Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) is a rising star on the Southeast Asia travel circuit. Following government reforms and lifting of international sanctions in 2012, it’s become a favorite among travellers looking something a bit different, or perhaps seeking an escape from the busy tourist sights and crazy party crowds in neighbouring Thailand. Indochina travel Thailand
While it might not stay this way forever, Myanmar feels authentic and mostly unspoiled by mass tourism. Locals may greet you with friendly curiosity and, to the bewilderment of travellers used to having to drive a hard bargain elsewhere in Asia, taxi drivers might just charge you the normal local rate. It’s a low-key destination perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the local culture, food, and nature, and don’t particularly need to be near any luxury beach resorts.
Yangon
The main attraction in Yangon is the Shwedagon Pagoda, a huge gold-roofed Buddhist temple. Sunset is an excellent time to go as the dome will be gleaming beautifully in the orange sun. Tours in Myanmar
Apart from the pagodas, some people might feel that Yangon is not particularly rich in major ‘sights’ or museums, but I think there’s plenty to experience. You can have a wander through the streets and markets, or sit down in a tea house and watch people go about their business. Chinatown is a great area for street photography or to sample some very yum street food.
Interestingly, motorbikes are outlawed in Yangon. According to rumor a well-placed individual in the army had once been in a motorbike related accident, and then decided the city could just as well do without them. I am not sure if this is exactly how this law came to be, though it has resulted in the streets of Yangon having a relatively quiet and pleasant character.
Mandalay
Mandalay is the second largest city, and it’s mainly a great base for daytrips to various sights in the area. You can take a taxi or rent a scooter and make your way to the U Bien Bridge, Myanmar’s iconic 2.5 km long teak bridge across a lake, which is also the cover image of many Myanmar guidebooks. Another popular sight is Mandalay Hill, which has some great viewpoints where you can see the entire city below.
With lots of motorbikes and many power generators set up outside of buildings (as backups for use during power cuts), Mandalay is not quite as walkable or as tranquil as Yangon. Still, there is a lot of interesting city life to see here, and you’ll find various markets with great Burmese street food.
BAGAN
Bagan Archaeological Museum, Bagan
The ancient city of Bagan is a must for amateur archeologists, but it’s also a winner if you’re a fan of shining temples and seriously beautiful sunsets, preferably at the same time. Bagan has the highest concentration of temples in the country; its spire-jagged skyline leaves visitors breathless. Inle Lake
At an altitude of 880 meters (2,900 feet), this shallow freshwater lake in the Shan State is the highest in Myanmar. Its ecosystems and the traditional culture of its surrounding communities make it popular with tourists. The best time to visit is September/October, when the Hpaung Daw U and Thadingyug festivals take place.
Taung Kalat
Close to Bagan in central Myanmar, Mount Popa is an extinct volcano rising to over 1,500 meters (nearly 5,000 feet) above sea level. The nearby Taung Kalat monastery, which sits on its own vocanic plug outcrop, is also a big draw. Visitors climb barefoot up 700 steps to see shrines and a the monastery, often accompanied by monkeys en route.
KYAIKTIYO PAGODA (‘GOLDEN ROCK’)
The Golden Rock is a sight that draws, amazes, and even converts people on a regular basis. It’s a small pagoda perched on top of a huge boulder, which in turn is perched on the edge of a cliff in the far south of the country. The secret to its gravity-defying success? It’s secured by one of Buddha’s hairs. Jaw-dropping. A must-see.
