Myanmar

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a land of mystery, adventure, and timeless beauty. It offers a rare glimpse into Southeast Asia as it once was — a place where ancient traditions, golden temples, and unspoiled landscapes coexist in harmony.

Despite its complex political history and periods of turbulence, Myanmar continues to attract travelers from around the world who come to experience its authenticity and warmth. The Burmese people, known for their kindness and hospitality, are a vital part of what makes this country so unforgettable.

A true Myanmar Travel Guide reveals a destination filled with breathtaking contrasts — from serene lakes and misty mountains to bustling cities and sacred pagodas. In the capital city, Yangon, visitors are greeted by the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda, a golden stupa that glows brilliantly at sunrise and sunset.

In Bagan, thousands of ancient temples stretch across the plains, creating one of the most magical landscapes in Asia. Travelers can also explore Mandalay Hill, where panoramic views reveal the city’s monasteries and royal heritage, or drift peacefully on Inle Lake, watching locals row traditional boats and live in stilt houses above the calm waters.

Myanmar remains one of the most spiritually rich countries in the region. Every corner tells a story — of devotion, artistry, and quiet strength. Whether you come to marvel at ancient temples, cruise along the Irrawaddy River, or enjoy the rhythm of local life, our Myanmar Travel Guide invites you to slow down and discover a world where time seems to stand still.

Articles and Guides about Myanmar

Frequently Asked Questions about Myanmar

Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Myanmar. The easiest and fastest way is to apply online for an e-Visa through the official Myanmar government website. The e-Visa is valid for 28 days and can be used at major international airports such as Yangon, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.

The best time to visit Myanmar is during the cool and dry season (November to February) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring cities like Yangon, Bagan, and Mandalay. The hot season (March to May) can reach temperatures above 35°C, while the rainy season (June to October) brings lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices, especially in the countryside.

The main mobile providers in Myanmar are MPT, Telenor, and Ooredoo, offering prepaid data plans with good coverage in urban areas. MPT tends to have the widest reach in rural regions. SIM cards can be purchased at airports and local shops, while eSIMs are an easy option to activate before arrival for instant connectivity.

👉 Order your Myanmar prepaid SIM or eSIM here >>

Accommodation options vary depending on your route. Yangon offers modern hotels near Shwedagon Pagoda and colonial-style stays downtown. Bagan is perfect for exploring ancient temples, while Inle Lake provides peaceful lakeside resorts surrounded by floating gardens. Mandalay suits those seeking culture and history.

👉 Find top-rated hotels and resorts in Myanmar here >>

At Yangon International Airport and Mandalay International Airport, travelers can take taxis, shuttle buses, or book private transfers. Taxis are inexpensive, but negotiating the fare beforehand is advised. Booking a private transfer in advance ensures a fixed price and smooth arrival.

👉 Book your airport transfer in Myanmar here >>

Yes, travel insurance is essential. While healthcare in Myanmar is improving, facilities can still be limited outside major cities. Choose a policy that includes medical evacuation, as serious cases are often referred to hospitals in neighboring Thailand. It’s also wise to cover trip cancellations and lost belongings.

👉 Compare and buy travel insurance for Myanmar here >>

Traveling within Myanmar can be done by domestic flights, buses, or private cars. Flights are the fastest and most convenient for long distances such as Yangon–Bagan or Mandalay–Inle Lake. Buses and trains are affordable but slower, offering a more local experience.

👉 Book your domestic flights, buses, or private transfers in Myanmar here >>

Myanmar – The Short Guide

Weather in Myanmar

Myanmar has a tropical climate with three main seasons that shape its landscapes and local life. The best time to visit is between November and February, when temperatures are cooler, humidity is low, and skies are clear.

Cool Season (November–February): Pleasant and dry, with temperatures between 20–30°C (68–86°F), ideal for exploring temples, lakes, and cities.

Hot Season (March–May): Temperatures reach around 35°C (95°F), especially in central Myanmar, but the mountain regions remain comfortable and breezy.

Rainy Season (June–October): Afternoon rains refresh the countryside, turning it lush and green. Though travel can be slower, this is an excellent time for photography and fewer crowds.

A key Myanmar Travel Guide tip: pack lightweight clothing for warm days, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and plan ahead for regional weather differences between the north and south.

See Myanmar’s monthly weather chart here >

Myanmar Travel Guide – Flights to Myanmar

Myanmar is well-connected to neighboring countries by air. Yangon International Airport is the main gateway, with regular flights from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Hanoi. Mandalay International Airport and Naypyidaw Airport also handle international and domestic connections.

Domestic flights operated by Myanmar Airways International, Air KBZ, and Golden Myanmar Airlines make travel between destinations like Bagan, Inle Lake, and Mandalay easy and efficient.

Find the best flights to Myanmar with Skyscanner or Kiwi.com — compare routes, prices, and airlines easily.

Comfortable and Safe Airport Transfers in Myanmar

Arriving in Myanmar can be overwhelming for first-time visitors, so pre-booking a reliable airport transfer is highly recommended. With KiwiTaxi, your driver will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your hotel, allowing you to relax and enjoy the start of your journey.

Book your Myanmar airport transfer here >>

Myanmar Travel Guide – What to Do in Myanmar

Myanmar offers a mesmerizing mix of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Start your adventure in Yangon, home to the stunning Shwedagon Pagoda, a golden stupa that dominates the skyline and glows beautifully at sunset.

Travel north to Bagan, where thousands of ancient temples rise from the plains — a scene best viewed at sunrise from a hot-air balloon. Visit Mandalay, the country’s last royal capital, known for Mandalay Hill, monasteries, and intricate craftsmanship. Further east, Inle Lake provides a peaceful escape, with floating villages, stilt houses, and fishermen rowing with their legs, creating a scene unique to Myanmar.

For nature lovers, the Shan Hills and Kalaw offer trekking trails through tea plantations and mountain villages. For beach relaxation, head to Ngapali Beach, one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful coastlines.

What to Do in Myanmar with Kids

Myanmar is an inspiring destination for families who enjoy culture and nature. In Bagan, children can explore ancient temples, learn about Buddhist traditions, and even take a horse-cart ride through the archaeological zone. Inle Lake offers boat trips to floating gardens and local markets that fascinate kids and adults alike.

Families visiting Yangon can visit the National Museum, where golden thrones and ancient artifacts bring history to life, or enjoy the People’s Park for open spaces and playgrounds. For a fun cultural experience, watch a puppet show in Mandalay — a traditional art form that still delights all generations.

Find family-friendly tours and experiences in Myanmar >>

Recommended Itinerary in Myanmar

A week in Myanmar allows you to experience the country’s highlights:

Day 1–2: Arrive in Yangon, visit Shwedagon Pagoda, and explore colonial downtown streets.
Day 3–4: Fly to Bagan, explore temples by e-bike or hot-air balloon, and enjoy sunset over the Irrawaddy River.
Day 5–6: Continue to Inle Lake for boat tours, local markets, and handicraft workshops.
Day 7: End your trip in Mandalay, visiting royal palaces, pagodas, and scenic viewpoints.

Read our Perfect 7-Day Myanmar Itinerary >

SIM Card for Myanmar

Staying connected in Myanmar is simple. Local SIM cards are available from Ooredoo, Telenor, and Mytel, and can be purchased at airports or convenience stores with passport registration. Data plans are affordable and offer wide coverage across leading cities.

Travelers who prefer convenience can buy an eSIM before their trip for instant activation and easy setup upon arrival.

Order your Myanmar SIM card or eSIM here for instant connectivity >

Where to Stay in Myanmar

Myanmar offers a wide range of accommodations, from heritage hotels to cozy guesthouses and eco-lodges.

In Yangon, stay near the Shwedagon Pagoda or in the colonial downtown district for easy access to attractions. In Bagan, boutique hotels and riverside resorts offer stunning sunrise views over the temples. Inle Lake has charming overwater bungalows perfect for romantic or family stays, while Mandalay features modern hotels close to the city’s historic sites.

For a relaxing finish, unwind at Ngapali Beach, where luxury resorts and beachfront villas offer tranquility and ocean views.

Compare the best hotel deals in Myanmar on Booking.com >>

Yangon, Bagan, and Beyond

Yangon blends colonial charm with deep spirituality, centered around the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda. Bagan captivates visitors with its thousands of temples scattered across vast plains, especially magical at dawn. Mandalay remains the cultural heart, rich in monasteries, arts, and royal history.

For adventure, Kalaw and the Shan Hills offer scenic treks through forests and villages, while Inle Lake provides a glimpse into life on the water. Each destination reveals a different facet of this diverse and spiritual land.

Shopping in Myanmar

Shopping in Myanmar reflects its artistic traditions. Yangon’s Bogyoke Aung San Market is a great place to buy gemstones, traditional longyi fabrics, and handmade jewelry. In Bagan, local workshops sell lacquerware and sand paintings, while Inle Lake markets offer textiles woven from lotus fiber — a unique Burmese craft.

Attractions in Myanmar

Myanmar’s attractions include sacred temples, natural wonders, and cultural treasures. Highlights include:

Shwedagon Pagoda (Yangon) – the country’s most iconic golden stupa
Bagan Temples – thousands of ancient pagodas across the plains
Inle Lake – floating gardens and stilt villages
Mandalay Hill – panoramic views and spiritual atmosphere
Kalaw and Shan Hills – scenic trekking and local encounters
Ngapali Beach – turquoise waters and peaceful resorts

Whether you seek spiritual journeys, scenic adventures, or cultural discovery, Myanmar Travel Guide invites you to explore a country where history, faith, and nature meet in perfect harmony.

Read next: Top 20 Things to Do in Myanmar >