The Top Myanmar Travel Destinations
Myanmar is a country that is in southeast Asia on the Bay of Bengal and Andarman Sea coastlines. Myanmar has a rich history with residents made up of settlers and invaders from all nearby areas. Many of the people of Myanmar immigrated to the country from India and Tibet and they brought along their unique cultures with them. Today, Myanmar is a country full of resources with traditions influenced by Indian and Chinese cultures. Grand temples are situated all throughout the land and resemble those located in northern India. Around 89% of the population is Buddhist and even some of the most remote villages in Myanmar have temples where residents can go to pray.
Places to Visit While Staying in Myanmar
There are many beautiful locations to visit during your stay in Myanmar. If you are planning to book one or more Myanmar tours, you are sure to see some of these top tourist attractions during that time.
Yangon
Yangon may be a large city but it is not a very modernised town. If you enjoy seeing the sights without the crowds, this is the ideal spot for you to visit. Filled with beautiful Victorian buildings and streets lined with trees, you are sure to find something that you love in this prominent town. The Bogyoke Aung San market is a great place to buy gifts and the Shwedagon Pagoda, which was built more than 2,000 years ago, is a revered temple for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike.
Mandalay
The last Royal Capital of Myanmar is just 700 kilometres north of Yangon. This city is the centre of Burmese culture and is filled with artisans and trading centres. Locals enjoy traveling around the city by bike using the geometrically laid streets. There is also an eight-kilometre long moat and wall situated around the former Royal Palace, which is a spectacular sight to see.
Bagan
Bagan is the capital of Myanmar’s first dynasty. It was built by King Anawrahta in 1044 and is located just south of Mandalay. There are more than 2,000 temples located throughout this city and 42 square kilometres of desert land. Tourists can admire the red brick religious monuments that were constructed during the 11th and 13th centuries. The impressive historic architecture of the area makes Bagan the perfect place for anyone who has an interest in ancient buildings and civilizations.
Kalaw
Kalaw is a great place to visit during the warmest months of the year because this part of Myanmar stays relatively cool and comfortable. You can explore the numerous ethnic villages in the area and shop at the markets located in town. If you enjoy walking, you can take a stroll down to the Inle Lake or to the nearby Pindaya.
Kyaing Tong
Also known as Keng Tung, this location can be found in the eastern part of the Shan State and it is the principal town of Keng Tung Township. This is another part of Myanmar that has a cool climate throughout the year and is suitable for visitors who would rather stay out of the hot sun. Kyaing Tong is in the golden triangle area and is very easy to access. Since most of the local community maintains their own unique culture, visitors can view small huts located on the mountain slopes as they enjoy hiking, mountain climbing, and sightseeing in the area.