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Explore Our Myanmar - Be enchanted

Nestled on the edge of Southeast Asia, Myanmar is a beautiful, vast country full of rich traditions, delicious food, and gorgeous natural sights. Visitors from all walks of life can find reasons to visit and fall in love with this wondrous ancient land. This fascinating land provides everything a tourist needs. All are well preserved and well worth seeing. You can visit the beautiful Shwedagon Pagoda, over 2,500 years old, considered one of the holiest monuments in the country. You can spend a few hours wandering in this pagoda, taking photos, and waiting for the sunset to get some of the most stunning views of this Buddhist pagoda. Or you can experience cycling around Mandalay city. The city is famous for Mandalay Hill and its monasteries and more, but there's no better way to experience the true aspect of this city than by cycling. Or you can visit Lake Inle, World Biosphere Reserve. Landscapes, bamboo villages built on water, floating tomato plantations and local fishing techniques will leave you speechless. Inle Lake is a magical place - especially at sunrise and sunset when everything turns pink and you will feel no worries about anything in the world. Especially, watching thousands of temples and pagodas in Bagan from above with a hot air balloon is definitely a memorable and most amazing experience when you come to Myanmar, etc... If you've ever dreamed of an amazing and timeless destination, Myanmar is worth to make your dream come true.
Capital City: Naypyidaw  Myanmar Area: 676,575 km² Myanmar Population: 54,409,800 people Ethnic Groups: 8
Cities: 33 World Heritage Sites: 2 Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites: 0 The World Biosphere Reserves: 2

Travel Guide

1. Top reasons to visit Myanmar ?

1. VERY FRIENDLY LOCALS 
No locals are friendlier than those dwelling in Myanmar. Whether visitors find themselves in Yangon's city center or in the jungle on the way to Inle Lake from Kalaw, not a single local is unwelcoming of foreign visitors making their way through the country. When visitors look just the slightest bit lost, locals are known to come running in hope of offering a helping hand. Many locals will often approach visitors just in hope of practising their English. No scams, no tricks, just friendly Myanmarese looking to chat. 
2. VERY BEAUTIFUL WHITE AND SANDY BEACHES 
The country of Myanmar may not necessarily be known for its stunning, white sand beaches, however, it surely has its fair share of streches of sand that are worth a visit. Some of the top beaches visitors must try to go to during their time spent in Myanmar include Nagapali Beach, Ngwe Saung Beach and Chaung Tha Beach.
3. THE "UNDISCOVERED" VIBE
A tourist hub Myanmar is not. While the capital, Yangon, has its fair share of expats, Western brands and five-star hotels, you don't have to venture far to feel as if you've departed  to the beaten path. In Yagon, you can hop aboard the circular railway for an authentic view of local life, and all across the country, even the most visited places have minimal crowds if you travel in low season. When it comes to lesser-known areas, such as the Mergui Archipelago or Putao in the Himalayan foothills, you'll truly feel like an explorer no matter when you travel.
4. BALLOONS OVER BAGAN
A bit about Bagan: It is one of Myanmar's most visited sites. It is incredibly scenic. It comprises more than 2,000 ancient stupas. It dates back to the 9th century Pagan Kingdom, It is possible to float over these spires in a hot air balloon. Bagan is a must-see. Ballooning is the more unconventional way of taking it all in and one that may not be possible for much longer depending on local laws. If ballooning over Bagan on your bucket list, we recommend not waiting too long.
5. UNCOVER THE SECRET OF CHIN STATE
Myanmar is a land of mystery and Chin State is the most mysterious region of all! This mountainous area draws adventures backpackers form around the world who are keen on hike spectacular trails admist pristine forest and cascading waterfalls. But aside from hiking, the major reason why Chin State draws visitors is due to the hill tribe who live here and have a strong tradition of facial tattooing. Now is the time to witness this ancient practice before it gets lost. 4
6. DELICIOUS FOOD
Although not as well-known as Vietnamese or Thai food, Myanmar cuisine is surprisingly tasty. The dishes blend influences from India, China and Thailand and vary region to region. There are some items that are completely unique to Myanmar, such as mohinga (a fish-based soup with rice noodles and loads of garnishes) and le pet thoke (salad of fermented tea leaves and fried beans). Be adventurous and try it all!
7. SCENIC NATURAL LANDSCAPES
Myanmar is a massive country with a relatively small population. There are miles upon miles of untouched landscapes - soaring mountains, pristine beaches and meandering waterways. Even in the big cities, like Mandalay, it is not only a short distance from the busy downtown streets to the rice paddies and countryside. Try to make at least one road trip or go for a bike ride on your Myanmar holiday to appreciate these beautiful sceneries.
8. MARVEL AT THE YANGON'S ICONIC SHWEDAGON
Lying on a small hill in Yangon, Shwedagon Pgoda is the biggest stupa in the country. It produces a golden light that can be viewed form almost anywhere in the city. THe 110m high stupa at Shwedagon Pagoda is covered with hundreds of gold plates while the top is encrusted with 4531 diamonds; the largest of which is 7 carat. The 2,500-year-old pagoda is absolutely oen of Asia's most striking sights. Don't leave without also visiting the golden-walled corner that cotains an enshrined piece of Buddha's hair. 
9. ULTIMATE IRRAWADDY RIVER CRUISING 
The Irrawaddy is one of the world's most enigmatic rivers and cruises use historic teak riverboats for added atmosphere, You can experience the legendary Irrawaddy river to enjoy beautiful sights and lush villages from 2 nights to 11 nights aboard the luxurious Sanctuary Ananda, The Strand, The Road to Mandalay, the majestic Anawrahta or the classic Pandaw fleets. 
10. WATCHING THE SUNSET OVER THE WORLD'S OLDEST TEAK BRIDGE
One of Burma's most photographed sights is the teak bridge at Amarapura, built over 1,000 posts. It can be visited with a guide from Mandalay. Local monks are often keen to practice their English as they cross.
11. REAL ADVENTURE
If you're looking for some off the beaten path trekking, you won't find a lusher landscape than that of Burma's jungle-clad limestone peaks, punctuated with hidden monasteries and relics of lost time. Most backpackers opt for a two day trek around the stilt villages of Inle Lake but for a real experience, head deep into the Shan highlands or South to Hp-Pan, where there are spectacular views to be soaked in.
12. STUNNING INLE LAKE
Explore Inle Lake in eastern Shan State. The scenic shallow lake, which sits 900 meters above sea level is famous for its overwater stilt houses and floating vegetable gardens skewered to the lake bed with bamboo poles. Fishermen are also known for their distintive "leg-rowing" technique.
13. TIME IS LIMITED ONLY
The reality is that Myanmar won't be like this forever. In fact, it's already changing. Those changes are signs of progress and are good for the Burmese people, but will ineveitably alter the country and your travel experience. If you want to catch a glimpse into the past, book a ticket to Myanmar sooner than later. 

2. Visa Requirement to Myanmar ?

The Goverment of Myanmar controls travel to, from, and within Myanmar. To enter Myanmar, you must have a valid passport with at least six months remaining validity and a valid visa. You should apply for your visa at a Burmese embassy or consulate abroad before you arrive in Myanmar. In Myanmar, you will be required to show your passport with a valid visa at all airports, train stations and hotels. Security checkpoints are common outside or tourist areas. 
Visa Information: The Goverment of Burma's eVisa program allows tourists and business travelers to apply for a visa online rather than physically applying at an embassy or consulate:
  • You are generally notified within a few days whether you have been pre-approved for a visa.
  • You must present the approval letter at immigration when you enter Burma.
  • Once you are approved for visa, the visa need to be used within three months. 
  • Apply at: Myanmar eVisa (Official Government Website). Be aware that non-official websites may be scam websites. 
The Goverment of Burma has a visas-on-arrival program for certain business travelers. The programs is available only to those with a formal letter of invitation form a business registered with the Burmese Ministry of Commerce, NOT to tourists.

3. Weather in Myanmar ?

Low Season (May-Sep): The southwest monsoon starts mid-May and peaks from July to September. The dry zone between Mandalay and Pyay gets the least rain. Rain can make roads impassable in the more remote areas.
Shoulder (Oct & Nov, Mar & Apr): March to May, Yangon often reaches 104ºF (40ºC). Areas around Bagan and Mandalay are hotter. It's cooler in the hills of Shan State. All forms of transport are booked solid during Thingyan in April.
High Season (Dec-Feb): The rainy season is over and it's not so hot. Book accommodation and transport well ahead for this busy travel season. 

4. Best time to visit Myanmar ?

The most comfortable time to visit is during the cool season from Nov to Feb, which is also the least humid time of year and has the clearest air - however, this is also the peak tourist season. If you can put up with the heat or rain, then you will find it easier (and often cheaper) to book accommodation outside the cool season and there will be less crowds at popular destinations. 
From February until the begining of the rainy season, much of the country (particularly north of Yangon) can be dusty and hazy, sometimes hindering long distance views.
Myanmar is a large country and temperatures can vary significantly. As a general rule, temperatures and humidity become lower at higher altitudes, in Chin State in the west and parts of Shan State in the east, temperatures can get close to freezing and in the Himalayan for north they may drop below zero.
Monsoon rains are the most persitent in Yangon and the south and west, in the centre of the country, around Mandalay and Bagan, showers will generally be more sporadic in the rainy season (and you are likely to experience more sunshine). 

5. What are the most remarkable landmarks in Myanmar ?

Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon: Located in the heart of Yangon, enchanting Shwedagon Pagoda is the most sacred Buddhist site in the country. This shimmering 2,500 year old temple site is covered in over 60 tonnes of gold leaf and was described as ‘a golden mystery’ by writer Rudyard Kipling. The complex houses many shrines, statues and stupas and is at its most picturesque at sunset.
Mount Popa: Said to be the remaining core of an extinct volcano, Mount Popa is a major pilgrimage destination. At the base of the rock is the Mahagiri shrine whilst, at the summit, is a collection of precariously sited monastic complexes, stupas and shrines. The main hilltop temple is reached by a stiff thirty minute climb and there are fabulous panoramic views.
Golden Rock Stupa, Kyaiktiyo: Unlike any other landmark in Burma, Kyaiktiyo’s balancing boulder-shaped Golden Rock rests perilously on a mountain-top ledge. Believed to be held in place by a delicately placed hair of the Buddha, this revered stupa is an important pilgrimage site and a place of prayer, meditation and contemplation. Kyaiktiyo is a half-day drive from Yangon.
Inle Lake: Home to the local Intha people, Inle Lake is famous for its wooden stilt villages, floating crops and fisherman that row in a unique ‘one-legged’ style. Many of the inhabitants continue to make a living from traditional industries such as silk weaving and cheroot making, whilst the small village of Indein is home to a number of 17th century pagodas.
The temples of Bagan: Once an ancient city of unparalleled importance and grandeur, today Bagan is one of the Asia’s foremost archaeological sites with thousands of temples dotting the vast flood plain of the Irrawaddy River. Built by a succession of kings, the stupas and temples are incredibly varied, large and small, intricate and plain. It is thought that around 3,000 of the original 10,000 temples remain.

6. Best Beaches in Myanmar ?

Ngapali Beach: This is a dream beach with seven kilometers of white sand fringed with palm trees. The turquoise sea is crystal clear. Several daily flights from Yangon -- a 45-minute flight -- help make this by far the most popular beach in Myanmar.
Ngwe Saung (Silver Beach): The sea is as clear as it is in Ngapali, but the area isn't as developed, making it a seriously laid back spot and a great place to do nothing after exploring the country.
Chuang Tha Beach: Close to Yangon, this beach is popular with middle-class families from the city. It's not as beautiful as Ngapali or Ngwe Saung beaches -- the sand isn't as white and the beachfront is a jumble of hotels -- but it's hugely popular, especially on weekends and holidays.
Kanthaya Beach: This is the Myanmar beach to hit if you really want to get away from development. Kanthaya Beach is unspoiled and undeveloped. There are no beachside sports and shops, and that's the attraction. You won't be able to book a hotel in advance, but you're sure to find a room when you arrive.

7. Top special dishes in Myanmar ?

Tea leaf salad 
This is the most popular Myanmar food. To make the dish, the sour, slightly bitter leaves are mixed by hand with shredded cabbage, sliced tomatoes, nuts and peas. The dish can be a snack, an appetizer or, coupled with a plate of rice.
Shan-style rice 
Known as fish rice, this Shan dish is among the most typical Myanmar food. It combines rice that's been cooked with turmeric and topped with flakes of freshwater fish and garlic oil. 
Curry 
The curry is a delicious meal to try with pork, fish, shrimp, beef or mutton. These include rice, a tart salad, a small dish of fried vegetables, a small bowl of soup and a large tray of fresh vegetables and herbs.
Deep-fried stuff
Myanmar has many popular fried foods. You can find many kinds of snacks on the street or in tea shops. The favorite food are deep-fried samosas, spring rolls, savory fritters, sweets, breads, noodles topped with deep-fried crispy garnishes.
Shan-style ‘tofu’ noodles 
The dish doesn’t include tofu, but a thick porridge made from chickpea flour. The sticky yellow stuff is served over thin rice noodles, marinated chicken or pork. 

8. How to get to Myanmar ?

The cheapest way to reach Myanmar from outside the region is usually to fly to a regional hub such as Ha Noi, Bangkok or Singapre. Current routes within Asia include flights to Yangon from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kuala Lumper, Singapore and Bangkok. Connections with Mandalay are limited to Dehong, Kunming and Bangkok. 

9. Cool & Unusual things to do in Myanmar ?

Find The Peaceful Temples Of Bagan
The ancient Buddhist temples of Bagan – thousands of them, spread all over the plains. Hot-air ballooning promises to bring to you unexpected experience to watch the temples, which were built between the 11th and 13th centuries from above. You can spend time on discovering the beautiful and largely deserted cluster of temples around Kyaukgu Umin or the east of the market town of Nyaung U. Hiring a bike hop into a horse and cart for a slow-paced tour are suggested to try.
Explore A Local Winery
It sounds a little strange for some people who go on Myanmar vacation for the first time that it had its own vineyards? And surprisingly good wine, too, if you visit the German-run Aythaya winery which was found in 1999 near Inle Lake. Standing in the top of the hillside vineyard, you can see a tiny boutique hotel, Monte DiVino Lodge, where bedrooms equipped balconies with views over the estate as well as provide a good place to enjoy a glass of the local rosé to hand.
Ride Motorbike On The Road From Mandalay
Zach Benoy is an American adventurer who moved to Myanmar 10 years ago and well known for his chicken farm in Pyin Oo Lwin. On the other side, he’s also a big motor-cyclist and offers interesting rents motorbikes as well as organized dedicated tours out of Mandalay. You can take a self-guided route, or discover the whole country led by Zach or one of his local guides.
Walk Under A Mountain To Buddhist Caves
Laid-back Hpa An, close to the Thai border, where you can admire impressive karst mountains which are similar to the structure of Halong Bay – one of the new 7 wonders of the world in Vietnam. The highlight is Sadan Cave, which opens into a gigantic cavern filled with Buddhas and pagodas and can be walked all the way through to the other side, under the mountain. The nearby attraction you can also visit is Hpa-An Lodge, where you can get a chance to book one of the 18 stylish teak cottages.
Enjoy Food In A Desert-Island Restaurant
Burmese seafood is the thing that you should try when visiting this country. One of the best places to sample them is in Ngapali. Tailor your way to the Pleasant View Islet Restaurant for stunning views of the beach and bay. As it’s on an islet, you can wade to the restaurant at low tide and take a rope-propelled boat back at high tide.

10. Do and Don't in Myanmar

Do:
  • Respect the Myanmar people and their unique traditions: Visitors are not asked to abandon their ways, they are asked to adapt to the Myanmar enviroment.
  • Respect the elder: Let the oldest be served first and bend a bit when crossing close in front of the elders.
  • Wear decent clothes when visiting religious sites: Please cover your shoulders and knees, and take off your shoes and socks when entering pagoda areas.
  • Keep the feet on the ground: Do not tuck away your feet, when you sit, your legs should not be streched out and your feet should never face the Buddha.
  • To maintain Myanmar's unique heritage, do not buy antiques. Buy arts and crafts instead: Myanmar loses its heritage every.
Don't:
  • Don't sit with back against Buddha image. Don't handle Buddha images or sacred object with direspect. Don't keep Buddha images or sacred objects in inappropriate places.
  • Don't offer to shake hands with a monk. Women should touch a monk.
  • Don't step on others shadow or any part of their bodies: Don't point a finger straight in others' faces. Don't point with your foot: In Myanmar the feet convey messages. Pointing with your feet means disrespect.
  • Don't touch anybody on the head: The head is the most esteemed part of the body. To be touched on the head is considered aggressive.
  • Don't touch a woman on any part of her body.
  • Don't gamble.
  • Don't go where you are advised not to go: Myanmar is slowly opening up and more destinations will be accessible to foreigners in the future.
  • Don't kiss in the public: Displaying physical closeness in public places is frowned upon in Myanmar. 
  • Don't disturb people praying or meditating: Visitors should avoid loud talk and should take care not to touch people mediating.

Meet our Expert

Ms. Vui
Ms. Vui
I’m proud to represent GrandViet Tour and to help you find your perfect vacation. Before you book elsewhere, check with me please! You will receive added benefit of booking with GrandViet Tour as well.
(+84) 098 314 0217 
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