Are you planning a trip to Myanmar? Look no further! Our article provides a comprehensive guide to traveling in Myanmar, covering everything from the best way to get there to what to wear when visiting religious sites. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, we’ve got you covered.
Myanmar is a country with a rich tradition and stunning natural beauty, offering a unique blend of cultures and historical sites. From the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon to the hundreds of temples in Bagan, there’s no shortage of breathtaking sights to explore. And with its friendly locals, delicious local cuisine, and authentic style of living, Myanmar is a destination that will leave you in awe.
But before you go, it’s important to be aware of the current political situation and travel advisories. Check the latest information and exercise caution when traveling to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. With our tips and insights, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your time in Myanmar. So why wait? Start planning your journey today!
Table of Contents
The best way to travel in Myanmar
Traveling in Myanmar can be a unique and enriching experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your journey:
1. Getting to Myanmar
The easiest way to get to Myanmar is by flight, with its two main international airports at Yangon and Mandalay. Many South Asian and Southeast Asian airlines connect both of these airports.
2. Traveling within Myanmar
While there are trains that run across the country connecting major points, they aren’t the most comfortable and easy for tourists. Buses, on the other hand, are more reliable for backpackers and holidaymakers. There are several tour bus operators which run bus tours to most tourist spots.
You can also travel by ferry or boat if you’re open to cruises as an alternative way to get between Mandalay and neighboring towns. If you find traveling by car most comfortable, then you won’t have a hard time since there are multiple agencies to hire a car and driver.
3. Visa Information
Myanmar offers visa-free tourist travel to some countries, like Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and a few others. Indian and Chinese nationals can avail of visas on arrival at international airports.
For citizens of most other countries, the government offers an e-visa, which you can access through their website. This lasts for a period of 28 days, which can be extended for a further fee.
4. Best Time to Visit
Like most countries in the region, Myanmar is also subject to annual monsoon showers. The usual tourism season begins in November and lasts until February, while the cool weather lasts before the summer heat begins.
5. Burmese Food
While you’re in Myanmar, you should definitely try the local cuisine. Some of the dishes and authentic flavors are unique to the country and are hard to find elsewhere in the world. Of all the many dishes you will come across, make sure you include Mohinga (rice and noodle fish soup) in at least one of your meals.
The most visited city in Myanmar
The most visited city in Myanmar is Yangon. Yangon is the most vibrant city in Myanmar, featuring British colonial architectural structures and multiple sacred Buddhist religious sites. The most famous and ancient Buddhist temple is the Shwedagon Pagoda, which is a monumental golden Buddhist shrine with a huge shimmering pagoda complex that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.
Other historic sites in the city include the Botataung and Sule pagodas, which are believed to house Buddhist relics. Apart from its historic charm, the city also has museums, art galleries, street markets, restaurants, and barbecues offering native foods as well as Chinese, Indian, and Thai cuisines.
Is Myanmar expensive for tourists?
Myanmar is considered a reasonably affordable destination for tourists. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs you might expect:
- Daily Budget: On average, you might spend around $35 per day, which includes food, drink, and local transportation.
- Accommodation: A low-budget hotel room averages about $25 per night.
- Food and Drink: You can manage a budget of approximately $10 per day for meals and beverages.
- Sightseeing: Entrance fees for tourists can be a bit higher, for example, $7 for the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon and $10 for the Inle Lake Zone.
For a more detailed budget:
- A one-week trip for two people might cost around $773, including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
- For a month-long trip, the average cost for one person could be about $1,656, and for two people, around $3,311.
These costs can vary depending on your travel style, the number of places you visit, and whether you choose organized tours or independent travel. Organized tours average about $214 per day.
Solo travel tips for Myanmar
Traveling solo in Myanmar can be an enriching and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your journey:
- Plan Your Route: There is a ‘typical’ route to follow when traveling this country, mainly due to the limited access to certain areas and the political unrest making some areas un-visitable.
- Follow Travel Advisories: Stay updated about the current political situation and travel advisories before planning your trip.
- Health Precautions: Check if you need any vaccinations before you travel. Avoid tap water, and prepare for some stomach aches.
- Dress modestly: Myanmar is a conservative country. Dress modestly, especially if you’re a woman traveling alone.
- Avoid Large Public Gatherings and Demonstrations: For your safety, it’s best to avoid large public gatherings and demonstrations.
- Choose the Right Border to Enter and Exit the Country: Some borders may be safer and more convenient than others.
- Explore with a Local Guide: If you explore attractions with a local guide, you’ll hardly have anything to worry about.
- Avoid Traveling at Night: Avoid dark and deserted areas after dark.
- Try the Local Cuisine: The cuisine in Myanmar is a fusion of flavors, ingredients, and dishes that have come together to make this country one of the most coveted among foodies.
- Experience the Hot Air Balloons in Bagan: Hot air balloons grace the sky each morning as the sun rises over the vast, green planes scattered with towering monuments.
Is Myanmar safe for female travelers?
Yes, Myanmar is generally considered safe for female travelers. However, like any travel destination, it’s important to take certain precautions and stay informed about the current situation. Here are some points to consider:
- General Safety: Myanmar is generally safe for tourists, including solo female travelers. Petty theft is almost nonexistent, and crimes against tourists are super rare.
- Respect Local Customs: Myanmar is a conservative country, and it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Travel with a Local Guide: If you explore attractions with a local guide, you’ll hardly have anything to worry about.
- Avoid Traveling at Night: Avoid dark and deserted areas after dark.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated about the current political situation and travel advisories before planning your trip.
- Healthcare: You may also want to consider the state of healthcare in Myanmar.
Is it worth going to Myanmar?
Whether it’s worth going to Myanmar depends on what you’re looking for in your travel experience. Here are some points to consider:
- Cultural Richness and Natural Beauty: Myanmar is a beautiful country with a rich tradition, multiple ethnic groups, and strong rural traditional values. It offers a unique blend of cultures and a variety of stunning natural sites.
- Historical Sites: Myanmar is home to many historical pagodas and ancient sites that can surprise and delight even the most jaded of travelers.
- Local Cuisine: The local cuisine is a fusion of flavors, ingredients, and dishes that have come together to make this country one of the most coveted among foodies.
- Safety Concerns: As of February 2021, Myanmar has been experiencing civil unrest due to a military coup. This has resulted in violent conflict, and the country is currently under martial law. Therefore, it’s important to check the current political situation and travel advisories before planning your trip.
- Tourism Infrastructure: While tourism in Myanmar has increased exponentially over the past five years, the country’s tourism infrastructure still needs development. Accommodations may not be on par with similar types of accommodations in other Southeast Asian countries, and transportation can be unreliable.
Why do tourists visit Myanmar?
Tourists visit Myanmar for a variety of reasons, including:
- Rich Tradition and Gorgeous Natural Sights: Myanmar, nestled on the edge of Southeast Asia, is a beautiful, vast country full of rich traditions and gorgeous natural sights.
- Delicious Local Cuisine: The cuisine in Myanmar is a fusion of flavors, ingredients, and dishes that have come together to make this country one of the most coveted among foodies.
- Electric Bike Riding in Bagan: Bagan, Myanmar, is a popular spot for electric bike riding.
- Hiking at Inle Lake: Visitors can take on the route from Kalaw to Inle Lake on foot.
- Beautiful Pagodas in Yangon: Yangon is renowned for its delicious street food, cool city vibe, and stunning pagodas.
- Very Friendly Locals: No locals are friendlier than those dwelling in Myanmar.
- Authentic Style of Living: The authentic style of living is one of the reasons why you should visit Myanmar.
- Stunning Natural Landscapes: The stunning natural landscapes are a sight to behold.
- The Awe-Inspiring Temples: The awe-inspiring temples like the Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar’s capital Yangon or the hundreds of temples in Bagan are a must-visit.
- Hot Air Balloons in Bagan: If there’s one scene that encapsulates the surrealness of Myanmar, it is of hot air balloons clouding the horizon, over glinting stupas dotting the vast plains of Bagan
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FAQs
Is Myanmar safe for tourists?
Myanmar is generally safe for tourists, but it’s essential to exercise caution and remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
What should I wear when visiting religious sites?
Visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering their shoulders and knees, out of respect for local customs and traditions.
Can I use credit cards in Myanmar?
While credit cards are accepted in some establishments, cash is still the preferred mode of payment in Myanmar. It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash for your expenses.
Are there any cultural taboos I should be aware of?
It’s important to avoid behaviors that may be considered disrespectful, such as pointing your feet at religious objects or touching someone’s head, as these are considered taboo in Myanmar culture.
How much should I budget for a trip to Myanmar?
The cost of a trip to Myanmar can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. However, budget travelers can expect to spend around $30 to $50 per day, while mid-range travelers may budget $50 to $100 per day, excluding accommodation and international flights.
Bookmark our website for more travel tips and insights. If you have any questions or need further guidance, leave a comment below. Share this article with fellow travelers and adventure-seekers to help them discover the wonders of Myanmar!
