From the ancient temples of Bagan to the serene beauty of Inle Lake, Myanmar is a country steeped in history and natural wonders. The people are incredibly warm and welcoming. Please observe the local culture and customs to show respect when in Myanmar. 

 Removing your shoes before entering someone's home or a religious site is a common practice in Myanmar. It signifies respect and cleanliness. It's a good idea to observe to see if others are removing their shoes and follow suit. 

 In Myanmar, shaking hands is not as common as in Western cultures. Instead, it's more respectful to put your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and give a slight bow to greet others.
 

 Before you depart from Kalaw, it's essential to take some time to rest. Trust me, especially if you've endured a lengthy bus ride from Bangkok, you'll understand the importance. Additionally, I highly recommend exploring Kalaw a bit before moving on. Compared to the majority of towns I visited in Southeast Asia, Kalaw exudes a more off-the-beaten-track vibe.

This serene town primarily serves as a starting point for the Kalaw to Inle Lake Trek, and it possesses an undeniable charm. It's worth noting that a significant portion of the local economy thrives on tourists who embark on this trek.

The market in Kalaw is truly authentic. Prior to embarking on my long hike to Inle Lake, I purchased a few pieces of fruit there. While the market primarily offers vegetables and a few other items sourced from local villagers, I found the town refreshingly original. It served as a reminder of the true essence of my Southeast Asian adventure: the spirit of exploration.

Reference:

$ Usually under USD 10.00

$$ Usually USD 10-15.00

$ Golden Kalaw Inn If you are looking for a friendly budget stay at a quiet guesthouse, the Golden Kalaw Inn is a great option.

Extra Perks: Free breakfast, laundry service available

Located Near: City center

$$ Sky Motel Kalaw This guesthouse will allow you to stay in a 

private room at a minimal cost.

Extra Perks: free breakfast, cable TV

Located Near: Kalaw station (16 minute walk)

 Embarking on a boat tour at Inle Lake, Myanmar, was an irresistible opportunity to explore this captivating destination. I was fascinated by the skilled Intha fishermen rowing with one leg, showcasing their remarkable tradition.

Booking the tour was a breeze, with plenty of motorized canoes available from local owners. Opting for an inexpensive option, I set off on a memorable voyage through this unique area of Myanmar.

Cruising through a maze of floating villages, I marveled at the houses standing on elegant wooden stilts—an impressive testament to the adaptability of the local community. Each village had its own charm, revealing the harmonious lifestyle revolving around the lake.

The tour led me to Phaung Daw Oo Paya, a floating temple that defied gravity. Resting gracefully on the calm waters, it exuded a serene and spiritual atmosphere, leaving me in awe.

During the journey, we made intriguing stop-offs, immersing ourselves in local culture. I witnessed the skilled work of a traditional blacksmith, witnessing art come to life amidst the rhythmic clang of hammer on metal. I also savored the flavors of banana leaf cigars, a delightful experience steeped in the rich heritage of the region.

Undoubtedly, the boat tour on Inle Lake left an indelible mark. The tranquil waters, mesmerizing villages, and authentic traditions merged to create an unforgettable experience. The beauty and resilience of a life intertwined with nature were truly appreciated.

Inle Lake continues to enchant visitors worldwide with its unique blend of natural wonders and vibrant cultural heritage. Bid farewell to this enchanting destination, carrying the timeless beauty and serenity of Inle Lake—a treasure trove of unforgettable memories.

 A hidden gem nestled in the village of Nanthe. Standing at an impressive 26 feet, this ancient Buddha statue has captivated visitors for over 700 years. Its enchanting rural setting and exquisite design make it a truly unique masterpiece. Surrounded by serene countryside, this sacred site offers a moment of reflection and connection to something greater. 

Marvel at the intricate details and sense of peace conveyed by the Buddha's gentle smile and graceful posture. Embark on a spiritual journey as you witness the enduring power of faith and artistry. Let the enchanting countryside guide you to this sacred sanctuary, where time, nature, and spirituality intertwine, leaving an indelible impression on your heart and soul. 

The countryside surrounding Inle Lake is Beautiful. For a couple of bucks per day, you can have transportation to take you along country rides, through rural villages, and to local markets. I spent a whole day biking at Inle Lake without going to a particular destination. That is what slow travel is all about. You don't always have to have an itinerary when traveling for a long time or even for a short holiday. It is about enjoying life and living it to the fullest, embracing every moment and every experience.

Watching locals roll leaf cigars or cheroots is an enjoyable experience, and since Inle Lake is famous for making them, it is part of the experience. During my tour, I visited a "factory" in the floating village and sat while watching the process. This factory consists of a group of workers sitting with the ingredients in a large bowl who assemble the final product, which is then shipped to locations around Myanmar. Each worker can roll between 500-800 daily, so they are skilled at their craft. I couldn't visit without at least giving one a try.

I will preface this by saying that I am not a smoker, but I am all about enjoying the whole experience of others' cultures. This is why I purchased a few to sample, as they are very inexpensive at a little over a dollar USD for a pack of 10. I thought the cigars would be harsh, but the taste was smooth. Flavorings include honey, mango, and banana. The cheroots contain a mixture of tobacco, bark, stems, roots, and sundry leaves wrapped in a corn husk tied with a red silk thread and held together by a glue made of sticky rice. 

I probably would smoke one again when in Myanmar. I enjoyed my visit to the factory. The people in this region of Myanmar are fascinating, and I love that I was able to see some important aspects of their day-to-day lives.

As with many of the points of interest in Myanmar, the Anisakan Waterfall is underrated. It could be that this destination is out of the way and can be challenging to find if you are inexperienced in navigating Southeast Asia. Even GPS isn't that accurate for some locations. It is definitely worth the journey to see the fall. There were only a few other travelers near the falls when I arrived. At one point, I was the only person there, which gave me time to reflect on my time in Myanmar and my entire trip to Southeast Asia. 

I ended up renting a scooter and riding it on the falls. It is much easier to rent a scooter than to rely on taxis to and from your guest house. Either way, it is a long walk from the "parking lot" before descending a valley to the waterfall. I recommend bringing an extra water bottle, especially during the hot season from March-May. Of course, I was there during March, so I was ready for the falls when I arrived. Crystal clear blue water greeted me after the long walk to Anisakan falls, and I needed it to cool down. It was superb. 

Note: There is no fee to enter the falls as of August 2022. If you take your own scooter you will have to pay a negligible fee for parking at the trail entrance. 

Standing as a landmark in the town center of Pyin Oo Lwin, the Purcell Tower also serves as a reminder of Great Britain's colonial rule. This clock tower which imitates the chimes of Big Ben, was completed in 1934 in commemoration of the 25th year of the reign of King George V of Britain. It is located along Mandalay-Lashio Road, the main road that runs straight through town. 

The hostel I was staying at had free bikes to use, so as I rode along the main street, I could observe the tower. I always find it interesting to see structures that look out of place in Asia, and the Purcell Tower is one of them. After spending so much time in Southeast Asia, I have seen a lot of remnants of colonial rule in the region. You never forget you are Asia, though, because they never lost their culture even as the remnants of the oppressive rule. 

Peik Chin Myaung Cave is a popular tourist attraction located in Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar. The cave is known for its large size and stunning natural formations.

The entrance to the cave is adorned with beautiful Buddha statues and traditional decorations. Inside, visitors will find a series of chambers and passageways that stretch for several kilometers. The walls of the cave are decorated with intricate limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites.

Peik Chin Myaung Cave is not only a natural wonder but also a religious site. Throughout the cave, there are numerous shrines and Buddha statues, which are worshipped by local residents. The cave is particularly busy during religious festivals, when thousands of pilgrims come to pay their respects.

Aside from its natural and religious significance, Peik Chin Myaung Cave also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The cave is located on the edge of a limestone mountain range, and from its entrance, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque countryside.

Cost: No Entrance Fee

Hours: Daily 6:00 AM  - 6:00 PM 

Photo Credit: www.myanmartours.us

The U Bein Bridge is a walking bridge built to cross Taungthaman Lake near Amarapura in Myanmar. Built in 1850, it is one of the world's longest and oldest teakwood bridges. It is also known as one of the most dangerous walking bridges in the world because it is tall, busy, and has no safety rails. There are also fears that the heavy traffic, in combination with the deterioration of parts of the old bridge, will make this even more dangerous. For now, though, this bridge serves as an important passageway for locals, and it has also become a huge tourist destination in Mandalay, which has helped the local economy. 

During my visit, I walked across the bridge. Due to the time of the year I visited, the lake water levels were low. Pictures don't do justice to showing how high up this bridge is. The bridge leads from one village to another, and you have magnificent views along the way. In Myanmar, western faces are still not as prevalent as in other Southeast Asian places, so you can plan on taking pictures with locals who will go out of their way to ask for a photo with you. With all my travel around Southeast Asia, I have been featured on multiple social media accounts. I love that, though, because it means I'm at least a little off the beaten path, which is always my happy place. 

Hours: Daily 24 Hours

Admission: Free

Northeast of the moat that surrounds the Mandalay Palace, you will find the Sandamuni Pagoda. This pagoda is one of the most famous pagodas in Myanmar. The Kuthodaw Pagoda, one of the other incredible sites in Mandalay, is right next to it, so you can see both without having to find another ride or move your scooter if you rented one as I did. 

Surrounding the gold stupa are many smaller, white-colored stupas, which blend in with the white stone structures containing the world's largest book. The contents of the most significant golden stupa are what sets it apart. It includes the world's largest iron Buddha covered in an outer layer of gold, which weighs over 41,000 pounds. I want to put that into perspective; a semi-truck hooked up to an empty trailer weighs only 35,000 pounds. Incredible! This Buddha is a unique one to see while you are in Myanmar. 

Hours: daily 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Entrance Fee: Free (there is a donation box)

Established in 1857 by King Mindon during the founding of Mandalay, the Mandalay Palace stands as a unique attraction for travelers. Enclosed by a wall and a moat, the palace complex houses a teakwood palace at its heart, a distinctive feature that sets it apart. Serving as the final royal residence in Myanmar's history, the palace carries a rich historical significance.

Despite the near destruction of the original palace during World War II, when the British bombed the complex, the spirit of the Mandalay Palace endured. A replica was painstakingly constructed in the 1990s, standing today as a testament to the resilience and cultural strength of Myanmar. It remains a symbol of sovereignty and a source of national pride, making it a must-visit historical site in Mandalay. 

The moat's northeast corner, surrounding the complex, is just south of Mandalay Hill. It also sits at the intersection of several major highways that cut through Mandalay. What's excellent about Mandalay is that most significant points of interest are clustered into one area, so stop by this historic location. 

Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Entrance Fee: Included with the "Mandalay Zone Fee," which costs USD 10.00. For more information, click here

Make sure to take some time to enjoy the local markets. Mandalay has a variety of markets to choose from, so take some time to explore. The market I have pictured here is the one you will find once you cross the U-Bien Bridge. It was a great little market to purchase some trinkets. It had a variety of souvenirs, clothing, art, local produce, and refreshments. 

The walking bridge is a vital crossing for locals, but it has also become a source of revenue since it has become a point of interest for travelers. Making purchases at local markets in Mandalay and Southeast Asia is an excellent way to thank locals who welcome us into their countries. 

 You will need to purchase a Bagan Archeological Zone ticket when entering Bagan. To some backpackers, having to pay to enter such a large area may come off as unreasonable, but don't spend too much time worrying about it. Bagan is one of the most incredible destinations in Southeast Asia, so it is worth every penny. Trust me. 

Also, it doesn't pay to try and circumvent this policy, as you will be asked to present your ticket at various temples and viewing locations throughout the archeological zone, so make sure to have it with you at all times. If you don't have it when you are asked to present the ticket, you must purchase another one on the spot. Avoid the headache and expense by keeping the ticket in your day bag or money belt. 

Ticket Purchase Locations: Tickets are available at Nyaung-U airport or before entering Bagan by land. Typically if you take a bus into Bagan by taxi from the bus stop, your taxi driver will stop to purchase tickets. Make sure that they do. As I mentioned, this will only cause issues for you during your stay without one. 

Cost: 25,000 MMK (USD 11.90)

Ticket Duration: 3 days

.One of the most photographed photos you will see when you start researching traveling to Southeast Asia is the sunrise over Bagan's temples. Between the 11th and 13th centuries, Bagan had more than 10,000 temples, which is why it is still referred to as "The Land of 10,000 Temples." Today, 2,229 of those temples remain. 

During the morning in Bagan, you will want to wake up early enough to view the fantastic sunrise over its temples. There are public viewing areas on top of hills in the city, but you will need to show your entrance ticket, which you pay to get into Bagan to access these areas. 

Climbing on top of the temples is not permitted to view the sunrise. Many tourists don't listen; honestly, it is reckless and selfish. We must protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site so future generations can marvel at its beauty. So, please make sure to find other ways to view the temples. Your Instagram followers will understand. 

 Completed in 1,102 during the reign of King Anawrahta, the Shwezigon Pagoda is one of the more unique temples you will find in Bagan. The temple is comprised of a circular gold leaf-gilded stupa. Several other smaller shrines and temples surround this more prominent temple which serves as the focal point of the pagoda. This magnificent structure is a holy place to the people of Myanmar and the Buddhist faith, as it is thought to enshrine a bone and tooth of Gautama Buddha. 

With the importance of such a relic, it is no surprise that this pagoda stands out from many others in Bagan. There is so much to see in Bagan, with its thousands of temples, that it can sometimes feel overwhelming if you are like me and want to see it all. For those who don't have as much time on their backpacking trip as I did, I would recommend adding the Shwezigon Pagoda to your list. The intricate golden design makes this spectacular temple a must-see for any Bagan itinerary. 

Hours: daily 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Exploring the local markets in Bagan is not only a great way to shop for unique souvenirs but also an opportunity to interact with the locals and get a glimpse into their daily lives. The markets are bustling hubs of activity, with vendors selling a wide range of goods and produce. Here, you can find an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices - from tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas to local specialty vegetables like morning glory and bamboo shoots. They are the perfect places to get a taste of the flavors of Myanmar.

The markets are also treasure troves of handmade crafts and goods. You can find beautifully crafted lacquerware, woodcarvings, textiles, and paintings. These items make for unique souvenirs and gifts to take back home.

If you're feeling hungry, there are plenty of street food stalls serving delicious and affordable snacks and meals. Try some of the local favorites like Shan noodles, Mohinga (a traditional Burmese fish noodle soup), or samosas.

In addition to food and crafts, these are also places where locals come to purchase traditional medicines and herbal remedies. It's interesting to browse through the stalls and learn about the traditional methods of medicine that are still practiced in Myanmar.

For those interested in traditional clothing and textiles, Bagan's markets offer a variety of colorful longyis (traditional Myanmar sarongs) as well as handmade fabrics and textiles. You can also find traditional accessories like jewelry and bags.

Exploring the local markets in Bagan is not only a great way to shop for unique souvenirs but also an opportunity to interact with the locals and get a glimpse into their daily lives. The markets are usually open in the morning and are lively and vibrant places to visit. Step into the lively atmosphere, indulge in the local flavors, and find hidden treasures among the stalls as you immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Bagan local markets.