MYANMAR

Myanmar, a Southeast Asian nation, is a land of golden pagodas, ancient traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Its history, deeply rooted in Buddhism and diverse ethnic cultures, is evident in its stunning temples and vibrant way of life. From the bustling cities to tranquil rural areas, Myanmar offers a unique and profound travel experience.

Region: Southeast Asia

Capital: Naypyidaw

Official Language: Burmese. Numerous ethnic minority languages are also spoken.

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to armed conflict, civil unrest, and arbitrary enforcement of laws. Be aware of landmines and unexploded ordnance.

A map of Asia with the country of Myanmar highlighted in green.

Why Visit Myanmar?

Ancient Wonders: Explore 2,000+ pagodas scattered across Bagan’s mystical plains.

Timeless Traditions: Witness saffron-robed monks collecting alms at dawn in Mandalay.

Scenic Waterways: Cruise the Irrawaddy River, linking sacred cities and rural life.

An ancient pagoda or temple rising above a forested landscape at sunset.

Floating Villages: Discover stilt-house communities on Inle Lake, framed by Shan Hills.

Warm Hospitality: Locals offer heartfelt welcomes, steeped in Buddhist kindness.

Spiritual Treks: Hike to Golden Rock, a gravity-defying pilgrimage site perched on a cliff.

A beautiful, wide, white-sand beach with a calm blue ocean and clear sky.

Essential Trip Information

Most travelers require a tourist visa, valid for 28 days. E-visa available for 100+ nationalities.

Apply online via Myanmar’s official eVisa portal: https://evisa.moip.gov.mm

Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Proof of return flight and accommodation may be requested upon arrival.

The national currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK), but US dollars (US$) are widely accepted, especially for hotels and flights.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Bring crisp, undamaged US$ bills (small tears or marks may be rejected).

  • During Your Trip: Use currency exchange counters in major cities (avoid black market). ATMs are increasingly available in Yangon, Mandalay, and Bagan.

  • What to Avoid: Do not exchange money on the street. Avoid old US$ bills or denominations under $20.

Burmese is the official language. English is spoken in hotels, tourist hubs, and by many young locals.

Helpful phrases: “Mingalaba” (Hello), “Je zu tin ba deh” (Thank you)

Generally safe in tourist-friendly areas like Bagan, Inle Lake, and Mandalay.

Avoid conflict-prone regions (e.g., Rakhine, Kachin, northern Shan).

Scams and petty theft are rare but stay alert in crowded markets.

Emergency number: 199 (Police), 192 (Ambulance)

Vaccinations: Recommended: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus.

Malaria risk in rural areas—consult your doctor.

Tap water is not safe—drink bottled or filtered water only.

Medical facilities are limited outside Yangon; bring a small medical kit and travel insurance.

Domestic flights: Fastest option for long distances (e.g., Yangon–Bagan).

Buses: Budget-friendly intercity travel; use reputable operators (JJ Express).

Trains: Slow but scenic—Yangon to Mandalay is a classic route.

Taxis/Grab: Widely available in Yangon. No meters—negotiate fare or use the Grab app.

Boats: Ferries operate on Inle Lake and the Irrawaddy River.

Myanmar is very affordable compared to neighboring countries.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/guesthouses (US$10–30/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels (US$35–70/night)

  • Luxury: 4–5 stars, heritage hotels (US$90–200+/night)

Food

  • Street food: US$1–3 (try mohinga, tea leaf salad)

  • Local restaurants: US$4–8/person

  • Upscale dining: US$15–30/person

Drinks

  • Beer: US$1.50–3 (Myanmar Beer is local favorite)

  • Cocktails: US$5–10 in expat bars

Transportation

  • Bus tickets (intercity): US$8–20

  • Taxis within cities: US$2–5

  • Boat rides: US$3–10, depending on route

  • Domestic flights: US$50–120

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at local teahouses for delicious, cheap meals.

  • Travel by overnight buses to save on both time and accommodation.

  • Visit pagodas and temples—most are low-cost or free.

Explore Myanmar

Myanmar’s largest city blends colonial heritage with spiritual landmarks like the Shwedagon Pagoda, glowing gold at sunset.

In central Myanmar, this UNESCO site dazzles with over 2,000 ancient pagodas spread across dusty plains, best viewed at sunrise from a hot-air balloon.

Located in the Shan State, this freshwater lake is famed for floating gardens, one-legged rowers, and peaceful lakeside monasteries.

Once a royal capital, this central city features historic forts, temples, and views from Mandalay Hill at dusk.

On the Bay of Bengal, this serene stretch offers white sands, palm trees, and tranquil luxury without the crowds.

In southeastern Myanmar, this iconic gilded boulder teeters impossibly on a cliff and is a sacred pilgrimage spot.

In northern Shan State, this hill town is a base for scenic treks through tribal villages and rice terraces.

In western Rakhine, this remote archaeological site is often dubbed “the next Bagan,” with misty hills and fortress-like temples.

A cool highland town between Inle Lake and Mandalay, known for its laid-back vibe and multi-day treks through ethnic minority villages.

A colonial-era hill station east of Mandalay, with botanical gardens, waterfalls, and a refreshing mountain climate.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices

  • Lush Green Landscapes

  • Authentic Local Experience

  • Peaceful Temples & Pagodas

  • Opportunity for Last-Minute Deals

Main Drawbacks:

  • Heavy Rainfall (especially July-August)

  • High Humidity

  • Flooding in Some Regions

  • Limited Beach Access

Key Regions:

  • Bagan: Enjoy peaceful temple visits with misty backdrops and vibrant greenery.

  • Mandalay: Explore royal heritage with fewer tourists around.

  • Inle Lake: See floating gardens at their greenest, with more relaxed boat trips.

  • Yangon: Urban experiences with colonial charm—perfect for indoor explorations during rain.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (77–95ºF / 25–35ºC)

  • Manageable Crowds

  • Reasonable Prices

  • Cultural Festivals (e.g., Thadingyut, Thingyan)

  • Excellent for Photography & Nature

Main Drawbacks:

  • Hazy Skies (especially March–April)

  • Hot Afternoons (especially in Central Myanmar)

  • Festival Dates May Affect Transport & Availability

Key Regions:

  • Bagan: Prime time for balloon rides over thousands of temples.

  • Inle Lake: Pleasant temperatures and scenic boat tours through stilt villages.

  • Ngapali Beach: Calm seas and sunshine—perfect for relaxing before peak season.

  • Hpa-An: Ideal for trekking among limestone mountains and caves.

  • Yangon: Pleasant for walking tours and colonial architecture explorations.

  • Cool Season (December – January)
  • Thingyan Water Festival (Mid-April)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period (especially in beach resorts)

Planning Your Trip

Politics: Avoid any political discussions, especially about the military or government. Free speech is restricted, and foreign criticism can draw unwanted attention.

Tipping: Not traditionally expected, but a small tip (US$1–2) is appreciated in hotels and restaurants.

Dress Code: Modest dress is important—cover shoulders and knees, especially at religious sites.

Religious Behavior: Remove shoes and socks when entering temples and pagodas. Do not touch monks (especially if you’re a woman).

Photography: Ask permission before photographing locals. Do not take photos of military buildings or personnel.

Body Language: Avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects. Patting a child’s head is considered impolite.

Bargaining: Common in markets, but always done with a smile and mutual respect.

Accommodation:

  • Hostels/Guesthouses: US$15–30
  • Mid-range hotels: US$40–100
  • Upscale resorts: US$150+

Food:

  • Street food: US$1–3 (Mohinga, samosas)
  • Sit-down restaurants: US$5–15
  • Upscale dining: US$30+

Transport:

  • Buses: US$2–10 (intra-city or short routes)
  • Domestic flights: US$60–120
  • Taxis: US$2–8 per ride (negotiate fare in advance)

Activities:

  • Pagoda entries: US$1–10
  • Day tours: US$20–50
  • Multi-day trekking (e.g., Kalaw to Inle): US$50–100

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$30–50 (guesthouses, street food, public transport)
  • Mid-range: US$70–150 (hotels, mix of street and sit-down meals, local flights or guides)
  • Luxury: US$250+ (resorts, private transfers, premium experiences)

Free Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, guesthouses, and some cafes—but speed may be slow.

SIM Cards: Available at Yangon and Mandalay airports or city kiosks.

  • Ooredoo, Telenor, and MyTel offer tourist SIMs (~US$5–10 for 5–10GB).

eSIMs: Limited support—check compatibility with Airalo or Nomad.

Recommended for: Health emergencies, cancellations, and political instability.

Healthcare Access: Major hospitals in Yangon and Mandalay are adequate for minor issues. Evacuation may be necessary for serious care.

Adventure Travel: Ensure your policy covers trekking, boat tours, and motorbike rentals.

From tranquil lake resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, Myanmar offers a wide range of stays for every traveler.

Luxury:

  • Riverside villas (Bagan, Irrawaddy River)
  • Lakefront resorts (Inle Lake) with spa services and private boat access

Mid-range:

  • Boutique hotels in colonial buildings (Yangon, Mandalay)
  • Lakeside eco-lodges and countryside bungalows

Budget:

  • Guesthouses and family-run inns: ~US$15–30/night (Kalaw, Hpa-An, Nyaung Shwe)
  • Hostels with shared dorms and social atmosphere: ~US$8–15/night

Unique Stays:

  • Floating hotels on Inle Lake
  • Monastery stays in remote towns (basic conditions, culturally immersive)

Tip: Book early during Thingyan (April New Year) and high season (Nov–Feb).

Myanmar’s transport can be an adventure in itself—some routes are slow, but the journeys often reveal the country’s rural charm.

Domestic Flights:

  • The fastest way to cover long distances (e.g., Yangon to Bagan, Inle Lake, or Mandalay).

  • Carriers include Myanmar Airways International and Air KBZ. Book at least a few days in advance.

Buses:

  • VIP overnight buses (JJ Express, Elite) are reliable between major cities. Reclining seats, snacks, and blankets included.

  • Budget buses connect rural towns, but roads can be bumpy and slow.

Trains:

  • A cultural experience more than a time-saver.

  • Routes like Yangon to Bagan or Mandalay are scenic but very slow (12+ hours).

  • Upper-class sleepers available on some routes.

Boats:

  • Irrawaddy River cruises (e.g., Bagan to Mandalay) offer a relaxed alternative with stunning views.

  • Public ferries also operate between towns near Inle Lake and Mrauk U.

Car Rental:

  • Self-driving is not recommended due to poor road conditions and limited signage.

  • Hire a car with driver for more comfort and flexibility (~US$60–100/day).

Local Transport:

  • Taxis and trishaws are common in cities—always agree on price first.

  • E-bikes are popular in Bagan for exploring temples independently (US$5–10/day).

  • Motorbike rentals available in smaller towns but often restricted in cities like Yangon.

Handy Tips

Myanmar uses the Kyat (MMK). Bills commonly come in 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyat denominations. Coins are rarely used.

Exchanging Currency: Avoid unofficial street money changers. Use bank counters (KBZ, CB Bank) or airport-authorized booths. Some ATMs accept international cards.

Using Cards: Cash is king in Myanmar. Credit/debit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted at upscale hotels and select restaurants, but not widely. Always carry enough cash, especially outside Yangon or Mandalay.

Tipping Etiquette: Not traditionally expected but increasingly common in tourism areas.

  • Restaurants/Bars: Round up or 5–10% in tourist-friendly venues.
  • Taxis/Rideshares: Not expected; locals usually don’t tip.
  • Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag; US$2–3 per night for housekeeping.
  • Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person/day is appreciated for good service.

The official language is Burmese (Myanmar language), but English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger locals.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Mingalaba” – Hello / Good day

  • “Be-lauq-le?” – How much is it?

  • “Kyeizu tin ba de” – Thank you

  • “Na ma le ba” – I don’t understand

Pro Tip: Learn basic Burmese greetings—locals deeply appreciate the effort and often respond with warmth.

Myanmar is generally safe for tourists, but stay vigilant in crowds, especially at markets and bus stations.

Avoid:

  • Political gatherings or demonstrations.

  • Isolated rural travel without a guide (especially in border regions—check with your embassy).

Emergency Contacts:

  • Ambulance (Yangon): 192

  • Fire: 191

  • Police: 199

  • Tourist Police (Yangon): +95 1 379 993

Keep your embassy’s contact details saved offline.

Myanmar uses 230V/50Hz with Type C, D, F, and G plugs.

Many hotels use British-style Type G (3 rectangular pins).

Bring a universal adapter.

Converters may be needed for high-voltage appliances (e.g., hair dryers).

Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to:

  • Bottled water (sealed)

  • Boiled water or purified hotel jugs

Restaurants usually serve bottled water or purified refills—confirm before drinking.

Major national holidays when many businesses and attractions may close:

  • 4 Jan: Independence Day

  • 12 Feb: Union Day

  • March/April (variable): Thingyan (Water Festival & Burmese New Year – national holiday, multi-day closures)

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 19 Jul: Martyrs’ Day

  • Nov (variable): Tazaungdaing Festival (Festival of Lights)

Note: Buddhist holidays follow a lunar calendar and vary yearly. Expect slowdowns or closures during religious festivals.

General Stores: 9:00–20:00 (many open every day)

Markets: Early morning to noon (best experience!)

Supermarkets: Open until 21:00–22:00

Pharmacies: 8:00–20:00; some 24/7 in Yangon

Avoid shopping on major holidays like Thingyan.

Mohinga – National dish: rice noodle soup with fish broth, herbs, and fritters.

Shan Noodles – Flat rice noodles with chicken or pork, tomatoes, and crunchy toppings.

Tea Leaf Salad (Lahpet Thoke) – Fermented tea leaves, nuts, and beans tossed with garlic oil.

Coconut Noodles (Ohn No Khao Swe) – Creamy coconut chicken soup with wheat noodles.

Nan Gyi Thoke – Thick noodle salad with turmeric chicken curry and chickpea flour.

Grilled Street Skewers – Fish balls, pork belly, tofu on sticks dipped in flavorful sauces.

Myanmar Curry Sets – Served with rice, lentil soup, pickles, and endless side dishes.

Burmese Samosas – Spiced veggie triangles often served with tangy dipping sauces.

Tofu Nway – Warm Shan-style chickpea tofu with savory toppings.

Mont Lin Ma Yar – Bite-sized “husband and wife” rice cakes with quail egg or shrimp inside.

Alcoholic:

  • Myanmar Beer – Crisp lager brewed locally—widely available and refreshing.

  • Dagon Beer – Slightly richer, stronger lager alternative.

  • Toddy (Palm Wine) – Fermented sap from toddy palms, traditionally brewed in rural areas.

  • Local Whiskey (e.g., Grand Royal) – Popular but strong; try with soda.

  • Red Mountain Estate Wine – Locally produced in Inle Lake region—decent whites and rosés.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Sweet Milk Tea (Laphet Yay) – Creamy black tea with condensed milk—ubiquitous and addictive.
  • Sugarcane Juice – Crushed fresh at street stalls—best with lime and ice.
    Avocado Shake – Smooth, sweet, and popular in tea shops.
  • Tamarind Juice – Tangy and refreshing; often mixed with sugar and salt.
  • Lime & Salt Soda – Fizzy, salty-sweet drink sold at roadside stalls.

Shwedagon Pagoda (Yangon) – Iconic golden stupa shimmering at sunset.

Bagan Archaeological Zone – Thousands of ancient temples scattered across misty plains.

U Bein Bridge (Mandalay) – World’s longest teakwood bridge—sunset strolls are magical.

Kyaiktiyo (Golden Rock) – Gravity-defying boulder perched on a cliff—pilgrimage site.

Inle Lake Villages – Stilt houses, rotating vegetable gardens, and one-legged rowing fishermen.

Mahamuni Buddha Temple – Sacred image covered with gold leaf, near Mandalay.

Thanaka – Traditional yellow paste worn on cheeks (cooling and protective).

Longyi & Htaingmathein – Traditional attire worn by locals (wrap skirts and blouses).

Buddhist Festivals – Light-filled nights, colorful processions, and communal feasting.

Handicrafts – Lacquerware, puppets, and woven textiles (great for souvenirs).

Sunrise Hot Air Ballooning (Bagan) – Breathtaking views of temples from above.

Circular Train Ride (Yangon) – Slow, scenic, and real slice of local life.

Boat Rides on Inle Lake – Glide past floating gardens and ancient monasteries.

Traditional Puppet Shows (Mandalay) – Artful storytelling with stringed marionettes.

Tea Houses (Yangon) – Social hubs for milk tea, samosas, and gossip.

Cooking Classes – Learn to make mohinga and tea leaf salad from locals.

Trekking in Kalaw – Scenic mountain paths to Inle Lake with homestays.

Local Markets – Buzzing early-morning scenes (e.g., Nyaung U or Hpa-An).

Mandalay Hill Sunset – Panoramic views and peaceful temples.

Thanlyin River Cruises – Gentle boat rides from Yangon with temples and villages en route.

Yangon Rooftop Bars – Try Vista Bar or Atlas for skyline cocktails near Shwedagon.

Live Music in Yangon – Check out Jazz in Time or Pansodan Scene.

Tea Shop Hopping – Experience the social energy of local teahouses until late.

Night Market Snacks (Mandalay) – Street eats, fried delights, and sugary drinks after sundown.

Bagan Stargazing – Post-sunset magic among ancient pagodas.

Full Moon Festival Nights – Religious, candle-lit celebrations in town centers.

Local Karaoke Bars – Popular with locals—fun for a unique night out.

Inle Lake Wine Tasting – Try the Red Mountain Estate at sunset with vineyard views.

Bamboo Bar (Yangon) – Speakeasy vibes in a colonial building.

Monastery Ceremonies – If invited, witness serene night prayers and candle rituals.