Touring in Myanmar

Opening up after years in the wilderness, Myanmar (or Burma as it used to be known) is one of the Far East’s most captivating countries. A lack of exposure to the outside world means that you’ll find a traditional way of life that has disappeared in much of Asia, and vast swathes of the country remain completely untouched by tourism. Limited infrastructure makes an organised tour by far the best way to travel around Myanmar, and allows you to see the country’s main highlights whilst travelling in comfort.

Number one on most itineraries are the spectacular temples of Bagan, scattered across a vast plain in the centre of the country. The former capital, Yangon, is an intoxicating city where crumbling colonial buildings sit alongside the beautiful golden Shwedagon Pagoda, hovering on the city skyline like a beacon. As well as spectacular sights, this beguiling country is populated by a colourful array of characters: Buddhist monks in crimson robes, villagers with painted faces and betel-stained teeth, and the fishermen who glide across the placid waters of Inle Lake. Myanmar’s secret is well and truly out, so make sure you move it to the top of your travel to-do list.

Touring Highlights of Myanmar

• The temples of Bagan are Myanmar’s undoubted highlight, and are best appreciated from above with a hot air balloon ride over the plains.
• Spend a relaxed few days exploring Inle Lake, where fishermen propel themselves along using a unique leg-rowing technique and live in stilted houses perched above the water.
• Explore Yangon’s atmospheric streets, lined by dilapidated old colonial buildings, and visit the shimmering Shwedagon Pagoda, visible from all over the city.
• There are few names as evocative as that of Mandalay, and although the city itself can come as a disappointment, the surrounding area is home to the stunning hilltop pagodas of Sagaing and the famous U Bein bridge.
• The low key resort of Ngapali Beach is the perfect place for some downtime after a busy touring itinerary exploring Myanmar’s cultural treasures.