Summary
Formerly known as Burma, now recognized as Myanmar, has gradually emerged onto the global tourism stage over the past several decades. As the grip of the military junta has loosened and democratic elections have gained prominence, the country has become increasingly attractive to backpackers and adventure travelers. Nestled between India and the key destinations of Southeast Asia, Myanmar boasts numerous remarkable sights. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of contemporary Burmese life in Yangon, the pagoda-laden metropolis, or explore the rugged hills in the historical areas of the Shan Kings, engaging with local farmers at Inle Lake and studying the remnants of British colonialism in Kalaw.
Myanmar is also home to a wealth of ancient temples, with Bagan standing out due to its intricately carved stupas, rich Hindu motifs, captivating Buddhist relics, and pristine beaches along the Bay of Bengal.
Let us delve into the best places to visit in Myanmar:
1. Bagan
The stunning region of Bagan earns its position at the pinnacle of this list detailing the finest places to explore in Myanmar.
The rationale behind this is clear; almost all travelers who venture to Bagan depart with an unmistakable sense of wonder and astonishment.
The landscape is dotted with a multitude of temple tops that rise above the clouds and forests; clouds of dust swirl around the ancient stupas; the faint silhouettes of forgotten Hindu demigods appear on the grand terraces, while the rugged Arakan Mountains provide a majestic backdrop.
Experiencing Bagan from a hot air balloon is gaining popularity, offering an exceptionally unique perspective over this 26-square-mile expanse of temples.
2. Yangon
Yangon flourished during the British colonial era, emerging alongside the rise of the Raj and becoming a vibrant blend of exquisite Victorian townhouses and Georgian architecture.
Much of this historical architecture remains well-preserved, allowing visitors to navigate the bustling routes filled with tuk-tuks to visit landmarks such as St Mary’s Cathedral and its notable Anglo spires.
Nevertheless, the true highlight – which often captivates visitors to this once-buried capital – is the Shwedagon Pagoda.
This sacred site marks the location where the holy lotus blossoms once appeared to herald the arrival of Gautama Buddha and guide the enlightened toward Nirvana.
Ensure a visit to marvel at the resplendent golden structure, the prayer halls, and the exquisitely designed pavilions dedicated to pilgrims.
3. Kalaw
Kalaw has steadily gained prominence on the Myanmar tourism landscape, establishing itself as a favored destination for trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the country’s eastern highlands.
Situated atop the Shan Hills, Kalaw was first developed as a mountain town during British rule, designed to provide relief from the heat of the plains below.
Today, visitors can enjoy the refreshing breezes of the highlands, accompanied by a selection of cozy guesthouses, diverse food markets, and, most notably, hiking opportunities without the requirement of a permit.
4. Mandalay
Imagine the splendor of Mandalay when the magnificent Shwenandaw Monastery shone with its layers of gold leaf, and it is evident why the very name of this intriguing temple-studded city in central Myanmar has inspired verses by Asia’s most notable English poet, Kipling.
However, contemporary Mandalay achieves a balance between the elegant Bamar pagodas and carved stupas through a vibrant local atmosphere.
This city is, after all, the second-largest urban center in Myanmar, a prominent pilgrimage destination (notably at the Maha Myat Muni Paya), and a renowned tourist hub (famous for its walled Royal Palace) all in one!
5. Kyaiktiyo
A brief journey east from Yangon leads to the soaring heights of Mount Kyaiktiyo, renowned for housing one of the most venerated Buddhist relics in the country: the precariously positioned Golden Rock.
This remarkable, gravity-defying granite mass is situated on its own ledge amid rolling forests and verdant hills of south-central Myanmar.
As legend suggests, it remains suspended by a single strand of Buddha’s hair, attracting (male) pilgrims who ascend the winding paths to pay their respects and leave gold leaf offerings for inspiration.
The site is complemented by its own temple and pagoda, featuring intimate shrines dedicated to lesser-known Buddhist spirits.
6. Inle Lake
Upon encountering the distinct leg-rowers of Inle Lake and hearing the soft splashes of handcrafted canoes gliding across the water, one realizes they are in the heart of pristine Myanmar.
This expansive body of water, seemingly timeless, is dotted with stilted wooden villages.
The residents utilize unique agricultural practices and cultivate stunning green gardens that thrive directly in the lake.
Significant religious sites, such as the Hpaung Daw U Pagoda (which hosts an incredible festival in late summer), also line the shores, but the true highlight is the local cuisine, brimming with fresh herbs, Chinese spices, and fish caught from the lake.
7. Ngapali
No shoreline in Myanmar is as treasured as Ngapali.
This expansive stretch of white sand arches gracefully around the Bay of Bengal, bordered by turquoise waters and fringed with majestic palm trees.
Occasionally, you may spot salt-washed fishing boats navigating the bay, providing kitchens with an unending supply of fresh seafood.
Additionally, numerous loungers grace the sand, alongside various tour operators providing SCUBA diving, water skiing, jet skiing, sea kayaking, and numerous other activities.
Ngapali boasts its own airport, making it one of the more accessible coastal destinations from the capital.
8. Pindaya
Pindaya represents one of Myanmar’s more obscure religious destinations.
Situated within the rising Shan Hills of the eastern Myelat region, it offers a distinctive insight into the profound Buddhist heritage of the country.
The site consists of a series of expansive caves, housing approximately 8,000 individual Buddha sculptures, which gleam in hues of gold and brass within the dim chambers.
Visitors can also relax by the lake in Pindaya, which enjoys an excellent location between the surrounding peaks and serves as a starting point for popular cross-mountain trekking routes to Kalaw.
9. Hsipaw
Prepare your hiking boots and strengthen your thighs for a venture to the elevated terrain of Hsipaw, as this former royal capital of the Shan ethnic group is progressively positioning itself to rival the popular trekking destination of Kalaw.
Be ready to be captivated by the stunning vistas of sun-scorched forests, as well as the opportunity to immerse in the rich cultural traditions that exist here.
Visitors can explore the town’s Central Market or delve into history at the Shan Palace, which nostalgically overlooks the streets.
10. Hpa-an
Located amid rugged, jungle-clad peaks and bordered by the reflective waters of the Thanlwin River, Hpa-an is a quaint traveler community featuring hospitable hostels, guesthouses, and local bars.
Stroll down the lively Zaydan Road to explore cozy coffee shops and fragrant street kitchens, or head to the picturesque lakeside of Kan Thar Yar, which glimmers like a mirror, conveniently within walking distance of the main hub.
For those eager to discover the intriguing karst mountains in the distance, the enigmatic Mount Zwegabin and its hilltop monastery await.
11. Mawlamyine
A large city with a relaxed atmosphere, Mawlamyine provides a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle found in other Burmese urban centers such as Yangon and Naypyidaw.
Located within the Mon ethnic territory, and just a short distance from the Thai border, it showcases a distinctive cultural identity compared to many other locales on this list.
Visitors can ascend to prominent pagodas like Mahamuni Paya, which displays unique Mon architectural influences, or view the elevated Uzina Paya stupa, adorned in gold thanks to the offerings from countless pilgrims.
The lively Central Market bustles with vendors selling fresh produce, and one can take a boat trip to the intriguingly named Shampoo Island (renowned for its Buddhist shrines rather than haircare products!).
12. Mergui
The various names of the Mergui Archipelago (also referred to as the Myeik Archipelago and the Pashu Islands) reflect the diverse character of the numerous destinations it encompasses.
Primarily untouched, this collection of over 800 islands presents opportunities ranging from secluded white sandy beaches basking in the Asian sun to wild mangrove forests populated by macaques (notably at the nature reserves of Lampi Island). Sailing is gaining traction here as yachters flock to traverse the uninhabited rocks, hidden coves, fishing villages, and the homes of sea nomads.
13. Ngwe Saung
While Ngwe Saung may not possess the tropical allure of Ngapali, its prime location on the Bay of Bengal, combined with picturesque coconut groves and luxury resort hotels (notably with stunning infinity pools merging seamlessly with the azure of the Indian Ocean), has led to its emergence as one of Myanmar’s premier beach destinations.
Designed for relaxation and leisure, the extensive golden sands are undoubtedly the main attraction.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy exquisite Southeast Asian seafood at the charming restaurants that line the coast.
14. Naypyidaw
Naypyidaw is unlike any other location in the nation.
Strategically developed and designated as the capital in a surprising decision made by the former military leader Than Shwe in 2005, it features a rigid grid layout filled with imposing palaces, governmental edifices, national monuments, and grand structures.
Some perceive it as a remnant of an era when Burma was under military control (even if remnants of that period still exist), while others regard it as a failed vanity project.
Regardless of its inception, Naypyidaw’s ambitious parliamentary complexes and monumental golden Uppatasanti Pagoda certainly merit a visit!
15. Mrauk U
A more unconventional alternative to the popular Bagan, Mrauk U is nestled amid the dusty hills of Rakhine State, located in the far western region of the country.
Adorned with countless stupas and temple spires, it offers intriguing insights into the ancient Arakanese architectural styles.
It is also believed that Mrauk U once developed into a significant trading hub during the late Middle Ages, with merchant vessels navigating the Bay of Bengal, connecting with trade partners from India, Persia, and even as far as Portugal and Europe!
