An undiscovered tourist paradise due to its internal conflicts, Myanmar has only recently opened its doors to the international community. Ancient, beautiful and exotic, this country offers tourists a diverse range of places to visit and things to do.
Yangon
Previously known as Rangoon, Yangon is the capital of Myanmar. A unique city with a cross section of Burmese, Indian, Bangladeshi and other indigenous peoples, this city offers tourists a different view of city life. Unlike most Asian cities which are concrete jungles, Yangon has plenty of lush, green trees all over the city amidst its colonial buildings.
The most famous and perhaps the best tourist attraction in the city is the renowned Shwedagaon Pagoda, which dominates the city from its hilltop location. With its construction predating the 11th century
This bell-shaped pagoda rises over 100 meters (330 feet) and is bejeweled with diamonds, rubies, sapphires and other precious stones. With its many markets and lively boulevards that sell everything from food to household items, Yangon is definitely worth visiting. Some other sights in the city include the legendary Strand Hotel, the reclining Buddha in Chaukhtatgyi Paya, the peaceful Kandawgyi and Inya Lakes, the Martyr's Mausoleum and Aung San Suu Kyi's House. Getting around the city is relatively easy as Yangon has an efficient public transportation system.
Mandalay
One of the most visited cities in the country, Mandalay was the capitol of Myanmar before the British took over. The main attraction in this city is the Royal Palace or Shwenandaw Kyaung, which was opened to the public through special guided tours that visit the area where the royal throne is located and the palace museum. Another tourist highlight in Mandalay is Mandalay Hill which offers spectacular views of the city. Also located here is the ancient Rakhine Buddha image at Mahamuni Paya. Another fantastic feature of this city is its bright bustling markets that produce and sell handicrafts from all over Upper Myanmar. A short trip from Mandalay are the deserted cities of Amarapura, Sagaing, Ava and Mingun. A great way to take in the beauty of this city is by a boat ride.
Bagan
Located south of Mandalay, Bagan has some 5,000 temples, the most interesting of which are the Ananda, the Thatbyinnyu and the Gawdawpalin. This deserted city was one of the ancient wonders of Asia in its heyday, with a vast number of magnificent temples and buildings. After it was pillaged by Kublai Khan in 1287, it was never rebuilt. This city is testament to the mighty kingdom that Myanmar once was.
Bago
The former capitol of lower Myanmar and a major seaport, Bago was destroyed by the Burman in 1757. Restored partially, this city failed to regain its past grandeur after the Bago River changed its course. Some highlights of this forgotten city include the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the Hintha Gone Pagoda and the 55 meter (181.5 feet) reclining Shwethalyaung Buddha.
Besides these cities, there are many other fascinating and unusual places to visit in Myanmar, from beach resorts to hill stations and from mountains to towns along the Irrawaddy River.
Myanmar Beach Resorts:
Ngapali Beach
One of the best kept secrets in the country, Ngapali Beach is located at Thandwe on the west coast in Rakhine. The perfect getaway for those who prefer a quiet holiday, this beach has white sands, palm trees and cool blue waters. Private and isolated, this beach has some of the best surfing in the region.
Ngwe Saung Beach
About 48 km (30 miles) from Pathein is the beautiful Ngwe Saung Beach. With a number of hotels and private bungalows, this beach is the ideal escape.
Chaung-thar Beach
Situated west of Pathein is Chaung-thar Beach. A 5 hour drive from Yangon, this beach resort is worth the trip with its beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue ocean views. There are plenty of hotels and resorts located in the area.
Along the Irrawaddy River
Along the Irrawaddy River is Pyay, a five hour drive north of Yangon. Nearby are the Nyaung Kyo Elephant Camp and the Thaye Khittaya, an ancient archeological site of the Pyu civilization. A two hour drive from Pyay is the Akauk Mountain, which has hundreds of carved Buddha images on its cliffs, which are a sight to behold.
Katha is located north of Mandalay on the Irrawaddy River. The site of the famous George Orwell book, "Burmese Days," this town is quaint and charming with its teak homes and picturesque streets. The best way to get to Katha is by boat.
Pathein is the fourth largest city in the country and is located in the Irrawaddy Delta on the Ngawun River. The chief port of the Irrawaddy Division, this mainly agricultural area grows some of the best rice in Myanmar. With its picturesque waterfront and colorful markets, Pathein is a must visit even if it is just for a day.
Bhamo is located some 900 miles from Yangon at the end of the Irrawaddy River. A famous old caravan trail into China, Marco Polo came across it during his journeys in the 13th century.
In the North
Mogok is in the northern area of Mandalay and is the center for Myanmar’s gem mines.
Mrauk-Oo is an ancient city of the Ra-khaing Kingdom and is an amazing archaeological site. A five hour boat ride up the Kaladan River from Sittwe, this city has plenty of temples and pagodas that display cultural influence from India. Some temples of note include Shittaung-Paya, Htukkahein Temple, Temple An-Daw-Thein and Sa-Kya-Man-Aung Paya.
Puta-O is the northern most town in Myanmar. Located here is Mt. Khakhaborazi, the highest mountain in Myanmar and Southeast Asia.
In the South
Myeik & Mergui Archipelago
In the extreme south of Myanmar is the Mergui Archipelago. Myeik also known Mergui sits on a peninsula that extends out into the Andaman Sea. This area is known for many exotic products such as the nest of the sea swallow which is the main ingredient in "birds nest soup”.
