Hugging the Andaman Sea to Thailand’s west, Myanmar (Burma) is an ethnically diverse Southeast Asian nation that never fails to enchant. Gilded pagodas and ancient stupas scatter its landscape while the country’s traditional life is vividly on display in colourful markets and lakeside villages.

Things to do

From exploring the country’s ancient archaeological sites to meeting the hill tribes of Inle Lake, there’s a reason why Myanmar is rapidly becoming one of Southeast Asia’s most alluring destinations.

Float in a hot air balloon over Bagan. Embark on a sunrise hot air balloon trip to get a bird’s eye view of the more than 4,000 ancient pagodas that dot the plains of Bagan, which is the jewel in the crown of Myanmar’s archaeological sites. Witness the gold-leafed stupa of Shwezigon and admire the magnificent mural paintings before watching an unforgettable sunset from Shwesandaw Pagoda.

Cruise the waters of Inle Lake. Dotted with floating villages, artisan workshops and colourful markets, Inle Lake is a mesmerising destination framed by the Shan Hills. Cruise between its famous monasteries and pagodas while witnessing the unique foot-rowing method that’s used by the local fishermen.

See the Shwedagon Pagoda. Dominating the skyline of Yangon is the diamond-encrusted pagoda of Shwedagon, which is considered the most sacred in Myanmar. Explore its ornate temples and Buddha statues while soaking up the comings and goings as locals come to pay their respects with floral offerings.

Relax on the beaches of Ngapali. For a good dose of sun and sand, head to the palm-lined beach of Ngapali, which overlooks the Bay of Bengal in Myanmar’s west. Spend your days swimming and dining on freshly caught seafood sourced from the traditional fishing villages or embark on a birdwatching cruise along the Thandwe River.

Getting there

Yangon International Airport and Mandalay International Airport are the main gateways to Myanmar, with the country also accessible by land from neighbouring Thailand, Laos, India, Bangladesh and China. Trains and buses connect destinations across the country while passenger ferries travel along the Irrawaddy River. Trishaws are a convenient way of getting around Myanmar’s urban areas.