Burma (officially Myanmar) is an exciting destination that lies to the left of Thailand. Just like Laos, Burma is a country that often remains in the background in favor of the more popular countries Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.
The reason why Burma stays in the background is partly due to the absence of modern society, but that’s also the charm. Burma is usually compared to how Thailand was before tourism, and although more and more people have found their way into to Burma, it is still a destination that few people have visited, and even less explored properly.
Here is a list with some of the best tourist attractions of Burma and top things to do.
Inle Lake
This place attracts photographers from all over the world, thanks to the traditional fishermen who live here. Their unique way to control their fishing boat has given rise to many beautiful travel photos.
But it’s not just the fishermen that attract visitors. The nature around Inle Lake is also absolutely stunning.
Ayeyarwady boat trip
This river is the longest river in Myanmar, starting at the foot of the Himalayas. Along the river, you can go to the ancient city of Bagan and Mandalay, and experience beautiful nature and landscape in an exciting way.
The river flows within canyons and jungle both sides and along the waterfront, one could also see and visit many traditional villages.
Hot Air Balloon over Bagan
Bagan is the reason that most tourists come to Burma, and although there is much else to see in Burma, the ancient city of Bagan is an unbeatable location.
Bagan is home to thousands of temples and pagodas derived from a bygone era.
The landscape around is green and wild. Most popular is to go on Hot Air Balloon tour above the enormous temple area. A memory for life!
Ngapali
When you think of Burma, I hardly think that beaches are the first thing that pops up in your head, but Ngapali actually got some real paradise beaches with white sand and clean water. If you already have been to Thailand and looking for something more authentic and less touristy, Ngapali would be a good destination for swimming and sunbathing.
“The high season” is running from November to March, but even then it is calm and quiet compared to Thailand’s resorts.
Shwedagon Pagoda
In Burma’s capital, Rangoon one will find a spectacular pagoda named Schwedagon. According to the legend, the pagoda is home to several relics of the Buddha, with the most famous one being a strand of Buddha’s hair.
Schwedagon Pagoda was built over 2500 years ago and is thus an ancient pagoda, which is totally worth a visit.
Golden Rock
A well-known pilgrimage site among Buddhists in Burma and other Southeast Asian countries. The Golden Rock is a beautiful pagoda on top of a gigantic boulder that looks like it will fall over the edge at any second.
This is also the reason why many pilgrims visit Golden Rock, where it is believed that the boulder is held in place thanks to a miracle of the Lord Buddha.
Taung Kalat
Do you dream of places far away from the modern civilization? Then Taung Kalat is the place for you. This Buddhist temple is namely situated atop an extinct volcano. From here you get a great view, as with clear skies goes all the way to Bagan, located about 50 kilometers from the temple.
It doesn’t get much more harmonious than this.
Mrauk U
Mrauk U is a historic town which used to be the capital of the Arakanese Kingdom. Once there, there are many stone temples to admire. If you are interested in history, mainly Burmese history, it is well worth a visit, but otherwise it can be quite tricky to get here, even if the trip to Mrauk U is spectacular by itself.
To get here, you go by boat along Kaladan river. The trip takes about 4-7 hours.
Shwenandaw monastery
In Mandalay, you will find this historical Buddhist monastery that’s beautifully decorated with a lot of details and sculptures. This monastery was previously one of the palace complex in Mandalay and is still one of Burma’s most prominent buildings.
Pindaya Caves
These caves are without doubt one of Myanmar’s best attractions. In Pindayagrottorna are more than 8000 pieces of images and sculptures depicting Buddha. What speaks against a visit here, is that it is far from other popular destinations like Mandalay, Bagan, and Rangoon.
Hassanphyo
Saturday 25th of November 2017
hey Alex it's just awesome. thank you for your great writing, And Taung Kalat its really awesome it is like my dream. it's really catchy place. And special thanks for giving me Hot Air Balloon over Bagan information.