Commonly known as Burma, Myanmar is one of the least explored countries in Southeast Asia. Travelers refer to Myanmar as the kingdom of Buddhist temples and magnificent nature. In this article, we compile a list of the 10 best destinations to visit in Myanmar for the first-timers to the country.
1. Yangon and the Shwedagon Pagoda
This former capital is one of the most eye-pleasing tourist attractions in Myanmar. Yangon is a newly emerging getaway for tourists traveling to Southeast Asia. This is where you can admire the gigantic sacred Buddhist pagoda in the country, Shwedagon. The Buddhist temple is cleverly gold plated featuring a diamond-studded on the peak of the building. The overall beauty is such a charm that attracts anyone looking for a hidden mystic religious charm.
2. Bagan
The second biggest name on the list is the one and only Bagan. This is one of the most magnificent archaeological sites on the planet you can imagine! It’s home to a repertoire of the massive pagoda constructed by King Pagan. Bagan is now a perfect collection of more than 3000 temples that stand the test of time. This is one of the greatest tourist attractions in Myanmar that allows you to explore the wild beauty of the past. If you’re a fan of architecture, then the Bagan temples are definitely your jam!
3. Mandalay
Coming up next on the list of best tourist attractions in Myanmar is Mandalay that is not so far from Bagan. Once the ancient capital of Myanmar, Mandalay is another “domain” of the sacred Buddhist temples of magnificent appearance. The land is home to the gigantic architectural wonders that have stood with time for ages. It’s so serene that you will want to leave the hustle of the big cities and fly straight to Mandalay right away!
4. Inle Lake
The natural wonder of Inle Lake is an ideal weekend escape for those seeking serenity. It’s home to the local fishermen who are famous for their unique fishing techniques. Visiting the Inle Lake allows you to admire the mind-blowing skill of rowing with one leg of the native fishermen in town.
Other than exploring the authentic life of the dwellers, you can as well discover the floating houses. The traditional handicrafts of the native citizens around the lake of Inle is another attractive feature. Playing a huge role in improving the economy of Myanmar, these handicraft villages have you say wow with their silk weaving techniques.
5. Amarapura
Amarapura was once the capital of the ancient Burmese Kingdom before Mandalay. Even though it’s just a small village, Amarapura still has its own attraction with the hidden gems. One of them is the incredible U Bein Bridge crossing over the Taungthaman Lake. U Bein is one of the world’s lengthiest and oldest teak bridges. It provides you with an interesting insight into the history of Myanmar. Other than that, the lake of Taungthaman itself is a mesmerizing spot to watch the sunset. Just sitting by the bank of the tranquil lake is the selling point that draws tourists to Amarapura.
6. Mount Popa
Known as “Myanmar’s Mount Olympus”, the one and only Mount Popa is one of the most incredible mountains in the country. Covering a large area of the surrounding area at its foot, Popa is seen as a holy shrine of the locals.
They believe that the Mount Popa and multiple shrines on the surrounding have sheltered Nat Spirits. That’s the reason why the people of Burma across the country pay a pilgrimage here to make the offerings and wish for the best of luck.
Trekking to the peak through 777 steps up the hillside is an adventurous activity at Mount Popa. There’s a population of monkeys residing throughout the mountain. Hence, have the best preparation before the trek! The vista from the top is absolutely rewarding!
7. Saddar Cave
The next recommendation is for those with a big passion for adventures. Saddar Cave is a massive subterranean wonder in Karen State. It’s a large cave system hiding a huge collection of golden Buddha miniature images, paintings, and a mystic pagoda. The trip into the cave is not only adventurous but also a spiritual experience.
8. Mrauk U
The local Myanmar people consider Mrauk U as the “little Bagan”. Mrauk U is also a famous archeological site but having its own charm. The walls of Mrauk U are made of thick stone with a view to protecting the site against the fierce wind. Mrauk U is still a hidden destination in Myanmar with the mystical look of the ruins. Located in the heart of an inhabited area, Mrauk U is able to bring you a one-of-a-kind trip like nowhere else.
9. Ngwe Saung
Now. it’s time to leave history and religion behind to head for the breezy beaches! Not many travelers think of visiting the seaside when in Myanmar, yet it can be a wonderful heaven on Earth. Ngwe Saung is a hidden gem of Myanmar where the endless row of palm trees run along the seaside viewing the emerald waters. The stunning white sand is amazing for a laid-back day sunbathing. Also known as Silver Beach, Ngwe Saung is famous for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also relax at the beachside café by nightfall.
10. Kalaw
Last but not least, Kalaw ends the list of the best destinations to visit in Myanmar as a suggestion for adventurers. Kalaw is one of the most deserted places in Myanmar but very popular in the community of local trekkers. Thanks to the beautiful picturesque landscape, the land is the dream of any trekkers to conquer this Eastern mountain.
You can visit Kalaw by arriving in the mountainous town of Shan Hills. Once ruled by the British colonists, Kalaw owns the pleasant weather of the highlands. This enormous site is also an ideal choice to escape from the tropical heat of Myanmar.
Our complete collection above shows you the top-rated destinations to visit when traveling to Myanmar. These are the best places in the country that showcase the absolute beauty of the country. You will have a deeper look into the culture, religion, nature, and history of this less-touristy Southeast Asian nation.
