Have you ever heard of Burma? Also known as Myanmar, this Southeast Asian country has remained remarkably preserved. What should you see and do when visiting Myanmar? Here are 10 great reasons to visit Burma. Let’s begin!
1. Magnificent and Untouched Landscapes
Myanmar offers spectacular natural landscapes of great diversity. From mountains overlooking vast plains to serene freshwater lakes, there is plenty to discover. It is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and travelers seeking wide open spaces.
The country is especially appealing for trekking enthusiasts. Numerous treks allow you to cross Burmese villages, meet different ethnic communities, or explore the jungle. One of the most famous routes connects the town of Kalaw to Inle Lake over 60 kilometers. At an altitude of around 1,300 meters, the cooler air offers a refreshing break from the region’s tropical heat.
2. Its Calm and Authenticity
Myanmar retains a charm and authenticity that remain largely untouched. Still relatively little visited by tourists, the country has preserved many traditional ways of life rooted in the past. Here, it often feels as if time itself has slowed down. This makes Myanmar an ideal destination for travelers looking to venture off the beaten path.
3. A Hot Air Balloon Flight over the Temples of Bagan
If you have heard about Myanmar—or even Southeast Asia—you have probably heard of Bagan and its legendary temples. One of the country’s most iconic destinations, Bagan is among the most impressive Buddhist archaeological sites in the world. More than 2,000 temples and pagodas are spread across an area of just 40 km².
To truly appreciate this extraordinary landscape, the best way is from above. A hot air balloon flight over the Bagan plains offers a breathtaking perspective of this unique heritage site. An unforgettable experience!
4. Paradise Islands and Beautiful Beaches
Myanmar is also home to idyllic beaches with white sand and palm-lined shores. The most famous is Ngapali Beach, a perfect place to relax after an adventurous journey. Along the coast, travelers can discover wild beaches, hidden coves, and pristine islands.
Those wishing to experience local life should visit Pathein. From there, you can travel to Chaung Tha, a seaside resort popular with Burmese families who come to relax, play games on the beach, and enjoy a drink by the sea.
5. The Warm Welcome and Smiles of the Local People
In Myanmar, expect to be surrounded by smiles! Burmese people are known for their warmth and friendliness toward visitors. They are often eager to share their traditions and customs, while also learning about your culture. Encounters with locals frequently become some of the most memorable moments of a journey.
6. Visit One of the Most Beautiful Pagodas in the World
No visit to Myanmar would be complete without seeing the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda. Covered in gold and adorned with more than 4,500 diamonds, this 2,500-year-old pagoda is the most sacred Buddhist site for the Burmese people.
Located west of Kandawgyi Lake in Yangon, the Shwedagon Pagoda is particularly magical at sunset when the golden stupa glows under the fading light.
7. A Cruise on the Irrawaddy River
The Irrawaddy is Myanmar’s main river, flowing from north to south across the country. Originating in the Tibetan mountains, it stretches for more than 2,000 kilometers.
Aboard the luxurious boat The Strand, travelers can enjoy a memorable cruise between Bagan and Mandalay while discovering life along the riverbanks. A unique and unforgettable experience.
8. Admire U Bein Bridge, a Symbol of Myanmar
U Bein Bridge is known as the longest teak bridge in the world. Stretching over 1.2 kilometers, it crosses Taungthaman Lake in Amarapura, an ancient capital of Myanmar.
When the capital moved to Mandalay, teak pillars from the former palace were left behind. U Bein, the local mayor, decided to reuse them and ordered the construction of the bridge in 1849. Over 150 years later, the bridge still stands—an iconic and peaceful place to visit.
9. Inle Lake and Its Fishermen
Located in the center of the country, Inle Lake is Myanmar’s second largest lake. Along its shores, visitors can admire traditional stilt houses and floating gardens where crops—especially tomatoes—grow directly on the water.
The lake is also famous for its fishermen who practice a unique rowing technique: standing on one leg at the stern of their boats while rowing with the other. This method allows them to keep both hands free for fishing.
10. Ecotourism and Community-Based Tourism
Myanmar is home to vast forests and lush landscapes that shelter an incredible biodiversity: more than 7,000 plant species, 300 mammals, 360 reptiles, and nearly 1,000 species of birds.
This rich environment makes Myanmar a wonderful destination for ecotourism. Several national parks and sanctuaries help protect this biodiversity, including Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park near Monywa, Hlawaga National Park near Yangon, Mount Popa National Park, and the Inle Lake Wetland Sanctuary in Shan State.
If these reasons have inspired you to travel to Myanmar, contact Paul, our Myanmar travel expert, who will help you design a tailor-made journey in this authentic and fascinating country.
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