Tourism in Myanmar

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Asia / Southeast Asia

Tourist attractions

Bagan Archaeological Zone

Region: Mandalay Region

Cultural heritage

Ancient royal capital from the 11–13th centuries with over 3,000 pagodas scattered across the plains. Hot air balloon tours are popular.

Shwedagon Pagoda

Region: Yangon

Religious architecture

Approximately 100-meter-tall golden pagoda considered the most sacred site in Myanmar Buddhism.

Inle Lake

Region: Shan State

Nature

Highland lake renowned for floating villages and leg-rowing fishermen.

Kakku Pagodas

Region: Near Taunggyi, Shan State

Cultural heritage

Forest of around 2,500 stupas of varying sizes standing in a field.

Golden Rock (Kyaiktiyo)

Region: Mon State

Religious architecture

Pilgrimage site featuring a gold-leaf covered boulder perched on a cliff, with devotees worshipping through the night.

Mandalay Palace

Region: Mandalay

Historical architecture

Reconstructed vast palace site of the last Konbaung dynasty royal citadel.

Mount Popa

Region: Mandalay Region

Nature / Spirit worship

Sacred site of Nat (spirit) worship with a temple atop a volcanic rock pinnacle.

U Bein Bridge

Region: Amarapura

Historical architecture

1.2-km-long teak footbridge, one of the world's longest; stunning at sunset.

Ngapali Beach

Region: Rakhine State

Resort

Hidden gem beach offering pristine white sand and clear views of the Bay of Bengal.

Pindaya Cave

Region: Shan State

Religious / Cave

Limestone cave housing over 8,000 Buddha images.

Suggested itineraries

First-time Royal Capitals and Buddhist Heritage 7 Days

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake

Efficiently tour the three major tourist areas by domestic flights, including sunrise hot air balloon experience at Bagan and floating villages at Inle Lake.

Leisurely Southern Coast and Sacred Sites 10 Days

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Yangon, Kyaiktiyo, Mawlamyine, Ngapali Beach

Relax with slow bus and train travel, Golden Rock pilgrimage, and extended stays at a hidden Bay of Bengal resort.

Travel tips

  • For visas, the tourist eVisa is convenient. Online application before arrival is recommended.
  • Exchange money at airports or licensed exchange shops. Black market exchanges are illegal.
  • For temple visits, cover shoulders and knees, and sandals are convenient as you must go barefoot.
  • The dry season (November–February) offers mild weather and is the best time to visit.
  • For long-distance travel, domestic flights are safe and time-efficient. Night buses require warm clothing.
  • SIM cards can be purchased at the airport. 4G connection is available in major cities.
  • Frequent power outages make carrying a backup battery advisable.
  • Photography of military and police facilities, or protest scenes, is strictly prohibited.
  • Tap water is not potable. Use bottled water.
  • In a cash-based society, it's helpful to separate large and small MMK bills.

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