Things To Do
in Burma
Burma, officially known as Myanmar, is a Southeast Asian country bordered by India, China, Laos, Thailand, and Bangladesh. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with over 135 ethnic groups contributing to its diversity. The landscape is characterized by stunning pagodas, lush greenery, and beautiful beaches along the coastline.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the unique traditions and warm hospitality of the local people.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, an architectural marvel that is sacred to Buddhists. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and witness the locals engaging in morning rituals.
Visit the bustling Bogyoke Aung San Market for shopping and to taste local street foods. Don't miss trying traditional snacks like Mohinga.
Head to Kandawgyi Lake for a peaceful evening stroll and enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, soaking in the views of the city skyline.
Fly to Bagan in the early morning and explore the ancient temples, including Ananda Temple and Shwezigon Pagoda. Rent a bicycle for a more immersive experience.
Continue your temple tour, visiting lesser-known sites for a quieter experience. Take a break at a local café to try some Burmese tea.
Conclude your day by watching the sunset from one of the temples, capturing breathtaking views of the pagodas scattered across the landscape.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at a local restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🚌Bus fare in Yangon | $0.20 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $10-30 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity.
- Stunning landscapes and ancient temples.
- Warm hospitality from the local people.
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas.
- Political instability in certain regions.
- Language barrier in rural areas.
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kyeizu tin ba de" - Thank you
- "Neh khan la?" - How are you?
- "Aye zu ba de" - Excuse me
- "Thwa ma la?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Burma
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning golden pagoda that is breathtaking at sunrise and sunset, offering great photo opportunities.
The ancient temples of Bagan provide a surreal backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Known for its floating gardens and stilt houses, Inle Lake is perfect for capturing unique cultural landscapes.
Food in Burma
Burma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional rice noodle soup served with fish broth, often considered the national dish.
Must-Try!
A unique salad made from fermented tea leaves mixed with nuts, peas, and various seasonings.
Flat rice noodles served with meat and a savory sauce, originating from the Shan state.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A large market in Yangon where you can find a variety of local foods, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
Experience local flavors with street vendors offering snacks and quick bites near the temple areas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show respect to monks; women should avoid physical contact and should not offer food directly.
Remove your shoes and socks when entering homes, pagodas, and some restaurants.
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites; covering shoulders and knees is essential.
Safety
Tipping in Burma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for guides, with 10% being a common practice. Small amounts are also welcomed by taxi drivers.
Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas. ATMs are available in cities, but ensure to carry sufficient cash for smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities.
Temperatures can soar, especially in Bagan and Mandalay. Early mornings and evenings are best for excursions.
Expect heavy rain and humidity. Travel can be challenging, but the landscape becomes lush and green.
Various festivals occur throughout the year, such as Thingyan (Water Festival) in April, which showcases traditional celebrations.
Burma at Night
Hiking in Burma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A multi-day trek that offers stunning views of the Shan mountains and encounters with local villages.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas and a chance to see unique flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Burma by plane.
The main international airport serving Yangon, offering flights to various destinations in Asia and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, constituting around 68% of the population, predominantly Buddhist.
The second-largest ethnic group, primarily residing in Shan State, known for their distinct culture and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional sport that involves a team of players passing a rattan ball without using their hands, often performed during festivals.
A sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, popular in both formal competitions and casual play.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, but it’s best to communicate your dietary needs clearly.
Options may be limited; rice is a staple, but always double-check ingredients when dining out.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burma.