Myanmar is not the first destination that comes to mind for most people when travelling. Many might think it does not have much to offer – but you’ll be surprised! From the raw, untouched local markets to its beautiful temples, here are 8 amazing spots that will definitely make Myanmar your next travel destination.
1. Be mesmerised by the Shwegadon Pagoda @ Yangon
Source: Osuga Myanmar Travels & Tours
Also known as the Great Dagon Pagoda or the Golden Pagoda, this architectural beauty is sure to mesmerise anyone that lays their eyes on it. Sitting gracefully on a hilltop, the pagoda which is believed to be 2,600 years old, stands 99 metres high – so it can easily be spotted from most places in Yangon city.
What you can expect:
- A gold-plated dome that contains over 7,000 diamonds, rubies, topazes, and sapphires
- A massive emerald strategically positioned to reflect the last rays of the setting sun
- Watch the washing of the Buddha every Tuesday
- Explore the grounds and catch the beautiful sunset in the evening
- A museum dedicated to religious items in the North West sector of the grounds
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2. Travel via the Yangon Circular Train
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Nothing is more perfect than embracing the local culture by travelling via the circular train. Costing only about RM1 for a ride, the ticket even allows unlimited hop on and hop offs at any station.
What you can expect:
- People from all walks of life, including monks, being part of the daily commute
- Purchase boiled peanuts, fruits, and some traditional Burmese food that are sold on-board
- Travelling the old-fashioned way (read: no air-conditioning) but it’s also extremely rustic!
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3. Wander through the Bogyoke Aung San Market
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Formerly known as Scott Market, this popular market is a must-visit for any traveller. Built back in 1926, the market is divided into the East Wing, West, North, and South Wing. It opens from 9am to 5pm, and it’s closed every Monday as it is a gazetted holiday.
What you can expect:
- Tons of things to check out from clothes, food, artwork and more
- Check out Myanmar’s jewels as the country is most known for rubies, sapphires, jades, and pearls
- Traditional longyi and slippers at affordable prices
- Amazing food including local fried noodles and vermicelli dishes
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4. Visit the ancient temples @ Bagan
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Bagan is known as one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites and it’s no wonder as well. The ancient city which was the capital of the Pagan Kingdom erected thousands of temples, pagodas, and stupors during its height around the 11th to 13th century. The marvelous sight attracts visitors in increasing numbers year by year.
What you can expect:
- Over 2,200 temples and pagodas that survived out of the 10,000 over the centuries
- 5 temples which you can climb for a spectacular view of the sunrise or sunset
- A breathtaking view of hot air balloons floating across the skies
- Visit the Archeological Museum where you can learn more about the history of the area
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5. Be amazed by the fishermen’s skills @ Inle Lake
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While most visit Myanmar for Yangon and Bagan, Inle lake is slowly gaining popularity and should definitely not be missed. The area has numerous small villages along the lake, which gives off a quaint feel.
What you can expect:
- Traditional fishermen, aptly known as “leg rowers” doing their daily catches
- Villages built on poles and markets with traditional trades
- Daily local markets that allow a glimpse into the cultures and people around the lake
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6. Get wet participating in their Thingyan Festival @ around Myanmar
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We’ve heard of Songkran, but did you know that Myanmar has something similar? Known as Thingyan, the Burmese New Year Festival is celebrated by dousing one another with water. The festival usually occurs mid April and is celebrated over a span of 5 days. It is believed that the water is supposed to wash away your previous year’s bad deeds, giving you a clean start to the new year.
What you can expect:
- A LOT of water-throwing and dousing from strangers and high-powered water jets ready to drench you
- Pick-up trucks blasting techno music cruising along the streets while people dance on top of it
- FREE FOOD distributed on the streets!
- The Thingyan Music Festival that’s hosted every year
Thingyan festival is celebrated throughout Myanmar, but if you’re looking for the biggest parties and crowd, it will be in Yangon.
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Here are some other amazing spots you’re sure to NOT want to miss out:
7. Kakku Pagodas @ Inle Lake
Popular for its beautiful structure, the Kakku Pagodas is a pagoda complex that’s perched on a hill and overlooks the valley of Inle Lake. Most of its stupas date back to the 17th and 18th century, and the largest Kakku pagoda is believed to have been built by the King of the Bagan Empire in the 12th century.
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8. Taung Wine @ Hpa An
While this spot is truly a hidden gem, it’s slowly getting recognition among travellers as it has one of the most beautiful sunsets. Be ready for a little hiking uphill though, but trust us that the journey will be absolutely worth it!
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These places are amazing, aren’t they? And these are just the few of MANY other super photogenic and breathtaking places you can actually visit when you’re in Myanmar. If we already piqued your wanderlust, then be sure to make Myanmar your next flight destination!
The best thing is, AirAsia has direct flights to Yangon from Kuala Lumpur. Plus, ticket prices start from only RM99 for Big Members and it’s an all-in-fare one way.
Travel period starts now till 30th September 2019. So make sure you check this underrated, gorgeous country before it becomes too mainstream!
For more info, you can click here.
