Myanmar Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Myanmar
Fisherman on serene Inle Lake
Best of Myanmar: Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake, & More - 14 Days

Get ready to experience the wonders of Myanmar. Featuring encounters with native tribes and peaceful bike rides through rice paddies, this two-week trip takes you to Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake, and Yangon, wrapping up with a beach break at Ngapali, one of Southeast Asia's most beautiful stretches of shoreline.

Yangon, Myanmar
Map of Highlights of Myanmar & Thailand - 22 Days
Highlights of Myanmar & Thailand - 22 Days

Adventurous travelers looking for an extensive trip in Southeast Asia will enjoy this 22-day itinerary that will allow you to see all of the best sites in Myanmar and Thailand. You'll begin your journey in the former colonial city of Yangon, Myanmar before heading off to see ancient some of the country's most famous temples and pagodas. Then, enjoy a few outdoor activities around Inle Lake before you jet off to Thailand and experience the exciting energy of Bangkok. End your active trip with a few days of rest and relaxation on some of the most beautiful islands in the world in Koh Lanta.

Krabi
Map of Highlights of Myanmar & Thailand Island Hopping - 11 Days
Highlights of Myanmar & Thailand Island Hopping - 11 Days

Myanmar and Thailand are two of the most exciting Southeast Asian destinations. This 11-day tour includes a variety of highlights from both countries, including the cultural riches of Myanmar, and the beautiful tropical beaches of Thailand. Explore the ancient temples of Bagan, be amazed by the glittering gold Shwedagon Temple in Yangon, and cruise around Inle Lake. Then, spend several days relaxing on beaches and island hopping around Krabi.

Inle Lake
Map of Myanmar & Thailand for Families - 19 Days
Myanmar & Thailand for Families - 19 Days

This 19-day tour of Myanmar and Thailand has been especially designed for families with children aged six and above, as there's a delightful combination of activity and down time, natural and cultural sights. Create happy memories cruising on Inle Lake, touring the sparkling pagodas of Myanmar, island hopping and relaxing on beaches in Thailand, and much more. All family members, young and old, will find many experiences to enjoy on this unforgettable tour of some of Southeast Asia's highlights.

A woman harvesting red chili near Kalaw, Myanmar
Map of 14 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
14 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Travelers with two weeks in Myanmar can take a grand tour of the country, stopping in must-see places like Mandalay, Inle Lake, Bagan, Yangon, and Ngapali Beach. Those interested in local culture will have time to incorporate activities like cooking classes and a stop at a "retirement home" for elephants, while an adventurous itinerary can include biking and trekking. A multi-country trip is also possible, spending a week each in Myanmar and Thailand.

A boat below U Bein Bridge in Mandalay, Myanmar
Myanmar & Thailand Adventure - 14 Days

Experience the natural wonders and cultural highlights of two countries—Myanmar and Thailand—on this two-week journey. You'll see magnificent temples in Bagan, the "World's Biggest Book" in Mandalay, and floating gardens on Inle Lake in Myanmar before moving onto Thailand to see the famous floating market of Damnoen Saduak in Bangkok and the ruins of Ayutthaya, a city that was almost entirely destroyed in the late 18th century. Then finish the fast-paced trip with a few days of relaxation on the island paradise of Phuket.

Cycling on a trail outside of Yangon, Myanmar
Cycle Myanmar - 14 Days

Hit the trails to see Myanmar on two wheels. This active 14-day trip takes you through the country's main destinations and lesser-known towns, giving you the chance to discover Myanmar's culture, history, and landscapes at a slow pace. From pointing out major temples to leading you along hidden trails, your local guide is an invaluable resource—and a support vehicle is always on hand if any problems arise. Grab a bicycle and get ready for an adventure!

Scenery in the Shan Hills, Myanmar
Myanmar Adventure Tour- 14 Days

Forget the typical tour bus holiday: lace up your trekking boots, grab a bike, and bring a sense of adventure to discover the real beauty of Myanmar on this outdoorsy holiday. Spend two weeks exploring the country’s main sites and hidden gems—from U Bein Bridge and the temples of Bagan to a day with elephants in Kalaw—forging a closer connection with the people and culture that make Myanmar so special.

Sunset over the Andaman Sea on the Myeik Archipelago
Map of 7 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Spend a week in Myanmar, and you can easily tour the highlights of two cities, plus a side trip to one of the country's famed natural areas. Pair Bagan and Yangon, for example, with a trip to the famed Inle Lake. Or, focus on a smaller region, like the tropical Myeik Archipelago or off-the-beaten-path Eastern Myanmar. Ride the "Death Railway," snorkel with whale sharks, take a cooking class in a local home, or cycle to a Buddhist nunnery: learn more in these five unique itineraries.

Ngapali Beach, Myanmar
Map of 5 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Even if you have less than a week to explore Myanmar, you can still visit more than one region—just as long as you're prepared to take a few domestic flights. Pair Mandalay with Bagan, or hop between Yangon, Bagan, and the famed Inle Lake. You can also spend your days snorkeling off Ngapali Beach, pedaling through rice paddies on a bike tour of the Shan State, or touring the shrines and pagodas of hidden Myanmar.

The Golden Rock, Myanmar
Map of 10 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With ten days in Myanmar, it's possible to spend ample time in each of the country's three major cities—Yangon, Bagan, and Mandalay—plus day trips. The itineraries below include a wide range of activity and tour options: cooking classes, countryside cycling tours, a cultural visit to a Buddhist nunnery, and a hot air balloon ride over the temples of Bagan. For a multi-country adventure, you can even cross the border and combine five days in Myanmar with five more in Thailand.

A traditional method of fishing on Inle Lake
Map of Myanmar & Thailand Adventure - 10 Days
Myanmar & Thailand Adventure - 10 Days

You don't have to choose between Myanmar and Thailand: this ten-day itinerary takes you to both. View the magnificent temples of Bagan from above, see the floating gardens of Inle Lake, and go for a river cruise in Myanmar before crossing the border to Thailand, where hot springs, beaches, and impressive cultural sights—like Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi—await.

Tourists exploring Inle Lake
Map of Best of Yangon, Bagan, & Inle Lake- 7 Days
Best of Yangon, Bagan, & Inle Lake- 7 Days

From serene temples to bustling markets, city landscapes to divine natural paradises, this weeklong trip showcases the diversity of Myanmar. Start in intriguing Yangon, travel to temple-filled Bagan, then touch down in tranquil Inle Lake, where you'll boat past floating gardens and traditional villages built on stilts. After seven days, you'll wish you could stay longer.

Hot air balloons over the temples of Bagan
Best of Yangon, Bagan, Inle & Loikaw - 10 Days

Discover a treasure trove of cultural wonders on this adventure around Myanmar. As you travel from Yangon to Bagan to Inle Lake, you'll be immersed in rich local culture and see incredible sites, including Shwedagon Pagoda, floating gardens, and traditional villages in Loikaw, a region only recently opened to tourism.

Wat Arun Ratchawararam - Temple of Dawn
Culture, History, and Adventure in Myanmar & Thailand - 14 Days

This remarkable leisure journey will walk you through time, exposing you to history, culture, and heaven on earth beaches. You will visit famous temples and shrines, shop food and souvenirs aboard a boat, and experience one of the world's famous cities—Bangkok. Every day will bring something different, making it the ideal experience for anyone who enjoys variation, tranquility, and exploration.

Tourists on a boat in the Shan State
Yangon and the Shan State Adventure - 5 days

Experience the contrasts of Myanmar in just five days with this adventure in Yangon and the Shan State. Highlights include a visit to glittering Shwedagon Pagoda and the bustling street markets of the capital, interaction with ethnic groups in the town of Pindaya, a day trekking in the highlands, and a bike ride along the shores of Inle Lake.

The plains of Bagan
The Best of Yangon, Bagan and Inle Lake- 5 Days

From serene temples to bustling markets, city sightseeing to beautiful landscapes, this five-day trip showcases the diversity of Myanmar. Start in intriguing Yangon, travel to temple-filled Bagan, then touch down in tranquil Inle Lake.

Myanmar in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Myanmar in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

December is one of the best months of the year to visit Myanmar. The weather is warm but not suffocatingly hot, and there's virtually no rain anywhere in sight. The flip-side to the amazing weather, of course, is that it attracts a lot of people—the second half of December through mid-January is the busiest time of year. That means you won't have those idyllic Mandalay sunrises all to yourself as you might in June, but most people find it worth braving the crowds. 

Myanmar in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Myanmar in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The month of November, which marks the kickoff of peak tourist season, is without a doubt one of the best times to visit Myanmar. The temperatures drop to a more comfortable level and the rains dry up. The coasts become sunny and beautiful, and in the mountains the scenery is stunning. It's a time when you can visit virtually any part of the country and find pleasant, travel-friendly weather. 

Myanmar in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Myanmar in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is a fantastic time of year to visit Myanmar. After a long wet season, the rain finally begins tapering off and the storms on the coast let up. People start arriving again and, though you won't enjoy the same lack of crowds that you do in the middle of August, it's nevertheless much less busy than during peak season. For this reason, you can often find good deals on hotels, too. 

Myanmar in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Myanmar in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

If you like mountains, temples, and historic ruins, September is a great month to visit Myanmar. It's a shoulder month that comes at the end of the wet season, offering decent weather without many crowds. Although the beaches remain closed due to rainfall, other parts of the country beginning seeing less rain and nicer weather. It's still a hot part of the season but it's not sweltering like it is in April or May. Plus, the crowds taper back significantly so you can soak up the scenery without hordes of tourists everywhere. 

Myanmar in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Myanmar in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

In August, the wet season is in full effect, and though that makes some places more lush and beautiful, it also means you're likely to experience some heavy downpours. That said—it's not monsoon weather everywhere in the country. Although the coast and southern cities get hit hard, there are plenty of regions in the north and around the mountains that are spared some of the heavy flooding and torrential downpours. The weather is still warm and, best of all, the crowds completely disappear.  

Myanmar in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Myanmar in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

If you don't mind the rain, July is a wonderful time to visit Myanmar. The big tourist crowds disappear. and in Myanmar's "Big Four" destinations (Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake, and Yangon), you'll find not only fewer people but also lower prices. The downside, of course, is that aside from August, July is the wettest month of the year. That said, most destinations in the north receive regular breaks of sunshine throughout the day, during which you can wander around comfortably and explore the sites.

Shwe Dagon pagoda It is located in the center of Yangon, Myanmar, June-2017
Myanmar in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

June kicks off the rainy season, but temperatures are warm and it can still be an excellent time to visit, depending where you go. The wet weather keeps crowds away, so you'll have the tourist sites virtually to yourself. And since the showers are scattered, you can be outside without getting poured on, a good thing since the scenery is gorgeous this time of year—there's foliage everywhere and Myanmar's botanical gardens come to life. 

Yangon, Myanmar-May 6th 2014: Buildings in Shwedagon Pagoda. The pagoda is the most sacred in all of Myanmar.
Myanmar in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Although not quite as hot as April (the hottest month of the year), May nevertheless sees above-average temperatures in Myanmar, especially during the first half of the month. This is a good time to head to the mountains or hit some of the drier parts of the coast, as much of the central plains (Mandalay, Bagan, and Yangon) will be uncomfortably hot. This can actually be a fantastic time to plan a trip, even to the hotter areas, because the rain is light and crowds are few.

Many ancient temples in Bagan, Myanmar. Bagan is an ancient city in central Myanmar (formerly Burma), southwest of Mandalay.
Myanmar in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

April is low season in Myanmar due to the extreme heat in many parts of the country. The mountains are a bit cooler around Inle Lake and Kalaw but the big tourist cities of Mandalay, Bagan, and Yangon are typically scorching throughout the month. The upside? Skies are clear almost every day, and in the middle of the month, locals celebrate their New Year with fun festivities. This is also a great time to take advantage of the crowdless beaches and cooler mountain towns.

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda also known as Golden Rock is a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site in Myanmar, Night view of Burmese pagoda, Golden rock, Balancing rock, Mon State, Burma, Myanmar
Myanmar in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

March is a shoulder season in Myanmar. You don't have to worry about rain, although the increasing temperatures—which range from 81 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit—can be uncomfortable in the central plains and other open valleys. Generally speaking, it's a more pleasant time to be in the mountains where it's cooler, or on the coast where you can spend your time in the ocean or sitting by the pool. Crowds thin out significantly compared to February, so you won't have to contend with as many fellow tourists. 

INLE, MYANMAR - NOVEMBER 28: Three fishermen perform the old traditional fishing method on the 28th of November 2018 in Myanmar at sunrise. Fishing with special shaped fishnets and the one legged rowing style is distinctive for Myanmar.
Myanmar in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

February is one of the best times to visit Myanmar—especially the first half of the month, before the temperatures start to rise. With warm, dry weather, it's a wonderful time just about everywhere in the country. The downside is that these pleasant conditions also make it fairly crowded—hotels are more expensive, guided tours fill up, and most of the tourist spots have crowds. Still, it's a fantastic time to visit.  

Myanmar in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Myanmar in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

January is one of the best times of the year to visit Myanmar. Weather is at its finest—temperatures range from 70 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, and it's drier than other times of the year. You'll enjoy a warm, pleasant atmosphere that isn't hot and sweltering (like it can be in April or May), nor rainy and wet (like July or August). The only drawback to visiting in January is that crowds are usually thick, and lodging tends to be more expensive.

Sunrise over Bagan
Map of Explore Myanmar: Yangon, Bagan, Gwa, & Ngapali - 10 Days
Explore Myanmar: Yangon, Bagan, Gwa, & Ngapali - 10 Days

On this 10-day tour of Myanmar, learn about the history and culture of this Southeast Asian gem. Begin in Yangon to visit colonial streets, markets, and Shwedagon Pagoda. Next, fly to Bagan to explore the ancient temples—there are more than 2,000, total—and enjoy a cooking class hosted by a local cook. Then, check in to the eco-friendly Arakan Nature Lodge in Gwa, and enjoy the beach. The trip concludes in Ngapali Beach, with its iconic palm trees and fresh seafood.

Temple visitors
Map of Luxury & Adventure  in Myanmar - 9 Days
Luxury & Adventure in Myanmar - 9 Days

Spend nine days traversing the sights of Myanmar on this itinerary. You'll visit the urban highlights of Mandalay and Yangon, cruise through the heart of the country down the Irrawaddy River, soar above the 3,000 pagodas of Bagan in a hot air balloon at sunrise, and sample handicrafts in village markets as you make your way through your tour.

Biking cross the U Bein Bridge
Map of Explore Myanmar by Bike - 10 Days
Explore Myanmar by Bike - 10 Days

Explore Myanmar's stunning and diverse landscapes by bike. Start in the bustling Yangon to see busy Bogoyoke Aun San Market and the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda, then visit the sprawling temples of Bagan. See historical sites in the ancient capital of Mandalay and Amarapura. End your journey with a ride around the famed Inle Lake to explore local culture, meet local Inthar artisans, and enjoy the beauty of Myanmar's lush countryside.

The Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda
Map of Highlights of Myanmar - 10 Days
Highlights of Myanmar - 10 Days

This highlights itinerary checks off Myanmar's top historic and natural sites. Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda and busy markets in Yangon, explore nature in Shan and Kayah States, and explore the world-famous Bagan archaeological site. Walk across the world's longest teakwood bridge on Inle Lake and tour the revered Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, then end the trip with two days of tropical sunshine and turquoise water in the Myeik Archipelago.

Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar's most scared Buddhist pagoda
Map of Explore Buddhism in Myanmar - 15 Days
Explore Buddhism in Myanmar - 15 Days

This packed itinerary checks off Myanmar's top Buddhist sites. Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda and busy markets in Yangon, explore monasteries in Mon State, and tour the world-famous Bagan archaeological site. Finish your trip in Mandalay to see the splendid former capital Inwa, the world's longest teakwood bridge on Inle Lake, and the 17th-century Indein pagodas.

Turquoise water and white sand beaches in Myeik
Map of Diving the Myeik Archipelago - 7 Days
Diving the Myeik Archipelago - 7 Days

Explore Myanmar's best diving locations with this packed itinerary. Enjoy miles of empty white sand beaches, spend time learning about the local cultures, and dive in world-class underwater caves. Spend your days discovering the vibrant underwater world, where sharks, stingrays, and thousands of fish live among the colorful soft coral.

Sulamani Temple, Bagan
Map of The Culture & Heritage of Myanmar - 12 Days
The Culture & Heritage of Myanmar - 12 Days

This 12-day trip makes for an excellent introduction to the cultural highlights of Myanmar. You'll tour pagodas and temples, visit cities and tiny villages, and get a real sense of the country's strong ties to Buddhism and of its British colonial past. You'll roam the buzzing streets of Yangon, watch the sunset over the temples of Bagan, take a long-tailed boat tour of Inle Lake, and so much more!

The pagodas of Bagan
Map of Highlights of Myanmar - 12 Days
Highlights of Myanmar - 12 Days

Experience vibrant Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, on this 12-day tour of the highlights. From the buzzing and colorful city streets of Yangon to the magnificent Inle Lake, this trip offers something for everyone. Find hidden treasures in the bustling markets, relax in the countryside of Kalaw and the Shan Hills, and explore culture and religion as you tour ancient pagodas and temples.

Traveler Interview: Multi-Country Trip to Asia
Traveler Interview: Multi-Country Trip to Asia

Jo and Jens are no strangers to the Himalaya. With plenty of trekking experience in Bhutan and Tibet, this ambitious couple set their sights on the Three Passes Circuit in Nepal. But that only piqued their appetite for adventure - after sixteen days of trekking, they headed to Myanmar for a totally different kind of fun, complete with a hot air balloon ride over the floating gardens of Inle Lake. Read on to hear more of Jo's travel reflections.

Traveler Interview: Off the Beaten Path in Myanmar
Traveler Interview: Off the Beaten Path in Myanmar

It's an understatement to call kimkim traveler Sara Pfrommer an experienced traveler. She recently returned from nearly four years of round-the-world travel, and her itch to explore continues bringing her to new places. Myanmar, still off the well-trodden Southeast Asia tourist circuit, was the location of her most recent adventure. Read on to see what surprised her most about Myanmar, and where she's going next!

Novice monks in a pagoda in Bagan
Festivals of Myanmar: Complete Guide

Myanmar is an amazing place to witness some of the most unique festivals in the world. There is always something taking place somewhere in the country. Most festivals are cultural and religious, offering intriguing and colorful experiences for visitors. Dates change each year, so check which will be on while you're traveling through the country. It's a particularly good idea to look out for the lively pagoda festivals, which happen regularly and throughout Myanmar.

Sunset over ancient pagodas in Bagan
How Many Days Should You Spend in Myanmar?

Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to explore Myanmar. If you have less time, you can still have a great experience but it requires careful planning. At a minimum, five days is enough to give you a taste of the country’s history and culture by visiting two of Myanmar’s “Big Four” destinations.

Kalaw, Shan State
Map of Local Highlights of Yangon, Bagan and Inle Lake - 8 Days
Local Highlights of Yangon, Bagan and Inle Lake - 8 Days

This 8-day itinerary provides a local perspective on the main highlights of Myanmar — Yangon, Bagan, and Inle Lake. You'll dine with a local family, visit lively markets and places of pilgrimage, and enjoy the company of knowledgeable local guides who will share their stories and insights.

Young novice monks
Map of Magical Myanmar Cultural Tour - 10 Days
Magical Myanmar Cultural Tour - 10 Days

Experience the remarkable culture of Myanmar on a 10-day journey through the 'Golden Land'. From Mandalay to Bagan and on to Yangon, each day you'll connect with the country's friendly people and rich traditions. This tour focuses on unique experiences that go beyond the classic sightseeing holiday.

Young Buddhist nuns preparing offerings
Map of Essential Myanmar - 2 Weeks
Essential Myanmar - 2 Weeks

Discover the best of Myanmar at a relaxed pace on this two-week itinerary. You'll start and end in Yangon, stopping along the way to wander through the ancient temples of Bagan, explore the former royal capital of Mandalay, and gaze upon the spectacular waters of Inle Lake. We've also included a few local neighborhoods and hidden corners not featured in most ordinary Myanmar journeys.

South of Myanmar
Map of Best of Southern Myanmar - 7 Days
Best of Southern Myanmar - 7 Days

If the idea of combining stunning mountains and white sandy beaches into one trip sounds good to you, then this is your trip. The narrow southern region of Myanmar is a fascinating, largely uncharted place that combines farming villages, colonial history, and pristine islands.

Indein
Map of Eastern Myanmar: Off-the-Beaten-Path in 7 Days
Eastern Myanmar: Off-the-Beaten-Path in 7 Days

Discover the eastern part of Myanmar, with its numerous breathtaking historical sites and gorgeous nature. Wander through magical Buddhist monuments at Indein and Pindaya, visit Inle Lake, and explore untouched places by boat. You'll enjoy the stunning nature while getting a taste of local life among the villages and markets of Myanmar.

Ngapali beach
Map of Ngapali Beach Getaway - 5 Days
Ngapali Beach Getaway - 5 Days

Ngapali Beach is a great place to relax and recover after a busy tour of Myanmar's cities and cultural heritage sites. Its palm-fringed sandy beaches and crystal clear waters are as good as (if not better than!) any of its more famous Thai counterparts. This is definitely paradise!

Views from the hills around Kyauk Me
Map of Northern Myanmar Multisport Adventure - 7 Days
Northern Myanmar Multisport Adventure - 7 Days

If local villages, meandering rivers, and spectacular vistas are your thing, then this is the trip for you. Spend a week exploring the hidden corners of northeast Myanmar where a diverse mix of historic sites and hill tribe hamlets beckon the intrepid traveler.