Best Things to Do in Myanmar (Burma)

Cruising the Ayeyarwaddy, or Irrawaddy, River, which divides Myanmar in half as it flows to the Andaman Sea. Travelers can take a river cruise from Mandalay to Bagan.

Visiting to Bagan, Mandalay Region  to view the ancient Burmese art and architecture.

Trekking the Kalaw, Shan state.

Lounging on the beach in Ngapali on the Bay of Bengal, the most popular resort town in Myanmar. The best time to visit is November to March.

Exploring Shwenandaw Monastery in Mandalay, also known as the Golden Palace.

Visit the temples, pagodas and stupas of Bagan by foot, bicycle or electric scooter. The famous Ananda temple is here.

Watching the distinctive leg-rowers and photographing the stilt houses of Inle Lake, one of the top sightseeing attractions in Myanmar.

Seeing the 1,000-year-old Shwemawdaw Paya, or Great Golden God, in Bago, renowned in Myanmar and worldwide for its glittering gold exterior and diamonds on top. It contains several artifacts belonging to Buddha.

Gliding in a hot air balloon over an expanse of shimmering gold pagodas, among colorful pink and purple hues at dawn in Bagan. 

One of the most popular sites for those on a Myanmar guided tour, the Taung Kalat Buddhist monastery is perched atop an extinct volcano plug. Climbing 777 steps to the top for breathtaking views.

Accepting a warm invitation for coffee, inside the bamboo thatched homes of local villagers.

Standing awestruck in the presence of the colossal reclining Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda Buddha in Yangon.

Touring the Shwedagon, or Great Dragon Pagoda, in Yangon. This is the most sacred Buddhist site in Myanmar and a must for any guided tour of the country.

Bargaining for intricate ruby, sapphire, emerald, and gold jewelry in Yangon's expansive Bogyoke Market.Seeing Golden Rock, or Kyaiktiyo Zedi - a pagoda that sits atop a huge boulder. Like all the visitors before you, you’ll stand, captivated, wondering how it’s not about to careen off the side of the cliff. Tours that visit Golden Rock involved a five-hour drive from Yangon and a long walk, including stairs.