as easily in reverse.

Must-See Attractions in Hpa-An

Hpa-An just happens to be my favorite town in Myanmar. It was also our introduction to the country. For a deeper dive into all the attractions, Hpa-An has to offer, check out my full guide to Hpa-An blog post .

1. Hike Mount Zwegabin for Sunrise

3,500 rugged stairs climbing the tallest of the surrounding limestone peaks. Watching the sun peek out & illuminate the valley below. It’s a daunting task & even though it’s the top attraction in Hpa-An, I don’t recommend trying it day one.

2. Tuang Wine Mountain

If you only do one hike in Hpa-An make it this one. Actually, scratch that, if you only do one hike in all of Myanmar–make it this one.

The hike isn’t as difficult as Mount Zwegabin and can easily be completed in under an hour (one way) but the views are far more rewarding. Sitting at the summit of the limestone peak sipping warm milk and biscuits gifted to us by a saffron-robed monk, we enjoyed a peaceful view of the landscape far below.

3. Visit the Bat Cave for Sunset

Part temple-part bat viewing-part scenic sunset viewpoint, this makes for an evening to remember. Just a 20-minute motorbike ride from town you will join many other travelers in watching hundreds of thousands of bats wake up for the evening.

The bats come out of the cave in droves forming neat lines, drawn out by the steady beating of a loud gong. The river of bats curling across the pastel pink skies as the sun sets is a surreal picture & illustrates the true magic of Myanmar.

4. Float Through the Massive Saddan Cave

This massive cavern was the most impressive cave we visited in Myanmar. The cave extends seemingly forever into the dark as you pad along the bat guano covered floors barefoot— not the most glamourous attraction I’ll admit. The deeper you venture in the more impressive the natural cave formations become.

When you finally break through to the light at the end of the tunnel you’ll have the option to traverse back through the cave on foot or hire a canoe for a small fee. The scenic canoe ride takes you back under overhanging cliffs and around some local rice fields.

Bonus Attraction: The scenery along the drive to Saddan Cave is unreal. Rent a motorbike and drive to the caves. This drive was one of the most scenic we experienced in Myanmar.

Must-See Attractions in the Inle Lake Region

Inle lake is perhaps the most touristy destination in Myanmar. But it no way should that discourage you from visiting the glistening lakeside region.

5. Take a Tour of Inle Lake

Inle Lake is best seen from the hull of a canoe. Temples, stilted communities, and floating gardens are scattered across its surface. The glassy blue waters give life to an entire community & are also stunningly beautiful. It should cost about $30 for a full day on the water including a visit to Inthien Village. (For two people)

For a more in-depth guide to Inle Lake read my full blog post here.

6. Trek From Kalaw to Inle Lake

There are many opportunities for trekking in Myanmar but this is by far the most scenic. Rolling hills and the cool temperate climate of the region make for a relaxing stroll through small hillside villages & farming communities.

Unfortunately, this was something I missed in Myanmar. If I could go back and do it all again I would 100% opt for this trek. So, don’t miss it if you have the time.

Must-See Attractions in Mandalay

Mandalay is the cultural hotbed of Myanmar. The city is chaotic & hectic but unashamedly Burmese. It’s a look at the country’s history and offers plenty of authentic experiences while wandering its streets.

7. Enjoy a Cup of Tea & Fermented Tea Leaf Salad at Unison Cafe

Unison Cafe is an open-air crowded local cafe. Tables are full from open to close, mostly by locals discussing jade prices & making small-business deals pertaining to the Jade market next door. Opt for a pot of tea and a fermented tea leaf salad, their house specialties.

8. Hike Mandalay Hill for Sunset

From the ground, Mandalay doesn’t seem like a massive sprawling city. But hike the stone stairs up to Mandalay Hill and you’ll realize just how large this city actually is. The sunset from this particular Pagoda is perfectly positioned. The sky lights up fire-red through the haze and gives a warm glow to the city.

There is an escalator to assist those who cannot make the climb but if you’re able to you should take the stairs. It’s a great opportunity to meet the locals & chat with the monks. They use this as an opportunity to practice their English.

9. Take a Dip in the Blue Lagoon at Dedoke Falls

It’s the warm weather rival to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. These pastel turquoise fairy pools sit in the mountains just outside of Mandalay. And they are a perfect cure for a much too hot morning stroll through the city. The hike in is short, but the tuk-tuk ride to the falls is about an hour. There are plenty of pools to swim in, few other tourists, and likely several young locals drinking straight from the bottle.

Must-See Attraction in the Shan State

This lesser-visited region of Myanmar deserves your love. The food, the scenery, the people were all some of the best of Myanmar. Unfortunately, due to conflict in the area, there are only a few places you can visit in the Shan State. Here’s what I recommend.

10. Ride the Train Across the Gokteik Viaduct

100 meters high, standing between two rolling mountain ranges this portion of the track was built by the British in 1901. It’s painfully pretty. Hanging out the windows gazing down the crevasse to the small stream far below, it’s a dizzying experience.

This particular train route is deemed one of the most scenic rides in the world. And following yellow daisy landscapes, rolling hills, and stunning agricultural areas you’ll slowly make your way to Hsipaw (pronounced see-paw).

11. Visit Hsipaw in the North

I fell in love with this teensy little town. Tucked far into the northern region you likely won’t encounter many other tourists here. I could write a whole guide on this region but here are my quick picks.

Visit Mr. Shake for the best shakes and food in town, wander up the main road to “ Little Bagan ” and marvel at the temple with a tree grown through it, and then pay a visit to Mr. Book . Mr. Book owns a small bookshop in town & is also an English teacher for the local children.

He invited us to come read with them one evening ( it was a book on medical procedures ) and shared with us A LOT of insight into the conflict in Myanmar and it’s complicated history. Swing by and pick up one of his books for the train & perhaps read to his students too.

Must-See Attractions in Bagan

If you’ve done any research at all about Myanmar, you’ve likely seen some pink-hued sunrise photos of Bagan. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Myanmar . This UNESCO-Heritage city is packed with the remnants of 1,100-year-old stupas scattered across the green valley with some beautifully preserved temples thrown in. It’s one of the most sacred places in the country and if religion or architecture or just plain beautiful landscapes intrigue you, you have to pay the town a visit. 

12. Watch the Most Magical Sunrise in the Ancient City of Bagan

The sun rising over the flat green valley casting a glowing pink hue. The landscape only broken by the crumbling facades of ancient stupas & massive golden & stone temples. It truly is the best sunrise I’ve ever woken up for.

Finding the perfect sunrise and sunset spot can be difficult, so I wrote up a full blog post on Bagan including what to see, where to eat, and the best place to stay in the city. 

13. Hike Mount Popa for Sunset

Yet another opportunity for killer views. Myanmar just knows how to create a perfect viewpoint. About an hour’s drive from Old Bagan sits Mount Popa. An ornate golden temple sitting atop a mountain jutting out from the otherwise flat landscape. The walk up is a long twisting staircase lined with macaques just waiting to nab your snacks, but if you can fend off the pesky primates the views at the summit are surreal. Just a vast expanse of lush green jungle as far as the eye can see. A perfect viewpoint for sunset. 

Most hostels offer some kind of shuttle or tour service to get you to & from the mountain. The E-Bikes will not make it to Mount Popa, so I wouldn’t try to get there on your own that way. 

Must-See Attractions in Yangon

Yangon was my favorite city in Myanmar. It feels super liveable, the food is top-notch, and the streets are crammed with interesting markets and street food. If I had to pick one big city in Myanmar to add to your itinerary it’s this one.

14. Spend Your Evening at Shwedagon the Largest Golden Pagoda

One thing you learn quickly about Asia is that every city has a few impressive temples that you weigh whether or not they are worth the price to visit. This is one of those temples that you must-see. The huge golden bell is said to house relics of the buddha & is the most important pilgrimage site in all of Myanmar.

The temple complex is on the pricier side for Myanmar at $8 per person but if you arrive at 4 PM the golden hour, the light glinting off the pagoda paired with the intoxicating chants of monks you won’t even mind the hoards of other tourists descending on the complex. 

Stay until after dark. The lights around the complex illuminate the temples & really add to the ambiance. It’s one of the more impressive temples I’ve visited in Southeast Asia. 

15. Slurp Up the Best Noodles & Fried Tofu at Shan 999

Myanmar has loads of amazing dishes to try but this was probably the single best meal I had in the country. Everything on their menu was dirt-cheap and absolutely phenomenal but you have to try the fried tofu & the traditional Shan Noodles. The fried tofu was probably the surprise of the evening. 

16. Take a Street Food Tour in Yangon!

Myanmar easily offers some of the best cuisines in the world. Fermented tea leaf salad and all the hot and spicy potato curry really stand out in my memory. But uncovering authentic local eats with long cultural importance is difficult as an outsider. A Chef’s Tour offers you an insider look at the foodie culture in Myanmar. This 5-hour tour will give you more than great food, it will give you a better understanding of the rich foodie history of the city and country as a whole.

17. Wander through an Eerie Abandoned Amusement Park

If you’re someone who likes bizarre off-the-beaten-path attractions you’ll love wandering around this abandoned amusement park. It has remained completely intact since it stopped operation and now the jungle has slowly swallowed it up. Carousels and rollercoasters sit in the midst of a dense forest scattered with wild dogs who call this area home. 

On Maps.Me the park is labeled “Playground” and it’s just south of the Yangon zoo. You’ll have to pay a local sitting outside to move the secret loose bars of the gate to let you inside, $4-ish will do. We just walked in circles looking lost until we met eyes with a local who showed us the way. 

Must-See Attractions in Myanmar’s Beach Regions

Everyone loves a good beach. But nobody thinks of beaches when they think of Myanmar. Not only is this beach region one of the must-see destinations in Myanmar, but it’s also one of the very best beaches we have ever visited.

18. Recharge in Ngwe Saung Beach

Forget about Ngapali beach, Ngwe Saung is the way to go. Laidback atmosphere, pristine white beaches, warm swimmable ocean and most importantly way fewer tourists than Ngapali. You’ll practically get the beach to yourself. 

My tips for visiting: Stay at Dreamhouse Guesthouse . It’s near the better side of the beach & they even went out of their way to pack us a free breakfast for the early bus ride to Yangon. If you’re looking for a great food spot near the beach, check out Home Restaurant. 

& that wraps up our bucketlist of must-see destinations in Myanmar. 

Myanmar is one of my favorite countries I’ve ever visited. Along with these must-see attractions in Myanmar, it was the people that really made the whole experience what it was. Travel within Myanmar isn’t easy & even some of the larger cities still can feel very isolated and rural. It’s not for the faint of heart. But if you are a backpacker looking for adventure & willing to forgo some of the modern comforts of travel, Myanmar should be the next destination on your bucketlist. 

Ready to Plan Your Trip To Myanmar? 

• Visiting Myanmar? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
• Your Complete Guide to Visiting Inle Lake & Myanmar’s Floating Villages
• How to Find the Perfect Perch for Sunrise in the Ancient City of Bagan
• Hiking in Hpa-An: My Favorite Town in Myanmar

Further Reading...

Your Complete Inle Lake Travel Guide: Boat Rides & Wineries on a Budget

Visiting Myanmar? Here’s Everything you Need to Know Before You Go

Your Complete Guide to Experiencing the Best of Bagan: Myanmar’s Ancient City

10 comments, visiting myanmar here's everything you need to know before you go.

[…] 17 Must-See Attractions to Add to Your Myanmar Bucket-List […]

Your Complete Guide to Hpa-An: My Favorite Stop in Myanmar

[…] Your Bucket-list guide to the 17 Must-See Attractions in Myanmar. […]

I didnt know there are sooo many interesting things to do and see in Myanmar! Thanks for putting all these together I am definitely down for this lake with the floating markets!

All of these ideas look incredible! I feel like Bartender Abroad and Global Debauchery could be best friends, no? 🙂

Joe Ankenbauer

You had me from the first tip, hiking Mount Zwegabin for Sunrise! The view looks incredible! I would love to take the train through the Gokteik Viaduct too. Trains are one of my favorite ways to travel

I haven’t spent much time in Asia, but if I get a chance to visit Myanmar I think I’d want to visit Inle Lake and watch the fisherman work their magic old school. What a sight that must be!

Jamie Italiane

Your number one recommendation, Mount Zwegabin for Sunrise, would be my number one choice. You say not to do it in one day. What are the options? Can you stay at the top of the mountain?

I recommended not to try it your very first day in Hpa-An! Just because you’ll likely be so sore you’ll be unable to hike any of the other amazing hikes in the area. You used to be able to stay overnight on Zwegabin but unfortunately due to a couple of accidents by foreigners you are no longer able to.

Oh my gosh, Myanmar looks gorgeous!! I’m a big hiker, so I definitely want to do the first two hikes (even if 3500 steps is a lot of steps haha).

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Your Complete Inle Lake Travel Guide: Boat Rides & Wineries on a Budget

5 things i wish i had known before visiting cambodia (essential cambodia tips), beyond_the_bucketlist.

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9 Top Places To Visit In Myanmar

Known as the Golden Land, Myanmar is rich in culture, history, sublime landscapes, hospitable people and deeply Buddhist culture. The country’s diverse beauty ranges from snow-capped Himalayan mountaintops to vast underwater reefs teeming with life. You’ll find an abundance of pagodas, temples, deep forests, rivers, natural lakes and gorgeous beaches. Read on for some ideas about the best places to visit in Myanmar.

The ancient city of Bagan is one of the most interesting places to visit in Myanmar. Over 2,200 Buddhist monuments dot the Bagan Archeological Zone, which is spread across 26 square miles, creating an otherworldly vista when viewed from above. The best way to take in the entirety of this breathtaking city is to fly over it in a hot air balloon. The rides take place in the early mornings and you can watch the sunrise over the plains as the temples and pagodas below begin to glimmer in the misty sunlight. Be sure to visit a few of the temples as well; the Bupaya, the Ananda Paya, and the Thatbyinnyu are among the most famous.

Shwedagon pagoda

2. The Shwedagon Pagoda

Another of the top places to visit in Myanmar is the fabulous gilded Shwedagon Pagoda , which is located in Yangon and considered to be one of the most sacred pagodas in the country. Legend has it that the Pagoda is 2,500 years old, but archaeologists estimate it was first built by the Mon sometime during the Bagan period between the 6th and 10th centuries. Sitting atop a hill, this national treasure rises approximately 325 feet above its terrace. The main gold-plated dome is topped by a stupa containing over 7,000 diamonds, rubies, topaz and sapphires, the whole marvelous structure offset by a massive emerald positioned to reflect the final rays of the setting sun. The Shwedagon Pagoda is special at any time of day, but its colors truly shine at dawn and dusk and glow even more golden at night. Try to visit at full moon because at certain points around the main stupa, the moonlight reflects through a large 76-carat diamond nestled at the very top. Different colors can be seen by taking a step forward or back.

High up in the mountainous region of western Shan State, Kalaw is an old hill station with a laid-back vibe, a refreshing climate and scenic views. Many of Kalaw’s original colonial-era buildings remain, and it is also known as Myanmar’s trekking mecca. Kalaw offers some exciting hiking trails for you to discover, the most remarkable of which is a three-day trail that takes you from Kalaw to Inle Lake through the dense forest, tea and coffee plantations, and tribal villages.

Ngapali beach

Located on the Bay of Bengal coast in Rakhine State, Ngapali is Myanmar’s premier beach destination. Featuring clear waters and an idyllic stretch of palm-tree-fringed white sand, Ngapali Beach (pronounced Napally) was supposedly named by a homesick Italian reminiscing about Napoli. It still maintains a laid-back fishing village vibe, as evidenced by the ox-carts taxis and the small boats that head out daily to catch the bounty, which is served up to visitors just hours later. Be sure to climb or drive up to Tilawa Swayambhu Buddha at the top of the hill – it offers the most exceptional views over the bay.

5. Taung Kalat

If you’re in Mandalay , make it a point to visit the sheer-sided volcanic plug of Mount Popa, which rises 2,156 ft above sea level. Built on the top is the Buddhist monastery of Taung Kalat, which is one of the most breathtaking sites in Burma . To reach the monastery, you’ll need to climb the 777 steps to the summit, from where you can marvel at the panoramic view of the plains. The site is a popular pilgrimage destination and is considered a source of ‘nat’ spiritual energy.

Pagoda on Inle Lake

6. Inle Lake

Vast and serene, Inle Lake is the second largest lake in the country and occupies one of the highest elevations. Stilt houses pepper the waterway and the only way to see them is by boat as you travel down narrow canals. Here you will find massive floating gardens, which thrive off nutrients found in the water and, with their solid root mass, have become strong enough to bear the weight of the local cultivators. Staying at Lake Inle is a great way to immerse yourself in the local life. Stay in an over-water stilted villa, explore thousand-year-old pagodas, and see over 200 monasteries scattered around the lake, including the Jumping Cat Monastery.

7. Kakku Pagodas

The photogenic Kakku Pagoda Complex in Taunggyi, in the heart of Shan State, features a cluster of thousands of pagodas and temples. The origin of the complex is said to be from the 3rd century BC when the Indian emperor Ashoka brought in Buddhist missionaries to ancient Burma. The beautiful landscape surrounding the pagodas and the small winding roads leading to the complex are also very photo-worthy.

8. Gokteik Viaduct

Taking a train ride across Myanmar’s longest railway bridge, which is over 300 feet in height and nearly 2,300 feet in length, is a nail-biting journey but most likely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This mighty viaduct was an architectural feat when it was built by the English in 1901. It bridges the spectacular Gokteik gorge, a densely forested ravine, and is located approximately 30 miles from Pyin Oo Lwin on the way to Lashio from Mandalay. Expect a jerky ride but with wonderful views along the way. Gokteik station is the best spot for taking pictures of the whole viaduct, and then the train gives passengers time to look out over the stunning gorge as it crawls slowly over it. Locals sell food and drinks on the train.

9. Saddan Cave

This football-stadium-sized cave is the largest of many caves in Myanmar’s Hpa An region, and it’s simply breathtaking. Its name is derived from the Buddhist legend of a sacred elephant named Saddan, who once lived inside the cave. The entrance is lined with dozens of buddha statues, and inside you can wander through cathedral-like chambers under naturally vaulted ceilings with colossal stalactites dangling like chandeliers, and in places, walls of crystal. Thousands of bats cling to the cave roof. As you emerge at the cave’s far side, a burst of sunlight reveals a tranquil and secret lake full of ducks and flowering lilies hidden in a bowl surrounded by lush, jagged peaks.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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28 Incredible Places to visit in Myanmar

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on April 16, 2024

Categories Myanmar

28 Incredible Places to visit in Myanmar – Want to visit Myanmar soon? Continue reading as this blog post will be helpful for your next Myanmar trip! If you didn’t know, Myanmar was formerly Burma , and is a country in the Southeast Asia which is surrounded by Thailand , Laos , India , Bangladesh , and China . It might be not as famous as the other countries in the Southeast but there are a lot of Places to visit in Myanmar   that will surely capture your hearts and give you awesome experiences when you visit them!

Myanmar is a Buddhist country with thousands of temples and rich wildlife . There are also some beautiful beaches in Myanmar that you should visit, along with marvelous caves , majestic mountains which you can hike, and of course, amazing sunsets that you should definitely watch. Now, let’s start with some of our favorite Myanmar tourist spots!

Read here 2 Weeks Myanmar itinerary and where to stay in Yangon !

Read here best  Myanmar eSim  and  Myanmar sim card

Click here to read 10 most Instagrammable places in Myanmar .

Also: Read Myanmar sim card and Budget Travel in Myanmar to know how much you need to travel to Myanmar!

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Myanmar?

If you’re looking for a cheap place to crash, there are dorm rooms in Myanmar that only go for  $20  or less. Another inexpensive lodging option is AirBnB, where you can get rooms for $15-25. Those who want to treat themselves can always book luxury hotel rooms starting at around $200 per night.

Planning to book accommodation for your next trip to Myanmar? Click here to book  with  Booking  and  Agoda !

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Two of our favorite travel insurance:  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of  Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review  and the comparison  Heymondo vs Genki

Places to visit in Myanmar

1. shwemawdaw paya bago.

There are interesting things to see in Bago Shwemawdaw Paya, Sleeping Buddha and Kyaik Pun Pagoda where you can see 4 sitting Buddha statues. These tourist spots are outside the city of Bago , just a few kilometers from city center. From Bago, it is easy getting to the Buddhas attraction just by bicycle.

You need to pay a day ticket to see all the tourist places. It was $10 USD at that time. If you don’t like going by bicycle, just go by taxi, but no worries because distance are not that far. You can even go to Bago for a day trip from Yangon which is only 2 hours by bus.

Read our things to do in Yangon !

2. Ananda Temple

Image from Flickr

Ananda Pagoda or Ananda Temple is dubbed as one of Bagan’s most beautiful temples. It is exactly located at the eastern part of old Bagan city wall . This temple has a Mon and North Indian architectural style. Tourists love the gilded sikhara , or the tower-like spire on top of the temple.

This can be beautifully seen at night because of it is lit every night. You can visit the Ananda Temple along with other temples in the Bagan Zone by just paying for $20 USD entrance fee.

If you are looking for a place in Myanmar with cooler temperatures and fresh air, then it is a must to visit Kalaw. Kalaw is a hill town in the Shan State of Myanmar. It is located in Kalaw Township in Taunggyi District. Kalaw is known for its climate , and you can get in Inle Lake (which we’ll discuss next) by doing a 3-day trek.

There are a lot of things you can do here like walking around and enjoying the sceneries, going to the top of Thein Taung Monastery to enjoy the beautiful views, visiting the local market to try different Myanmar dishes such as Shan Noodles (around 1,000 Kyat or 0.66 USD per bowl) and Red Mountain wine (for around 15,000  Kyat or almost 10 USD ). Once you get tired of all these activities, you can go have a relaxing massage at a spa called A Little Kalaw Day Spa.

Click here to book your stay with Booking!

4. Inle Lake

Like what we’ve mentioned previously in Kalaw, Inle Lake is one of the most touristic places in Myanmar. You can get there from Kalaw by doing a 3-day trekking. You can hire a guide, and prices are very cheap, for just around $10-15 per day and it already includes accommodation and food .

Once you get in Inle Lake, you can rent a boat and go around the lake. You can also walk around it and enjoy the beautiful sceneries. The place is really nice for resting and relaxing, especially if you are coming from the tiring trekking!

Read our things to do in Inle Lake !

5. Ngapali Beach

As you all know, Asia has a lot of beautiful beaches and Ngapali Beach in Myanmar is one of it! Ngapali Beach is located 7 kilometres from the town of Thandwe (Sandoway), in Rakhine State.

Although it is not yet very famous with tourists, it deserves recognition and popularity because of its turquoise blue waters and white sand. There are a lot of coconut trees around the shore, making it the perfect destination for beach-loving people out there!

Our recommendations in Ngapali Beach include going around by biking , watching the beautiful sunset by the beach, go boating , and of course, having a taste of their fresh sumptuous seafood meals starting from $ 10 USD.

Hsipaw is the principal town of Hsipaw Township in Shan State. It is actually the most well known and powerful state in the state because of its historical background. Hsipaw is a small town surrounded by vast farmlands and mountainous landscapes.

If you visit Hsipaw, one thing’s for sure- you’ll learn a lot about the ethnic groups and get to experience their culture. You must not miss doing a trek in Hsipaw as well as cycling and watching beautiful sunsets! You can enjoy a good meal with drinks for about 2500 Kyats or almost 2 USD .

Hotel rates per night in Hsipaw start at $10 USD . Click here to book your stay with Agoda.

7. Mount Zwegabin

Another favorite spot to visit in Myanmar by hikers is Mount Zwegabin. This 2369-ft high mountain located at the Karen region, in the southern part of the country. To get to the top of Mt. Zwegabin, you need to trek one to two hours . It is very steep but mostly stairs. At the top, you’ll find a monastery and a huge golden Stupa (a hemispherical structure containing religious relics).

Just be reminded that it is a peaceful place so be respectful because monks live and practice there. A visit to Mount Zwegabin paired by a visit to Lumbini Garden costs 4000 Kyat or almost $3 USD .

8. Mergui Archipielago

Now going to the south coast of Myanmar, Mergui Archipelago is a must-visit place if you love beaches. It has hundreds of islands, approximately 800, with beautiful beaches and coral reefs. One of the largest island in Mergui Archipelago is called Lampi Island (in Lampi National Park), where indigenous people called Monken live.

This archipelago is a habitat for different species of animals like horn bills, sea cows, and turtles. You will definitely have a fun time observing the wildlife here, but just make sure to travel responsibly and avoid littering!

Also, a lot of other fun activities await for you in Mergui Archipelago. You should try diving and snorkeling to see the beautiful marine wildlife in their famous diving spots such as Burma Bank, Black Rock and Shark Cave . There are a few diving tours and operators that offer these services for an affordable price. You can also try other activities such as swimming, kayaking, sailing, jungle trekking, and of course, learning the culture and meeting the Moken people.

Mrauk U is deemed to be an archaeologically important town in northern Rakhine State in Myanmar. It’s because of it rich historical background and many temples were built here during the past centuries. The most famous temples that you can visit just by walking around are Shite-thaung Temple, Htukkanthein Temple, and Koe-thaung Temple .

There are also a few old women with tattoos on their faces that know a lot about different legends! It is a must to hear their fantastic stories and learn more about their culture.

Hpa An is a small city surrounded by dramatic mountain sceneries, lush green rice fields, and huge amount of religiously significant caves. Hpa An is a really quiet place , and it will be perfect for you to experience the local life, hike, and visit some of the biggest Buddha temples.

Wander around the city or go to the local market by walking through the tiny neighborhood or by renting a bicycle or a motorbike . You can also explore the rice fields!

11. Saddan Cave

Saddan Cave is one of the top choice caves in Hpa-an . It is as big as a football stadium with stunning stalactites and formations. On its entrance, there are many buddha statues, pagodas and some clay wall carvings. It’s dark inside so make sure you bring a torch, or just donate 15000 Kyat so they’ll turn on the lights for you.

But not only those things await for you in Saddan Cave, there are also bats clinging to the cave roof and there’s even a secret lake! We recommend that you visit Saddan Cave during the months of November to April , which is the dry season, so you can enjoy the full experience, unlike during the wet season where you can only partially enjoy it.

More Places to visit in Myanmar

The main tourist attraction in Myanmar is Bagan or formerly known as “Pagan”. It was the capital of the first Burmese empire, and is one of the prosperous archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Bagan serves as home to ancient Buddhist pagodas, temples, and stupas built from the 11th to 13th century.

Bagan’s temples are best viewed from a peak point, and there’s no greater perspective than the one you’ll get from riding a hot air balloon that ascends 2,000 feet in the air! You can also see the sun rise or set from the top of the temples. There is an entrance fee $25 .

Check these accommodation prices in Bagan with Booking .

13. Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda

Another must visit place in Hpa An is the Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda. This temple balances itself on the peak of a limestone situated in a manmade lake near Mount Zwegabin. Watching the sunset here is such a stunning view to see so you must not miss it!  As of now, there is no entrance fee to visit this beautiful temple.

14. Golden Rock (Kyaiktiyo)

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda or the Golden Rock is a famous pilgrim site among Buddhists. It is one of those places that will be beyond your expectations for it absolutely holds magic. The golden rock is perched on the very edge of a hill as if it is defying gravity. Its spirituality and cultural factor are very strong. You can reach the top by either riding a bus or by feet .

And if you’ll walk, it’ll be a 16-km hike and would take you around 3-4 hours to get at the top, but the experience will be precious because you can engage some conversations with the locals, and learn more about their culture. Women aren’t allowed to touch the rock, but men gather around the bottom of it, kneeling in prayer while wrapped in the smoke of incense. The Golden Rock can be visited any time of the day , but sunrise and sunset are especially magical!

15. Kengtung (Kyaing Tong)

Another Myanmar tourist spot that you have to visit is Kengtung, which can be found at the Kengtung Township in Shan State. It is exactly situated with a beautiful mountain range backdrop, making its sunset and sunrise really amazing.

One of the best places to visit in Myanmar is in Kengtung is the Standing Buddha , which can be found near Naung Tong lake, and Thit Ta Bin Taung or One Tree Hill, where you can witness a 250-year old tree and one of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see! You should also visit the hot springs located west of Kengtung. To explore the town, it is best to ride a taxi or a motorbike, whichever you prefer.

Also, be reminded that foreigners need a permit (that comes with a fee) to visit this western part of Myanmar overland.

Image from Myanmar Trekking

Found in the northernmost part of Kachin State, Putao is the principal town of Putao Township. Surprisingly, it can be reached overland during summer only, which is March to May . But if there is a sufficient number of tourists who will visit any time of the year, they can ride an airplane to get to Putao. This town boasts different endemic species of birds and orchids.

Some activities to do in Putao include mountain climbing, elephant trekking, white-water rafting, and adventurous skiing , since it is located at the foot of Himalayan mountains. You’ll also learn a lot about the culture and traditions of the ethnic groups living in Putao called Kachin and Lisu.

17. Alms Giving Ceremony

This is not a Myanmar Tourist Spot but a must-do or must-see tradition in Myanmar. Every morning, the Alms Giving Ceremony is conducted in the streets of Myanmar. It is one of the most sacred Buddhist traditions here. Around 6 in the morning, locals and tourists start to prepare food, rice or money that they will give to the monks.

The monks are mixed of young and old men who come out of the temple. You’ll see them in streets in a single line, barefoot. This has been a tourist attraction since travelers are encouraged to take part of this tradition as long as respect remains.

18. Hot Air Balloon in Bagan

Another must-do activity in Myanmar is riding a hot air balloon when you visit Bagan . Before actually riding the hot air balloon, you’ll get to watch how they are being set-up. And once you’re up above, you’ll be gliding gracefully over the spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the beautiful Bagan, with its mountains and Buddhist temples, stupas, and villages.

Pilots are smooth operators, so expect your while ride and landing to be safe and fun! They will even give you a light breakfast meal with champagne before riding the hot air balloons. It will be really an awesome experience!

19. Chauk-htat-gyi Buddha Temple

Image from Wikimedia

When visiting Myanmar tourist spots, you must not miss going to the most well-known temple in Myanmar called Chauk-htat-gyi Buddha Temple. It is home to the 66-meter long and 16-meters high reclining Buddha which was made from the donations of locals and tourists. Buddhists and tourists pay their respect to the Buddha by lighting incense sticks, offering flowers and saying their prayers quietly.

Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda is located at Shwe Gon Taing Street in the Tamwe township of central Yangon . To get there, you must ride a taxi which will cost you around $4-5 USD.

You can enter the temple by paying a $5 USD entrance fee per person. It opens daily from 6AM to 8PM.

20. Kakku Pagodas

Southeast of Inle Lake, you’ll see the Kakku Complex which houses 2,500 ancient pagodas. At the center, you’ll find the main or primary 40-meter high stupa. These pagodas are very old so most of them have crumbled off already, and some even have trees and bushes growing out of them. One of the most awaited festivals in Kakku is the Kakku Pagoda festival , which is celebrated to mark the end of the cool season. It is held during March .

To tour around the Kakku Pagodas, you must hire a Pa-Oh guide in the town of Taunggyi who charges around $5 USD . Also, you’ll be paying an entrance fee of $3 USD to get inside the complex.

21. Gokteik Viaduct

Gokteik Viaduct is the highest railway bridge in Myanmar, which is over 100 metres high the ground and nearly 700 metres long. As you ride this train, you will see so much of the local life of Myanmar. The train ride will give you beautiful sceneries, and there are many chances to buy food on each stop so bring some extra cash.

The fare for the “upper class” cabin is $6 USD and $3 USD for the regular class with wooden seats but still comfy! It will be breathtaking experience as you look out of the window of the train into a depth of a hundred meters!

22. Macleod Island

Image from Inside Asia Tours

Located in the Mergui Archipelago, you’ll surely would dream to visit Macleod Island. It’s a paradise where the only man-made construction in Mergui Archipelago is located, the Andaman Resort. Even though it’s a man-made resort, you won’t see any bars, clubs, shops and five star facilities and restaurants here.

You’ll only get to explore jungles , swim in the beautiful beaches , do guided kayaking trips in mangrove forests and caves, dive in the most beautiful diving spots, and of course, observe rare birds, plants and other animals. Oh, don’t forget to taste the fresh seafood here! There are some companies that offer different tours and cruises to Macleod Island. Let us know if you know some and how did your experience go!

23. Mya Thein Tan Pagoda

Mya Thein Tan Pagoda is a large, majestic, white pagoda located in the northern side of Sagaing Region in Myanmar. This pagoda has 7 terraces that was meant to signify the 7 rivers and 7 mountains. The seventh terrace signifies the peak of Ugando Mountain.  Mya Thein Tan Pagoda was actually an image of Sulamani Pagoda.

This is open daily and no entrance fee specifically for this pagoda; however, you need to pay $4 USD to enter the Sagaing–Mingun archeological zone which already covers a lot of attractions including the Mya Thein Tan Pagoda.

24. Kuthoda Pagoda

Another pagoda and Myanmar tourist spot to visit is the Kuthodaw Pagoda. It is another Buddhist Stupa located in Mandalay . This stupa is famous because it contains a gilded pagoda, hundreds of shrines housing inscribed marble slabs and many pavilions.

The 729 marble slabs are “the world’s largest book” and each slab represents one page. The slabs are inscribed with the Buddhist teachings, making this pagoda one of the most valued and famous in Myanmar.

Kuthodaw Pagoda is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. The entrance fee is $5 USD per person.

25. U Bein Bridge

U Bein Bridge is the longest teak bridge in the world and is very old. It was constructed from wood and retrieved from the former royal palace in Inwa. The best time to visit the bridge is at sunset and you should be around 5-6 pm to find a good spot for picture takings.

The light is often best around an hour before sunset with all the shadows and silhouettes. It is just impossible not to capture the lovely and majestic photos of the U Bein Bridge!

26. Shwedagon Pagoda

Shwedagon Pagoda or Paya is Yangon’s most famous landmark, built on a hill which is the biggest and grandest Pagoda in Myanmar.  This Pagoda was built 2600 years ago and is the oldest Buddhist stupa in the world, it is 99 meters high and is completely encrusted with gold plating.

Massive numbers of devotees visit the Shwedagon every day and walk around the stupa to make offerings to the Buddha. Understanding the culture and history of this sacred pagoda, can greatly improve your visit. Appreciating its history and immersing yourself in its mystical beauty will be a spectacular experience! Try to enjoy the sunsrise at Shwedagon Pagoda . The entrance fee is $8. 

Read here things to do in Yangon !

27. Pindaya Caves

The Pindaya Caves are the one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. This is located next to the town of Pindaya in Shan State. But it is not just a pilgrimage site but also one of the most famous Myanmar tourist spots. The several Buddha images inside the only cave open for public are just stunning.

There are also small pagodas in between the Buddha images and stalagmites and stalactites. The area where Pindaya Caves is located on a limestone ridge in the Myelat region, and part of the ancestral homelands of the ethnic group Danu . The entrance fee is 3000 Kyats per person.

28. Mount Popa: Day Trip from Bagan

And the last but not the least on our list of Myanmar Tourist Spots is Mount Popa. It is an extinct volcano that stands 1518-meter high above sea level. Mount Popa is located in the region of Mandalay. On top of Mount Popa is a monastery with golden stupas, shrine of the Mahagiri Nat spirits. To reach the top of this extinct volcano, you must climb 777 steps , which is a pilgrimage site.

It is also a famous Myanmar tourist spot because of the high number of monkeys! Because of this, you must keep in mind that it is required to remove your hats and bags to avoid attention from the monkeys. Also, you have to wear decent clothes, which is a must when visiting sacred temples. Entrance fee is around $5 USD per person.

Now we have finished our list of best places to visit in Myanmar, let us know which one is your favorite Myanmar tourist spots! We’d love to hear them. 🙂

If you have friends who are visiting Myanmar soon, please feel free to share this with them.

Feel free to use our links for discounts. Using our links will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys

Happy travels! 🙂

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

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Places To Visit in Myanmar

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Fun fact: Yangon was actually known as the city of Rangoon - that is until the name was officially changed in 2006. This city combines bits of Asian and British cultures beautifully! A trip to Yangon is a trip that is perfect for any foodie, culture and history fan, or even someone who appreciates t...

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2. Mandalay

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Mandalay is a city located on the banks of the Irrawaddy(Ayeyarwady) River in Central Myanmar. It is the second-largest city in the country after Yangon. Most people expect an old Burma when it comes to Mandalay, but end up getting welcomed by sprawling buildings, wide roads filled with motorcy...

Best Time: October to January

3 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 13 Tourist attractions

Bagan is an ancient city located on the banks of the Irrawaddy (Ayeyarwady) River in Mandalay region in Central Myanmar. Bagan was formerly a capital and a centre of a powerful Pagan empire which flourished for over 400 years. Today, it is a renowned UNESCO heritage site. The old town area is one of...

4 out of 13 Places to visit in Myanmar 8 Tourist attractions

Bago, also called Pegu, is the capital city of the Bago region in Myanmar. It is one of the ancient cities that flourished on the banks of the Irrawaddy River and is known for ancient historical sites and pagodas. The town was formerly known as Hanthawaddy and is one of the most abundant archaeologi...

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Kalaw is a hill station located in Taunggyi District in the Shan state of Myanmar. Its elevation at 1310 meters attracts thousands of travelers, both local and international. As it is 50 km from the popular Inle Lake, there are trekking activities available to Kalaw from Inle and back...

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Dawei, also called as Tavoy is a city on the northern bank of the Dawei River in southeastern Myanmar. Dawei is famous for its islands home to crystal clear beaches, tropical jungles, hot springs and a popular beach destination for locals and foreign tourists. Most of the beaches are secluded, which...

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Mrauk U is a city located in northern Rakhine state in Myanmar. It is a medieval town and the capital of Mrauk-U Township. Mrauk U, formerly known as Mrohaung, is famous today for the ancient archaeological sites of Arakanese Kingdom. The city is an offbeat destination for tourists looking for quiet...

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Sagaing is a town located on the banks of the Irrawaddy River about 20km from Mandalay in Myanmar. It is the capital of Sagaing region and is known for many Buddhist temples and monasteries, making it an important monastic centre. Sagaing is a great day trip option for tourists visiting Mandalay who...

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Inwa is a town located in the Mandalay region in Myanmar. It was the former imperial capital city, most of which are in ruins today. Iva translates to the city of lakes and the city of nine lakes. The town got these names because of its location at the confluence of the Irrawaddy, and Myitnge rivers...

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Top 9 Best Places To Visit In Myanmar (Burma)

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A  country whose largest city “Yangon” is home to bustling markets, numerous parks, and lakes, and the towering, gilded Shwedagon Pagoda that contains Buddhist relics which dates to the 6th century, Myanmar (formerly Burma) is a Southeast Asian nation of more than 100 ethnic groups, bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Laos, and Thailand.

It is also known as “ The Golden Land ” to travelers because of its glittering pagodas everywhere.

A country where more than one hundred different ethnic groups still maintaining their traditional culture is the real treasure of Myanmar.

Now let’s check out some of the amazing and less known places to visit when you’re planning your trip to Myanmar.

Here are the Top 9 Best Places To Visit In Myanmar (Burma).

Home to over 13,000 brick temples built between the 9th and 13th centuries,  Bagan is an ancient city of temples in Myanmar.

At Bagan, 1000 temples are spread across the plains of Bagan which are the most impressive testament to the religious devotion of Myanmar’s people and rulers over the centuries which combine to form one of the richest archaeological sites in Asia and provide views quite unlike anywhere else on earth.

So don’t miss to explore this vast and fascinating Bagan when you are in Myanmar where nothing stops the temples of Bagan to be a unique wonder to behold.

2. Mandalay

Being the second-largest city in Myanmar, Mandalay is a city and former royal capital in northern Myanmar formerly known as Burma on the Irrawaddy River.

It is one of Myanmar’s ancient cities and home to 4 capitals across the centuries wherein its center is the restored Mandalay Palace from the Konbaung Dynasty, surrounded by a moat which was the last monarchy and independent kingdom of Burma.

The name ‘Mandalay’ was given based on the 236-m. high Mandalay Hill where Mandalay Hill provides views of the city from its summit that can be reached by a covered stairway and at its foot, the Kuthodaw Pagoda houses hundreds of Buddhist-scripture-inscribed marble slabs which is currently one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.

It is also home to several Buddhist monasteries and shows an exquisite example of Myanmar masonry which makes it a must-visit for travelers from all over the world.

Formerly known as Rangoon,  Yangon  is the largest city in Myanmar whose mix of British colonial architecture, modern high-rises, and gilded Buddhist pagodas define its skyline.

Dubbed as ‘The Garden City of the East’, Yangon is one of the best places to visit in Asia where nature lovers will fall in love with the city’s stunning lakes, shady parks, and verdant tropical trees.

Yangon’s famed Shwedagon Paya, a huge, shimmering pagoda complex, draws thousands of pilgrims annually and the city’s other notable religious sites include the Botataung and Sule pagodas, both housing Buddhist relics.

Yangon is a melting pot of a diversity of cultures and communities in terms of people, settlement, and religions making it a must-see for anyone who wants to see a different side of Asia.

Hpa-An is a picturesque town and the capital of Karen State where you can explore caves and breathtaking mountains.

This small city which is surrounded by lush green rice fields, limestone mountains, and a huge amount of caves is yet to be discovered by travelers from all over the world.

If you love to hike and want to mingle with locals then I can say Hpa-An is a perfect place for you to know the culture of Myanmar.

Hpa-An has the distinct feel of a country town whose point of attraction is a colorful market, the river port, a Buddhist temple, and their lush green rice fields.

The town is picturesque with its dramatic karst formations jutting out of the jungle landscape and a seemingly endless supply of new routes to go up that’s worth a visit.

Check out Top 7 Underrated Places To Visit In Asia.

5. Inle Lake

Being the second largest lake in Myanmar,  Inle Lake is  a freshwater lake located in the Nyaungshwe Township of Taunggyi District of Shan State, part of Shan Hills in Myanmar.

This lake is famous for its floating villages and gardens and also the unique way of life of the local people whose living communities are entirely based on the water.

This picturesque highland lake is 900 meters above sea level which is 22km long and 10km across and inhabited by many different ethnic nationals of the area.

It is one of Myanmar’s most popular destinations for travelers from all over the world.

So don’t miss to visit this amazing lake as you’ll get to see the leg-rowing Intha fishermen where they drive their flat-bottom boats by standing on the stern with one leg and using the other leg with the oar to row in order to obtain better vision over the reeds.

Located in Kalaw Township in Taunggyi District and known as Myanmar’s trekking mecca,  Kalaw is a hill town in the Shan State of Myanmar that was founded as a hill station by the British during colonial rule to escape from the sweltering heat of the tropics.

Its impressive refreshing climate and scenic views allow you to enjoy hill views and the colorful flower-lined streets by offering a wide variety of options for exploration.

When you’re in Myanmar then you should definitely visit Kalaw because its cool mountain air, mixed with the beautiful pine forests and a relatively mellow vibe will make for a great stop on your Myanmar adventure.

7. Taunggyi

Taunggyi is the capital and largest city of Shan State, Myanmar that lies on the Thazi-Kyaingtong road at an elevation of 4,712 feet, just north of Shwenyaung and Inle Lake within the Myelat region.

The name Taunggyi means “Huge Mountain” in the Burmese language and is set on a high plateau bordered by the massive mountains, as a part of the Shan Hills system.

The attractions include here are many traditional pagodas, ancient villages, secretive caves, and many ethnic tribes wherein the first village you might conclude that this destination is so laid-back but when you start exploring then Taunggyi is the great place for you to unwind and find peace.

  You can also witness the Fire Balloon Festival if you visit this place in November.

Taunggyi is a great destination to explore but unfortunately, it is yet to be discovered by travelers from all over the world.

Mrauk U is a little-known archeological site in Western Burma located in the beautiful hilly landscape of the Rakhine state where hundreds of ancient temples and pagodas are well-preserved which are the remnants of the powerful empire that once flourished here.

The offbeat Mrauk U which is far from the usual tourist route in Myanmar is just waiting to be discovered by travelers from all over the world. It was the capital of the Rakhine Kingdom from 1430 to 1785.

If you are a fan of history then you should definitely visit Mrauk U which was one of the most powerful kingdoms in the history of Myanmar that was built on its shipping fleet which traded with nearby territories, while plundering others.

9. Kengtung

Close to Laos, Thailand, and China, Kengtung is a town in Shan State, Myanmar which is the principal town of Kengtung Township.

It is one of the prettiest spots that is cut off from much of Myanmar, sitting in the centre of the Golden Triangle region in the east of Shan State.

Kengtung is a former British administrative outpost that was once known as the capital of the Golden Triangle but today it is one of the remotest parts of Burma that tourists are permitted to visit.

This highland tribe of Eastern Myanmar is diverse, and truly unique, each possessing its own customs, religion, history, and language that is set against a picturesque mountain backdrop.

So if you get a chance then you should definitely visit this small tribal village of Myanmar which is surrounded by impressive scenery and numerous traditional hill-tribe villages.

If you liked this article, then please subscribe to my  YouTube Channe l for Travel Adventures. You can also follow my adventures on  Twitter   and  Instagram .

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About 1,300 people from Myanmar flee into Thailand after clashes broke out in a key border town

B ANGKOK (AP) — About 1,300 people have fled from eastern Myanmar into Thailand, officials said Saturday, as fresh fighting erupted at a border town that has recently been captured by ethnic guerillas.

Fighters from the Karen ethnic minority last week captured the last of the Myanmar army’s outposts in and around Myawaddy , which is connected to Thailand by two bridges across the Moei River.

The latest clashes were triggered in the morning when the Karen guerillas launched an attack against Myanmar troops who were hiding near the 2nd Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge, a major crossing point for trade with Thailand, said police chief Pittayakorn Phetcharat in Thailand's Mae Sot district. He estimated about 1,300 people fled into Thailand.

Thai officials reported people had started crossing since Friday following clashes in several areas of Myawaddy.

The fall of Myawaddy is a major setback for the military that seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021. Myanmar’s once-mighty armed forces have suffered a series of unprecedented defeats since last October, losing swathes of territory including border posts to both ethnic fighters, who have been fighting for greater autonomy for decades, and pro-democracy guerrilla units that took up arms after the military takeover.

The clashes, involving drone attacks from the Karen forces and airstrikes by the Myanmar military, had subsided by noon Saturday compared to the morning, but Mae Sot police chief Pittayakorn Phetcharat said he could still hear sporadic gunshots. He said Thai authorities would move people fleeing into a safer area.

Footage from the Thai border showed Thai soldiers maintaining guard near the bridge with sounds of explosions and gunshots in the background. People with children waded across the river with their belongings and were received by Thai officials on the river bank. Several are seen taking shelter in buildings along the river bank on the Myanmar side.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin wrote on the social media platform X on Saturday that he was closely monitoring the situation at the border.

“I do not desire to see any such clashes have any impact on the territorial integrity of Thailand and we are ready to protect our borders and the safety of our people. At the same time, we are also ready to provide humanitarian assistance if necessary,” he wrote.

In March, Thailand delivered its first batch of humanitarian assistance to Myanmar for about 20,000 displaced people.

Nikorndej Balangura, a spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told reporters on Friday that Thailand is currently working to expand its aid initiative.

Myanmar rebel group withdraws troops from key town on Thai border

An armed ethnic group in Myanmar has withdrawn its troops from a town along the Thai border following a counteroffensive by the ruling junta from whom rebel fighters  wrested the key trading post this month, a spokesperson for the group said on Wednesday.

Myanmar is locked in a civil war between the military on one side and, on the other, a loose alliance of established ethnic minority armies and a resistance movement born out of the ruling junta’s bloody crackdown on dissent after its 2021 coup.

The Karen National Union (KNU) made a “temporary retreat” from Myawaddy, its spokesperson, Saw Taw Nee, said after the return of junta soldiers to the vital strategic area that is a conduit for annual foreign trade of more than $1 billion.

Photographs posted on some pro-junta social media groups showed a handful of its soldiers raising the Myanmar national flag at a military base the KNU had controlled just days before, and where the rebel group had raised its own banner.

“KNLA troops will ... destroy the junta troops and their backup troops who marched to Myawaddy,” added Saw Taw Nee, referring to the group’s armed wing, the Karen National Liberation Army, one of Myanmar’s oldest ethnic fighting forces.

He did not say what its next move would be, however.

Saw Taw Nee said junta soldiers in the counteroffensive to retake Myawaddy entered the area with the assistance of the Karen National Army (KNA), a militia with a history of shifting allegiances.

The junta and the KNA did not immediately respond to telephone calls seingek comment.

Fighting had flared as recently as Saturday in Myawaddy, forcing 3,000 civilians to flee in a single day as rebels fought to flush out stranded Myanmar government troops holed up at a border bridge crossing.

Last week, Reuters reporters saw KNA soldiers roaming Myawaddy, soon after the assault led by the KNU ejected junta troops from the border outpost. The militia had stood aside during the offensive, allowing the resistance to make inroads.

The KNA, previously aligned with the junta, asserted its independence from the weakening Myanmar military this year, but has not publicly pledged allegiance to the anti-junta resistance.

Carved out of a KNLA faction around 2010, the KNA was formerly known as the Border Guard Force under the command of Karen warlord Saw Chit Thu, on whom Britain has imposed sanctions for human trafficking.

Saw Chit Thu has significant commercial interests in Myawaddy and the surrounding area, including gambling and scam centers .

On Wednesday, Thailand’s foreign ministry said the fighting around Myawaddy had eased and it hoped to re-open its border crossing as trade had been hit. It said most civilians had returned and 650 remained.

“The situation has improved significantly,” spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura told a briefing. “Nevertheless, we are closely monitoring the situation, which is highly uncertain and can change.”

Thailand has received reports that talks may be starting between rival groups on the Myanmar side, Nikorndej said, without elaborating.

He added that Thailand had proposed to Laos, the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, that it could host a meeting seeking to end the Myanmar crisis.

The ruling military faces its biggest challenge since first taking control of Myanmar in 1962, caught up in low-intensity conflicts and grappling to steady an economy crumbling after the 2021 coup ended a decade of tentative democracy and reform.

The junta has lost control of a string of key frontier areas to rebel groups.

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A Ragtag Resistance Sees the Tide Turning in a Forgotten War

Rebel fighters have handed Myanmar’s army defeat after defeat, for the first time raising the possibility that the military junta could be at risk of collapse.

Resistance soldiers riding in the back of a pickup truck in southern Karenni State, in Myanmar, in January. Credit...

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By Hannah Beech

Photographs by Adam Ferguson

Hannah Beech, who has been covering Myanmar for nearly 20 years, recently spent a week reporting at a front line of the civil war.

• April 20, 2024

The night Ma Suu Kyi thought she would die of her wounds on the front lines of a forgotten war, a crescent moon hung overhead. A pendant of the Virgin Mary dangled around her neck. Maybe those augurs saved her. Or maybe, she said, it was not yet time for her to die.

“When I joined the revolution, I knew my chances of surviving were 50-50,” Ms. Suu Kyi, 21, said of her decision to enlist as a rebel soldier, fighting to overthrow the junta that returned Myanmar to military dictatorship three years ago. “I’m an ordinary girl, an ordinary young person. I believe in federal democracy and human rights.”

Ms. Suu Kyi said the words “federal democracy” in English. There are no easy words for the concept in Burmese.

Since the junta in Myanmar staged its coup in February 2021, ending a brief period of democratic reform and training its guns once again on peaceful protesters, much of the country has turned against the military. A new generation, which came of age during the civilian administration of the Nobel laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi , has taken to arms , joining rebels who have opposed military dictatorship for decades.

The world’s gaze has remained focused on other conflicts on other continents — to the consternation of many in Myanmar who wonder why the chaos and death here brings little global outcry. Now, after three years of desperate resistance, the battle lines are changing fast. The rebels have overrun scores of military bases and taken over dozens of towns. The tempo of victory has quickened in recent days, and anti-junta forces now claim to control more than half of Myanmar’s territory, from lowland jungles to the foothills of the Himalayas.

Much of the fighting’s rhythm seems syncopated to that of another century: trenches dug into unrelenting mud, the slide of flip-flops down monsoon-soaked hills, the clatter of homemade AK-style assault rifles in dusty towns. The junta’s multiple rocket launchers and fighter jets may bring a modern touch to the killing, as does the hovering of the resistance’s battle drones. But this conflict, with its hand-to-hand combat and profusion of land mines, feels like a throwback to the kind of civil war that was documented in black and white.

If they manage to push into the nation’s heartland — no sure thing — the insurgents could unseat a military that has, in one form or another, kept Myanmar in its grip for more than half a century. The result may be not so much a shifting of power as a shattering of a nation, its vast periphery breaking permanently away from central control.

“We want liberation from the Myanmar Army,” Ms. Suu Kyi told me. “I am willing to sacrifice myself for that.”

The insurgents are apportioned into hundreds of armed groups scattered across the country. In some battle zones, half a dozen different militias have united to combat the junta’s forces, sometimes with no clear chain of command. Some are led by veteran soldiers from ethnic armies that have long waged war with the Myanmar military — and, on occasion, with each other. Others were formed by lawmakers who picked up weapons after the coup curtailed their political careers. A lawyer heads one rebel force, a former student of economics another. At least one poet commands a small army.

The resistance is largely bankrolled through crowdfunding by the Myanmar diaspora: More than four million lived abroad before the coup, according to the United Nations, and the outflow has intensified since then. Other funding, particularly for certain ethnic armed groups, derives from the trade in illicit drugs or taxes on the gray economy. Although countries like the United States have pledged money for democracy-building and placed financial sanctions on members of the military regime and its cronies, they have not publicly allocated money for the armed rebellion.

Ms. Suu Kyi’s militia is called the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force, or K.N.D.F. Claiming more than 8,000 soldiers, it is an umbrella organization for bands of armed youth in Karenni, Myanmar’s smallest state and the site of some of the most intense fighting. Its frontline strategist, Deputy Cmdr. Maui Phoe Thaike, is an environmentalist who studied at the University of Montana at Missoula.

The K.N.D.F. and its allied militias could soon control all of Karenni, making it the first state in Myanmar to break free from junta control, military analysts say. In a series of nationwide offensives starting last fall, insurgents have repelled the junta from large swaths of Myanmar’s north, west and east. This month, guerrillas captured a major trading town on the border with Thailand. Naypyidaw, the capital of Myanmar built by the junta as a defensive fortress, is fewer than 150 miles from Karenni.

Facing resistance on many fronts, the junta said in February that it was implementing conscription for all young men and women in the country. Morale has plunged, deserters from the military said, even as the bombardment of civilians has intensified.

Throughout the military’s half a century in power , various rebel forces have tried to unseat the generals. All have failed. This time, the opposition says, is different, in part because much of the country’s Bamar ethnic majority has found unity with minorities living in the border regions.

The young people who grew up during a period of openness, when Myanmar welcomed foreign innovations such as Facebook and K.F.C., chafe at how the junta has once again closed off the country. They know how much they have lost with the generals’ inward turn, and they have used social media to expose the junta’s atrocities: the imprisonment and torture of thousands of civilians, airstrikes on schools and hospitals , the killing of children with single shots to the head.

Still, it’s far from certain whether the insurgents — not to mention the 214,000 government workers who are still striking as part of a civil disobedience campaign — can maintain their resolve for a fourth year or more.

Myanmar’s civil war is taking place far from the international spotlight that has clung to the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. The inequity has mystified some of the 55 million people of Myanmar, who in the months after the coup lobbied the United Nations to intervene to protect a vulnerable population. No help came. Not a single country has recognized Myanmar’s pro-democracy shadow government , despite the accolades won by civilian leaders when they began sharing power with the military nearly a decade ago.

But even as their plight has failed to capture global attention, doctors, lawyers, police officers, teachers, air force pilots and others have fled to rebel-held areas to lend expertise to the armed resistance. There are thousands of such professionals now living in the jungles of Myanmar. There are thousands more on the front lines.

After the junta’s forces gunned down unarmed protesters in the wake of the coup, Ma Linn Ni Zho, a medical student, fled to Karenni State and helped set up a secret hospital to treat rebel soldiers, as well as civilians maimed by land mines and airstrikes. The hospital is now the only major one operating in Karenni, as the military’s aerial bombardment , per capita, outpaces the Russian campaign in Ukraine.

“Looking for the help of the U.N., looking for the help of the international governments, is like walking in the dark,” Ms. Linn Ni Zho said. “We have to do by ourself to escape from this kind of hell.”

‘We Had Big Dreams’

In an emergency ward camouflaged with netting and leaves, served only by a forest track, Ms. Linn Ni Zho tended to the casualties of war. The tools of a jungle hospital surrounded her: saws for amputations, yards of gauze for bullet wounds and a generator to power lights for surgery.

Severing limbs pulverized by land mines or plunging her arms into chest cavities torn apart by mortars was not what Ms. Linn Ni Zho thought she would be doing when she chose to study medicine. Now 25, she grew up as Myanmar’s military rulers voluntarily began sharing power with civilians.

Before that change, possessing an unregistered cellphone or foreign currency could land a person in prison for years. Listening to B.B.C. radio broadcasts meant risking arrest.

By the time Ms. Linn Ni Zho was in college, she was making pocket money selling La Mer and Lancôme beauty products online, sourced from a relative living in California. She downloaded American sitcoms on her phone — “Emily in Paris” is a current favorite — and considered setting up a private practice.

“All of us had big dreams, but I think they were normal dreams,” she said of her generation.

The coup three years ago began with an internet blackout and the arrests of Myanmar’s civilian cabinet, including Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi. For a citizenry collectively hunched over phones, checking Facebook, the halt to communications came as a shock. (Today in most of Karenni, there is no phone or internet service.)

Within 20 days of the coup, the junta’s snipers had shot dead the first peaceful protester , a 20-year-old woman standing in a crowd. Since then, more than 4,800 protesters and political prisoners have been killed, and 26,500 people have been arrested, according to a tally by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (Burma), which uses the former name for Myanmar.

“We lost all of our lives, all of our futures, with our human rights, civil rights violated every day,” Ms. Linn Ni Zho told me. “When dictatorship came, I just could not accept it as a youth.”

Ms. Linn Ni Zho escaped to Karenni, also known as Kayah, which is home to ethnic minorities who have long been persecuted. For the first time, a significant multiethnic resistance was forming.

With others from Myanmar’s Bamar-dominated cities, Ms. Linn Ni Zho set up a hospital.

But in 2022, fighter jets targeted the facility. The medics built a new hospital deep in a forest to protect against airstrikes. The staff live in huts, bunkers dug into the earth for the bombardment they believe is inevitable.

“They can destroy the buildings, but they cannot destroy our willpower,” Ms. Linn Ni Zho said.

Last November, resistance fighters rushed a soldier to the hospital: It was Ms. Suu Kyi, the young rebel with the Virgin Mary pendant, who had been wounded during the K.N.D.F.’s attempt to take Loikaw, the state capital.

Earlier in the day, she was sheltering in a shot-up building in a shot-up city, one that had emptied of 50,000 residents in a few days. Junta troops staked out a position across the street, so close that the astringent smell of the betel they chewed mixed with the fumes of war. An artillery shell detonated near Ms. Suu Kyi.

“I could not feel my body,” she said. “I thought this is what it feels like to die.”

An X-ray confirmed to Ms. Linn Ni Zho, who was on duty that day, that shrapnel had hurtled through Ms. Suu Kyi’s back and pierced her lung. All they could do was wait to see if there was serious internal bleeding.

Three months later, Ms. Suu Kyi was back on the front line in Loikaw, an assault rifle slung over her shoulder. Shrapnel remained lodged in her body. The enemy was close.

On the way to visit her, New York Times journalists passed a Buddhist pagoda balanced, golden and delicate, on a rocky outcrop. The street had once hummed with pilgrims and schoolchildren. There had been a sushi bar.

Now, the street was deserted, save the resistance fighters taking us to the abandoned house the K.N.D.F. had taken for an outpost. Spent bullets glistened on the ground. Barricades had been forsaken, metal twisted into ominous sculptures of war.

Ms. Suu Kyi was on the fourth day of a weeklong rotation. It had been a good day, she said: no artillery strikes nearby. She smiled.

But then small-arms fire cascaded from the Myanmar military’s hillside position, striking just outside the house and flashing bright in the midday sun. Ms. Suu Kyi smiled again as her fellow soldiers took aim out a window.

A cat left behind by the house’s owners meowed in alarm. Ms. Suu Kyi reached down to stroke it. Before Covid, before the coup, before the war, she was to study geography in college. She was to become a teacher. The cat brushed against Ms. Suu Kyi, threading her legs in a nervous pattern, then slinked behind sandbags.

“Maybe after we win the revolution, I can continue my life again,” she said. “Maybe not me, but people of my generation.”

‘He Will Be a Soldier’

In a pine clearing in Karenni State, 84 young men and 10 young women of the K.N.D.F.’s Eighth Battalion stood at attention. After 11 days of basic training, the soldiers were kitted out in new uniforms. New assault rifles leaned against trees. The soldiers saluted and pledged support for “federal democracy,” in English.

Before them stood 10 portraits of young men of the Eighth Battalion who had died in combat, out of about 400 soldiers. In a day or two, this next batch was heading to the front lines.

A loudspeaker played a message from the K.N.D.F. leader, Khun Bedu. Once a civil society activist, Khun Bedu had been jailed by Myanmar’s military dictatorship. In prison, he and other founders of the militia were tortured, they said. Their heads were wrapped in plastic bags, each breath robbing them of oxygen until the bag no longer moved into their mouths.

The K.N.D.F. is both an example of how passionate guerrillas can repel a large and overstretched army and of such a militia’s limits. The commander of the Eighth Battalion used to drive a tour bus. One K.N.D.F. strategist was a national snooker champion. Another worked the docks in Singapore.

Deputy Commander Maui Phoe Thaike was busy with organic farming projects when the coup occurred. Today, he sends soldiers into battle.

“I made a lot of mistakes at first, and a lot of our soldiers died,” he said. “But we learn every time, and we are getting stronger and stronger.”

Tattooed on his back is a partial record of the battlefield’s toll: tally marks in bundles of five, each representing a life lost. The lines stretch over his left shoulder, but he stopped adding them last May, before the militia’s biggest offensives. In the assault on Loikaw late last year, at least 150 soldiers died, one K.N.D.F. leader said. Another counted the number at double that.

“I might run out of space on my back,” Deputy Commander Maui Phoe Thaike said. “I don’t want to think about that.”

On March 25, four more members of the Eighth Battalion were killed in Loikaw.

Today, more than 80 percent of the population of Karenni State is internally displaced. As the Myanmar army retreated, its troops scattered land mines like rice seed, creating lasting hazards for civilians and combatants alike. In a Christmas Eve attack two years ago, junta forces killed about 35 civilians, including aid workers, leaving their charred bodies in vehicles on a road in Karenni.

“We tried to protest peacefully, but the only language the Burma army understands is bullets,” said Deputy Commander Maui Phoe Thaike, himself a member of the Bamar ethnic majority. “Armed resistance is the only way for our revolution to succeed.”

Karenni forces said in late March that they held 90 percent of the state. The Myanmar military calls civilians “terrorists” and terrorizes them with airstrikes and long-range artillery.

For all the new recruits into Myanmar’s rebel forces — the college students and Buddhist monks and civil servants — other soldiers have been fighting for far longer.

When the military staged its first coup in 1962, isolating a once cosmopolitan country, its excuse was that the new nation was fragmenting. Ethnic rebels were bearing down on the capital, demanding autonomy or at least a federal democracy.

In the decades since, the military has continued to oppress ethnic minorities through organized sexual violence, the torching of villages and a policy of making ethnic minority children walk ahead of soldiers in minefields — tactics that United Nations investigators have called crimes against humanity. The civilian administration that shared power with the military until the 2021 coup stood by, too, as the army targeted one ethnic group , the Muslim Rohingya , with what the United States considers genocide .

Ko Pal Law has been a soldier since he was 9, fighting for another Karenni rebel force. Last year, the Myanmar military stormed through his village, burning and looting. An airstrike tore the roof off the church.

One afternoon, Mr. Pal Law, 29, surveyed the charred remains of his home, stepping carefully for fear of mines. He sipped a jug of homemade alcohol, rice grains swollen in the fermented murk. The soldiers with him downed beers. Deserters from the junta’s forces say synthetic drug use is rampant. For both sides in this grinding war, respite is sought in an altered state.

After leaving his destroyed village, on roads cratered by mine blasts, Mr. Pal Law ordered the truck to stop for an impromptu target practice. He guzzled his moonshine. He lay on the red earth, aiming his rifle. Not a single shot found its mark.

“I like to fight,” he said, his words slurring. “I am good at fighting.”

After so long in power, the Myanmar military has infiltrated every crevice of the society and economy. In the borderlands, many ethnic armed groups hold similar sway. They collect taxes, and then when the Myanmar army comes back, it collects its own. The people remain impoverished.

In the resistance stronghold of Demoso, where the roads into town are lined with refugee encampments, Deputy Commander Maui Phoe Thaike presided over a baby-naming ceremony for the son of a K.N.D.F. soldier. Around him, men spoke of federal democracy and clutched assault rifles. One, a recent amputee, leaned on crutches. The militia’s top brass gathered around the newborn. The deputy commander cooed. The baby cooed back.

The father, once a civil servant, cradled his child. If there were peace, would his son be able to one day enjoy the calm of civilian life, away from the blood and dust of war?

“No, he will be a soldier,” Deputy Commander Maui Phoe Thaike answered. “He will be a man and fight.”

Hannah Beech is a Times reporter based in Bangkok who has been covering Asia for more than 25 years. She focuses on in-depth and investigative stories. More about Hannah Beech

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A sanctioned strongman and the ‘fall’ of Myanmar’s Myawaddy

The key border town was ‘liberated’ by Myanmar’s anti-coup fighters, but the story was far more complex than many realised.

Mae Sot, Thailand –  On April 11, the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), the armed wing of Myanmar’s Karen National Union (KNU) a staunch opponent of the military coup, captured the 275 Light Infantry Battalion base about 5km (3.1 miles) west of Myawaddy, a town of crucial strategic importance on the Myanmar-Thai border.

The KNU immediately claimed a successful offensive , sharing photos of its troops at the entrance to the city. Although the KNU did not definitively claim they had taken the town, many thought Myawaddy had been fully liberated by the forces fighting against the generals who seized power from the elected government in a 2021 coup.

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But the situation was not quite as it seemed.

Just two weeks after the KNLA took control of the base, the Myanmar military was back, sharing a picture of its soldiers raising their flag back at the site in a sudden and surprising turn of events.

Interviews with Myawaddy residents, sources close to the offensive and analysts indicate the KNLA never took the entire town. Rather, Myawaddy was under the control of the Border Guard Forces (BGF), a notorious militia operating in the border areas that are home to the ethnic Karen, Myanmar’s second largest ethnic group. And at the heart of the incident is Colonel Saw Chit Thu – an ethnic Karen strongman who leads the BGF with thousands of armed men under his command.

“Myawaddy was never captured by the KNLA. While the junta’s remaining troops from the 275th LIB retreated, the BGF army took control of Myawaddy and Saw Chit Thu stated that they would remain neutral to avoid conflict within the city,” a source close to a Karen ethnic armed group told Al Jazeera, requesting anonymity for fear of reprisals.

“During the capture of the 275th LIB, the BGF troops facilitated the transfer of junta troops from their base to the 2nd Friendship Bridge. Although the KNLA forces were permitted to enter the city, they were not authorised to occupy it, or target any of the junta’s administrative buildings within the city.”

The claim was corroborated by four different sources and analysts with deep knowledge of the incident.

Myawaddy is one of Myanmar’s largest cities with a population of more than 200,000, and occupies a crucial position on the Thai-Myanmar border through which billions of dollars of trade have passed for decades. Its apparent fall suggested a significant breakthrough for those fighting against the generals following the successes of Operation 1027 , a major offensive launched by a coalition of other ethnic armed groups last year.

But when the Myanmar military made threats to destroy the town from the air and attack Shwe Kokko, a district just north of Myawaddy and the heart of Saw Chit Thu’s criminal empire where scam operations are rampant, he chose to allow the military to retake their base to entrench his power and profits.

“It became clear that the BGF had been playing both sides and that it ultimately pivoted to assist the military regime, leading to the photo op of the Myanmar flag once again being raised over the base,” Jason Tower, the Myanmar director of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) told Al Jazeera.

Saw Chit Thu is a veteran fighter and was once the commander of the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) Battalion 999, a military-linked group that split from the KNU in 1994. Since then, he has become one of the most feared figures in Karen State and has worked closely with the Myanmar military.

Experts say the group has been actively involved in burning down villages to support the Myanmar army and even bombing camps housing displaced people.

“The real winner here has been the BGF, which has managed to protect its criminal enterprises and expand its control areas as a result of the fighting,” Tower said.

The criminal strongman

At the Dragon Casino in Myawaddy, a BMW pulls up to a huge black gate surrounded by tall concrete walls topped with razor wire. The security guards guarding the “entertainment complex” rush out to meet the men sitting inside and, after a cursory inspection of the boot, wave the vehicle through with a quick salute.

Along the Thaungyin River, casinos like these are popping up everywhere. At least five newly-built compounds are clearly visible from Thailand along the banks of the river that marks the border with Myanmar.

Some have moved into the area since anti-coup forces in northern Shan State advanced and began cracking down on criminal operations there.

According to a new report from the US Institute of Peace (USIP), the development of venues like these, which are largely Chinese controlled, has taken place with the blessing of Saw Chit Thu. His soldiers offer protection for a cut of the Chinese syndicates’ rising profits, which some estimates put as high as $3 trillion a year.

But while the scam compounds have turned Myawaddy into Myanmar’s new hotbed for criminality, analysts say they were not the only issue at play during the recent events in the town.

“It definitely wasn’t the BGF who was the main actor, but it definitely made a difference,” said Kim Jollife, an independent researcher with more than 15 years working on Myanmar.

According to Jollife, the BGF provides front-line support and intelligence to the military, and brings in food, water and fuel. Once they withdrew that support from the military, it was easier for the KNLA to move forward to take the military bases both on the outskirts of the city and beyond.

After the KNLA captured a range of heavy artillery, the pressure was enough for Battalion 275 to surrender.

“We don’t know exactly what happened, or why it all turned back,” Jollife said. “But there are two broad theories: One is that Saw Chit Tu is playing games, and that he’s trying to extract the best possible conditions he can from both sides. Both sides feel like they need him, so he’s able to play this game where he’s trying to extract certain guarantees.”

Saw Chit Thu and a military government spokesperson did not respond to calls from Al Jazeera seeking comment.

Jollife’s other theory is linked to disputes in the ranks of the BGF. Some top brass in the militia are rumoured to want to maintain allegiance to the generals, while others are more enthusiastic about supporting the KNLA. It remains unclear where Saw Chit Thu stands, but Joliffe says it is safe to say he leans whichever will best prop up his personal economic interests.

Myawaddy, he stressed, was “still far from under junta control,” and the situation was “in a very delicate balance.” He notes that the KNLA has in recent months captured three other key military bases not far from Myawaddy.

“The Myanmar military has not been able to bring in any significant new forces… It’s not like they’ve just retaken Myawaddy completely.”

Fear of reprisals

Since 2021, throughout Southeast Asia, Chinese criminal enterprises have expanded their scamming operations with tens of thousands trafficked into working for them.

Inside the scam compounds, workers are compelled to conduct romance scams or “pig butchering” scams, during which scammers “build trust” with their targets over time, only to ultimately betray them and make off with their money. Many of the scams take place under the threat of violence or death for those forced to work inside the compounds.

“Chit Thu’s BGF is the muscle to enforce the will of the Chinese criminals who run Shwe Kokko as a sin city with scamming, trafficking, gambling and prostitution,” Phil Robertson, the Bangkok-based deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch, told Al Jazeera. “He’s a cancer against the rule of law, good governance and human rights in Karen State, and ultimately will need to be dealt with, one way or another.”

There is an unmistakable sense of fear whenever discussing Saw Chit Thu with Myawaddy residents, largely because they know that the colonel has become wealthy through extortion and other strategies that prey on the people of Karen State.

The strongman was sanctioned by the United Kingdom last year for alleged human trafficking.

“It is so sad to see that the land of the Karen people is now turning into an area full of criminal groups and activities,” a leading Karen women’s rights activist, who could not be named for fear of reprisals, told Al Jazeera. It is a sentiment shared by many other ethnic Karen who live in the area, but also fear speaking out will put them in danger.

“The BGF has never helped us refugees,” a newly displaced woman told Al Jazeera from a hospital in Mae Sot, just across the border in Thailand. “I cannot say much more, but the KNU have always been there for us.”

With Myanmar’s trade routes, including those with China, India and Thailand, squeezed by resistance forces, the generals are doing all they can to regain full control of Myawaddy, the anonymous source said.

Thousands of people fled the fighting last month. But now, they may be facing a renewed assault.

“Operation Aung Zeya, involving reinforcement columns from the 11th, 44th, 55th, and 77th Light Infantry Divisions, is a nation-level operation aimed at retaking Myawaddy,” the unidentified source said of an impending new military offensive.

“As of April 29th, approximately 2,000 junta troops are en route to Myawaddy.”