Photos credit : Nguyen Thien Kim

1. Bagan - where the time stills

Bagan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws travelers with its awe-inspiring collection of ancient Buddhist temples and pagodas. Imagine a vast plain dotted with thousands of temples, each a testament to the power and artistry of the ancient Pagan Kingdom.

What to do in Bagan?

The top-notch experience that everyone should enjoy is the sunrise hot air balloon. If you can afford that ( from $250/ person), you`ll not regret admiring the magical bird-eye view while floating over thousands of temples. 
Explore Bagan`s by bike or horse-cart is another activity you should explore. Not only the view but also the friendly local encounters will make your time in Bagan memorable. 
Those who are fascinated by photography should take a Bagan photo tour which introduces the ultimate color and speciality of Bagan. 
Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles: Witnessing sunrise or sunset over the Bagan plains, with the temples bathed in golden light, is an unforgettable experience.

How many days should I spend in Bagan?

Bagan itself is best explored in two days. This time frame allows visitors to soak up the highlighted attractions and learn about local culture through traditional workshops.
The surrounding areas of Bagan are also very luring. This means you can add two days to see Salay town or Mt. Popa, one of the most scenic Myanmar national parks. 


Photo: flickr.com

2. Inle Lake - a different on-water world

There are many reasons that you should put Inle Lake into your Myanmar Tour. This Myanmar destination is famous for its floating gardens, unique leg-rowing Intha fishermen, and vibrant local villages.

What to do in Inle Lake?

In 2025, we recommend you place your Inle Travel around the lake, exploring its characters on a boat trip or by bike. 
One of the Inle`s attractions you should visit is Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda. It is home to five sacred Buddha images, believed to have miraculous powers. Markets of Inle Lake including the rotating one provide chances to see local ethnics like Pa-O, and Palaung.
For a sense of the outdoors, take a hike to Indein where you can view the panorama of the lake as well as photograph the ruined Buddhist relics.
Bird watching is another popular activity to do in Inle Lake. Its bank is a haven for birdlife, offering opportunities to spot a variety of avian species.

How many days to spend in Inle Lake?

We often recommend travelers to spend at least 2 days in Inle Lake. However, if you prefer a more relaxing itinerary, letting you have time to pamper yourself to nature then 3 days could be an ideal timeframe. 

Special Events you Should not miss in Inle Lake 2025?

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival is celebrated over 18 days in September and October each year. Highlights:
The festival centers around the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, which houses five small, sacred Buddha images. Four of these images are ceremoniously transported around the lake on a golden barge, accompanied by many other boats with Intha leg-rowers. People from all over the region gather to participate in the festivities, offer prayers, and gain merit.


Photo: Nguyen Long - pixabay

3. Mandalay - the heritage of Burma Kingdom

Mandalay is steeped in history, having served as the last royal capital of Burma. Explore the remnants of the Mandalay Palace, a magnificent complex that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. Stunning Pagodas and Monasteries: The city boasts numerous impressive religious structures, including the Mahamuni Pagoda, renowned for its revered golden Buddha image.

What to do in Mandalay?

To experience the best of Mandalay, you should visit all its ancient capitals, including Inwa, Amarapura, and Sagaing. Learning about local arts and traditional workshops should be listed in any Mandalay tours too. Apart from that, market hopping is something special in Mandalay, especially the Gem Market.

How long should I spend in Mandalay?

2-3 days: This timeframe allows you to comfortably explore the main attractions in Mandalay, including the Mandalay Palace, Mahamuni Pagoda, Mandalay Hill, and some of the surrounding temples.


Photo: Alexander Schimmeck

4. Myanmar destination for culture vultures: Yangon 

In 2025, Yangon is the main city that welcomes international travelers. The city has so much to seduce its visitors from the giant Shwedagon pagoda to the exotic China town, from bustling open markets to the beautiful art scene. 

What to see in Yangon? 

For the first time visit, these religious sites should be listed in your Yangon itinerary: Shwedagon Pagoda, Botataung Pagoda, and Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda. 
Those who are interested in Burma`s culture should not miss the Bogyoke Market and National Museum while foodies should go for a try at Indian or Chinese streets. The city also has many hidden gems to let you enjoy off-the-tourist experiences. 
More ideas? check now the Best things to do in Yangon. 

How many days should I spend in Yangon ?

With three days, you can explore more leisurely. You can visit additional pagodas like Botataung Pagoda and Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda, delve deeper into the city's history at the National Museum, and perhaps even experience a traditional Burmese cooking class or a cultural performance.

5. Ngwe Saung Beach - the perfect place for surf and sun

Ngwe Saung is one of the most beautiful beaches in Myanmar. 

What to do in Ngwe Saung?

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Explore the nearby villages and experience the laid-back island life.
Adventure-minded travelers can also take a visit to a local elephant camp. 

Travel tips for Ngwe Saung Beach

Best time to visit Ngwe Saung: Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather. 
Getting there: hiring a private car is the best option. Buses are available but rather long and less comfortable. 
 

6. Ngapali Beach - an ideal spot for beach hoping

Set by the bay of Bengal, Ngapali beach offers fine, sandy beaches with fascinating fishing villages. It is peaceful and tranquil. There is a wide range of accommodation to choose from from friendly to high-end luxury resorts.

What to do in Ngapali?

Besides the sheer beach experience, there are opportunities to hike, bike, and explore local life through its markets and villages.
Diving is available for a day trip as many parts of Ngapali remain untouched. 

Visit Ngapali 2025 tips

Flights to Ngapali are less frequent than before. It is advisable to contact a local travel agency or tour operator to book your tickets. Make sure your travel is flexible if there is a flight cancellation. 
The road trip from Yangon to Ngapali is pretty long. Consider it as an alternative if you can not afford the flight.  

7. One of the best Myanmar Travel Destinations for adventure: Kalaw

 This charming hill station offers a welcome escape from the heat and provides a base for exploring the countryside. This Myanmar Travel destination is characterized by lush mountains, colorful ethnic groups, and some outstanding British colonial heritages. 

What to do in Kalaw?

The most common thing to do in Kalaw is trekking. There are 2 routes to choose from:
Kalaw to Inle Lake Trek: This is the most popular trek in the area. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. You'll pass through charming villages, tea plantations, and paddy fields.
Day Hikes: Shorter day hikes are also available, allowing you to explore the nearby hills and enjoy the fresh air. 
Kalaw is also well known for its elephant camps which is perfect to add to your Myanmar Family Trip. 

Day trips from Kalaw

Pindaya which is famous for its awesome caves is an ideal spot for a day trip from Kalaw.
Think about the Green Valley Elephant if walking in the forest with elephant is your interest. 

8. Hpa-An - a peaceful escape

Photographers choose Hpa An to shoot its picture-perfect landscapes which are crafted by green fields, mystical rocky mountains, and awe-inspiring caves. It is probably one of the best Myanmar Travel destinations to enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. 

What to do in Hpa An?

The very first attraction you should not miss is Mt Gwegabin which offers panoramic views of the area. After that, take a look at the valley of Buddha which houses hundreds of Buddha Statues. 
For an active day, hire a kayak to paddle along the Thandlwin river or hop on a boat trip to catch the sunset. 
Recommended reading: Hpa An Tours

Where to stay in Hpa An?

Zwekapin Valley Resort & Spa - This hotel has excellent reviews and is located in a beautiful valley.
Keinnara Hpa-An - This hotel is a bit more secluded and offers cottages and permanent tents. It also has an outdoor pool and open-air dining.
Hpa An Lodge - This hotel is a bit more upscale and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

9. Mawlamyine

As the first capital of British Burma, Mawlamyine boasts a rich colonial history reflected in its architecture, with influences from British, Indian, and Chinese cultures. The city has a diverse population, with a blend of Mon, Burmese, and other ethnic groups, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry.

10. Kyaikhtiyo - the land of Buddhist pilgrimage

The Golden Rock Myanmar, also known as the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, is famous for several reasons:
- Precarious Balance: The most striking feature is the massive granite boulder covered in gold leaf, seemingly defying gravity as it balances precariously on the edge of a cliff.
- Religious Significance: It's a highly revered Buddhist pilgrimage site, believed to enshrine a strand of the Buddha's hair, which is said to be keeping the rock in place.
- Stunning Views: The location atop Mount Kyaiktiyo offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Mon State countryside. Mawlamyine 
 

Myanmar Travel Destinations that are less accessible in 2025

The complicity of political conflict in Myanmar in 2025 has led to the fact that many of its stunning destinations are difficult to visit. Here is the updated situation about the visit to Myanmar in 2025 :
- Mergui Archipelago: still available to visit but fewer flights from Yangon. More accessible to travel from Thailand or on a private boat/yacht. 
- Putao: flight frequency is the main problem that fewer tourists can come in 2025. 
- Mrauk U: not accessible for safety reason. 
- Monywa: The road trip to Monywa seems complicated. 
- Multi-day Irrawaddy River Cruises: many cruise operators have eased their activities in Myanmar since 2019 due to the Covid issue till now. The alternative plan should be a day trip in Bagan or Mandalay. 
- Myanmar Caravan Adventure: crossing from India to Thailand via Myanmar or to China is not possible in 2025.