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Highlights of Burma
Burma is home to some exquisite countryside and coastal regions as well as a numerous temples that stand in various states of ruin. A visit to Burma would not be complete without trips around some of the most important religious shrines and buildings as well as spending time in the countryside hiking or cycling in the mountainous north.
Yangon
Yangon is a city that is home to a wealth of interesting buildings as well as being a commercial centre for the country. There are endless pagodas and temples plus many recreational areas that boast night markets and parks. The city is rich in culture and as such, offers visitors the chance to learn about the history here in its many museums and art galleries.
Shwedagon Pagoda
Also known as the Golden Pagoda, Shwedagon Pagoda is one of the most important religious buildings in Asia as it claims to house eight hairs that belonged to Buddha himself. It dominates the skyline of the capital, Yangon, and is visited by countless visitors every year.
Mandalay
This ancient Burmese former-capital is found along the east banks of the Irrawaddy River and though much of the original royal palace compound has not survived, there is a timeless appeal to this town, with its old temples, teak houses and unhurried pace.
Inle Lake
This lake area is a popular tourist magnet, mainly due to the floating guesthouses that offer a peaceful rural atmosphere, with a pretty backdrop of hills and rural Burmese life. You won’t be the only ones here but there is a serene sense of traditional life, with plenty of fishing activity. Several temple attractions are situated beside the lake.
Bagan area
This area used to be known as Pagan and it can be found in the dry central plains of Burma, close to the Irrawaddy River. Contrary to popular myth, Bagan is not an official UNESCO World Heritage site but the stupas, temples, sculptures, pagodas and other buildings are still worth a visit. UNESCO declined the application due to insensitive restoration of the area by the Burmese government. All the same, you could spend days exploring this vast area where nature has reclaimed man’s handiwork, and it’s nicely seen from the saddle of a bike.
Andaman coast
The coastline in Burma is a prime attraction and many choose to come simply to laze their days away on the pure white shores. Others come to enjoy snorkelling or diving, and these are often popular activities at the end of a trip. Many of the islands remain unspoilt and undeveloped so you can enjoy a pristine environment, but the infrastructure is basic. It certainly doesn’t receive quite the same attention as Thailand’s Andaman coast.
Bago (formerly Pegu)
The city of Bago makes for a great place to visit and due to its close proximity to Yangon, many choose to come here from the capital. The famous Shwethalyaung Buddha can be seen here, and there are many temples and pagodas to see as well as the Kanbawzathadi Palace site and museum.
Hsipaw
Located in Shan State is the historical town of Hsipaw. It sits on the banks of the Myitnge River, and there are many local hill tribes in the area that can be seen during organised trips.
Ngwe Saung
This is arguably the most beautiful beach in the country and it boasts a beach frontage that overlooks the Bay of Bengal. There are a few eco-friendly huts and hotels here, and the sea is unpolluted and the beach litter-free; quite a feat in Asia.
