Best Places and Hotels in Myanmar
Set against a mesmerizing tapestry of mysterious jungle temples, tranquil beaches and spectacular mountain scenery, Myanmar is a burgeoning travel destination. Once known as Burma, this mysterious Southeast Asian nation is a unique combination of ancient traditions, colonial customs and modern amenities. Visitors will discover cosmopolitan cities like Yangon and Mandalay as well as remote ethnic villages at the foot of the Himalayas and beaches on the Bay of Bengal. The opening of the country provides numerous luxury Myanmar travel opportunities.
The country’s commercial center and largest city, Yangon features colonial architecture and the 326-foot-tall, gilded Shwedagon Pagoda, the most important religious site in Myanmar. The Strand Hotel, opened in 1901, has hosted legendary figures, including novelists Rudyard Kipling and George Orwell. The cultural capital of the country, Mandalay is home to the Royal Palace and the golden Maha Myat Muni Paya statue of Buddha. Stroll along streets lined with tree-shaded monasteries and local crafts shops. Located on the banks of the Irrawaddy River, the Bagan archaeological region has the world’s largest and densest collection of Buddhist pagodas, temple, stupas and ruins. Many of these buildings date back to the 11th century. From the Scott Market in Yangon to the stalls of Muse along the Chinese border, you can find stylish bargains, timeless finds and exquisitely handcrafted souvenirs.
Famed for its biodiversity, the landscape of Myanmar is a beautiful montage that encompasses lush vegetation, soaring mountains and soft sandy beaches. Hike the foothills of the Himalayas, rock climb and raft raging whitewater rapids. Located in the Kachin State, Putao is famous for its rare orchid specimens. Freshwater Inle Lake is a wildlife sanctuary and the breeding ground and nesting site for thousands of migratory aquatic birds. Here you will see fishermen rowing boats with their legs and farmers tending traditional hydroponic gardens.
Adventurers can explore the majestic stalactites and stalagmites on Haingu Island, which was named for its subterranean caverns. Visit the Mergui Archipelago to view rainforests as they appeared thousands of years ago for an up-close encounter with tropical birds, elephants, armadillos and monkeys that live in this unique habitat. Snorkel or dive amidst rays, pipefish, nurse sharks and anglerfish and dolphins just offshore. Relax on miles of palm tree-lined beaches set against a picturesque backdrop and watch as colorful sunsets signal the end of the day.
Isolated from the outside world for decades, Myanmar is enriched by the cultural history of its diverse population. Travel back in time as you visit remote minority villages whose people still live as they did hundreds of years ago. These communities provide a fascinating contrast to the large modern cities that also preserve vestiges of their indigenous and colonial traditions. The country is a rich combination of sights, sounds and flavors. Influenced by its neighbors, Myanmar cuisine features delicious local dishes, such as roasted duck, deep-fried gourds, fish noodle soup and banana cake. Witnessing the dress, music and festivals of the Yang, Kachin and other distinct ethnic groups is an once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience.
Accommodations in Myanmar range from modern downtown hotels to beachside bungalows and rain forest lodges. Luxurious and comfortable surroundings are also available in mountaintop retreats and aboard ships that cruise the Irrawaddy River. These hotels provide guests personalized services, which include spas and wellness centers in addition to the magnificent views, distinctive architectural details and beautiful fabrics. They serve as the perfect setting for relaxing between shopping, dining and sightseeing excursions. You can enjoy afternoon tea, surf the swells off Cheduba Island, trek the legendary Burma Road and experience a bird’s-eye-view of thousand-year-old pagodas from a hot air balloon. For an unforgettable adventure, let Epic Road help you customize your Myanmar travel itinerary.
