Things To Do
in Myanmar

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a beautiful Southeast Asian country known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. From ancient temples to breathtaking natural scenery, Myanmar offers a unique blend of history and tradition. The country is characterized by diverse ethnic groups, each with their own customs and traditions.

Visitors are often captivated by the warmth of the locals and the vibrant street life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yangon
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, a sacred Buddhist site adorned with gold leaf and gems. Take your time to wander around and soak in the spirituality of the place.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local restaurant, then visit the Bogyoke Aung San Market for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Explore the colonial architecture and street art around downtown Yangon.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city skyline, followed by a leisurely stroll along the Kandawgyi Lake as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Bagan’s Ancient Temples
morning
:

Fly to Bagan early in the morning and start your day by exploring the ancient temples, including Ananda Temple and Thatbyinnyu Temple. Rent a bike to cover more ground.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery and then visit the archaeological museum to learn about the region's history. Don't miss the sunset view from one of the temples.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Burmese restaurant, trying local specialties, and enjoy a puppet show to immerse yourself in the cultural experience.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at Local Restaurant$2-5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10-20
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$1-3
🚌Long-Distance Bus Ticket$10-25
🥤Bottle of Water$0.30-0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage
  • Affordable travel options
  • Diverse ethnic communities and traditions
  • Limited infrastructure in some areas
  • Political instability in certain regions
  • Language barrier in rural areas
  • "Mingalaba" - Hello
  • "Kyaung ba deh" - Thank you
  • "Neh kaung la?" - How are you?
  • "Ma shi ba" - No problem
  • "Kyaung ba deh" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Myanmar

Visit one of these nice places.

Shwedagon Pagoda

An iconic symbol of Myanmar, this golden stupa is breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Bagan Temples

Capture the stunning ancient temples scattered across the plains of Bagan, particularly during sunrise.

Inle Lake

Famous for its unique floating gardens and fishermen, Inle Lake offers picturesque views.

Culinary Guide

Food in Myanmar

Myanmar’s cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors influenced by its neighboring countries, with rice as a staple. Street food is widely available and offers an authentic taste of local life.

Myanmar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mohinga

A traditional breakfast dish made of rice noodles in fish broth, garnished with herbs.

Must-Try!

Tea Leaf Salad

A unique salad made from fermented tea leaves, mixed with nuts, peas, and other ingredients.

Shan Noodles

A popular dish from the Shan State, featuring flat rice noodles served with chicken or pork and a light broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yangon Street Food

Explore the vibrant street food scene in Yangon where vendors sell everything from skewers to fresh fruits.

Bogyoke Aung San Market

A famous market in Yangon where you can find local snacks and delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Myanmar experiences a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: the dry season (November to February) is cool and pleasant; the hot season (March to May) is characterized by high temperatures; the monsoon season (June to October) brings heavy rains and humidity. Temperatures vary significantly depending on the region, with the central plains being hotter than coastal areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Always show respect to monks, including giving them space and avoiding physical contact.

Removing Shoes

Always remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Dress Modestly

Wear modest clothing, especially in religious sites, covering shoulders and knees.

Safety Guide

Safety

Myanmar is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid political demonstrations and be cautious in rural areas. Ensure your belongings are secure and avoid displaying wealth.

Tipping in Myanmar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tip around 5-10% in restaurants, but it's not mandatory. Small amounts are appreciated for guides and drivers.

Payment Methods

Cash is king in Myanmar, especially USD. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and tourist areas, but always carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Cool and dry, this is the best time for travel, with pleasant temperatures.

Summer (March to May)

Hot and dry, travelers should stay hydrated and seek shade during the day.

Monsoon (June to October)

Expect heavy rainfall; some areas may become inaccessible, but the countryside is lush and green.

Festival Season

Various festivals occur throughout the year, offering unique cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Myanmar at Night

Myanmar's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to other Southeast Asian countries, with a few vibrant bars and restaurants in major cities. Yangon has a growing number of rooftop bars and nightclubs catering to a younger crowd, while Bagan offers quieter options focused on dining and socializing under the stars. Traditional cultural performances, such as dance and music, can also be enjoyed in various venues.

Hiking in Myanmar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalaw to Inle Lake Trek

A scenic multi-day trek through mountains and local villages, offering stunning views and cultural experiences.

Mount Victoria

The highest peak in Chin State, providing breathtaking views and a chance to see rare flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Myanmar by plane.

Yangon International Airport (RGN)

The main international airport in Myanmar, serving as a hub for flights into and out of the country.

Getting Around

Walkability

In urban areas like Yangon, walkability can be limited due to heavy traffic and poorly maintained sidewalks. However, many neighborhoods have accessible areas for walking, especially around tourist attractions. In rural areas, walking is often the best way to explore local villages.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bamar

The largest ethnic group in Myanmar, making up about 68% of the population, known for their rich cultural practices.

Shan

A significant ethnic group residing mainly in the Shan State, known for their unique traditions and customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sepak Takraw

A popular sport in Myanmar, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball and using feet, head, knees, and chest.

Myanmar Traditional Wrestling

Known as 'Lethwei,' it’s a combat sport that showcases strength and skill, often seen during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in major cities like Yangon can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but many tourists prefer to hire private drivers or use ride-hailing apps for convenience. Road conditions vary, so expect delays on less developed routes.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Burmese cuisine often includes fish and meat, there are vegetarian options available, particularly in urban areas.

Halal Food

Halal food is available in many restaurants catering to the Muslim community.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Myanmar vary significantly. Major cities have hospitals and clinics, but access to quality healthcare can be limited in rural areas. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and ensure vaccinations are up to date before traveling.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Myanmar.