Getting around Myanmar by air 

While Myanmar offers charming land routes, they can be slow, unreliable, and sometimes uncomfortable. For many travelers, especially those with limited time, flying is the most efficient option.
Domestic flights within Myanmar typically range from US$40 to $200 per journey, depending on the destination and season.
Core routes like Yangon to Mandalay and Yangon to Bagan boast frequent direct flights. However, some internal flights operate on less predictable schedules, often involving circular routes with multiple stops. This may require you to travel via an intermediary location to reach your final destination. 

Important Notes on Air Travel in Myanmar

Flight Delays: Domestic flights in Myanmar are not always punctual. Expect potential delays of up to 20 minutes.
Flight Schedule Confirmation: 24 hours before departure, confirm your flight schedule with your travel agent or airline.
Luggage Allowance: Domestic flights typically allow a 20kg baggage allowance. Thingyan Festival: Book flights well in advance during the Thingyan Water Festival (April) as demand significantly increases. 
Airline Safety: While some domestic airlines have experienced past safety issues, incidents are relatively infrequent.
Limited Airline Choice: The current booking system often limits your ability to choose specific airlines.

Domestic Destinations:

Most domestic airlines serve major cities like Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan (Nyaung U), Dawei, and Heho (a gateway to Inle Lake, Kalaw, Pindaya, and Taunggyi). For timetables, airline information, and booking assistance, please feel free to contact us. 

Flight Situation 2025

There are fewer flights in Myanmar in 2025. The frequency is also less than before. In summertime, flight schedule is less stable. 
During the peak tourism season from November to April, flights amongst famous Myanmar Travel Destinations still can vary. It is advisable to have your Myanmar Tour Operator to take care of your flights in case of flight cancellation. 

Bus Travel in Myanmar

Bus travel is the most budget-friendly way to get around Myanmar and the only option for reaching some destinations, unless you opt for a private car.

Long-Distance Buses Routes

Numerous private companies operate bus routes throughout most of Myanmar, excluding some border and mountainous regions like Kyaing Tong and Putao. 
Booking: In major cities like Yangon, Mandalay, and Bagan, long-distance bus stations are often outside the city center.
Book tickets online or in advance at booking offices or hotels in the city center. Early booking is highly recommended, especially for popular routes during peak season (November to April)
Cost: Tickets typically range from K6,000 to K30,000 depending on the distance. Buses are generally faster and cheaper than trains.
Schedules: Long-distance journeys often depart between 4:00 PM and 10:00 PM, resulting in early morning arrivals. Some buses depart very early in the morning (as early as 4:00 AM), especially from remote areas.
Note: Booking locally in Myanmar may offer slightly lower prices.

Local Buses City Travel

In larger cities like Yangon and Mandalay, local buses are a common (and often crowded) mode of transport. Navigating: Understanding routes can be challenging for foreigners due to Myanmar script and limited English signage.
Cost: Local bus journeys typically cost no more than K300. Important Notes Bus Quality: Major routes feature modern, air-conditioned buses. Older buses in less touristy areas may have limited amenities (e.g., no windows) and may even carry passengers, livestock, and cargo in the aisles. Choose between different levels of luxury (VIP/Express buses with reclining seats and 2+1 seating are more comfortable).

Night Travel

Many long-distance journeys are overnight, maximizing travel time.
Refreshment Stops: Most long journeys include a refreshment stop for stretching and refreshments. Major routes often stop at the 115 Mile complex (2.5 hours north of Yangon).
On-board Amenities: VIP buses and some others provide bottled water and snacks. Air-conditioned buses can get cold; bring extra layers. Expect to hear loud music videos during your journey.
Rough Roads: Off-the-beaten-path routes may involve rough roads, especially during the rainy season.

Train Travel in Myanmar

Train travel in Myanmar offers a unique and scenic way to explore the country, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views and interact with locals. While often slower than buses, train journeys can be more comfortable, especially in upper class and sleeper carriages, though expect a smoother ride elsewhere!
Reliability: Train travel in Myanmar can be less reliable than buses due to factors like flooded tracks and mechanical issues. Beyond the generally reliable Yangon-Mandalay express, journey times can vary significantly. [Include link to map of primary train routes]
Train Types and Classes: Up/Down:Trains are classified as "Up" (northbound) or "Down" (southbound).
Ordinary: Simple wooden seats, often crowded. Available on all trains.
First Class: Wooden seats with cushioned bottoms (available on select trains).
Upper Class: Comfortable, larger seats (available on all trains).
Note: Expect potential cleanliness and maintenance issues.
Standard Sleeper: Four-berth or two-berth lockable compartments with bedclothes, shared washbasin and toilet. Available on Yangon-Mandalay and Mandalay-Myitkyina routes.
Special Sleeper: Private compartments (max. 4 people) with a separate entrance, toilet, and sitting/sleeping areas. Water and fresh bedclothes provided. Primarily available on the Yangon-Bagan route.
Note: The Yangon-Mandalay route generally offers better train conditions.
Railway Tours: We offer a dedicated railway tour of Myanmar, including the infamous Death Railway, the Yangon-Mandalay Express, and the Gokteik Viaduct in Shan State. [Link to contact information]
Train Stations, Tickets, and Schedules: Online Bookings: Book tickets online [Link to online booking page] for Yangon-bound destinations at least five days in advance. Station Bookings: Purchase tickets at the departure station (Yangon's advance booking office is separate from the main station - [Link to "getting to Yangon" page]). Smaller stations may require in-person bookings with the station master (passport details required). Booking Advance: Book upper class seats three days in advance, and sleepers a week or two in advance.
Ticket Prices: Online: US$10-$25 (includes booking fee) for long-distance journeys. Station: K1,000 - K10,000 (cheaper than online, but online booking offers security and English-speaking assistance). Destination-Specific Information: Explore train routes and schedules for specific destinations. [Link to destinations page] Important Notes:
Reliability: Train schedules are subject to delays.
Passport Requirement: Carry your passport for ticket purchase.
Comfort: Expect basic amenities and potential discomfort in some classes.

Classic Journeys: Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin/Hsipaw: Scenic journey featuring the Gokteik Viaduct. Consider a bus for one way and train for the other. [Link to Flickr photo album] Thazi to Kalaw/Inle Lake: Scenic route through hill country. [Link to YouTube video] Mandalay to Myitkyina: Epic journey through remote regions (consider the parallel boat route). [Link to "getting around Myanmar by boat" page]
Travel by Motorcyle in Myanmar