Things To Do
in Nay Pyi Taw

Nay Pyi Taw is the capital city of Myanmar, known for its wide boulevards and modern government buildings. It was officially designated as the capital in 2005, replacing Yangon. The city features numerous hotels, parks, and monuments, providing a stark contrast to the more traditional towns in Myanmar.

Despite its modernity, Nay Pyi Taw remains relatively quiet and less populated, offering a unique insight into Myanmar's burgeoning urban landscape.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Uppatasanti Pagoda, a stunning replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.

afternoon
:

Explore the National Museum, which showcases Myanmar's rich history and culture through various exhibits.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Burmese cuisine and take a leisurely stroll around the city center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Nay Pyi Taw Water Fountain Park, where you can enjoy beautifully choreographed light and water shows.

afternoon
:

Head to the Dakkhina Thiri Pagoda, a serene spot known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar or cafe that hosts live music or cultural performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Mohinga$1
🍺Local Beer$2
Cappuccino$3
🍽️Meal at a Mid-Range Restaurant$10
🚌Local Bus Ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Modern infrastructure
  • Rich cultural sites
  • Less crowded than other cities
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Few shopping opportunities
  • Can feel isolated due to its size
  • "Mingalaba" - Hello
  • "Kyite Kaung La" - How are you?
  • "Je zu tin ba de" - Thank you
  • "Pyan lar" - Goodbye
  • "Ma khaw thwa" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Nay Pyi Taw

Visit one of these nice places.

Uppatasanti Pagoda

A majestic pagoda that provides stunning views, especially at sunset.

Nay Pyi Taw Water Fountain Park

A picturesque park featuring colorful fountains, perfect for capturing vibrant photos.

National Museum

The museum's architecture and the surrounding gardens make for great photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nay Pyi Taw

Nay Pyi Taw offers a variety of local dishes and vibrant food markets, making it a great destination for food lovers.

Nay Pyi Taw Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mohinga

A traditional fish soup served with rice noodles, often considered the national dish of Myanmar.

Must-Try!

Tea Leaf Salad (Lahpet)

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nay Pyi Taw Night Market

A bustling market where you can sample a variety of street foods, including grilled meats and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nay Pyi Taw has a tropical monsoon climate. The dry season from November to February features cooler temperatures, while the hot season from March to May can be quite hot, often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The rainy season from June to October brings significant rainfall, making it humid and wet, especially in July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; covering shoulders and knees is recommended.

Respect for Monks

Avoid touching monks, particularly women; it's best to keep a respectful distance.

Remove Shoes

Always remove your shoes before entering homes and pagodas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nay Pyi Taw is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, typical precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's also advisable to stay informed about local laws and customs.

Tipping in Nay Pyi Taw

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is the preferred payment method, as credit cards are not widely accepted outside of major hotels.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to February)

Characterized by cool temperatures and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

Hot Season (March to May)

Expect high temperatures, making it essential to stay hydrated and seek shade during the day.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Frequent rain showers, particularly in July and August; be prepared with waterproof gear.

Winter (December to February)

Temperatures can drop at night, so pack warm clothing for the evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Nay Pyi Taw at Night

Nay Pyi Taw's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to other cities in Myanmar. However, there are a few bars and cafes that offer live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Many venues close early, but they provide a chance to enjoy local beverages and mingle with both locals and travelers.

Hiking in Nay Pyi Taw

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kyaikhto

A popular hiking destination, known for its stunning views and the famous Golden Rock Pagoda.

Mount Popa

An iconic volcanic mountain offering challenging hikes and breathtaking scenery, located a few hours from Nay Pyi Taw.

Airports

How to reach Nay Pyi Taw by plane.

Nay Pyi Taw International Airport

The main airport serving the city, providing connections to Yangon and other major cities in Myanmar.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nay Pyi Taw is designed with wide boulevards and pedestrian walkways, making it relatively walkable. However, the city's large size means that many attractions are spread out, and walking may not be the most efficient way to explore. Bicycles and taxis are often preferred for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bamar

The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar, making up a significant portion of Nay Pyi Taw's population.

Karen

A minority ethnic group known for their unique culture and traditions, contributing to the diversity of Nay Pyi Taw.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sepak Takraw

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

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport among locals, with many enthusiasts playing in parks and local leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nay Pyi Taw is generally light due to the city's spacious layout. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but many tourists prefer to hire private drivers for convenience. The city is designed to accommodate vehicles efficiently, reducing congestion.

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 advisable to specify your dietary needs.

Halal Options

Halal food is available in various restaurants, especially in Muslim-owned establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Nay Pyi Taw are limited compared to larger cities like Yangon. There are a few hospitals, but for serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to Yangon. Travelers should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and consider bringing necessary medications.

Discover Myanmar

Read more in our Myanmar 2025 Travel Guide.

Myanmar Travel Guide