Things To Do
in Myanmar
Myanmar is a country of ancient temples, vibrant markets, and dramatic landscapes. Travelers encounter centuries-old Buddhist traditions, diverse ethnic cultures, and warm, resilient communities. From the bustling streets of Yangon to the serene shores of Ngapali and the misty hills of Shan State, Myanmar offers both exploration and contemplation.
Be mindful of local customs, and be prepared for varied infrastructure and services as you journey through this culturally rich land.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Yangon International Airport and check into your hotel. Take some time to refresh and recover from your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to savor traditional Burmese cuisine.
Explore the famous Shwedagon Pagoda, a stunning golden stupa and the most sacred Buddhist site in Myanmar. Spend time absorbing the vibrant atmosphere and observing the locals as they engage in prayer and rituals. Visit the nearby Bogyoke Aung San Market to shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the illuminated pagoda, enjoying delicious Burmese dishes. Afterward, take a stroll through Kandawgyi Park, where you can admire the lake and the pagoda reflecting in the water. Conclude your night with a visit to a local tea house for traditional tea and snacks.
Fly to Bagan and begin your adventure in this ancient city filled with thousands of temples and pagodas. Arrive early to take advantage of the cooler morning air as you explore the temples before the crowds. Visit the Ananda Temple, a masterpiece of Mon architecture with stunning frescoes.
Enjoy a lunch of local Bagan cuisine at a nearby restaurant, then rent a bike or e-scooter to explore more of the archaeological zone. Visit the less frequented temples like Dhammayangyi and highlights like the sunset at Shwesandaw Pagoda. Capture the breathtaking views and feel the spiritual essence of Bagan.
As the sun sets, gather at one of the elevated pagodas for a panoramic view of the landscape dotted with ancient structures. Enjoy a peaceful evening with a traditional dinner at your hotel or a local eatery. Reflect on the day’s experiences while watching the sky change colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short city) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $2-3 |
| ✈️Domestic flight (one-way) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and temple sites
- Warm, welcoming people and diverse landscapes
- Limited infrastructure in rural areas
- Seasonal travel can be affected by monsoon rains
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kya zu tin ba de" - Thank you
- "Ingleesh ko par tal?" - Do you speak English?
- "Toilet htaung pyi par tal?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Myanmar
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden stupa that glows at sunrise and sunset; iconic silhouette over the city and a powerful spiritual backdrop.
Teakwood bridge spanning Taungthaman Lake; ideal for golden-hour silhouettes and tranquil water reflections.
Thousands of ancient temples scattered across a vast plain; dramatic sunrises, silhouettes, and lantern-lit nights.
Floating gardens, stilt villages, and leg-rowing fishermen create motion-filled, atmospheric scenes.
A dramatic cliffside shrine perched atop a massive boulder; striking at dusk and dawn with ocean-green valleys in view.
Food in Myanmar
Myanmar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fish-noodle crocus soup considered the national dish, best enjoyed from a roadside stall for an authentic morning bite.
Must-Try!
Rice noodles with chicken or pork, turmeric broth, and crunchy toppings; a staple in Shan cuisine.
Fermented tea leaves mixed with peanuts, sesame seeds, peas, and a variety of crunchy bits.
Coconut-milk noodle soup with chicken, often served with lime, chili, and crispy fritters.
A set of slow-cooked curries served with steamed rice and fresh vegetables; a comforting, family-style meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in Yangon offering textiles, handicrafts, and a variety of street bites.
Inle Lake’s daily market; a great place to sample local snacks and buy crafts directly from artisans.
Vibrant clusters of fried fritters, mohinga stalls, bean cakes, and other regional bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove shoes before entering pagodas and monasteries, and observe quiet behavior while visiting sacred sites.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or during ceremonies; avoid intrusive shots of religious practices.
Safety
Tipping in Myanmar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service in hotels, restaurants, and tour guides; 5–10% in nicer places is common. Small tips at tea stalls or street vendors are optional but welcomed.
Cash in kyat is king at markets and most street stalls. Some hotels and upscale restaurants accept USD or card payments, especially in larger cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mar–May: hot and dry with temperatures often above 40°C in the plains. Hydration, light clothing, and sun protection are essential, especially for temple visits and outdoor activities.
Jun–Oct: heavy rains and high humidity; travel can be interrupted by floods in rural roads. Lush scenery, fewer crowds, and misty mornings enhance landscapes but require flexible plans.
Nov–Feb: pleasant and comfortable; ideal for temple exploration and outdoor activities. Mornings can be cool, especially in highlands.
Myanmar at Night
Hiking in Myanmar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Multi-day trek through pine forests and hillside villages, ending at Inle Lake.
Challenging hike to viewpoints over limestone karst landscapes and caves.
Explore limestone caves and nearby trails with rural village scenery.
Airports
How to reach Myanmar by plane.
Primary international gateway with domestic connections to Mandalay, Bagan, Lashio, and more.
Second major hub serving domestic and international flights, convenient for northern destinations.
Capital region airport with regional services; useful for quick access to central Myanmar.
Closest airport to Inle Lake; connects to Yangon and Mandalay with domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group; majority in the central plains with many languages and traditions across the country.
Predominant in Shan State; notable for hill-tribe communities and tea-growing regions.
Ethnic groups living in border regions and the central valleys; diverse languages and customs.
Coastal communities along the Bay of Bengal; rich maritime culture and historic towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art featuring full-contact combat; events are culturally significant and draw spectators.
A traditional ball-and-dance sport combining coordination, balance, and teamwork.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Burmese dishes center on vegetables, legumes, and tofu; request no fish sauce or meat when needed, and explore monasteries or vegetarian-friendly cafes for options.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Myanmar.