Myanmar Travel Guide
Myanmar, often still called Burma by many, is a land where time seems to stand still amid a whirlwind of change. Picture yourself wandering through mist-shrouded temples at dawn, chatting with saffron-robed monks in bustling markets, or cruising down the Irrawaddy River as the sun sets over distant hills. This Southeast Asian gem has long captivated explorers with its blend of ancient traditions and natural beauty, from the archaeological wonders of Bagan to the floating villages on Inle Lake. But it’s not just about the sights—it’s the people, with their genuine smiles and stories, that make a trip here truly special. As the country navigates its complex history and modern challenges, travelers are discovering a destination that’s as rewarding as it is intriguing. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone craving an off-the-grid adventure, Myanmar offers layers of experiences waiting to be uncovered. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to plan your journey, from the basics to the nitty-gritty details.
Overview
Myanmar sits proudly in Southeast Asia, sharing borders with India and Bangladesh to the west, China to the north, Laos and Thailand to the east, and the Andaman Sea to the south. Covering about 676,000 square kilometers, it’s roughly the size of Texas, with a population hovering around 54 million people. The landscape is incredibly diverse—you’ve got the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the north, vast river deltas in the south, dense jungles, and arid plains in between. The Irrawaddy River, the country’s lifeline, winds through it all, supporting rice paddies, floating markets, and ancient cities along its banks.
Historically, Myanmar has been shaped by powerful kingdoms like the Bagan Empire, which left behind over 2,000 temples in Bagan alone, a UNESCO World Heritage site that rivals Angkor Wat in grandeur. Colonial influences from the British era are evident in Yangon’s grand architecture and afternoon tea traditions, while the post-independence years brought a mix of isolation and cultural preservation. Today, the country is opening up, though political shifts since the 2021 military takeover have added layers of complexity. For travelers, this means focusing on ethical tourism—supporting local communities directly through homestays or family-run businesses.
What draws people here? The cultural richness is unmatched. Buddhism permeates daily life, with glittering pagodas like Shwedagon in Yangon serving as spiritual and social hubs. Ethnic diversity shines through in hill tribes around Inle Lake, where leg-rowing fishermen navigate waterways, or in the markets of Mandalay, bursting with jade, textiles, and spices. Adventure seekers can trek in the Shan State hills, dive in the Mergui Archipelago’s pristine waters, or cycle through rural villages. Foodies will love the flavors—think mohinga (a hearty fish noodle soup for breakfast) or laphet thoke (fermented tea leaf salad). Myanmar isn’t overrun by tourists yet, so you can often have these moments to yourself, but that also means infrastructure can be basic, rewarding those who embrace a slower pace. If you’re after authenticity over luxury, this is your spot.
For more on Myanmar’s cultural events, check out our guide on The World Travel Guide.
Quick Facts
Language
Burmese is the official tongue, spoken by the majority, but with over 100 dialects among ethnic groups. English is common in tourist spots like hotels and guides, but learning basics like "mingalaba" (hello) or "kyay zu tin bar te" (thank you) goes a long way in rural areas. Apps like Google Translate can help, though internet isn't always reliable.
Transport Apps
Grab is the go-to for rides in Yangon, Mandalay, and Bagan—reliable, with fixed fares and English options. Oway Ride and Hello Cabs are local alternatives, great for avoiding haggling. For buses or trains, use 12Go or Bookaway apps to book in advance.
Region
Southeast Asia, nestled between the Indian subcontinent and the rest of Indochina. It's part of ASEAN, which means easier travel ties with neighbors like Thailand.
Capital
Naypyidaw, a planned city built in 2005 that's more administrative than vibrant. Yangon (formerly Rangoon) feels like the real heart, with its mix of colonial charm and modern buzz, while Mandalay holds cultural sway up north.
Visa
Most visitors need one, but it's straightforward. An eVisa costs around $50, valid for 28 days within 90 days of approval, and applies to over 100 nationalities—apply online at least a week ahead. Visa on arrival is available at Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw airports for some countries, also $50. ASEAN neighbors get exemptions (14-30 days). Double-check requirements, as rules can shift with politics.
Currency
The Myanmar Kyat (MMK), with about 2,100 kyat to one US dollar as of mid-2025 (check current rates). Crisp US dollars are still widely accepted for bigger expenses, but kyat is king for everyday stuff. ATMs are in cities, but fees can sting—up to $5 per withdrawal—so bring cash to exchange.
Power Plugs
Myanmar runs on 230V/50Hz. Plugs vary—commonly Type C (two round pins, European style), Type D (three round pins), and sometimes Type G (British three-pin) or others like A, F, and I. A universal adapter is essential, as sockets can be inconsistent, especially in older guesthouses.
Climate
Tropical monsoon, with hot, humid weather year-round. Expect three seasons: cool and dry (November-February), scorching hot (March-May), and rainy (June-October).
Flights
Getting to Myanmar by air is the most practical way, as land borders can be tricky or closed. The main gateways are Yangon International Airport (RGN), the busiest with the cheapest connections, and Mandalay International (MDL) for northern access. Naypyidaw (NYT) sees fewer flights, mostly regional.
From Asia, budget carriers like AirAsia, VietJet, and Bangkok Airways offer affordable hops from hubs like Bangkok (1 hour, $100-200 round-trip), Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, or Hanoi. For longer hauls, Emirates via Dubai, Qatar Airways through Doha, or Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong connect Europe, Australia, and the Americas—expect 15-20 hours total with layovers, costing $800-1,500 round-trip from the US or Europe. Direct flights from Tokyo or Seoul are available on ANA or Korean Air.
Inside Myanmar, domestic flights on Myanmar Airways International or Air KBZ link key spots like Bagan, Inle Lake, or Ngapali Beach for $50-150 one-way. Book early, as schedules are limited and weather can cause delays. Pro tip: Yangon arrival? Grab a SIM card at the airport for data—Myanmar’s Telenor or MPT networks are cheap (about $5 for a month). Taxis to town cost $10-15, or use Grab for ease. Always confirm flight details, as political situations might affect routes.
Safety
Myanmar is generally welcoming to tourists, with low petty crime rates in visited areas—violent incidents against foreigners are rare, thanks to strict laws and hospitable locals. That said, the ongoing civil unrest since 2021 has led to advisories from governments like the US State Department, which recommends against travel due to armed conflicts, arbitrary arrests, and limited medical resources. Stick to tourist zones like Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, and Inle Lake, where things feel normal and safe.
Key concerns include sporadic protests or clashes in border regions (avoid Rakhine, Shan, Kachin, and parts of Chin States). Landmines linger in remote areas, so don’t stray off paths during treks. Petty theft like pickpocketing can happen in crowds, so use a money belt and hotel safes. Scams are mild—overpriced taxis or persistent touts—but a firm “no thanks” works. Women travelers report feeling secure, but dress modestly at temples (cover shoulders and knees) to respect culture.
Health-wise, get vaccinations for hepatitis, typhoid, and rabies; malaria risk is low in cities but higher in jungles—use repellent. Tap water isn’t safe—stick to bottled. For peace of mind, buy travel insurance with evacuation coverage, enroll in programs like STEP, and keep embassy contacts handy (US Embassy in Yangon: +95-1-536-509). Overall, with common sense, Myanmar can be as safe as other Southeast Asian spots—many visitors rave about the kindness they encounter.
Climate
Myanmar’s climate is tropical, influenced by monsoons, making it a year-round destination with caveats. The cool, dry season from November to February is prime time—temperatures hover at 20-30°C (68-86°F) during the day, dropping to 15°C (59°F) at night in hills like Inle Lake. Skies are clear, perfect for temple hopping or balloon rides over Bagan, with low humidity and minimal rain. Festivals like Thingyan (water festival in April) add vibrancy, but this period sees more crowds and higher prices.
Come March to May, it’s the hot season—expect 35-40°C (95-104°F) with stifling humidity, especially in central plains like Mandalay. Rivers run low, but it’s great for beaches like Ngapali, where sea breezes cool things down. Hydrate heavily and plan indoor activities midday.
The rainy season, June to October, brings heavy downpours (up to 2,500mm in coastal areas), turning landscapes lush green. The Dry Zone (Bagan, Mandalay) gets less rain (under 1,000mm), so it’s doable, with fewer tourists and cheaper deals. Roads can flood, though, delaying buses or closing treks—pack rain gear and flexible plans. Overall, pack light layers, sunscreen, and an umbrella; climate varies by region, so check forecasts via apps like AccuWeather.
Budget
Traveling in Myanmar can be wallet-friendly, with a daily budget of $30-50 for backpackers covering basics, or $80-150 for mid-range comfort. Accommodation starts at $10-20 for hostels or guesthouses with fans and shared baths—think simple spots in Yangon with breakfast included. Mid-range hotels ($30-60) offer AC, Wi-Fi, and pools; splurge on boutique stays in Bagan for $100+ with temple views.
Food is a steal—street eats like mohinga or fried noodles run $1-3, while sit-down meals in local eateries cost $5-10. Beer is $1-2, and markets overflow with fresh fruits for pennies. Transportation: Domestic flights $50-150, overnight buses $10-30 (VIP for comfort), or Grab rides $2-5 in cities. Entrance fees add up—Bagan zone pass $20, Inle boat tour $15—but they’re worth it.
Hidden costs? ATM fees ($3-5), SIM cards ($5), and tips for guides ($5-10/day). Ethical budgeting means supporting locals—eat at family restaurants, hire community guides. For two weeks, expect $500-800 total excluding flights, more if diving or flying domestically. Bargain politely, carry small kyat notes, and track expenses—Myanmar’s value lies in its experiences, not extravagance.
