Myanmar Travel Blog

Myanmar is a unique country located in Southeast Asia. In fact, Myanmar is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It has something for everyone – backpackers, couples, solo travelers, luxury travelers, etc.

Myanmar offers several experiences – from street food to trekking, from traditional ceremonies to outdoor activities, from busy markets to remote villages, from amazing temples to beautiful views – you should find something that suits your needs and interests.

If you’re planning your first trip to Myanmar, this guide should answer any questions you may have. We’ll talk about travel facts, the best time to visit Myanmar, the best destinations, travel costs, travel essentials and how to prepare for your trip.

Information Myanmar
Language Burmese
English-friendly Yes
Currency MMK (Burmese kyat)
Internet reliability Okay

 

Best Time to Visit Myanmar

Myanmar is a large country with various altitudes. Depending on your destination, you may be facing different types of seasons. We decided to split this section into three sections to help you understand the seasons:

  • Myitkyina (Northern Myanmar)
  • Taunggyi (Inle Lake)
  • Yangon (Southern Myanmar)

 

Areas Seasons Months
Myitkyina (Northern Myanmar)

Hot season (cooler and less humid)

Rainy season

Cool season

March and April

May to October

November to February

Taunggyi (Inle Lake)

Hot season (cooler and less humid)

Rainy season (less rain than elsewhere)

Cool season

March and April

May to October

November to February

Yangon (Southern Myanmar)

Hot season (hot and humid)

Rainy season

Cool season

Monsoon season

March and April

May to October

November to February

June to October

Top Destinations in Myanmar

yangon

Bagan

Inle Lake

Mandalay

Myanmar Travel Tips & Costs

 

In this section, you’ll find general information on costs and how to prepare for your trip. Finally, you will find a table that will provide an overview of cost and options depending on your travel budget.

 

Accommodation

 

In Myanmar, you’ll find limited options when it comes to accommodation. If you are on a budget, you may struggle to find hostels in certain destinations in Myanmar. Although, the big cities usually offer dorms. As a solo traveler, you may find some places to be a bit expensive. When I was traveling in Myanmar, I met friends along the way so we shared rooms when possible to save money. Usually dorms start at $4.

 

Food

 

When it comes to food, you can find different types of restaurants. If you eat local food, you can eat for less than MMK 5000. Obviously, you may find elegant restaurants around the country and you can pay more if you wish to. The cheapest options are usually in small local restaurants and in the night markets.

 

Activities

 

Some activities such as hiking or beach bumming are free. Although, if you’re planning on visiting temples and pagodas, taking a boat ride in Inle lake, going on a trekking trip or going on a hot-air balloon ride, you will have to pay for it. You can browse activities in Myanmar here to have an idea of the costs.

 

Transportation

In general, it’s pretty easy to get around Myanmar. You can either fly, or take a bus or the train to reach your destinations.

To book your transport between destinations, you can book via 12GO. You can also book via travel agency in person.

 

 

Travel Cost Budget travel Mid-range Luxury
Accommodation $4-15 per night $15-70 per night $70+
Meal $3-5 per meal $10-15 per meal $20+
Activities Focus on free activities Mixing free activities & mid-range $30+ per day
Transport By bus/train By bus, train, flight Private driver

Safety in Myanmar

 

Overall, traveling around Myanmar is safe. Of course, you should always lock your valuables especially if you’re staying in a hostel.

With common sense, you’ll be able to travel the country safely. The locals are friendly and ready to help if you find yourself in a tricky situation. 

Please note that there are some areas in Myanmar that are affected by the civil war and tourists are not advised to travel there. The ongoing conflict between Myanmar’s army and the Rohingya Muslims has also raised questions about human rights violations in Myanmar. Neither of these situations directly affect the tourists, but it’s good to know what is going on outside the touristy areas.

 

What to Pack for Myanmar

 

Apart from the travel essentials, here are the things you should absolutely bring along with you in Myanmar. Click on the images to shop on Amazon. You can also check out this list of travel essentials in Asia.

Visa for Myanmar

 

Usually, you can apply for you visa online. It can take days to receive it, so make sure you apply several days before your departure.

You can verify your visa requirements here.

 

Preparing Your Trip to Myanmar

Skyscanner

Browse flights on Skyscanner to find deals.

Go To Skyscanner

SafetyWing

Book your travel insurance for as little as $42/month.

Go To SafetyWing

Booking.com

Find accommodation anywhere in the world.

Go To Booking.com

iVisa

Check the visa requirements and apply for a visa if needed.

Go To iVisa

Worldpackers

Volunteer abroad in exchange for free accommodation.

Go To Worldpackers

Viator

Book transfers, tours, and activities in advance.

Go To Viator

Myanmar eSIM Plans

It’s hard to find a good data plan when you’re traveling. You have to research the best deals, go to a store, and hope they have a prepaid SIM card for travelers and tourists.

And if they don’t? You could be without service for the rest of your trip. Not only is that frustrating, but it can also be time-consuming.

eSIMs are the solution to your travel woes. With an eSIM plan, you can stay connected no matter where you go. Plus, there are no contracts or cancellation fees, so you can change your plan whenever you want.

If you’re looking for an eSIM plan while in Myanmar, then be sure to check out the providers below. They all offer great plans that will keep you connected while you’re there.

 

Airalo

$3 OFF with promo code: MELISS2943

190+ countries and regions

Go To Site

Read Review

Holafly

5% OFF with promo code: ABROKENBACKPACK

130+ countries and regions

Go To Site

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Nomad

No offer

100+ countries and regions

Go To Site

Read Review

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