Myanmar is situated in the Asian continent and specifically the Southeast part of the continent. This country was previously called Burma. Myanmar has a very rich history and marvelous tourist destination spots in Asia. This is the reason it hosts tourists from different parts of the globe all year round. Do you intend on visiting Myanmar anytime soon? If yes, there are some nine places you must visit for your tour to feel complete.
Shwedagon Pagoda (Buddhist Temple)
Shwedagon pagoda is of the most leading attraction sites in Myanmar. This Buddhist temple is gold plated throughout. As a result, Shwedagon Pagoda outshines any other surrounding building. This Buddhist temple is also visible from a distance, both during the day and at night. That’s not all; Shwedagon Pagoda temple is still one of the leading pilgrimage sites in the country. It is estimated that this Buddhist temple was first built during the 6th century. Renovations and enlargements were carried out over the centuries. This is the reason Shwedagon pagoda temple looks intact and in good shape. You will see different Buddhist sculptures and signs at this temple. Each sculpture has a meaning. Shwedagon Pagoda also houses the largest bell in the world. This bell was placed at this site during the 15th century. You should decently dress if you want to access this pilgrimage site.
Inle Lake
Inle Lake is found in Shan state, on the western part of the country. This lake is a leading tourist attraction spot because of its floating gardens and villages. Visit this location if you desire a touch of the local people way of life. Inle Lake is situated in a valley between two mountain ranges. You will be amazed by the floating villages and gardens if you have never seen them before. There are different wooden houses floating on this Lake. You need a boat to visit most of the Islands. Pay attention to the rowing style of the local people. Traditional handicrafts are also common in this part of Myanmar.
You will see silversmiths and silk weavers on the banks of the river and on the floating villages. Ensure you grab a souvenir before leaving Inle Lake. There are a couple of monasteries and pagodas on the shores of Lake Inle. Don’t leave this part Myanmar without trying out some local delicacies.
Bagan
Bagan history can be traced back from the 9th to the 13th centuries. This area is also known for its numerous temples. There are couples of tourist attractions sites in Bagan listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. Bagan has plenty to offer. It is estimated that Bagan has over 2,000 temples. Create time and check out some temples. Most temples are situated at the Bagan archaeological zone. Some temples are still active pilgrimage sites. You must dress decent when visiting some of these temples. Inquire the temples that stand out and check them out.
Hot air balloon is another activity you should engage in while in Bagan. The hot air balloon offers an aerial view of the region. Balloon flights are relaxing because they are silent. There are a couple service providers to choose from. The hot air balloon also offer a perfect view of the sun set in the evening. Bagan is one of the places in Myanmar that offer a perfect view of the sunset. River Irrawaddy is one of the places that offer a perfect view of the sunset in the evening. You can also watch the sunset from two temples located along River Irrawaddy.
Don’t leave Bagan without visiting the local market. The Mani Sithu market has a lot to offer. Food products are the commonly purchased product on this local market. Prices in the Mani Sithu market are not fixed. It all depends on your bargaining power. Bagan is one of the most beautiful places. Therefore, embark on a bicycle ride along the streets. A section of bicycle rent companies offer guided tours through the streets of Bagan. Bagan is also famous for its wide range of local meals. There are plenty of restaurants that offer traditional meals to choose from. Be open-minded when trying out some local meals. Try and visit Bagan in January. There is a local festival event in this part of the country. You will experience the local culture if you attend this festival.
Sagaing
Sagaing has grown as a tourist attraction site over the years. It contains plenty of monastic and religious sites. There are also plenty of things to do in this part of the country. Commence your tour by checking out the silver smith workshop. This workshop is situated in Ywa-Htaung village. Buddha images, trays, jewelries, boxes and bowls are some things you will see at this site. Buy some items to remind you of your breathtaking journey around Sagaing. Move on with your tour to Shwe Mohtaw Pagoda. You will be mesmerized by the architectural design of this site. The statues and art carvings enhance the beauty of this site.
Yadanar Zedi Sinmyar Shin Pagoda dates back to 792 AD. Adjustments and renovations have been made over the centuries. This is the reason this site is in good shape. Proceed with your tour to Sagaing hills. The 30 caves Pagoda is located here. You will see different kinds of Buddha images around this site. Kaungmudaw pagoda is another tourist attraction site in Sagaing you should check out. This pagoda was first built in 1636. It has been developed over the years, to bring out a glamorous look. Create time and visit Sagaing hills. There are different kinds of meditation centers, monasteries and pagodas on these hills. Finally, visit Tilawkaguru cave monastery while in Sagaing. This site was built in 1672, and contains different mural painting collection.
Mawlamyine
Mawlamyine is one of the places in Myanmar you should visit. This is one of the cities in the country that has something for everyone. Start off by visiting the city. The city has a lot of things to offer. There are plenty of churches and pagodas in Mawlamyine city to see. St Matthew’s church and Santawshin are some places you must visit. You should also sample some local meals while at the city. As stated earlier, there are a couple of pagodas in Mawlamyine. Kyaik Tan Lan Pagoda and Nwa Le Bo Pagoda are top attraction spots you shouldn’t miss. These two pagodas attract tourists all year round.
Win Sein Taw Ya is another site you shouldn’t skip. This is the biggest reclining Buddha in Myanmar, Asia and globe at large. Take some pictures to remind you of this trip. People should decently dress when visiting this site. Boat rides offer a perfect opportunity of exploring this region. A boat ride to Hpa An is a must to do thing while in Mawlamyine. There are a lot of things to see on this boat ride. Visit Gaung Se Kyun Island if you want to get away from the city life. Anyone who visits Gaung Se Kyun Island recommends this place to future tourists.
Conclude your tour in Mawlamyine by taking a boat ride to Buli Island. There are plenty of traditional industries and crafts on this Island. Furthermore, the local residents are accommodating and willing to explain their culture.
Myeik (Mergui) Archipelago
The renowned Myeik archipelago is situated in Andaman Sea. Guided tours are recommended if you want to properly explore the beautiful and magnificent islands. A lot of Islands are inhabited. This is the reason nature on this archipelago is still intact. Myeik archipelago houses more than 800 islands. You will discover these islands vary in size. People who love diving are in a perfect position to see some coral reefs and dazzling marine life. You can either hire a yacht or a boat when touring Myeik archipelago.
The local Moken ethnic community is also found in this location. This ethnic community has been living in the sea for years. You might experience their free diving skills from the local community. There are plenty of things to see and do in the Islands. Hiking is one of the fun activities you should consider. The landscapes offer different hiking adventure. Kayaking is another way of exploring the islands and the surrounding region. You will also see different wild life animals in Myeik archipelago. Gibbons, civets, lizards and pythons are some wild life animals you will see. There are also different bird species on this location. Hornbills, kingfishers, while kites, sea eagles and emerald doves are some bird species you will see.
Don’t leave Myeik archipelago without visiting first marine national park. The national park houses different species. Deep sea diving and fishing are other popular activities on this location you should try out.
Hsipaw Town
Hsipaw town is located in Shan State. Visit this location if you want to find out about the Shan culture and the history of this location. There are also plenty of attraction sites in Hsipaw town. This beautiful town is also surrounded by hills and a river. Commence your tour around Hsipaw town by touring Lake Nawng Kaw Gyi. You will see a wooden temple on the lake connected by a bridge. Go on and check out Myauk Myo, the oldest part of this town. There are two main monasteries in this part of the town you must check out. They are Bamboo Buddha monastery and Madahya monastery.
Climb on top of Sunset hill for a spectacular view of Hsipaw town. Thein Daung pagoda is also located here. The sunset hill also offers a perfect background for taking pictures. Don’t forget about Nam Hu New waterfall. This waterfall highlights the beauty of Hsipaw town. Consider hiring a scooter or a bicycle to easily access Nam HU New Waterfall. The waterfall can be viewed from different angles. This waterfall also has a deep pool you can cool off.
Hiking is one of the common activities in Hsipaw town. This is thanks to the valley, waterfalls and landscapes on different parts of this town. Hsipaw town also has a couple of hot springs. These hot springs are proven to contain different medicinal properties. They also offer relaxation after a hectic and tiresome day. Move on to Bawgyo Paya. This location was built in 1995 and is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in this part of Myanmar. You will be amazed by its architectural design. Tour around Hsipaw town is incomplete if you don’t check out the central market. The central market mostly deals with farm products and traditional meals.
Mahamyatmuni Paya is another attraction site in Hsipaw town you cannot miss out. This is the largest pagoda in the town and is visible from a distant. The neon illuminated light make this site visible even at night. Finally, you should check out the Godowns. This site offers an insight into the traditional architectural structure about the local people. Some of the structures in Godowns date back to the 19th century.
Kalaw Town
Lake Inle is one of the leading attractions in Kalaw town. Kalaw town is also a perfect gateway for those who want to get away from the busy city life. This town is also surrounded by mountains, hills and ever green landscapes. Hiking is another popular activity in this part of Myanmar. Kalaw town was previously dominated by the British. This is the reason you will see the British architectural design as you move around the town. Take time and check out these structures. You cannot miss out Kalaw Mosque while in this town. This is one of the most beautiful mosques in Myanmar. Dress decently if you want to visit this mosque.
Myin Ma Hti village is another site in Kalaw town. This village houses a large cave. People come from different parts of the world to check out this famous cave. There are also a couple of temples in Myin Ma Hti village. Myanmar is well known for its breathtaking train rides. You can try out the train ride from Kalaw to Thazi. This train ride showcases the beautiful side of Myanmar. Hsu Taung Pye Paya temple should also be among the most places you should visit in kalaw town. You will see different stupas on this temple. Hsu Taung Pye Paya temple also has a rich history.
You should also check out Aung Chan Tha Zedi temple. This is one of the most beautiful temples in Kalaw town. You will be amazed by its architectural design. Buddha cave is another site in this town you should check out. This cave is also a religious spot. There are plenty of Buddha statues on this site. Expect this cave to be crowded most part of the year. Thein Taung Paya and the local market are other places you should check out.
Mt Kyaiktiyo (Golden Rock)
Mount Kyaiktito or the golden rock is one of the places you should visit before leaving Myanmar. It is one of the religious location sites in the country along with Mahamuni temple and Shwedagon pagoda. People travel from different parts of the country to worship at this site. Mount Kyaiktito also offers a stunning view of the surrounding environment. Don’t worry about your stay at this location. There is a camp village you can spend the night. You can also check out this location by embarking on a cable car. Hiking is also common around Mount Kyaiktito. There are plenty of hiking trails you can follow. Try your best and attend Kyaiktito pagoda festival. This event takes place every year at this location. It is mostly held towards the end of the year.
Myanmar has really improved in terms of tourism over the years. There is no doubt there are plenty of things to see and do in this splendid country. So, what are you waiting for? Make Myanmar your next tourist destination spot whenever you are in Asia.