Things To Do
in Leiktho

Leiktho is a quiet riverside town in southern Myanmar known for its rural charm and slow pace of life. Nestled among forested hills, it serves as a gateway to nearby villages where farming and fishing shape daily routines. The town features simple markets, wooden houses, and golden pagodas that create a timeless, photogenic backdrop.

Visitors are welcomed by warm locals, tranquil river sunsets, and a sense of authentic rural Myanmar away from bigger tourist hubs.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration of Leiktho
morning
:

Arrive in Leiktho and settle into your accommodation, surrounded by lush landscapes. After unpacking, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, where you can savor authentic Burmese flavors. Explore the nearby market to experience the vibrant culture and interact with the local vendors.

afternoon
:

Visit the stunning Pagoda of Leiktho, where you can admire intricate architecture and learn about its historical significance. Take a leisurely stroll along the river to soak in the picturesque views and the tranquility of the surroundings. Stop by a local tea shop for a refreshing break and enjoy the regional tea blends.

evening
:

Dine at a popular restaurant renowned for its seafood and traditional dishes, experiencing the local cuisine firsthand. After dinner, wander through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charm of Leiktho at night. End your day by relaxing at a nearby café, enjoying a cup of Myanmar coffee as you reflect on your experiences.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Participate in a cooking class that introduces you to local ingredients and traditional Burmese cooking methods. Engage with the chef, learning about family recipes passed down through generations. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you sit down to a homemade lunch, rich with flavor.

afternoon
:

Visit the local monastery to witness the daily rituals of the monks, including meditation sessions and prayer time. This immersive experience offers insight into the spiritual life of the villagers and the importance of Buddhism in the region. Take part in a discussion with the monks, gaining a deeper understanding of their beliefs and lifestyle.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional dance and music from Myanmar. This vibrant display highlights the rich cultural heritage of the region, leaving you enchanted. Conclude the night at a cozy bar, enjoying live music while mingling with locals and fellow travelers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$2-5
💧Water bottle (1.5L)$0.25-0.50
🚗Short taxi ride$1-4
Coffee or tea at cafe$1-3
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$5-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm, welcoming locals and a laid-back atmosphere
  • Scenic river setting with rural landscapes and hill views
  • Limited infrastructure and amenities compared with bigger cities
  • Remote location can mean longer travel times to major destinations
  • "မင်္ဂလာပါ" - Hello
  • "ကျေးဇူးတင်ပါတယ်" - Thank you
  • "ခွင့်ပြုပါ" - Please / Excuse me
  • "ဈေးဘယ်လဲ" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Leiktho

Visit one of these nice places.

Leiktho Riverside at Dawn

Mist over the river with early light reflecting off the water; a peaceful moment for wide-angle and landscape shots.

Old Town Market Street

Colorful morning activity, wooden stalls, and locals in daily routines perfect for candid photography.

Pagoda Terrace Overlook

Elevated views of the town and river with golden pagoda silhouettes, ideal for golden hour photography.

Nearby Hillside Path

Forest trails and village terraces offering panoramic views and atmospheric rural scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Leiktho

Leiktho’s cuisine centers on river fish, seasonal vegetables, and home-cooked curries, all served with fragrant rice and herbs.

Leiktho Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mohinga

A beloved fish-based noodle soup often enjoyed for breakfast; creamy, savory, and comforting.

Must-Try!

Nga Htamin

Fish with rice, a regional specialty featuring soft fish in a garlicky rice dish.

Lahpet Thoke (Tea Leaf Salad)

A classic Burmese salad made with fermented tea leaves, sesame oil, and crunchy ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Leiktho Market

Vibrant daily market with produce, fish, snacks, and ready-to-eat bites; great for authentic street food tastings.

Riverfront Stalls

Seasonal stalls along the water offering grilled fish, fried snacks, and herbal teas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Myanmar has a tropical monsoon climate with a hot, wet season and a cooler, dry season. Expect strong sun in the day, with cooler evenings; rainfall is most common during the monsoon months. Overall, winters are more comfortable for extended visits, while summers can be very hot.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress and Behavior

Dress modestly in temples and villages; remove shoes when entering homes and religious sites; ask permission before photographing people.

Greetings

A polite wai or nod is appreciated; greet elders first and address people with respect.

Religious Sensitivity

Be mindful around pagodas and monasteries; avoid flash photography inside sacred spaces and follow local rules.

Safety Guide

Safety

Leiktho is generally safe for travelers, with common-sense precautions: watch personal belongings in crowded markets, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and use trusted transportation. Road conditions can be challenging during the rainy season, so plan travel times accordingly. Stay hydrated and check weather advisories when exploring rural trails.

Tipping in Leiktho

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but modest; round up small sums for guides, drivers, and service staff if you’re satisfied.

Payment Methods

Cash is the most widely accepted, especially in Kyats; cards are rarely accepted in town, and USD may be used in some larger establishments. Small vendors and markets typically prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and often dry; carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Monsoon

Heavy rains and lush greenery; trails can be muddy and some roads may flood. Pack a rain jacket and sturdy footwear; allow extra travel time.

Winter

Cool and dry with comfortable daytime temperatures; excellent for outdoor exploring and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Leiktho at Night

Leiktho’s nightlife is low-key, centered on tea houses, casual eateries, and informal social gatherings. Some evenings may offer cultural performances or small community events, but most entertainment focuses on conversation, local music, and quiet riverside ambiance.

Hiking in Leiktho

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hillside Trails around Leiktho

Forest-edge trails offering viewpoints over the town and river; suitable for day hikes and nature photography.

Village Ridge Walks

Gentle routes connecting hillside villages with tea shops and local farms; great for cultural encounters.

Airports

How to reach Leiktho by plane.

Yangon International Airport (RGN)

Major gateway to Myanmar; long transfers to rural towns like Leiktho but frequent international and domestic connections.

Mawlamyine Airport (MNU)

Domestic option with occasional regional flights; typically used for faster access to southern Myanmar.

Dawei Airport (TVY)

Another regional option with limited services; useful if combining trips along the coast.

Getting Around

Walkability

Leiktho is walkable within the town center, with many sights close by. Sidewalks can be uneven, and distances to rural paths or hills may require a bicycle, motorbike, or short vehicle ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bamar (majority)

Predominant ethnic group in the area; Burmese language and culture are influential in daily life.

Nearby ethnic communities

Smaller groups such as Karen or Mon communities live in surrounding villages and contribute to regional diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular throughout Myanmar, with local matches and casual kickabouts common in towns and schools.

Lethwei (traditional Burmese boxing)

Culturally significant sport; demonstrations or local bouts may be available in nearby towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Leiktho is light to moderate, with motorcycles, bicycles, and small vans commonly used for transport. Road conditions can vary; plan for slower travel during the rainy season and be prepared for gravel or dirt streets on some routes. Public transport is limited, so private hire or local taxis are typical options.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Leiktho.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist in markets and eateries; ask for vegetable curries, lentil dishes, and salads; request no fish sauce or meat stock when possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in town, with more comprehensive services in larger towns like Mawlamyine or Yangon. Carry basic medications and travel insurance; know emergency procedures and hospital locations nearby.

Discover Myanmar

Read more in our Myanmar 2025 Travel Guide.

Myanmar Travel Guide