There is a travel warning issued for this country. Please check the website of your country's foreign office for the latest information.
Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Myanmar Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Myanmar – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type D
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Myanmar Kyat (MMK) £1 ≈ MMK 2,795 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 2/5
Cashless payments are not widely accepted in Myanmar, and cash is preferred in most places. However, credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and tourist areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: | We cannot recommend an eSIM provider for this country. We advise getting a local SIM card. |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated in Myanmar, with 5-10% being the usual amount in restaurants. Taxi drivers expect small tips, and hotel staff may be tipped a few kyats for their service. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not common in Myanmar, and alcohol consumption is generally restricted to licensed venues. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in designated areas, but it may be restricted in certain public places and enclosed spaces. |
| Thingyan (April) |
Myanmar New Year Festival, celebrated with water fights and various cultural events |
|---|
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 199 (Police), 192 (Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Grab |
| Other: | Myanmar offers rich cultural and historical experiences but is best visited with caution due to ongoing political and safety concerns. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Myanmar, Myanmar
Climate varies by region: central dry zone (Bagan, Mandalay) hot and dry, coast (Yangon, Ngapali) gets very heavy monsoon rain, Shan highlands (Inle Lake) cooler with cold nights November to February
Ngapali and other beach resorts mostly closed from May to September
Thingyan water festival April 13 to 16: businesses closed, transport booked out, streets full of water fights
Don't miss
- 🌅 Watch sunrise over the ancient temples of Bagan
- 🚤 Cruise along the Irrawaddy River at sunset
- 🏞️ Climb Mandalay Hill for sweeping city views
- 🌉 Walk across the iconic U Bein teak bridge
- ⛵ Explore Inle Lake’s floating villages by boat
- 🙏 Join local monks in morning alms at Yangon’s Shwedagon Pagoda
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Myanmar?
Myanmar's appeal lies in its remarkable preservation of traditional culture and relatively untouched natural beauty. The country boasts some of Asia's most impressive archaeological sites, including the thousands of ancient temples scattered across Bagan's plains. Beyond the historical treasures, you'll find diverse landscapes ranging from the Himalayan foothills in the north to pristine beaches along the southern coast. The cultural experience is enhanced by warm hospitality, delicious cuisine blending influences from neighboring countries and the opportunity to witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. However, travelers should be aware of certain challenges. Political instability and human rights concerns have affected parts of the country in recent years, so it's advisable to research current conditions before visiting. While major tourist areas have improved infrastructure, transportation between destinations can be time-consuming due to developing road networks. The weather can be extremely hot, especially from March to May when temperatures can soar above 40°C in central regions.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Yangon
A bustling commercial hub in Myanmar’s southeast, this city offers a mix of colonial architecture and traditional markets. Visitors can explore the Shwedagon Pagoda, stroll along Bogyoke Aung San Road and sample local street food. -
2
Mandalay
Located on the Irrawaddy River, Mandalay serves as Myanmar's cultural heart. The city hosts historic temples, bustling markets and traditional arts workshops, offering visitors a blend of ancient heritage and contemporary Burmese life and vibrant. -
3
Bagan
This ancient city in Myanmar's central plains is home to thousands of towering temples and pagodas. Visitors explore vast archaeological parks, serene monasteries and historic stupas that define this UNESCO World Heritage site's spiritual landscape. -
4
Inle Lake
Surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush forests, Inle Lake offers a unique blend of floating villages, stilted gardens and traditional fishing techniques using leg kicks. The tranquil waters reflect ancient culture and provide opportunities for kayaking, cycling and wildlife spotting.
🏯Places worth seeing
-
1
Shwedagon Pagoda
The Shwedagon Pagoda stands as Yangon’s most iconic Buddhist monument, towering over the city skyline. Its gilded stupa houses relics and attracts pilgrims daily, offering a profound spiritual experience amid bustling streets. -
2
Shwe Nan Daw Kyaung
-
3
U Bein Bridge
-
4
Mandalay Palace
-
5
Kuthodaw Pagoda
-
6
Mahamuni Buddha Temple
-
7
Shuttle bus to Sule Pagoda
-
8
Kyaiktiyo Pagoda - Golden Rock
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Thingyan Water Festival
-
Tazaungdaing Festival of Lights
-
Ananda Pagoda Festival
-
Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival
-
Naga New Year Festival
-
Taunggyi Hot Air Balloon Festival
-
Kyaukse Elephant Dance Festival
-
Shwedagon Pagoda Festival
-
Kakku Pagoda Festival
-
Maha Thingyan
Knowledge before you go
- Avoid all travel; governments warn of active civil war risks.
- Stick strictly to Tourist Kite: Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake if visiting.
- Carry passport always; military checkpoints inspect foreigners traveling between cities.
- Get e-visa online first; land borders mostly closed, fly into Yangon only.
How to travel to Myanmar
Most international visitors arrive in Myanmar through Yangon International Airport, with additional international airports in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw. Direct flights connect Myanmar to major Asian hubs like Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Land border crossings are possible from Thailand, China and India, though regulations can change. As of March 2025, most nationalities require a visa to enter Myanmar, which can be obtained through Myanmar embassies or as an e-visa online before arrival.
Access summary
- Yangon: Fly to Yangon International (RGN) from major Asian hubs.
- Mandalay/Bagan: Fly to Mandalay (MDL) from RGN or regional Asian cities.
- Myanmar National Airlines and Myanmar Airways International operate regionally; no global alliance.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Myanmar
Myanmar offers accommodations for various budgets, from luxury hotels in major cities to simple guesthouses in smaller towns. In tourist destinations like Yangon, Bagan and Inle Lake, you'll find international hotel chains alongside boutique hotels in historic buildings. Budget travelers can find clean, comfortable guesthouses at affordable prices. For unique experiences, consider monastery stays or traditional homestays in rural areas. Book well in advance during the peak tourist season (November to February) when availability becomes limited.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Myanmar
Getting around Myanmar offers various options depending on your destination. In major cities like Yangon and Mandalay, taxis and trishaws are widely available for local transportation. For intercity travel, domestic flights connect major tourist destinations, saving time over land routes. Buses provide affordable transportation between cities, though comfort levels vary. River travel along the Irrawaddy offers a scenic alternative between certain destinations. Train services exist but are generally slow and less comfortable than other options.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Myanmar are around 75% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to MMK) is 13% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Safety varies by region in Myanmar. Tourist areas are generally safe, but political instability affects some regions. Research current conditions before visiting and avoid border areas with ongoing conflicts. Petty theft can occur in crowded places, so maintain awareness of belongings.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities are limited outside major cities. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Malaria and dengue fever are risks, especially during rainy season. Bring necessary medications as availability may be limited. Hospitals in Yangon and Mandalay offer better care than rural facilities.
Accessibility
Accessibility is challenging throughout Myanmar. Historical sites, temples and older areas often have uneven surfaces, steps and limited facilities for mobility-impaired travelers. Major hotels in cities offer some accessibility features, but public transportation rarely accommodates wheelchairs.
Tap water
Tap water is not safe for drinking throughout Myanmar. Rely on bottled water with sealed caps, which is widely available and inexpensive. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water daily. Public drinking fountains are rare.
Packing recommendations for Myanmar
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
hat, sunglasses, sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🕶️
Sunglasses
hat, sunglasses, sun cream
🪰
Insect repellent
🧼
Hand sanitiser
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
for temple visits
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
hat, sunglasses, sun cream
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
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