Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a Southeast Asian country known for its rich culture, ancient temples, and beautiful landscapes. The country has been closed off to tourists for many years, but has recently opened its doors to visitors, making it an exciting destination for travelers. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the best travel destinations in Myanmar, including six cities that are worth visiting.
Yangon
Yangon is the largest city in Myanmar and is the perfect place to start your journey. The city is known for its colonial architecture, including the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, which is the most sacred Buddhist site in the country. The pagoda is covered in gold and is adorned with diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, making it a truly breathtaking sight. Another must-see attraction in Yangon is the Bogyoke Aung San Market, also known as Scott Market, which is a great place to buy traditional Burmese souvenirs.
Mandalay
Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar and is known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to many ancient temples, including the Mahamuni Pagoda, which is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the country. The pagoda houses a bronze Buddha statue that is covered in gold leaf and is believed to be over 2,500 years old. Another must-see attraction in Mandalay is the U Bein Bridge, which is the longest teakwood bridge in the world. The bridge is a great place to take a sunset stroll and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Bagan
Bagan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Myanmar and is known for its ancient temples and pagodas. The city is home to over 2,000 temples, making it one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Some of the most famous temples in Bagan include the Ananda Temple, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful gold leaf decorations, and the Shwezigon Pagoda, which is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the country. Another must-see attraction in Bagan is the hot air balloon rides, which offer breathtaking views of the temples and pagodas.
Inle Lake
Inle Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake located in the Shan Hills of Myanmar. The lake is known for its floating villages, which are made up of stilt houses built on top of the lake. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake to see the floating villages and the traditional fishing methods of the Intha people. The lake is also home to many temples and pagodas, including the Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery, which is known for its unique leg-rowing style of the Intha people.
Kyaiktiyo
Kyaiktiyo is a small town located in the Mon State of Myanmar. The town is known for the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, also known as the Golden Rock Pagoda, which is a sacred Buddhist site. The pagoda is located on top of a large boulder that is said to be balancing on the edge of a cliff. Visitors can take a bus ride to the top of the mountain to see the pagoda, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Ngapali
Ngapali is a small town located on the west coast of Myanmar. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also take boat trips to nearby islands to see the local fisherman at work and to snorkel in the crystal- clear waters. In addition to the beaches, visitors can also take cooking classes to learn how to make traditional Burmese dishes and visit local markets to purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Overall, Myanmar is a country rich in culture and history, with a diverse range of destinations to suit every traveler. From the bustling city of Yangon to the tranquil waters of Inle Lake, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in ancient temples and pagodas, beautiful landscapes, or local traditions and culture, Myanmar is the perfect destination for your next adventure. With the current global scenario, it is important to check the travel restrictions and updates before planning a trip. With a little planning and an open mind, you can experience the best that Myanmar has to offer.