Myanmar is one of the hidden gems in Southeast Asia that you should consider for a vacation trip. Since it hasn’t been overrun by tourists, the gorgeous mountains, charming countryside, and scenic routes in Myanmar are still pretty much untouched. That’s why, this country is a great destination if you want a peaceful and authentic holiday.

You'll also find awe-inspiring temples, picturesque landscapes, and villages that transport you to a simpler time. For a first-time visitor, start in Yangon, where the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda is an absolute must-see. Remember, Myanmar has a tropical climate, so plan accordingly, and always be mindful of local customs and respect for cultural practices.

The Public Transportation in Myanmar

There is the usual affordable public transportation, and there’s also ones that you can only experience in Myanmar. So, here’s some public transportation option in Myanmar you need to know:

1. Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option for short and long-distance travel, often cheaper than trains. For a more comfortable ride, you can use higher-class services that usually are more expensive but still affordable in general.

2. Train

Some of the common routes will also bring you to famous destinations such as Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan and Inle Lake. Relatively slow, this public transportation is suitable if you are not in a rush and would love to enjoy the beautiful landscape outside the window.

3. Boat

Enjoy the stunning Myanmar panorama from the boat. While locals usually take slow boats for daily activities, tourists typically prefer express boats. Though more expensive, it’s still affordable and more than comfortable for exploring Myanmar rivers such as Irrawaddy river.

4. Taxi 

If you want transportation that gets you from one place to another quickly, then it's a taxi. Even though it’s more expensive compared to other public transportation in Myanmar, taxi offers that benefit others don’t.

5. Trishaw

Trishaw, the 3-wheel vehicle is one of the public transportation you should not miss when visiting Myanmar. The 3-wheel vehicle is quite common in Southeast Asia and each country has different characteristics. So, while you are in Myanmar, make sure to give Myanmar’s trishaw a try. 

Famous Destinations in Myanmar

If you are a first timer and probably thinking about bringing your family to visit Myanmar, here’s some recommended famous destinations in Myanmar to check out:

1. Visit Shwedagon Pagoda

As Myanmar’s most sacred Buddhist site, the Shwedagon Pagoda is a must-visit. It’s believed to house relics of four previous Buddhas, making it a place of pilgrimage. Beyond its spiritual meaning, the architectural beauty and the opportunity to witness local devotion in real-time make it an unforgettable experience for tourists that opens daily 04:00 - 22:00.

2. Experiencing Sunrise in Bagan

If you are visiting Myanmar to experience sunrise in Bagan, you will need to arrive at the temple before 5 AM. Here’s a quick tip! The best spots to enjoy the sunrise are a small temple near Shwesandaw Pagoda, temple No 446 and the ones not far from Sulamani temple. 

3. Floating village in Inle Lake

One of the main highlights is taking a boat tour across the lake to witness the famous Intha fishermen, known for their unique one-legged rowing technique. These boat rides also offer the chance to explore floating gardens, where locals who live in that floating village grow crops on water using traditional farming techniques.

4. More Temples in Mandalay

Mandalay city is home to impressive temples like Mahamuni Pagoda, housing one of Myanmar’s most revered Buddha statues, and Kuthodaw Pagoda, known as the world’s largest book due to its stone-inscribed Buddhist scriptures.

5. Ngapali Beach

The stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere that Ngapali Beach offers should be enough to convince you. The beach is known for its beautiful soft, white sand and crystal-clear water, making it an ideal spot for relaxing, swimming and even capturing lots of beautiful moments through photos or videos.

What Are The Best Hotels in Myanmar?

The best hotels in Myanmar still offer reasonable price and here’s some of the recommendations you can check out:

1. Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon

Starts from RM 234.10

Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon is a luxurious 5-star hotel that offers comprehensive facilities with excellent services. The hotel is located only 450 m from Kandawgyi Nature Park, 2 km from Shwedagon Pagoda and a few other interesting tourist destinations.

2. Lotte Hotel Yangon

Starts from RM 362.13

Lotte Hotel Yangon is a 5-star hotel that is located near popular recreation spots in Myanmar such as Kaba Aye Pagoda, Inya Lake and many more. As a luxurious hotel, they also provide such comprehensive facilities and great services that will value your money well. 

3. Pan Pacific Yangon

Starts from RM 297.09

Pan Pacific Yangon is a 5-star hotel located in various tourist spots such as Sule Pagoda, Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon Zoological Garden and many more. This luxurious hotel is known for their excellent services, facilities and great breakfast that makes them one of the best hotels in Myanmar.

4. Wyndham Grand Yangon

Starts from RM 297.83

Wyndham Grand Yangon is a 5-star hotel that is located in many interesting tourist destinations such as Karaweik Palace, Kandawgyi Lake, Kandawgyi Nature Park and many more. The luxurious hotel with complete facilities would be a perfect accommodation for a holiday stay.

5. Inya Lake Hotel

Starts from RM 216.34

Inya Lake Hotel is a 4-star hotel that is not only located in a strategic area, equipped with comprehensive facilities, but also offers Inya lake views that you might want to experience yourself. The hotel is also near Myanmar Gems Museum,  Hledan Centre for shopping and many pagodas.

What Are The Best Hotels in Myanmar for Couples?

If you are planning to have your honeymoon in Myanmar or maybe a short romantic getaway, here’s some recommendations for best hotels in Myanmar for couples:

1. Palace Hotel

Starts from RM 163.63

Palace Hotel is one of the good hotels for couples seeking a romantic getaway or a honeymoon retreat. The 3-star hotel is equipped with basic facilities, suitable for guests who prefer simplicity. It’s also near tourist spots such as Diamond Plaza for shopping, Mahamuni pagoda and Mandalay Palace.

2. The Hotel Nova

Starts from RM 133.99

The Hotel Nova is a 3-star hotel that you can choose to make memorable nights with your loved one. This hotel is great because it is located near tourist spots like Shwe Kyi Myin Paya, Maha Myat Muni Paya and many more. 

3. Ritz Grand Hotel Mandalay

Starts from RM 497.47

Ritz Grand Hotel Mandalay is a 4-star hotel located in the city centre that would be perfect if your preferable activity outside the hotel is shopping. There are Ocean Super Center, Fuji Shopping Center, Diamond Plaza, as well as other historical sites.

4. Aung Gyi Soe Hotel

Starts from RM 316.36

Located in the Mahaungmayay area, Aung Gyi Soe Hotel is a 4-star hotel you can pick for spending the time with loved ones. This hotel has several shopping centres nearby and historical sites like pagodas that you don’t want to miss when visiting Myanmar.

5. VIntage Luxury Yacht Hotel

Starts from RM 68.80

If you are planning to stay in the West Yangon Region, you might want to book a room in VIntage Luxury Yacht Hotel. The 4-star hotel has great facilities and is located near various pagodas, a historical site best known in Myanmar.

What Are The Best Hotels in Myanmar for Families?

When taking your family to Myanmar, you want to stay in a family-friendly accommodation. That’s why, here’s some recommendations for you:

1. Family Treasure Hotel

Starts from RM 162.41

Family Treasure Hotel is a family-friendly hotel, just like its name. The 3-star hotel offers simple facilities and is located near some tourist spots such as National Museum Yangon, Sule Pagoda, Mahabandoola Garden and more.

2. Hotel 99 Yangon

Starts from RM 147.28

Hotel 99 Yangon is a 4-star hotel that other than offering more than essential needs, they also have a picnic area that will be great for families. Also, the hotel is near the National Museum of Myanmar, Planetarium, People’s Park and more that kids would find fun.

3. Silver Green Hotel Yangon

Starts from RM 236.38

Silver Green Hotel Yangon is a 4-star hotel that would be suitable for a family stay if you prefer a compact accommodation located near shopping area and historical sites to gain insights while travelling in Myanmar with your family.

4. Hotel Grand United Ahlone Branch

Starts from RM 95.25

Hotel Grand United Ahlone Branch is an affordable 4-star hotel. Other than being praised for the great ambience, the hotel is located in a strategic area because it’s near National Museum of Myanmar, Taw Win Center, Kandawgyi Lake and more. 

5. Summit Parkview

Starts from RM 470.27

Summit Parkview is a luxurious 4-star hotel that would make your stay in Myanmar with family comfortable and spoiled. Located near tourist spots, the hotel is only 115 m from The Planetarium and parks that you can visit for free. 

Where Should I Stay if I Would Like to be in a Scenic Area?

Check out hidden gems in the hidden gems of Myanmar with accommodation located in scenic area such as:

1. Sanctum Inle Resort

Starts from RM 1,636.36

Sanctum Inle Resort offers such extensive facilities with amazing services that surely will make your trip in Myanmar beyond perfection. They even have a library and babysitting service that you rarely find in other places. 

2. One Myanmar Resort Nay Pyi Taw

Starts from RM 180

One Myanmar Resort Nay Pyi Taw is a 3-star resort that also offers a beautiful panorama of Nay Pyi Taw from your room. The resort has a swimming pool, fitness centre, garden, spa and more to make sure that your staying experience is perfect.

3. One Myanmar Resort Yangon

Starts from RM 327.27

One Myanmar Resort Yangon is a 3-star apartment where you can have a scenic view of Yangon from your room. This accommodation is also located near tourist spots such as Hledan Centre, Inya Lake and many more.

Where Should I Plan on Staying if I would Like to be Close to the Airport?

If you’re looking for recommended accommodations near Myanmar or Yangon International Airport, here’s some:

1. Melia Yangon Hotel is 12.5 km from airport

2. Airport Avenue Hotel is 1.56 km from airport

3. Mercure Yangon Kaba Aye is 10 km from airport

4. Areca Hotel is 5 km from airport

5. Akore Myanmar Life Hotel is 1.40 km from airport

Top Tips for Finding Best Hotel Deals in Myanmar 

One of the first things that guarantee you to have a great trip is securing the best deal. So, here’s top tips for finding best hotel deals in Myanmar you can try:

1. Book in advance

Hotels in popular tourist spots like Yangon, Bagan, and Inle Lake can fill up quickly, especially during peak season (November to February). Booking early ensures you get better rates and availability.

2. Travel off-season

Visiting during the low season (May to October) can help you find cheaper rates as hotels lower their prices due to fewer tourists. Just be mindful of the rainy season in certain regions.

3. Stay flexible

Flexibility with dates can help you catch last-minute deals or special promotions. If you’re open to changing your itinerary, you might find even better rates.

4. Consider smaller guest house or hotel

Myanmar has plenty of charming guesthouses and hostels that offer great value for money. Many of these provide comfortable stays at a fraction of the cost of larger hotels.

5. Negotiate directly with hotel

Sometimes contacting the hotel directly can lead to better deals than online prices, especially if you're staying longer or during off-peak periods.

To secure the best travel deals, use Traveloka. Whether you’re searching for the best hotels in Myanmar or special flight packages, Traveloka offers unbeatable prices and flexible booking options. 

New users can take advantage of the “JOMJALAN” coupon code for an extra discount of up to RM 250 on all travel products available through Traveloka.