Bordered by the ever-crowded nations of Bangladesh and India to its northwest, the massive reach of mainland China to its northeast, the underrated destination of Laos and the always-popular Thailand to its east and southeast respectively, the country of Myanmar is a rather low key affair — as far as Southeast Asian (SEA) travel destinations go.
Featuring a rich (and oft bloody) history, the country formerly known as Burma is mostly overlooked by travellers who prefer to visit its enthralling neighbour of Thailand. And we don’t blame them, for most of what you may find in Myanmar, you can also find at the one-time Siam Kingdom.
Imagine a traditionally Theravada Buddhism-practising population, along with sprawling monasteries and Buddhist temples scattered throughout its cities and you’ve got a pretty decent idea of what Myanmar entails. Also, Myanmar’s ancient pagodas harken back to Cambodia’s equally olden albeit renowned Angkor Temples. A fact that doesn’t particularly aid its cause.
But that doesn’t mean you should pass on the opportunity to visit the Burmese country. While Myanmar is filled to the brim with similar sights, its unique culture and picturesque/romantic sceneries do set it apart from its SEA neighbours. And since we’re nearing the (dreaded) lovey-dovey part of the year i.e. Valentines Day, how about taking a short getaway to explore a different part of SEA with your partner?
If you’re down with that, sit back, relax, and allow us to take you on a journey of exploring Myanmar’s golden monasteries, hot air balloons, and a majestic au naturale lake.
Getting Around
Unfortunately, attempting to traverse the busy streets of Yangon (the largest city in Myanmar) is not as cheap nor as efficient as its Southeast Asian peers.
Getting around the city may pose a challenge, but as with anything else these days, a simple and quick Google search will help immensely. Whether you’re relying on a good old WiFi router or even your carrier’s roaming service, having access to an Internet connection (and accompanying travel apps) is indispensable for the modern traveller.
On that note, you have a couple of options when it comes to transportation in Myanmar. For one, you could always rely on the modern incarnation of transportation in the region — e-hailing apps a la Grab. Otherwise, the best way to get around this congested city is falling back on taxis. Other than Grab, they’re one of the most efficient modes of transportation in the city. Of course, there’s also the option of motorcycle taxis to zip through the traffic jams. Do note that motorbike taxis can only be found in Mandalay and you won’t find those in Yangon as they’ve been banned, for some reason or another.
We also wouldn’t recommend taking the public bus as they’re usually quite packed. That, coupled with the terrible traffic will waste a lot of your precious holiday time. You’d be better off shelling a few extra notes and taking Grab or taxis for the convenience and comfort. Unless you have ample vacation days, then we’ll recommend getting around with a local guide and take public transport to experience the local way of life.
On the flipside, overnight buses are one of the more popular transport options in Myanmar as it is one of the best ways to get from Yangon to two of the nation’s most popular tourist attractions — Bagan and Inle Lake. Some other ways of getting around also include trains, trishaws, hot air balloons, boats, and your own two feet!
Where to Stay
As far as accommodation options go, you can’t really go wrong with downtown Yangon — one of the most populated areas in the city. From Botataung to North Dagon to Pazundaung, there are tons of hotel choices here for you!
For the cultural snob, a stay at Botahtaung may be warranted as it’s lined with a plethora of colonial-era buildings. On a related note, this township is also home to the Botahtaung Pagoda, from which it derived its name from.
As for hotel options, the luxurious Strand Hotel is one of the better options. But if you’re looking for something a little more mid-range then we’d suggest a stay at either Asia Plaza Hotel or the Millennium Hotel.
World Heritage Site. The 11th-century city is located in the Mandalay region of Myanmar and you’ll find most of your accommodation options in one of two places — Old Bagan or New Bagan.
Depending on your preferences, either one of these two spots could be an ideal spot. Old Bagan is within the vicinity of several of the main temples like Bupaya Pagoda, whereas others like Ananda Temple and Thatbyinnyu Temple are mere steps away. Most hotels in Old Bagan are of the mid-range to upper-class range such as The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate or Aye Yar River View Resort.
Unlike Old Bagan, there are no major attractions and important temples in and around New Bagan. However, the hotel options here are aplenty. From the luxurious Myanmar Treasure Resort Bagan to Villa Bagan, a resort with a panoramic view to the affordable Ruby True Hotel, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Day 1: Of Trains, Gleaming Temples, and The Local Burmese Market
The day will begin bright and early with a spot of sightseeing with an adventurous ride on the famous Circular Train departing from the Yangon Central Railway Station. Live the life of a local and do remember to take plenty of pictures as you see the locals go about their daily routine. Each loop of the train ride takes around three hours to complete, providing ample time to observe and immerse oneself in the day-to-day activities of daily Yangon life.
Thereafter, step (figuratively) into Yangon’s bustling downtown for a tour of its unique Burmese culture and multifaceted religious background. To experience its exceptional multiculturalism and fabulous architecture, a leisurely drive down its streets is definitely warranted, followed by a short walk. The historical buildings, in particular, are faded with beautiful colonial charm.
One of the popular sites in Yangon, the Kheng Hock Keong Chinese Temple located in Chinatown is one vibrant example of Myanmar’s multi-cultural background. The largest and oldest temple dedicated to the Chinese sea-goddess, Mazu was founded in 1861 by the Hokkien community during the reign of Qing Emperor Xianfeng.
Kheng Hock Keong Address: 426/432, Yangon, Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Daily from 5.00 AM to 9.00 PM
Following this, a short drive to Pansodan Street will bring you face-to-face with the old business district of Yangon — a locale filled with some of the prettiest colonial buildings in the region.
Here, a short walking tour allows one to check out some abandoned colonial-era administrative buildings which have been included as part of the Yangon City Heritage List. These include the Myanmar Port Authority building and the old Accountant General’s Office. Found further down the stretch of road, you’ll finally be met with Pansodan Jetty, where watching how the locals live by the Yangon River is on the menu.
Returning to Pansodan Street, you’ll get some reprieve from Myanmar’s blazing sun at one of the most popular restaurants in the city — the Rangoon Tea House — with a cup of decadent tea and some afternoon snacks. This restaurant takes inspiration from traditional tea houses and offers a wide range of excellent cuisines including crispy samosas and Nan Gyi Thohk (Burmese noodle salad), as well as a variety of local teas and coffee to choose from.
Rangoon Tea House Address: Ground Floor, 77-79 Pansodan Street, Lower Middle Block, Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 7.00 AM to 10.00 PM Friday to Saturday: 7.00 AM to 12.00 AM
After filling up your tummies, it’s time for some exercise! A visit to the Mahabandoola Gardens will provide some respite from all the eating and walking you’ve done so far. The park is one of the only green spots in downtown Yangon. And it also provides lovely views of the surrounding heritage buildings such as City Hall, the High Court, and the old Rowe & Co department store (which is now a bank).
After you’ve done enjoying the verdant greenery, it’s time to go on an obligatory visit to the temples of this majority Theravada Buddhist city. One of the most famous temples in Yangon being the Chaukhtatgyi Temple — home to a 66-metre long reclining Buddha statue. Here, you’ll also be able to observe the locals praying and paying homage to the venerated figure.
Chaukhtatgyi Temple Address: Shwegondine Road | Bahan Township, Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Daily from 6.00 AM to 8.00 PM
Our next stop will be at the famous Bogyoke Market, also known as the Scott Market. As Myanmar’s largest market with over 2,000 stalls, you’ll find a whole variety of knick-knacks and Burmese souvenirs to choose from. Whether its traditional clothing or lacquerware or gems and jewellery or the local art, there is definitely something for everyone here.
Bogyoke Market Address: Bo Gyoke Rd, Pabedan, Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Daily from 9.00 AM to 5.30 PM, closed on Mondays
Cap off an amazing day by spending the evening watching the sunset at the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda. Long considered one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Yangon, the pagoda is believed to enshrine strands of hair from the revered Gautama Buddha, along with containing relics from three former Buddhas.
The massive bell-shaped stupa is covered from tip to toe in a golden accent, with the tip of the stupa being set with various luxurious gems and stones like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and topaz.
Indeed, the stunning sight of this ancient architecture backed by a beautiful sunset does lend credence to Myanmar’s unofficial nickname as “The Land of The Golden Pagodas.”
Shwedagon Pagoda Address: Ar Zar Ni, Road Pha Yar Gyi Ward, Yangon, Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Daily from 4.00 AM to 10.00 PM
Subsequently, you’ll be transferred to the bus station for an overnight bus ride to Bagan.
Day 2: Exploring Bagan’s Ancient Charm & Ballooning Over A UNESCO World Heritage Site
With a (relatively) good night’s rest, you’ll hopefully be arriving in Bagan at the crack of dawn. You have two choices of how you want to start your second day when you arrive. You can either partake in a delightful once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon tour or experience the sunrise from the ground.
In the case of the former, you’ve probably already seen dozens and dozens of Instagram posts capturing the tangerine-hued skies dotted with specks of floating hot air balloons. So, what better way to start off the day than by joining in and drifting over thousands of pagodas in the ancient city for a truly unique sunrise experience?
Local Tip: The Bagan hot air balloon activity typically runs from October to the end of March each year, so plan accordingly!
After you’re done and if you’re up for the challenge, we’d also recommend heading towards Mount Popa, an extinct volcano over 1,500 meters in height that has played a huge role in the formation of Myanmar’s culture, religion, and history for centuries.
At the top of the mountain lies a shrine (Taung Kalat Temple) dedicated to the worship of the 37 Nats — the Burmese ancient animist spirits. Learn about nats and the religious significance of the nats as you ascend the 777 stairs to the top. We promise the view over the surrounding plains from the top of the volcanic peak is well-worth the post-climb muscle soreness.
Mount Popa Address: Kyauk Padaung Road, Popa, Myanmar
Alternatively, a visit to the colourful local market is also a great way to start your day (again). In this case, the always-vibrant Nyaung Oo Market comes to mind. This market is the biggest market in Bagan where the busy and bustling market atmosphere is nearly-palpable. Buy some souvenirs if time permits, and as always, haggle!
Nyaung Oo Market Address: 2, Nyaung-U, Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Daily from 6.00 AM to 5.00 PM
A tour of Bagan’s many olden architectural highlights truly begins with the Shwezigon Pagoda — one of the oldest and most important locales in the ancient archaeological site. The millennia-old pagoda was built by King Anawrahta as a religious shrine in the early 11th century and is said to enshrine various Buddhist relics.
Of note, the cone-shaped pagoda is believed to contain a bone and tooth of the Gautama Buddha. And there are also footprints found below the four standing Buddha statues here.
Local Tip: Try to visit earlier in the day for a magnificent view of the pagoda, as well as to avoid the scorching heat of the day.
Shwezigon Pagoda
Address:
Nyaung-U, Myanmar (Burma)
Opening Hours:
Daily from 4.00 AM to 10.00 PM, except on certain dates when the pagoda is open for 24 hours.
Afterwards, travel to Ananda Temple — an architectural masterpiece and one of Bagan’s best-known temples. This temple features beautifully glazed plaques and a well-preserved facade which also includes a gilded Skihara found at the top.
At the same time, a short walk away from this temple is the Ananda Oak Kyaung Monastery. This brick monastery contains 18th-century paintings depicting the chronicles of the Buddha’s life, as well as elements of Bagan’s ancient history.
Ananda Temple Address: Beside Anawrahta Road, Bagan 05232 Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Daily from 8.00 AM to 5.00 PM
Next, head to Myinkaba Village, famed for its traditional lacquerware handicrafts. While you’re there, take the opportunity to visit a lacquerware workshop to learn about the ins-and-outs of creating artistic lacquer items using techniques perfected and passed down through generations. And if you’re happy with the product(s), buy some!
Also, the village is home to the Mon-style Manuha and Gubyaukgyi Temples — both providing an excellent spot for a photo op.
To end the day, we’d suggest hopping on a boat for a leisurely cruise along the Irrawaddy River (a short ways away from the village) to take in the magnificent scenery whilst enjoying the sunset. Along the way, keep an eye out for the famous pagodas of the ancient city like the Shwezigon Pagoda and rural villages. And remember, take plenty of photos!
Once nightfalls, it’s time to get on an overnight bus to your next destination — Inle Lake, located some 350km from Bagan.
Day 3: Inle Lake: The Little Venice of Asia
As any other traveller who has been to Myanmar could attest to, a trip to the Burmese country wouldn’t be complete without spending time exploring the majestic Inle Lake via the traditional long-tailed boat tour.
At the lake, you may witness a myriad of sights and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. From the leg-rowing fishermen with a unique style of fishing to the floating farm to the gardens and stilted homes built above the lake’s waters, there are tons to see and do (it for the ‘gram) here!
But first thing’s first, a trip to the quaint village of Indein located on the Western Shore about 1-hour boat drive away is a must. The Indein Village is a beautiful albeit off-the-beaten-path affair known for its cluster of thousands of ancient weather-beaten stupas. Along with that, an environment surrounded by lush forests makes Indein one of the most scenic and calming destinations in Myanmar. Oh, and have we mentioned that there’s also a marketplace to visit in this very rural village?
Indein Village Market
Address:
Inthein, Taunggyi, Myanmar (Burma)
Opening Hours:
Early in the morning till typically 9.30 AM to 10.00 AM
After visiting Indein, head back to central Inle Lake to visit Ywama Village. This village is where the Kayan Lahwi/Padaung Tribe — known for their long-necked female members — thrive in. While here, browse through some silverware and other local workshops before making your way to the next stop.
Following Ywama, you could pay a visit to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda from the village. The site is considered one of the holiest religious grounds in the southern Shan State. And inside, you’ll find five revered ancient Buddha images that have morphed into amorphous blobs due to the sheer volume of gold leaf applied by devotees.
If you’re lucky, you may even bear witness to the annual Phaung Daw Oo Festival, where the images are paraded around the lake — providing a fascinating insight to the local customs if you happen to be there at the right time.
Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Address: Phaung Daw Side Rd, Nyaungshwe, Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Daily from 8.00 AM to around 6.00 PM
Last but certainly not least, Inpawkhone Village is the final stop of this boat tour. The village is one of many that has a few workshops specializing in a variety of local handicraft. But the most unique thing about this village is that it is home to silk weaving workshops, particularly of the lotus flower variety — one of the rarest and most expensive textiles in the world.
Returning from the boat tour, it’s time to head back to Yangon for the final day of your holiday with, you guessed it, an overnight bus ride.
Day 4: Return to Yangon & Café Hopping
You’ve seen and experienced most of what Myanmar has to offer up to this point. And you’re now feeling the effects of taking consecutive night buses, literally covering nearly the entirety of the country. So for your final day, why not take a chill pill and relax?
For the best spots to wind down, hipster cafés are second to none, regardless of the country you’re visiting. Off the top of the list, Craft Café is a coffee house which offers a homey affair and an equally delightful spread of dishes.
And when we said homely, we meant it. Craft offers a whole host of familiar Southeast Asian dishes like Kaya toast, laksa, chicken rice, and soft-boiled eggs. And along with that, expect the standard café fare like burgers and eggs benedict. For a daily dose of caffeine, Craft’s coffee comes from locally sourced Myanmar beans, along with its surrounding regions.
Craft Café Address: Annexe B, Level 2, Union Business Centre (UBC), Natmauk Road, Bahan Township Yangon Opening Hours: Daily from 7.00 AM to 7.00 PM
For a café with a local (and international) flair, Café Salween is where you want to visit in Yangon. This café is popular among locals and tourists alike, and it’s easy to see why.
At its core, Café Salween is a Burmese-inspired eatery that has adopted European-style food — creating a harmonious fusion that fits well with the palates of the locals and its international patrons. On their menu, you’ll find various fusion cuisine such as Kachin chicken pasta, Shan pasta, Laphet (tealeaf) chicken pasta, and so on.
But as far as the coffee offerings go, Café Salween serves an extensive coffee menu ranging from the classics like cappuccino, latte, piccolo latte, etc. to unique blends of coffee beans sourced from Ethiopia, Nicaragua, Colombia, Indonesia, and even beans from the Shan Hills in eastern Myanmar.
Café Salween Address: G15, Urban Asia Center, Maha Bandula Road, Between 47th and 48th Street Yangon, 11161, Myanmar (Burma) Opening Hours: Daily from 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM
Once you’ve filled your tummy with yummy food and coffee, perhaps you could take a slow stroll around the city centre to round off the most amazing holiday trip in Myanmar.
Marvel at the more than 2000-year old golden Sule Pagoda located smack dab in the middle of downtown Yangon. The iconic millennia-old structure occupies an important spot in the city where contemporary Asian business life melds perfectly with ancient Burmese politics, ideology, and tradition. And you will also find a lively and vibrant atmosphere around the pagoda, with waves of visitors exploring and looking for that all-important picture-perfect angle for an awesome IG-shot.
Sule Pagoda Address: Maha Bandoola Rd, Yangon (Rangoon) 11141, Myanmar At the junction of Sule Pagoda Road and Mahabandoola Road
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