Southern Myanmar
Myanmar: Unveiling the Hidden Gem of Southeast Asia
When it comes to off-the-beaten-track destinations in Southeast Asia, few can rival the captivating allure of Myanmar. As the region's poorest country, some may mistakenly assume that it lacks the offerings of its more well-developed neighbors. However, Myanmar holds within its borders a treasure trove of experiences that far surpasses any preconceived notions.
Reflecting upon my own journey through Southeast Asia, I hold dear some of my most cherished memories from my month-long sojourn in Myanmar. This extraordinary land has left me awe-inspired and rendered me speechless on more than one occasion. It is my sincere hope that you, too, will be enticed to include this remarkable destination on your own travel itinerary.
Myanmar Travel Guide content
Respecting Burmese Culture
Interesting Facts About Myanmar
Interesting Facts About Myanmar
By adhering to these guidelines, travelers can show genuine respect for Burmese culture and contribute positively to their travel experience in Myanmar.
Interesting Facts About Myanmar
Interesting Facts About Myanmar
Interesting Facts About Myanmar
If you want to get there by bus, be prepared for a long, bumpy ride. This is the way that I prefer to travel, even though I have to throw comfort to the side.
Bangkok to Myanmar by Bus
Interesting Facts About Myanmar
Bangkok to Myanmar by Bus
If you want to get there by bus, be prepared for a long, bumpy ride. This is the way that I prefer to travel, even though I have to throw comfort to the side.
Getting Around
Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda
Bangkok to Myanmar by Bus
Transportation in Myanmar has been improving steadily in recent years, although the country still faces challenges in terms of infrastructure and development. Here are the main modes of transportation in Myanmar
Yangon Travel Guide
Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda
Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda
With a population of nearly 2 million people, Yangon, also called Rangoon, is the largest city in Myanmar. It is also the capital of the country. As a significant metropolis in Southeast Asia, it is bustling, and there is an incredible energy that you can only get from a larger city.
Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda
Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda
Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda
The Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda is a well-known Buddhist pagoda located in Myanmar, also called the Golden Rock Pagoda. It sits on top of a balanced granite boulder, which is believed to be held by a strand of the Buddha's hair.
HpA-AN Travel Guide
HpA-AN Travel Guide
HpA-AN Travel Guide
Hpa-An is a town in Myanmar that is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and ancient traditions. I can truly say that this was one of the most unique places I visited in Southeaset Asia, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting Myanmar.
Respecting The Burmese Culture
Welcome to Myanmar
By adhering to these guidelines, travelers can show genuine respect for Burmese culture and contribute positively to their travel experience in Myanmar.
Dress Modestly
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders, knees, and cleavage to show respect for local customs.
Remove Shoes
Remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, pagodas, and monasteries. This is a sign of respect for the sacredness of these spaces.
Respect Buddhism
Show respect for Buddhist customs and beliefs by not disturbing monks during meditation or prayer, refraining from pointing feet towards Buddha statues, and avoiding climbing on sacred structures.
Greetings and Etiquette
Greetings and etiquette play an important role in Burmese culture. When greeting locals, use a polite "Mingalabar" (hello), and a slight bow or nod of the head. Address people with respectful titles like "U" (Mr.) or "Daw" (Mrs.), followed by their name.
Support the Local Economy
Prioritize supporting local businesses and artisans. Bargain respectfully and practice responsible tourism wherever possible.
Getting to Myanmar From Bangkok
Visa
NOTE: you will likely have to arrange for a visa before you arrive unless you are from Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Macau. Additionally, Chinese and Indian passport holders can purchase a visa on arrival for USD $50.00, but this is limited to airports.
Since I am from the USA, I had to obtain a visa prior to arriving. This was a fairly easy process. I applied here. The fee which includes the service fee and government fee was $59.00. In addition, my visa was approved within a day.
Local transportation
I took a local bus to get to the long-distance bus terminal in Bangkok (Mochit Bus Terminal Station). In Hindsite, it may be easiest to take a tuk-tuk or taxi directly to the bus station from wherever you are staying in Bangkok.
Mochit Bus Terminal Station
From the Mochit Bus Terminal, I took a busy to Mae Sot which borders Myanmar. This busy doesn't take you all the way to the way to the border, so you will have to arrange public transit, grab, or taxi from the bus station to the border.
Myanmar-Thailand Border
After using a grab taxi to arrive at the Myanmar/Thai border in Mae Sot, I had a short walk across "Friendship Bridge," which takes you over the Moei river directly to the border. With my visa already in hand, I was able to get processed quickly.
After getting through the border, I was in a walking mood, so I walked to the "bus station" in Myawaddy. Along the way, I purchased a SIM card right away. I also exchanged some Thai Baht for enough Myanmar kyat to get me started.
From Myawaddy, I took a bus north to Kalaw, the city where I would start a multi-day trek to Inle Lake.
FLights
Multiple airlines, such as Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Myanmar Airways International (MAI), AirAsia, and Nok Air, offer flights from various airports in Thailand to destinations in Myanmar. The main airports for departure are Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, as well as Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
It's recommended to book flights in advance and use flight comparison websites to find the best deals. Additionally, travelers should stay updated on visa requirements and travel advisories, as they can change frequently.
The flight duration from Bangkok to Yangon is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and approximately 2 hours to Mandalay. Flights from Chiang Mai to Yangon take about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Upon arrival, passengers will land at either Yangon International Airport (RGN), Mandalay International Airport (MDL), or Naypyidaw International Airport (NYT), depending on the destination within Myanmar.
About Amazing Southeast Asia
Who We Are
- Air Travel: Fastest for long distances; domestic flights by airlines like Myanmar National Airlines.
- Trains: Scenic but slower; various classes available, connecting major cities.
- Buses: Long-distance express and VIP buses; local buses for short distances.
- Cars and Taxis: Private taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab; car rentals often with a driver.
- Motorbikes and Bicycles: Rentals available, good for local exploration.
- Boats and Ferries: River cruises on the Irrawaddy; local ferries for a slower travel experience.
- Public Transport in Cities: Yangon Circular Train and city buses/trucks for short distances.
Yangon
Introduction
With a population of nearly 2 million people, Yangon, also called Rangoon, is the largest city in Myanmar. It is also the capital of the country. As a significant metropolis in Southeast Asia, it is bustling, and there is an incredible energy that you can only get from a larger city. There are many amenities here that you won't find in most places of Myanmar, including Western-style malls, which are always enjoyable places to regroup if you are experiencing some culture shock. I only say this because I know some travelers need this.
There is plenty to see in Yangon, so ensure you allow enough time to take all the city offers. With delicious local cuisine, lovely parks, great places to shop, tall buildings, and some of the most incredible temples in Southeast Asia, Yangon has a lot to offer. There are also large museums to learn more about the fascinating culture of Myanmar. You will have difficulty seeing and doing everything you want to in a week or however long you plan to stay, so I hope this travel guide will help you make the most of your time in Yangon.
Things To Do
Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda
The Shwedagon Pagoda, also known as the Golden Pagoda among several other names, is a gold-gilded stupa in the center of Yangon. It is one of Southeast Asia's most incredible temples, which is not an exaggeration.
First of all, it is nearly 2,500 years old! This stupa enshrines critical Buddhist relics, including strands of Buddha's hair, which is incredible. Encrusted with hundreds of golden places and a top covered in 4,531 diamonds, this monumental religious site is truly one of the most impressive things I've ever seen. It is right up there with Angkor Wat, and Bagan, Myanmar.
The Shwedagon Pagoda needs to be on your list regardless of your itinerary while visiting Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar. It is undoubtedly one of the most impressive religious locations in the world. Take advantage of seeing this 114-acre marvel on Singuttara Hill in the center of Yangon. It's like being in a city covered in gold.
One more thing to note: Remember to use your best temple etiquette while there since this is the holiest site in the country.
Hours: Daily 4:00 AM - 10 PM
Entrance Fee: 10,000 MKK (USD 4.76 12/2022)
Additional Information: www.shwedagonpagoda.com
Sule Pagoda
Built during the time of the Gautama Buddha, the Sule Pagoda stands 44 meters high at the initially planned location of the Shwedagon Pagoda. The main temple has several octagonal layers that make up the design's circumference to the spire. At more than 2,600 years old, the ancient temple is even older than the Shwedagon Pagoda. It may not have the fame of the Shwedagon, but the Sule Pagoda is also a site that is important from both a historical and spiritual perspective.
The temple contains a relic of Buddha's hair, which is one of the reasons this is such a significant religious monument to the people of Myanmar. Being centrally located, it has seen many events important to the history of Yangon and Myanmar as a whole, most recently the beginning of the Spring Revolution in 2021.
As of mid-2022, the military dictatorship has killed more than 2,000 citizen protestors and imprisoned or displaced many more. Unfortunately, this unrest prevents many travelers from seeing Myanmar's beauty due to current safety concerns. We can only hope that the turmoil improves, most importantly for the lovely citizens of Myanmar.
Hours: Daily 4:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Entrance Fee: 3,000 MKK (USD 1.43 as of 12/2022)
Marvel at The Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple
Reclining Buddha statues always fascinate me with their grandeur. On one of my first days in Southeast Asia, I marveled at the sight of Wat Pho during one of my first days in Southeast Asia. I couldn't believe the enormity of the image. I had no idea there were so many larger Buddha statues. Some even dwarf that image in size.
The Chaukhtatgyi Reclining Buddha is one of Myanmar's most significant reclining Buddha images. At 66 meters (217 feet), this statue is slightly over one-third the length of the massive Win Sein Taw Ya in Mudon, Myanmar. Yet, it is larger than the famous reclining Buddha at Wat Pho in Bangkok, Thailand, which is 46 meters long.
The original image of the Chaukhtatgyi reclining Buddha was funded by a wealthy Burmese Buddhist, Sir Po Tha, and was completed in 1907. It was subsequently demolished in the 1950s, and the current statue was completed in 1960. It is revered by the locals who visit this temple often to offer their prayers and pay homage to Buddha.
Located close to the Shwedagon Pagoda, you can take a short taxi or a 30-40 minute walk from one to the other. The Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple is slightly over 1.5 miles northeast of Shwedagon, offering an excellent opportunity to bundle both together for a lovely one-day itinerary.
Hours: Daily 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: USD 5.00 (mandatory donation)
Bogyoke Aung San Market
Located in Pabedan Township in Central Yangon, you will find the magnificent Bagyoke Aung San Market, which dates back to 1926. This market, located in a beautiful colonial-era building, includes over 2,000 stalls! I was very impressed at the beauty of the building and the wide selection of products the market offers. The bazaar's many products include clothing, jewels, souvenirs, silk, food items, handicrafts, and more. You can spend all day shopping while barely scratching the surface of what this market has to offer.
The Bogyoke Aung San Market is located along the bustling Bogyoke Aung San Road. Right next door, you will find the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, a great destination to visit on the same day. You can see the Shwedagon Pagoda, a short taxi ride north of the market, during the same day as well if you want to spend only part of the day shopping. There are many other points of interest in this area, so it will take three or four days to explore them all. The Shwedagon Pagoda is a must-see destination, but if you are looking for a must-shop market, then make sure to stop at the Bagyoke Aung San Market.
Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
National Museum of Myanmar
The National Museum of Myanmar, situated in Naypyidaw, serves as the primary museum in the country, presenting the rich cultural heritage and history of Myanmar. It possesses an extensive collection of artifacts, artworks, historical documents, and religious relics from different periods throughout Myanmar's history.
Within the museum, you can find religious artifacts, ancient sculptures, royal attire and regalia, traditional crafts, archaeological discoveries, and historical objects associated with Myanmar's struggle for independence. One captivating feature of the museum is the Lion Throne, which represents the monarchy of Myanmar.
The National Museum of Myanmar pays homage to the country's ethnic diversity by showcasing exhibits on traditional costumes, musical instruments, and cultural practices of various ethnic groups. This highlights Myanmar's commitment to safeguarding and celebrating its diverse cultural heritage.
Visitors can explore the museum's diverse galleries, which are organized thematically and chronologically. Descriptions of the exhibits are available in both English and Burmese, providing visitors with a comprehensive comprehension of the artifacts and their historical significance.
In addition, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs, aiming to engage visitors and foster a greater understanding of Myanmar's culture and history.
Hours: Tues-Sun 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Closed Mondays
Cost: Kyat 5,000 (USD 2.38 as of 10/2023)
Photo Credit: Galit Mass
Places to Stay
Reference:
$ Usually under USD 10.00
$$ Usually USD 10.00-15.00
$$$ Usually over USD 15.00
$ HOOD Hostel Ideally located in the Downtown Yangon district of Yangon, HOOD Hostel is a 7-minute walk from Sule Pagoda, 2.7 miles from Shwedagon Pagoda, and a 5-minute walk from Yangon City Hall. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk, a shared kitchen, and free WiFi throughout the property. The hostel has family rooms.
$$ SERENE Stays Hostel Featuring a bar-shared lounge and views of the city, SERENE Stays Hotel is located in Yangon, 3.3 miles from Shwedagon Pagoda. The property is around 5 miles from Sule Pagoda, a 14-minute walk from the Yangon Institute of Economics, and 2.9 miles from the Central Bank of Myanmar. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, a shuttle service, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property.
$$$ K. C Residence Located in Yangon, 8.5 miles from Shwedagon Pagoda, K.C Residence has accommodations with a restaurant, free private parking, and a bar. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and free WiFi. The hotel has a fax machine, photocopier, and an ATM machine that guests can use.
The hotel provides some rooms with a safety deposit box, including a private bathroom and a desk. At K.C Residence, each room is equipped with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV.
Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda
The Golden ROck Pagoda
The Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda is a well-known Buddhist pagoda located in Myanmar, also called the Golden Rock Pagoda. It sits on top of a balanced granite boulder, which is believed to be held by a strand of the Buddha's hair. To reach the pagoda, visitors have to make a steep climb, but the breathtaking views and religious artifacts make it all worth it. The pagoda is a symbol of Myanmar's rich cultural heritage and attracts thousands of pilgrims. Visitors are expected to be modest and respectful during their visit. In the end, it is a unique and spiritual experience that is hard to forget.
How TO Get There
To reach the Golden Rock Pagoda, also known as Kyaik Htee Yoe Pagoda, there are several transportation options available. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get there:
1. Arrive in Yangon: Most travelers start their journey from Yangon, the largest city in Myanmar. You can reach Yangon through international flights or domestic connections from other major cities within Myanmar.
2. Travel to Kyaikto: From Yangon, you'll need to make your way to Kyaikto, the town closest to the Golden Rock Pagoda. You can take a bus or hire a private taxi for this approximately four-hour journey. Buses are the more economical option, with several departures daily from the Aung Mingalar Bus Terminal in Yangon.
3. Journey to the Base Camp: Once you arrive in Kyaikto, head to the Kinpun Base Camp. This is the starting point for the final leg of the journey to the Golden Rock Pagoda. You can take a pick-up truck (known as a "small bus") or hire a taxi to Kinpun Base Camp from Kyaikto town.
4. Ascend to the Pagoda: From the Kinpun Base Camp, you have two options toreach the Golden Rock Pagoda. The first option is to take a thrilling and scenic ride in an open truck, specially designed to navigate the steep and winding mountain road.
Where To Stay
When visiting the Golden Rock Pagoda, there are accommodation options available near the site. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Kinpun Base Camp: Kinpun Base Camp, located at the foot of the mountain, is the most convenient place to stay. It offers a range of budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels. This is the starting point for the journey to the pagoda, making it an ideal choice for those who want to be close to the site.
2. Mountain Top Hotels: There are a few hotels and guesthouses located near the Golden Rock Pagoda itself on the mountain top. These accommodations offer stunning views and a unique experience of staying close to the pagoda. However, be aware that the options are limited and tend to be more expensive compared to those at the base camp.
3. Kyaikto Town: Another option is to stay in Kyaikto town, which is approximately 30 minutes away from the Golden Rock Pagoda. The town offers a variety of accommodation options, including guesthouses and hotels at different price ranges. It provides a more local experience and a wider range of facilities compared to the base camp.
It's important to note that accommodations near the Golden Rock Pagoda can be basic in terms of amenities and facilities.
As Always, I recommend using booking.com or the booking.com app as I have had the best luck with their app during my travels in the Southeast Asia.
Hpa-An
A Hidden Gem within the Hidden Gem of Myanmar
Hpa-An is a town in Myanmar that is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and ancient traditions. When you visit Hpa-An, you will feel like you have stepped into a storybook. The town's historical charm and picturesque surroundings are truly mesmerizing. While exploring the town, you can visit limestone caves, sacred pagodas, and enjoy the rhythmic flow of the Thanlwin River. Hpa-An is a unique place that has a lot to offer, and with every step you take, you can discover a new chapter in Myanmar's history. So, if you want to experience the enchanting town of Hpa-An, come and join us on this journey.
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Things to Do
Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda
Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda is a one-of-a-kind Buddhist temple in Kayin State, Myanmar, close to the city of Hpa An. It's also referred to as "the Rock Cave Pagoda" as it sits atop a limestone pinnacle, making it a sight to behold.
This pagoda is located on a small rocky isle, surrounded by a man-made lake, which provides stunning views of the adjacent terrain. If you wish to visit the pagoda, you'll need to climb a set of stairs carved into the limestone cliff, which leads to the shrine entrance.
The cave pagoda has a variety of Buddha statues, religious relics, and vibrant murals. Visitors will have plenty of opportunities to explore the complex, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and marvel at the panoramic views of the mountains and countryside.
Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda is a well-liked spot among both locals and tourists, particularly during religious festivals. It's known for its serenity, loveliness, and the incredible view of the temple perched high above the water.
Getting There: The Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda is roughly 8 km (5 miles) south of Hpa-An, Myanmar. This short distance makes it accessible by bicycle rental. You can also rent a scooter, hire a private driver, or take a taxi to reach the pagoda. I chose to rent a scooter since many of the main attractions in Hpa-An are a short distance from town.
Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Mahar Sadan Cave
Sadan Cave is a natural limestone cave located roughly 24 km (15 miles) southeast of Hpa-An. It is a popular destination for travelers as it is known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the numerous Buddha statues that adorn the cave walls.
Visitors can explore the cave through a series of winding tunnels and walkways and can also take a boat ride on the underground lake located inside the cave. The cave is considered sacred by the local people and is often used as a site for religious ceremonies and festivals.
The surrounding beauty of the region and off-the-beaten track nature of the cave make Sadan Cave a must-see for adventure enthusiast. With the relatively long distance from Hpa-An, you may also want to rent a scooter to add one more layer adventure to an incredible daytrip.
Getting There: The cave is easily accessible by road, and there are several transportation options available, including taxis, tuk-tuks, and private cars. As I mentioned, renting a scooter is a fantastic option for a daytrip and the roads are not busy making for an enjoyable ride.
Entrance Fee: 3,000 MMK (USD $1.43 as of 1/6/2024)
Hours: The operating hours of Sadan Cave are subject to change, depending on the season or the day of the week. However, it's generally open to visitors from early morning to late afternoon. (Usually 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM)