Is it good to visit Myanmar in 8 days?

Arguably, 1 to 2 weeks is the duration of a trip to Myanmar. Hence, spending 8 days in Myanmar is a good amount of time to capture all the best that Myanmar has to offer. Depending on your personal interests, you`ll find something of your own in this beautiful destination. From sun-drenched beaches without any crowds to the dazzling pagodas that are totally different from others in Asia, from styled stilt villages to the ancient capitals full of characters along the Irrawaddy River, all await your exploration. 

What to do on an 8-day journey in Myanmar? Update 2023 - 2024

Before we suggest the itinerary, we recommend you pin these essential experiences that are worth immersing in Myanmar:

Photograph Shwedagon Pagoda

The symbolic attraction of Yangon - the Shwedagon Pagoda is more than just a place to see. It showcases an important part of Yangon culture where thousands of people come to practice Buddhism every day from morning to evening. 
This timeless pagoda is really photogenic and there is no reason to not enjoy at least a few hours there to learn about the local culture and take some Instagrammable shoots. 

Marvel at the Bagan temple landscape

Bagan is an essential destination on any itinerary to Myanmar, with over 2,200 Buddhist temples and pagodas remaining from the 11th century. Upon first sight, you`ll be astonished by the sheer size and diversity of architectural styles found in this holy plain.
Expert tips: a balloon flight is one of the most striking things to do in Myanmar. It may be a little expensive but totally worth it, especially for those who want to capture the panorama of this wonderland. 

Discover the beauty of Inle

Lake Located in Shan state, Inle Lake is a stunning destination that draws travelers with its magnificent scenery. Visitors can explore the tranquil villages surrounding the lake, where locals are engaged in traditional crafts such as lotus silk production, Burmese cigar-making, and umbrella production.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness the famous floating gardens and tomato plantations.
Inspirational travel guide: Inle Lake Travel Itinerary

Travel back in time in Mandalay

For those interested in exploring Myanmar's rich culture and history, Mandalay is the ideal destination. The city itself boasts many historical sites, including the Royal Palace, Monastery, and numerous golden pagodas. Beyond the city limits, visitors can explore four ancient capitals of the Burma Kingdom: Inwa, Mingun, Amarapura, and Sagaing.
Additionally, Mandalay's Gem Market is the only one of its kind in Asia and is not to be missed. Plan for a ten-day itinerary in Myanmar that includes Mandalay.

Do Beach Hopping in Ngapali

Ngapali Beach is widely considered to be the most stunning Myanmar Beach, boasting comfortable seafront resorts and idyllic waterways to bask in the sun, sand, and sea. Water sports enthusiasts will be delighted by the range of activities on offer, including snorkeling and scuba diving.
However, there is more to Ngapali than just the beach, as it offers a plethora of cultural and adventurous experiences. For those looking to explore beyond the beach, a day trip to Thandwe town or a hike up Amata mountain is highly recommended. The mountain hike offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect adventure for nature enthusiasts.

Go off beaten track to Mergui Archipelago

If there is a site that deserves 5 to 7 days then it must be the Mergui Archipelago. This magnificent tropical paradise is home to more than 800 islands where you can easily find your own. Everything you need for a lifetime adventure is here: incredible marine life, amazing diving sites, untouched islands, private beaches, fascinating fishing villages, and unknown waterfalls. It is simply the best destination for sea, sand, sun, and water in Myanmar. 
Recommended reading: Tours to the Mergui Archipelago

Do Buddhism Pilgrimage in Kaikhtiyo

For Buddhism people, Kaikhtiyo has been gaining its reputation as one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Asia. 
The vicinity of the pagoda exudes an atmosphere of deep devotion, permeated with the flickering light of burning candles, the melodious chanting of devotees, the aroma of incense sticks, and the array of offerings being made to the shrine. This place has been revered as a Buddhist place of worship for over 2,600 years, steeped in a rich history of faith and spirituality.

See Elephant at Green Hill Valley

Many people think that 8 days in Myanmar may not have little room for a glance of nature. It is not true. Lying not far from Inle Lake, Green hill valley is a perfect introduction to Burmese nature where you can see Asian elephants and even walk with them in their forest. For a Myanmar holiday with kids, it is one of the best choices to amuse the children. 

Myanmar 8 days itinerary for the first timer

If you are looking for an 8-day itinerary in Myanmar that allows you to see the most spectacular travel sites  then this itinerary has something for you:
Day 01: Arrive in Yangon
Day 02: Taking a morning flight to Bagan. Explore Bagan`s cultural highlights
Day 03: Explore the traditional workshops and fascinating villages of Bagan. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Irrawaddy River.
Day 04: Fly to Mandalay from Bagan. See Mandalay`s ancient capitals.
Day 05: Go for Mingun, Amarapura. Sunset over Mandalay Hill. 
Day 06: Fly to Heho then have a transfer to Inle Lake. Taking a boat tour around the lake.
Day 07: See the waterways of Inle, the floating garden, and stilt houses. Fly back to Yangon. 
Day 08: See Yangon further than just its famous site. Leave the country
This itinerary involves 4 internal flights and 3 of them are in the morning. If you think that it is pretty fast and want to have more time in each place, then consider our suggestion for Myanmar in the 10-day trip.

Myanmar 8 days with beach Itinerary

To maximize your beautiful time in Myanmar and still keep a break at the beach, this itinerary is designed. Again, this is just a suggestion. For a tailor-made tour with more activities in detail or personalized experiences, do not hesitate to contact our travel experts.
Day 01: Arrive in Yangon
Day 02: Fly to Bagan sacred plain. Discover the temples and pagodas on a horsecart ride. 
Day 03: Get Bagan sunrise from one of its pagoda`s peaks. Continue to see its highlights. Fly to Inle Lake.
Day 04: Explore Inle by boat: learn about life on the water, the silk village, and the unique monastery.
Day 05: Attend the Indein market and admire the Indein pagoda. 
Day 06: Fly from Inle Lake to Ngapali Beach. Spend the day by the beach.
Day 07: Free to enjoy the beach or water activities. Fly back to Yangon in the afternoon.
Day 08: Delve into the prominent Yangon tourist attractions. Taking the flight back home.

Myanmar 8-day itinerary for beach and ocean safari

As mentioned in things you can do in Myanmar in 8 Days, this itinerary focuses on having fun in southern Myanmar where hundreds of islands are situated. The main destination is Mergui Archipelago and the main purpose of this trip is to navigate through its breathtaking waters and secluded islands.
Day 01: Arrive in Yangon. Visit Yangon`s most intriguing sites.
Day 02: Fly from Yangon to Kawthaung. Set sail to the Andaman Sea.
Day 03: Travel further to the Mergui`s islands. Prepare to dive and get a sun bath.
Day 04: Further travel into the territory of Mergui with more water activities like scuba diving, and kayaking.
Day 05: Visit other islands and the village or the Sea Moken people. Explore the island`s waterfall. 
Day 06: Spend another day beholding the stunning of the Mergui. Head back to Kawthaung Pier. 
Day 07: Fly back to Yangon. Enjoy a day trip to Bago - one of the ancient capitals of Burma kingdom.
Day 08: See the less-visited attractions of Yangon. Return home.

Myanmar 8 days for a family holiday

When it comes to a family holiday, we mean a trip with kid-friendly activities yet also enjoyable moments for parents too. This brief itinerary may not show you everything but is a good frame for your reference.
Day 01: Arrive in Yangon. Enjoy a Yangon`s walk tour to Kandawgyi Palace and Shwedagon pagoda.
Day 02: Board a flight to Mandalay to soak up its atmospheric markets, traditional workshops, and styled pagodas. 
Day 03: Full day in Mandalay with trishaw, boat, and bike to uncover its majestic palace and surroundings.
Day 04: Fly to Bagan. Bike together through its rustic roads and stop by unknown pagodas ( you can also do an electric bike).
Day 05: Take a balloon flight in the morning. Boat trip on Irrawaddy River for sunset.
Day 06: Fly to Heho. Drop by Green Valley Elephant Camp for a glimpse of nature. Explore Nyang Shwe town. 
Day 07: Enjoy a boat trip in Inle Lake. Fly back to Yangon. 
Day 08: Yangon art tour. Fly back home. 
 

Myanmar Travel Cost for 8 days

The most expensive part of your travel to Myanmar is the international flight in general. Internal travel services are quite acceptable. There is a wide array of accommodations in Myanmar ranging from hostels to high-end hotels so you can easily opt for your travel budget accordingly.
Here is what we have from different travel sources in terms of Myanmar's Travel Budget:
- Low-budget travel: you can spend less than $50/ day including food, accommodation, and transportation in each place in Myanmar. 
- Mid-range travel: it is a good idea to spend about $100/ person/ day for your travel in Myanmar. This fee will cover 3-4 star hotels, a private car with tour guides, and probably internal flights (depending on how long you will travel).
- Luxury travel: from $200/ person/ day, you can benefit the high-quality travel services including 5* hotel, private transfer with best car condition, and internal flights. 

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Myanmar 8-day Travel Q&A 2023 - 2024

These Myanmar Travel facts are very important for any tour to Myanmar that you should notice:

Myanmar Visa Application

There are certain cases in which you can have Myanmar Visa Exemption but in general, visitors from Europe, Australia, and America are required to have a Myanmar visa before they come to the country. 
It is advisable to apply to Myanmar through an embassy or you can now get it online too. 
Here are the most common border checkpoints that you can access Myanmar from:
Yangon International Airport
Mandalay International Airport
Nay Pyi Taw International Airport
Tachileik Land Border Checkpoint
Myawaddy Land Border Checkpoint
Kawthaung Land Border Checkpoint

What document I should take while traveling?

Make sure you prepare the following papers when you travel to Myanmar:
- Your passport
- Your Visa 
- Your bookings including hotel or travel services.
Please note that the Internet is not always stable in the country so we really recommend you to print all these documents needed.

Do we need to be vaccinated to enter Myanmar? Update 2023

There is no requirement for vaccination. However, you need to have a vaccination certificate for Covid-19 to apply for your visa.
Regarding other medication, we suggest you to bring some basic pills for flu, headache, and stomachache. 

How can I access Myanmar?

The easiest way to enter Myanmar is by air. Yangon, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Daw international airports are open to welcome tourists. 
Some border gates between Myanmar and Thailand are also open. However, it is not for caravan tours at the moment.

When is the best time to visit Myanmar?

According to many travel experts, November to April is the best time to have a holiday in Myanmar. It is good as the weather turns cool, sunny and with few drops of rain. 
It does not mean that Myanmar is not interesting for the rest of the year. In contrast, summer is a perfect time to get cheap travel deals and participate in some Myanmar local festivals. 

Is it reliable to book Myanmar 8 day tour online?

There are many advantages when you booking a Myanmar tour online instead of arranging it yourself. You`ll save time and have a chance to get an insightful source of up-to-date travel information. Apart from that, a good customize tour also allows you to personalize all the details so it can match your expectation of a dream trip. 
Many well-recognized local tour operators like us offer 100% tailor-made tours to Myanmar and you can book online with a very flexible payment method.

Should I take a tour guide in Myanmar?

Your trip to Myanmar may not be complete without learning about Burmese culture. For this reason, having a tour guide is worthwhile. 
Additionally, a tour guide can show you about his/ her country more than just its surface. He/she will help you to fill up the gap of the language barrier and function a bridge to let you connect with the local villagers wherever you visit. 

 

Can we drive in Myanmar?

The answer is No. Driving is illegal for foreigners unless they are on a caravan adventure. In this case, you need to convert your international driving license to a local one. All the processes should be done through an authorized travel agency. 

Is there any dress code when visiting temples/ pagodas?

There is no dress code but you need to wear modestly which means shoulders and knees should be covered. Shorts and open dress are not appropriate for a Buddhist site visit. 

What about Myanmar Foods?

Due to its strategic location at the intersection of South and Southeast Asia and its borders with China, India, Thailand, and Bangladesh, Myanmar boasts a diverse and flavorful cuisine. This cuisine is comparable in richness and variety to that of its neighboring countries. Despite its proximity to these nations, Burmese cuisine is distinct in that it is not as spicy as Indian or as fiery as Thai, and it does not bear a strong resemblance to Chinese cuisine.
Here are some of the Myanmar Foods you should try.