12 Best Places to Visit and Things to do in Myanmar - Travel Guide

Top 12 Most Stunning Places To Visit In Myanmar With over 2,000 ancient temples in Bagan, breathtaking views in Mandalay, and stunning pagodas in Yangon, Myanmar is a treasure trove of ancient wonders. But that's not all. Natural gems like Inle Lake with its floating gardens and traditional stilt houses provide an opportunity for you to see nature in all its splendor. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a new adventure, Myanmar has something for everyone. Join us on this virtual expedition to uncover the secrets that make Myanmar truly special. Number 12. Malanye Malanye is one of those places that perfectly captures the true essence of a country's culture when we explore beyond the typical tourist routes. We'll start our adventure by visiting the iconic Kyak Tan Lan Pagoda. It's located on a hilltop which gives it a commanding presence and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The pagoda is known for its golden spires that catch the sunlight and create a mesmerizing sight. Next, we'll head to the Windsign Monastery. Home to the world's largest reclining Buddha, this site is a remarkable religious and cultural attraction with various statues and temples. Just before saying goodbye to Malanye, we'll take a stroll along the Strand Road. The elegant colonial buildings that line the waterfront are absolutely stunning, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history. To truly bask in the beauty of this location, we'll go for an evening walk and catch the sunset. It'll be the perfect way to end the day with the sky painted in beautiful colors. Number 11. Pha An Pha An, the quiet town nestled in the countryside of Myanmar, offers a truly unique and offbeat experience for travelers. Its preserved local culture adds an extra layer of authenticity to its appeal. First, we'll embark on a sunrise hike up Mount Swagabin, a trail famous for its challenging 2,000 steps and breathtaking scenery. After our invigorating hike, we'll head to Lumbini Gardens, a beautiful oasis nestled at the base of Mount Swagabin. The serene atmosphere here will envelop us as we explore the well-manicured gardens, adorned with colorful flowers and lush greenery. Our next stop is the intriguing Sadan Cave, where history comes alive. Inside, we'll encounter ancient pagodas and intricate wall carvings that tell us stories of the past. Continuing our journey, we'll embrace spiritual serenity at the Kayu Kailat Pagoda. This remarkable structure is perched on top a stunning limestone pinnacle, offering a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and religious devotion. To conclude our trip, we'll immerse ourselves in the local life of Pha An with a leisurely bicycle ride through its rustic countryside. Number 10. Pien U Lin Pien U Lin, also called Pien U Lin or Mya Mo, is a charming hill station situated around 67 kilometers to the east of Mandalay in Myanmar. This cozy town is nestled in the scenic Shan Hills and showcases a rich colonial influence. We'll start our day by visiting the National Kandawigi Gardens. Here, we'll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of flowers, from orchids to roses and lush greenery. Riding in a horse-drawn carriage is a fantastic way to experience the charm of Pien U Lin's British colonial architecture. As we merrily trot through the tree-lined streets, we'll pass by the iconic wooden summer cottages and brick and timber houses that showcase the town's rich history. The architectural details will transport us back in time, giving us a unique glimpse into the colonial era. Afterwards, we'll visit Anisakan Falls, a pleasant place to relax and revel in the beauty of nature. Before saying goodbye to Pien U Lin, let's make our way to Maha Antitu Khan, a religious heritage site known for its beautiful temples and pagodas with adorned statues and carvings. Number 9. Mandalay Mandalay, the former royal capital of Myanmar, is a big and busy city that somehow manages to retain its charm. It's a fantastic place to spend a couple of days on your Myanmar journey. We'll begin our adventure by visiting the magnificent Mahamuni Paya. We'll marvel at the 13-feet golden statue of Buddha and witness the locals paying their respects. Afterwards, let's make our way to the Kathedau Pagoda, home to the world's largest book. Here, we'll explore the stunning white stupas and learn about the Buddhist scriptures engraved on marble slabs. As the sun begins to set, we'll head to the iconic Yubin Bridge, the world's longest teak footbridge. We'll go for a relaxing walk on the bridge and capture the stunning views of the countryside. It's a great opportunity to take some breathtaking photos. We'll wrap up our trip with a visit to the Shenandoah Monastery, also called Golden Palace, a beautifully carved teak wood structure known for its intricate details and serene atmosphere. Number 8. Bagan Bagan, an ancient city in Myanmar, is home to thousands of temples, making it a must-visit destination for history and architecture lovers. Our first activity is to visit the Ananda Temple, a magnificent and well-preserved temple known for its exquisite architecture and Buddha statues. Next, we'll visit the Damayanji Temple, the largest temple in Bagan. Its impressive brickwork and mysterious interior make it a fascinating place to explore. For a unique and unforgettable experience, we'll take a hot air balloon ride over Bagan, enjoying panoramic views of the city and its ancient structures. Before leaving Bagan behind, we'll head over to Mount Popa. It's a non-active volcano located about 50 km southeast, perched on top of a rocky outcrop. Mount Popa is a sacred pilgrimage site for the Burmese, who visit the 37 temples dedicated to Mahajirinat. It's a spiritual experience like you have never experienced before. Number 7. Inle Lake Inle Lake, nestled in the Shan Hills of Tanji District in Shan State, Myanmar, is a mesmerizing destination. It's the second-largest lake in the country, and is famous for the unique way of life of the locals and the beautiful scenery. We'll begin our adventure by taking a boat ride on Inle Lake itself, we'll explore the unique floating villages, and see the traditional lake-rowing fishermen in action. When we get out of the water, we'll visit the Ngah Hepe Kyong Monastery, also known as the Jumping Cat Monastery. Here, we'll see monks training cats to jump through hoops. Needless to say, this is both a fascinating and entertaining sight. Next, let's head over to the Andean Pagoda Complex, located on the western shore of the lake. This complex is home to hundreds of ancient pagodas and stupas, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. We'll end our Inle Lake adventure with a visit to Phuong Dau U Pagoda. It is one of the most important religious sites in Inle Lake, housing five small Buddha images that are covered in gold leaf. If you think you have seen it all, you couldn't be farther from the truth. These next destinations are nothing short of mind-blowing, especially number one. Number 6. Kala Situated in Kala Township in Tanji District, Kala is known for its refreshing climate, scenic views, and laid-back atmosphere. We'll start our adventure with a visit to the Green Hill Valley Elephant Camp, where we'll interact with elephants in a conservation-focused environment. Afterwards, let's head to the Shui-U Min Cave Pagoda, a fascinating complex of caves adorned with intricate carvings and Buddha images. Our next stop is Aung Chan Thao Zedi, an ancient Buddhist temple. It's famous for its roof adorned with golden and silver mosaic tiles that shimmer and glow during sunrise and sunset. Before saying goodbye to Kala, we'll go hiking at Kala Inle Trek, one of the most popular activities in Kala, offering a chance to experience the rich natural beauty surrounding the town and the lake. Number 5. Inwa Inwa is a town located in Mandalay Region, Myanmar. It was once the capital of the Burmese Kingdom and is known for its historical significance and architectural wonders. We'll start our exploration by visiting the Bagaya Monastery, known for its impressive teak wood architecture. This beautiful monastery is a prime example of traditional Burmese craftsmanship and offers a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. Next, we'll make our way to the Maha Angimi Banzen Monastery, also known as the Minuk Okyang. This monastery is a fascinating blend of Burmese and European architectural styles. We'll stroll through its halls and courtyards to admire the intricate carvings and serene atmosphere. Afterwards, let's head to Nan Myint Watchtower, also known as the Leaning Tower of Inwa. This ancient tower stands tall despite its noticeable tilt and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It's a great spot to capture some memorable photos. Our next stop is the Irrawaddy River. The river offers scenic views and opportunities for boat rides and river cruises. Lastly, we'll visit the Yadana Hasimi Pagoda. The complex features old temple ruins, an aged statue of a sitting Buddha, and a large tree, all of which contribute to the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the site. Number 4. Sipa Sipa is a great destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, a chance to experience local culture, and an opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes of Shan State. We'll begin our adventure by visiting the Sipa Palace, known as Hanan. The palace showcases traditional Shan architecture with its intricate wooden carvings and ornate decorations. Inside, we'll see a collection of artifacts and historical items. Afterwards, we'll make our way to Bagyo Pagoda, a notable religious site in the area, offering a glimpse into the local culture and religious practices. Our next stop is Mieok Myo, Sipa's oldest neighborhood. It is located at the northern edge of town, has a village-like atmosphere, two delightful old teak monasteries, and a collection of ancient structures. We'll wrap up our Sipa adventure by climbing up the Sunset Hill, also called Nine Buddha Hill, a picturesque spot offering breathtaking views of the sunset over Sipa and the rolling hills beyond. Number 3. Napoli Napoli is a stunning coastal destination in Myanmar. It is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is a hidden gem that shouldn't be missed if you're looking for a relaxing and picturesque getaway. Let's start our day by heading to Napoli Beach. We'll stroll along the pristine white sands, feeling the soft grains beneath our feet, and taking in the breathtaking coastal views. Next, we'll embark on a boat tour to Pearl Island. The underwater Pearl Island and vibrant marine life are a must-see. We'll snorkel or dive in the colorful coral reefs. Afterwards, let's take a bike trip to Gayek Ta Fishing Village. It is fascinating to see fishermen's houses, workplaces, and their boats. We'll witness how they prepare their nets before heading out to sea. We'll conclude our adventure by taking a hot air balloon ride in Napoli. We'll fly over pagodas, villages, and forests. It's an incredible way to witness the beauty of Napoli from above. Number 2. Puta Tucked away in the northernmost corner of Myanmar, Puta is a remote town nestled in the Kachin State, surrounded by natural landscapes and beautiful mountains. We'll begin our adventure by exploring the mesmerizing Kokopo Razi National Park. This park is home of the Kokopo Razi Mountain, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. The park offers stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Next, we'll head to the Malika River, one of the most popular spots for whitewater rafting. The river runs through the town of Puta and offers thrilling rapids that range from class 2 to 4, providing an exhilarating experience for adventure seekers. Puta is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 370 species of birds recorded in the region. We'll go on a guided birdwatching tour to spot rare and endemic species like the white-browed nuthatch, Blight's kingfisher, and the beautiful Himalayan mona. We'll end our adventure by going Puta Trekking. Surrounded by lush hills and soaring mountains, Puta offers many stunning trails that will take us through breathtaking views and landscapes. Number 1. Yangon Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is the largest city and commercial center of Myanmar. It's a must-visit destination for travelers to Myanmar. We'll start our exploration by visiting the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. This magnificent Buddhist temple is adorned with gold and precious gems, and it's a symbol of spirituality in Myanmar. Afterwards, let's take a stroll through Kandagi Park. This beautiful park features a large lake surrounded by lush greenery. We'll rent a paddle boat to explore the lake or simply relax and have a picnic amidst nature. Next, we'll discover the historic charm of Yangon by visiting the Yangon City Hall. This colonial-era building showcases stunning architectural details and is a great spot for some photos. Our next stop is the Chaktagi Buddha Temple. This temple houses one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world, measuring an impressive 66 meters in length. Before saying goodbye to Yangon, let's head to the National Museum Yangon. This museum showcases Burmese art, history, and culture with a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits. Thanks for joining us on this incredible travel journey. We hope you've been inspired to explore the world and create unforgettable memories. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more travel adventures. Until next time, happy travels!