Train Travel in Myanmar
Traveling by train in Myanmar is a good way to observe the local life and see its beautiful landscapes. It may not be the most comfortable mean of transport but it is a styled adventure. There are some overnight trains to save the night too. This guide shows you how to organize your Myanmar train travel.

Photo: Pol Liopart
It is Safe to travel by train in Myanmar
The train is unquestionably one of the safest ways to navigate from one place to another in Myanmar. It has the lowest record of accidents, not to say no accidents in recent years.Therefore, taking a train in Myanmar is a good option in terms of safety.
Popular Train Routes
Myanmar train networks cover the big cities and the big part of the mainland till Dawei, a coastal town in the southern area. It does not reach Ngapali or the further area near Indian or Bangladesh border.
Here are the most popular Myanmar train rides
Train from Yangon to Mandalay
There are direct trains from Yangon to Mandalay every day. With the train speed around 40km/ hour, this train takes more than 17 hours to reach Mandalay.
The morning train from Yangon to Mandalay departs at 5.00 and arrives at 23.00pm.
The overnight train from Yangon to Mandalay starts at 15:45 and arrives at 9.00am the next day.
Train ticket price starts from $12 for upper class.
Train from Mandalay to Pyin u lwin and Hsipaw
The main reason why tourists take this train is because it brings you to the famous Gokteik Viaduct, once the highest viaduct in the world. However, if you do not like the long ride from Mandalay, you can split the ride to take a shorter one just to pass the viaduct.On the other hand, Pyin Oo Lwin is a very recommended site to visit. The town boasts many British Maison, a botanic garden and a large lake. Its surrounding is full of flower and coffee plantation which makes the site very attractive.
Train from Yangon to Inle Lake
The train from Yangon to Inle lake takes 30 hours. The rail journey is divided into 2 parts: fast train to Thazi and a slow train to Shwe Nyaung.Many travel bloggers like the second part as you travel slowly and have a chance to admire the splendid nature of Shan state.
As you can see from the location map, Shwe Nyaung is not close to Inle Lake. In case you want to travel from there to the lake, you should arrange a pick-up service in advance.
Read more: Inle Lake Tours
Mandalay to Myitkina
For those who want to explore the least-visited part of Myanmar on adventure-style, this train is for you. Myitkyina is a very far destination where tourism has not touched yet.This journey takes 22 hours and all are overnight trains. There are departures at 13:50pm, 16:40 pm and 17:45pm
Myanmar Train Network

Classification of trains
Ordinary class: This class has to travel in a crowded carriage, having wooden seats only. Almost every train has a carriage for lower classFirst-class: This comfortable than the ordinary class, having cushioned bottoms on wooden seats, and are available on certain trains
Upper class: Contains relaxed and large seats. Available on all trains
Standard sleeper: This is a compartment having the facility of wash basin and toilet at the end of every standard sleeper. Available in a train from Yangon to Mandalay, Mandalay to Began or Myitkina.
Special sleeper: This is a self-controlled compartment usually for four people, without disturbance. You will feel like sitting in a room. Only available in Yangon to Mandalay route train
How to buy Train tickets in Myanmar
You can buy a ticket from the ticket office of the station. For your comfort, an online ticket booking facility is also available for Yangon to destinations around Myanmar. But remember you have to make booking 5 days before your departure. In Yangon, there is a separate office for booking seats in advance. If you want to buy a ticket for a separate sleeper you have to book tickets about a week or two before departure. The ticket price was the same for locals and foreigners earlier but since 2014 foreigners have to pay high prices as compared to local people. The foreigner can make payments for the tickets in US dollars. Online booking includes booking chargesNotice: if you are a foreigner don't forget to bring your passport, as you have to provide the passport details at the time of booking the ticket.
Myanmar Train Frequently asked questions
Are trains on time in Myanmar ?
In general, Myanmar trains are punction. However, they may be late sometimes. Be prepared!Is there any restaurant or dining carriage on the train?
There is no dining car on the train. The official vendors sell food at certain times for dinner or lunch. They have traditional Burmese foods.
There are also local vendors who embark on the train to sell snacks, and fruits too.
What is the most crowded time for train travel in Maynmar?
During Thingyan festival ( Burmese New Year ) train is heavily booked so book your tickets early.Zaw - our travel expert will be happy to assist you with any idea Myanmar Private Tour as well tailor made option. Please drop us a message for further discussion.
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