This put up was initially written by Ryan Brun for BMTM in 2014. Whereas a lot of what he wrote remains to be true and stays on this put up, I visited once more in 2020 and have up to date the put up in addition to added in new assets and spots to see. Take pleasure in! -Kristin
Myanmar isn’t a Southeast Asian nation that’s usually on vacationers “should see” lists, or deliberate for their nice backpacking journey. Which is a disgrace, as a result of Myanmar is one of probably the most culturally preserved and thrilling locations in Asia.
Why isn’t Myanmar on everybody’s “should do” lists?
It truthfully wasn’t on my listing till I used to be invited by a good friend. Earlier than touring to Myanmar, I didn’t know something in regards to the nation besides about the way it was closed off from the world up till a couple of couple many years in the past.
After backpacking by means of a big portion of Myanmar throughout their annual Thingyan Pageant, I can unquestionably declare Myanmar as my favourite nation in Southeast Asia.
Myanmar is a charming and thrilling nation for a lot of causes. From floating villages, to valleys of historic temples that beat out Angkor Wat, to multi-day jungle treks into mountain tea selecting villages.
Able to go but? Superior. Right here’s my itinerary on the most effective of Myanmar, from the place to go to what to do from my very own private experiences, and some key ideas and methods to know earlier than you go:
Yangon (former capital metropolis of Rangoon) is the very best populated metropolis in Myanmar, and almost certainly the place you’ll arrive. It’s the nation’s bustling financial capital crammed with colonial-era buildings mashed up towards trendy high-rises and Buddhist temples.
On arrival, Yangon can really feel simply as overwhelming as a metropolis like Bangkok or Jakarta, however take a deep breath, settle right into a lodge, and go for a wander. Right here in Yangon you’ll get to expertise the on a regular basis lives of Burmese (individuals of Myanmar) who’re often too busy to attempt to encompass you with items to promote, however are glad to flash a smile. Discover the outdated and new of a quick rising metropolis, and revel in Yangon’s infinite alternative for road photographers.
Keep: Resort Shwe Yee is completely located strolling distance from Shwedagon Pagoda and has nice breakfast!
Chinatown
Most of the lodging can be centered across the market streets and Chinatown space, and this can be a excellent spot to eat to your first evening as you’re taking every thing in. 19th and 20th Avenue are the hotspots, and although it may be crowded and a bit funky smelling, there are a lot of eating places to have a giant meal with ample individuals watching.
Shwedagon Pagoda (Golden Pagoda)
Shwedagon Pagoda is probably the most sacred temple in all of Myanmar, and a preferred pilgrimage for Buddhists. Legend has it that this golden pagoda and sophisticated was constructed greater than 2,500 years in the past, which theoretically would make it the oldest Buddhist temple on this planet.
Colonial Markets
I like strolling by means of markets – you will get an actual sense of life in a rustic there. Particularly when no person bothers you! These sprawling, ornate ironwork markets date again to British rule virtually 100 years in the past and can be a very good escape from the warmth in addition to the most effective place to purchase garments, luggage, and different trinkets for those who want something. Bonus, the distributors don’t chase you down like many different markets.
Fast Suggestions: Eat eat eat! Yangon can have probably the most various choice of meals in Myanmar. E-book lodging forward of arrival, hostels and lodges replenish quick, particularly throughout holidays. Yangon would be the finest place to get toiletries and provides so replenish. Get a SIM card right here if you need one (they’re straightforward to seek out, and the airport has cheap costs.)
East of Yangon is one of the highest three most necessary Buddhist pilgrimage websites in Myanmar. Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is a large golden rock barely balancing on the sting of an 1,100 meter tall mountain with breathtaking panoramic views of the jungle valley (and a heart-pounding trip to the highest). To get to the pagoda, you’ll want to move out early within the morning and take a bus to Kinpun village. From there you may be packed into the again of a truck with monks and Burmese locals.
In the event you really feel up for the problem, you may hike the whole approach to the highest from the village which can be a 5+ hour trek by means of jungle and mountainous terrain, however it’ll be the last word approach to expertise the pilgrimage. As soon as on the high, purchase a golden leaf and stick it onto the boulder (solely males are allowed to do this)…simply don’t be the one who lastly pushes it over the sting!
Notice from Kristin: Ladies are usually not permitted to the touch the rock however are permitted within the outer courtyard. I don’t even need to inform you how I really feel about that!
Keep: This lodge is 30 minutes away from the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda. There are additionally just a few lodges positioned on the foot of the pagoda which might be much more costly.
Inle was one of probably the most stunning cities I visited in Myanmar, which is tough to decide on as a result of many are. However, let’s simply say, it was probably the most lush. About 9-10 hours north of Yangon by bus sits Inle Lake, a sprawling and delightful pure distinction to Yangon tucked right into a valley surrounded by inexperienced hills. It’s a community of canals, irrigation waterways, farms, and a large freshwater lake. It’s an ideal escape after experiencing the bustling metropolis life of Yangon.
Boat Journey by means of the Floating Villages
As soon as in Inle Lake, probably the most identified attraction is the floating villages. It’s basically a neighborhood on stilts, the place locals reside in huts constructed above a community of marsh and grass waterways. Take a ship and see what life is like residing on the water and relying off of meals farmed within the grassland or fished. The surroundings itself is gorgeous, and it’s enjoyable sitting within the canoe cruising by means of the maze of homes watching kids climb from one home to the following to wave you alongside.
Kakku
About an hour and 45 minutes from Inle, you’ll discover the pagoda forest of Kakku. Although it’s an extended drive, I discovered that it was completely price it to get away from the vacationer middle of Inle and revel in this attractive temple complicated virtually all to myself. Extra on easy methods to get there and keep away from the crowds right here.
Trekking to Inle Lake
In the event you’re trekking and outside inclined like myself, hit Kalaw first and do the 3-day trek to Inle Lake that takes you thru valleys and small villages the place you’ll keep every evening, experiencing rural Myanmar life. The price is low, the views are spectacular, and the trek is life-changing. No scorching showers, no electrical energy, no web, simply pure experiences with the nicest individuals on earth? Signal me up!
Fast Suggestions: Inle Lake is one of the extra standard locations so it’s good to guide lodging forward. Simply exterior of the city limits, there’s a winery and vineyard that’s price a go to after a bicycle trip across the nation roads.
Keep: Inle Cottage Boutique Resort is a tremendous worth for the cash, and the workers is so good!
Bagan was one of my favourite experiences throughout my time exploring the nation. Whether or not you hit Bagan earlier than or after Inle Lake, it’s nonetheless a should see when visiting Myanmar. Thought-about the Angkor Wat of Myanmar (however I feel it’s higher), Bagan is a UNESCO World Heritage website and valley of greater than 2,000+ historic temples constructed between the ninth and 13th centuries, which included the golden period of Burma within the 11-12th century time interval. In the course of the summer time months whereas I used to be there, the valley is arid and lined in rust-colored purple sand, however within the monsoon season turns into a vibrant inexperienced jungle local weather.
Temple Raiding
At instances, we have been surrounded by lots of on the largest temples, and at different instances, utterly alone to crouch and crawl by means of slim passages of empty temples. Hire a scooter or bicycle and cruise round to some of the 2000+ temples round Bagan – however there’s no approach you’ll see all of them! Get adventurous and go down some of the dust roads to the smaller temples the place you’ll end up alone to discover, residing out your Indiana Jones or Lara Croft fantasies. Scooters could be rented for $5-$10 a day and can make it a lot simpler than bicycles to discover.
Fast Tip: From late 2019 it’s not potential to climb any of the temples or pagodas for a dawn or sundown overview. For the most effective locations to catch dawn and sundown as of late, take a look at this put up by Kristin.
Scorching Air Balloons over Bagan
Now that the temples are closed, what’s one of the best ways to get that superior overview? Bounce within the scorching air balloons! Simply earlier than dawn you may take a trip up in a scorching air balloon and see the whole valley change from purple to gold with historic temples so far as the attention can see silhouetted towards the horizon. The least expensive and best-reviewed trip we’ve discovered could be booked right here.
Keep: You will get wonderful balloon dawn and sundown views on the Aureum Palace Resort, although it’s a reasonably penny. To remain proper within the coronary heart of Previous Bagan, I beloved the Resort @ Tharabar Gate.
In central Myanmar, Mandalay is the second largest metropolis within the nation, and a very good place to launch from for nearly all actions and locations. From Mandalay, you’ll be capable of attain Inle Lake, Bagan, and Hsipaw within the far north. Because it’s one other massive metropolis, Mandalay can have a lot of scrumptious locations to eat and a good nightlife scene, with a pair swanky bars overlooking the river.
U Bein Bridge
I’m positive you’ve seen the photographs of silhouetted monks strolling throughout an extended bridge with a fiery orange dawn. That, my mates, is U Bein Bridge. By far one of the most effective sunrises I’ve ever skilled (and I feel will probably be for you as effectively), U Bein Bridge is the world’s oldest and longest teak wooden bridge. I’d have stayed there all day, however by 9am, it was swarmed with individuals, so be certain to reach early! Simply earlier than dawn, the monks observe the decision to prayer and all stroll throughout of their crimson robes to the temple throughout the river.
Mandalay Hill and Mandalay Fort
Prepare to interrupt a sweat. I used to be panting by the point we reached the highest, however it’s definitely worth the lengthy stroll as much as Mandalay Hill to the temple perched on the high for an unbelievable view at sundown (and one helluva stair climb). Within the metropolis middle and surrounded by a big moat, Mandalay Fort is price trying out.
All of the Temples!
Mandalay has an abundance of gorgeous temples, pagodas, and stupas to take a look at in and across the metropolis. Try the traditional capital, the wonderful Hsinbyume Pagoda, and extra. The finest approach to see all of it is by automobile. You could find out extra right here.
Keep: Resort Yadanarbon was in an incredible location, has a rooftop pool, and a tremendous breakfast!
Oh Hsipaw, how I miss these days. Mountains throughout, timber that develop out of temples, lush farmland, waterfalls, and the most effective tea you’ll ever have — sound good? Hsipaw is the principle township of the Shan State, and is positioned 200km northeast of Mandalay, excellent for anybody needing an escape into the outside. This would be the foremost vacation spot for anybody desirous to do some severe multi-day trekking and to discover extra untouched Myanmar in distant mountain villages.
We rented bicycles whereas in Hsipaw and explored for a pair of days. Although it may well turn into fairly hilly and rugged exterior of city, each street you go down can have one thing fascinating to see. Don’t miss the traditional temple complicated and take a look at the stupa that has a tree rising out of it. Watch younger monks play video games, wander the colourful fruit and vegetable markets, and calm down by the river.
Goteik Viaduct and Prepare to Hsipaw
For somebody who’s obsessive about practice journey, I needed to do what is claimed to be one of the best practice journeys on this planet. This, above most else, must be in your listing of must-do’s in Myanmar. Alongside the 12 hour journey, you’ll additionally cross the Goteik Viaduct, thought of a world masterpiece in engineering and at one time the world’s longest viaduct bridge at 2,260 ft lengthy (and at present the very best in Myanmar at 335 ft!).
The outdated practice to Hsipaw is a clunking and charming journey that leaves Mandalay earlier than daybreak and takes you up mountains by zig-zagging its approach ahead and backwards, then down into lush valleys of rice and soy fields. Over 100 years outdated, it’s a technological marvel of its time interval, and the best mode of transport to get to Hsipaw.
Fast Suggestions: Buy tickets on the practice station days earlier than, and attempt to get first-class seats for two,000 kyat ($2.00). We might solely get second class seats, and 12 hours on picket benches is doable however brutal.
Climbing to Mountain Tea Villages
Climbing within the countryside was one of the most effective excursions we did in Myanmar.On the 2-Three day trek you’ll meet rural farmers, tea pickers, and even insurgent troopers who’re glad that you’re experiencing their small world and sharing their on a regular basis life. Don’t fear, even the troopers have been the nicest individuals I’ve ever met. Plus, the tea leaves there are mentioned to assist with longevity in life, so drink away!
We stayed in a small conventional hut and ate house cooked meals with a neighborhood household, and I drank some rice wine with troopers (shhhh). Our information, Ax Sai, was extraordinarily educated, spoke English very effectively, and even took us to some secret waterfalls after a scorching day of trekking.
Fast Suggestions: Put on a hat, sunscreen, and produce further bottles of water and snacks. And correct footwear! Pack issues like peanuts or apples that received’t go dangerous within the warmth. Search for Ax Sai, he’s superior.
Ngapali
Myanmar has a good looking shoreline with white sand seashores and delightful sunsets. As an added bonus, there aren’t any buckets, all-night events, nor hearth dancers, which kill the peaceable ocean vibe for me! Ngapali is one of the loveliest seashores, although there are a lot of down south price trying out. You possibly can learn extra about Ngapali right here.
Thingyan Pageant, or the New Yr celebration for Myanmar, will almost certainly be one of the craziest experiences of your life. Thingyan is Myanmar’s largest vacation and a Buddhist celebration for the aim of washing the earlier 12 months’s sins away and starting the brand new 12 months with a clear spirit. With thousands and thousands of gallons of water.
From my expertise at Thingyan, it lasted the total week and there was no escaping the chaos. It’s enjoyable, however it’s additionally exhausting, and after just a few days you’ll most likely lock your self inside. Fortunately I had goggles after taking over the Rickshaw Run in India to guard me from the blasts to my face.
Fast Suggestions: E-book lodging and transport WAY prematurely – every thing sells out. Get a water-proof bag for cash and telephones. Don’t carry your DSLR, it’ll get destroyed. Keep in mind, it’s their vacation and there’s no escaping it, so have enjoyable and don’t get mad. Carry goggles, they’re a life saver (particularly from eye infections). And purchase the largest rattling water blaster you could find!
Earlier than Myanmar relaxed its tourism insurance policies, getting visas for the nation, not to mention most every thing else, might be an enormous trouble. SIM playing cards was once hundreds of {dollars}, banks have been scarce, and way more of the nation was closed off to journey. Fortunately it’s turn into a lot simpler now to journey to. I discovered it truly simpler than so much of different international locations I’ve visited.
eVisa: To your Myanmar visa you’ll need to apply for the eVisa, which takes a pair of days to course of, and after approval, you’ll obtain a authorities issued letter to print and present on arrival. There are just a few international locations that don’t want to do that, however for those who’re from the USA, you’ll want to apply for one and double test that each one of the knowledge is right. I discovered the laborious approach that being even someday off in your passport expiry date can imply being denied boarding to your worldwide flight.
Buses: This was how Ryan primarily traveled by means of Myanmar. There are fancy VIP buses which might be low-cost and far comfier than a lot of Southeast Asia, with reclining seats, blankets, and snacks provided. Now that there’s a foremost freeway that runs from Yangon all the best way to Mandalay, the street north isn’t too dicey.
Prepare: I solely received to trip the practice in Myanmar as soon as, however it was my favourite approach to journey. Prepare journey is one other good choice and could be taken from Yangon all the best way north to Hsipaw with transfers. My advice from expertise is to guide a 1st class ticket on the practice which received’t be way more costly, and it’ll save your again and bum from so much of ache. I do know from expertise.
Personal Taxi: Throughout our time in Myanmar, we primarily took buses after we might discover them, however often needed to rent a personal taxi to drive us to the following vacation spot as a result of nothing else was accessible. These drivers have good vehicles with air-conditioning, however could be fairly the velocity demons even on roads with sheer cliffs dropping off the facet. Our driver needed to cease to hose off the breaks as a result of they have been smoking. A non-public taxi will run round $40-$65 for a full day drive to a different metropolis.
Flights: A lot of Myanmar is accessible through air journey as of late, notably for Mandalay, Yangon, Bagan, Inle, and Ngapali. I flew Air KBZ and thought it was nice
Myanmar isn’t fairly the wild east of Asia anymore as a result of the nation’s relaxed tourism insurance policies are spurring development, however it was one of probably the most genuine cultural experiences I’ve had. Getting round Myanmar is far simpler than it was even Three years in the past, and for those who put together earlier than arriving by having visas and lodging sorted, you received’t run into many hiccups. With infrastructure enhancements, WiFi and 3G/4G accessible virtually in every single place, and banks in each city, there’s not a lot problem in getting round.
However I can’t overlook the most effective half. The most memorable points of Myanmar are the individuals. All the time smiling, displaying endless generosity, and never as soon as did I really feel I used to be attempting to be scammed from each course. This, mixed with the tradition and interesting locations to go to, made it my favourite vacation spot in Southeast Asia. And it’s certain to turn into your favourite as effectively.
Ryan Brown is a company escape artist with a extreme disdain for the mundane, an adrenaline junky, and a hammock addict. On his journey journey weblog, Misplaced Boy Memoirs, he shares his misadventures getting misplaced world wide by means of private memoirs, photographs, and movies. His mission is to expertise cultures first-hand to interrupt down limitations and to encourage YOU to flee your consolation zone Not all who’re misplaced must be discovered.
*Some hyperlinks on this put up are affiliate hyperlinks, which implies that any reserving you make by means of them helps us at no further price to you. We solely suggest locations we’ve got stayed in and experiences which might be priced proper and well-loved.
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