Things To Do
in Nay Pyi Taw

Nay Pyi Taw, the capital city of Myanmar, is a planned city that features wide boulevards and expansive green spaces. Established in 2005, it is known for its modern government buildings and monuments, contrasting with the country's traditional heritage. The city is relatively quiet compared to other bustling cities in Myanmar, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking a different experience.

Key attractions include the Uppatasanti Pagoda, a replica of Yangon’s Shwedagon Pagoda, and the National Museum showcasing Myanmar's rich culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Uppatasanti Pagoda, where you can admire its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the National Museum of Myanmar to learn about the country's history and culture through its exhibits.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a stroll through the city center, enjoying the fountains and gardens, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day at the Nay Pyi Taw Zoological Gardens, where you can see a variety of local wildlife and enjoy a morning walk.

afternoon
:

Head to the Water Fountain Garden for a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful landscape and fountains.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a traditional Myanmar dinner at a local eatery, trying out some local dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-5
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-30
🚌Bus ticket within the city$0.50
Coffee at a cafe$2-4
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$3-7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Well-planned city with spacious layout and green spaces
  • Rich cultural experiences through museums and pagodas
  • Less crowded compared to other major cities in Myanmar
  • Limited nightlife options compared to other cities
  • Some attractions may be far apart, requiring transportation
  • Less international tourism infrastructure
  • "မင်္ဂလာပါ" - Hello
  • "ကျေးဇူးတင်ပါတယ်" - Thank you
  • "သင်ဘာလို့အောင်လဲ" - How are you?
  • "ကျွန်တော်/ကျွန်မသွားပါတယ်" - I am leaving
  • "ကူညီပေးပါ" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Nay Pyi Taw

Visit one of these nice places.

Uppatasanti Pagoda

This striking pagoda is a beautiful spot for photography, especially at sunset when it glows in the golden light.

National Museum of Myanmar

The museum's architecture and exhibits provide great opportunities for capturing the essence of Myanmar's culture.

Water Fountain Garden

A picturesque location with dancing fountains and lush greenery, ideal for capturing tranquil moments.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nay Pyi Taw

Nay Pyi Taw offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring a mix of traditional Myanmar cuisine and international options. Must-try dishes include Mohinga, a fish soup served with rice noodles, and Tea Leaf Salad, known locally as Lahpet. The city has several markets and street food vendors where you can sample local flavors, as well as a range of restaurants catering to different tastes. For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, but it's advisable to inform the staff for clarity.

Nay Pyi Taw Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mohinga

A traditional breakfast dish made of fish broth and rice noodles, often garnished with herbs and crispy fritters.

Must-Try!

Tea Leaf Salad (Lahpet)

A refreshing salad made from fermented tea leaves mixed with nuts, peas, and sesame seeds.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nay Pyi Taw Night Market

A vibrant market where you can find a variety of street food options, including grilled meats and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nay Pyi Taw experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season from November to February brings cooler temperatures and clear skies, while the hot season from March to May sees rising temperatures, often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The monsoon season from June to October is marked by heavy rainfall, making it less favorable for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Respect Elders

Show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures, such as bowing your head slightly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nay Pyi Taw is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, so keep valuables secure. It's also wise to avoid large crowds and political gatherings.

Tipping in Nay Pyi Taw

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included, but rounding up is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

While cash is commonly used, some larger establishments may accept credit cards, so it's wise to keep cash handy.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to February)

This is the best time to visit, with cooler temperatures and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Hot Season (March to May)

Expect high temperatures and humidity, so plan for indoor activities or early morning outings.

Monsoon Season (June to October)

Heavy rains can occur, so be prepared for wet conditions. Some attractions may be less accessible.

Nightlife Guide

Nay Pyi Taw at Night

Nay Pyi Taw's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to other cities in Myanmar. While there are a few bars and lounges, the focus is more on dining out in restaurants or enjoying quiet evenings in cafes. Night markets offer a lively atmosphere where locals and tourists gather to socialize over street food and drinks.

Hiking in Nay Pyi Taw

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Luwak

A moderate hike offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for nature lovers.

Pyu Ancient City Trails

Explore the historical trails surrounding the ancient city of Pyu, with a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Nay Pyi Taw by plane.

Nay Pyi Taw International Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from the city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to Nay Pyi Taw.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nay Pyi Taw is designed for vehicles, but many areas, especially parks and government buildings, are accessible on foot. Sidewalks are available, but they may not always be in the best condition. Walking can be enjoyable in the cooler parts of the day, especially in parks like the Water Fountain Garden.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bamar

The largest ethnic group in Myanmar, primarily residing in urban areas, including Nay Pyi Taw, known for their rich cultural heritage.

Shan

An ethnic group that primarily inhabits the eastern regions of Myanmar, known for their distinct traditions and languages.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport in Myanmar that resembles volleyball but uses feet, head, knees, and chest to hit a rattan ball over a net.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Myanmar, with many local teams and leagues, often seen being played in parks and open spaces.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nay Pyi Taw is generally light, with wide roads and less congestion compared to other major cities. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but many visitors find it easier to use taxis or ride-sharing apps for convenience. Walking is also a viable option in less busy areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nay Pyi Taw.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask if meat or fish is used in the cooking.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Nay Pyi Taw are limited compared to major cities like Yangon. There are a few hospitals and clinics, but for serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to Yangon. Travelers should carry necessary medications and consider travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Discover Burma

Read more in our Burma 2025 Travel Guide.

Burma Travel Guide