The following list highlights some of the best places to visiting in Myanmar. So if you are in Myanmar, I recommend visiting the following:
- Saddar Cave, Karen, Myanmar
- National Kandawgyi Gardens, Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar
- Ananda Temple, Bagan, Myanmar
- Bagan Golden Palace, Bagan, Myanmar
- Kuthodaw Pagoda, Mandalay, Myanmar
- Dhammayangyi Temple, Bagan, Myanmar
- Gubyaukgyi Temple, Bagan, Myanmar
- Manuha Temple, Myin Ka Bar, Myanmar
- Bagan Archaeological Museum, Bagan, Myanmar
- Thatbyinnyu Temple, Bagan, Myanmar
- Shwenandaw Monastery, Mandalay, Myanmar
- Htilominlo Temple, Nyaung-U, Myanmar
- Mount Popa, Bagan, Myanmar
- Shwezigon Pagoda, Nyaung-U, Myanmar
- Mandalay Palace, Mandalay, Myanmar
- Gawdawpalin Temple, Bagan, Myanmar
- Bagan Viewing Tower, Nyaung-U, Myanmar
- Abeyadana Temple, Bagan, Myanmar
- Win Sein Taw Ya, Mawlamyine, Myanmar
- The Htukkanthein temple, Mrauk U, Myanmar
- Ngapali Beach, Rakhine, Myanmar
- Bodhi Tataung, Sagaing, Myanmar
- Thanboddhay Paya, Monywa, Myanmar
- Mingun Temple, Mingun, Myanmar
- Inle Lake, Shan, Myanmar
- Kakku Pagodas, Shan, Myanmar
- Inle Floating Gardens, Taunggyi, Myanmar
- Macleod Island, Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar
- Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar
- Chaukhtatgyi Paya, Yangon, Myanmar
- Kyauk Daw Kyi, Yangon, Myanmar
- Kandawgyi Park, Yangon, Myanmar
- Taukkyan War Cemetery, Yangon, Myanmar
- Sule Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar
The Best Places in Kayin State
1. Saddar Cave, Karen
The huge cave is decorated with Buddha statues, pagodas and paintings. There are also bats, mostly harmless, but sudden movements can make one squeak and fly away. All of Myanmar’s caves and temples require you to remove your shoes so your toes can feel the mud in the caves, which sometimes flood during the rainy season. The only way to get back to the starting point is to walk back through the cave or take a rented boat that takes visitors from the cave to the entrance. The cave is open from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 18.00.
The Best Places in Mandalay Region
2. National Kandawgyi Gardens, Pyin Oo Lwin
If you are a person looking for peace and quiet on your holiday, this is the perfect place for you. The park was built during the colonial period and was very important for the British rulers. Now it is the best place to relax your mind and soul. It offers picturesque views as well.
3. Ananda Temple, Bagan
It is one of the four surviving temples in Bagan. The design of the temple is in a cross with several terraces leading to a small pagoda at the top covered by an umbrella known as HTI, which is the name of the umbrella or top ornament found on almost all pagodas in Myanmar. The temple was damaged in the 1975 earthquake. However, it has been fully restored and is well maintained by frequent painting and whitewashing of the walls. On the occasion of the 900th anniversary of its construction in 1990 the temple towers were gilded. It is a highly revered temple of Bagan.
4. Bagan Golden Palace, Bagan
Also known as Shwenandaw Monastery, it is one of the most beautiful monasteries to be seen in Burma. This teakwood building was once part of the palace of King Mindon, the founder of Mandalay. After his death it was moved by his son to its present location and converted into a monastery. On the top floor we can see incredible views of the Thatbyinnyu Temple and the Ananda Temple. It is a must to see the sunrise at this temple.
5. Kuthodaw Pagoda, Mandalay
It is one of Mandalay’s main attractions. This pagoda is known as “the biggest book in the world”. Apart from its golden stupa, it has 729 shrines. Each one contains a marble slab bearing inscriptions with Buddhist teachings. If you want to read them all, they say that it would take you more than a year to finish it. Undoubtedly, one of the most curious pagodas to see in Myanmar.
6. Dhammayangyi Temple, Bagan
The Dhammayangyi Temple is the largest and most popular of those in this part of the country, having been built between 1167 and 1170, it is about sixty metres on each side and has a pyramidal shape of reddish-brown stone. It is single-storey, but has six terraces that give it its pyramidal shape, which used to end with a stupa typical of this type of construction, but which collapsed over time. The interior is divided into two parts that are about twenty-five metres on each side, which are now filled with pieces that were discarded by those who made the temple. In each of them there are several figures of a seated Buddha that have touches of golden colour and after seeing them you can take a walk through the extensive surrounding fields.
7. Gubyaukgyi Temple, Bagan
The cave temple, Gubyaukgyi, is one of the most interesting sanctuaries of the whole site, both for its structure and for the paintings inside. With a beautiful facade, full of beautiful reliefs and stuccoes, it is not the most imposing construction of Bagan, but it is especially famous for the paintings that we can see in its ceiling, with the help of a lantern. This Indian style temple can be seen from several points in the area thanks to the size and beauty of its great stupa, called Myazedi, which, with its golden colour, rises above the rest. In addition to all these attractions, the Gubyaukgyi is one of the most culturally interesting complexes in Bagan, as it contains inscriptions in the four most important languages of Myanmar throughout its history, including Pyu.
8. Manuha Temple, Myin Ka Bar
The Manuha Paya pagoda is located in the Myinkaba area, just a few metres from the main road that runs through the archaeological park and opposite an urban centre. Three enormous Buddhas, seated and gilded, accompany the image of a reclining Buddha resting in the back room. This reclining Buddha is the longest in Myanmar, only surpassed by the one in the city of Bago, which is almost 90 metres long. This temple has the handicap that just in front of it, a more modern complex has been built, which hides the great beauty that this construction offers us. Its greyish walls contrast with the reddish stupas, with golden tips, which crown the upper part of this emblematic building. Full of legend and mystery, the Manuha Paya hides a large number of stories about its origin and meaning, which have accompanied it since it was built.
9. Bagan Archaeological Museum, Bagan
The museum is run by the government and offers an insight into Bagan’s vast collection of ruins. From engraved images to frescoes, it has a great collection to see. It also has evidence of how the people of Bagan lived in the past. Founded in 1989, it has more than 2,500 items of basic necessities. This museum is a must-see and should be on your list of things to see and do in Bagan. The entrance fee is around 3 euros.
10. Thatbyinnyu Temple, Bagan
It is the tallest temple in Bagan with a height of 61 metres and was built in the mid-12th century during the reign of King Alaungsithus. From the outside, Thatbyinnyu Temple looks like a European Renaissance Christian monastery. The temple’s long corridors and altars with Buddha statues in various positions and forms are covered with golden Buddha statues. This temple is a must-see and should be on your list of things to see and do in Bagan.
11. Shwenandaw Monastery, Mandalay
It is the most significant of Mandalay’s historic buildings, due to the fact that it is the only remaining structure of the old wooden Royal Palace that was built by King Mindon in the mid-19th century. It was originally part of the royal palace complex in Amarapura, but was later moved to Mandalay. After its relocation, it became the northern section of the Crystal Palace and also part of the king’s palace. It was also to be the final home and resting place of King Mindon. Entry to Swenandaw Kyunag is included with the Mandalay Archaeological Zone combined ticket, which also includes Atumashi Kyaung, Mandalay Cultural Museum, Kuthodaw Paya, Maharani Paya, Mandalay Palace, Paleik Paya, Mandalay Palace and the ancient cities of Amarapura and Inwa.
12. Htilominlo Temple, Nyaung-U
Htilominlo Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Bagan, Burma/Myanmar, built during the reign of King Htilominlo, 1211-1231. The name is a misreading of the Pali word for ‘Blessings of the Three Worlds’. The temple is three storeys high, with a height of 46 metres, and built of red brick. It is also known for its elaborate plaster mouldings. It is one of the typical images of sunrise in Bagan.
13. Mount Popa, Bagan
An extinct volcano on whose summit a Buddhist monastery was built that from a distance resembles the creamy top of a basaltic rock pioneer. The Taung Kalat monastery that crowns the Popa volcano is one of the most sacred and revered in Burma. It is home to 35 nats, mountain-dwelling ancestor spirits. Pilgrims climb the 777 steps impossibly carved into the vertical wall of the old volcano to bring offerings, especially coconut and bananas, never pork, which is forbidden. The entire staircase is roofed and fitted with powerful handrails that don’t even let you see the aerial courtyard that opens up on the other side. It is also easy to climb, despite the country’s heat and humidity.
14. Shwezigon Pagoda, Nyaung-U
The temple was completed in 1102 during the reign of King Kyansitha. Shwezigon is considered the first golden temple in Myanmar and is a model for later temples. The temple has 4 gates leading to 4 different directions and each gate has two large white signs. The main tower of Shwezigon Temple is inlaid with gold, there are 4 golden lions at the 4 corners of the tower and the top of the tower is an umbrella structure. I wonder if the carved pillars indicate the process of the temple’s elaboration.
15. Mandalay Palace, Mandalay
This is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar. The palace consists of a watchtower that you can climb and enjoy the beautiful views of the city it offers. The most compelling thing about this palace is a pyramid that is made of golden filigree built over the main throne of the palace. This is one of the important places to visit in Myanmar. From the top you will have beautiful views of Mandalay and its surroundings, especially during sunset.
16. Gawdawpalin Temple, Bagan
The Gawdawpalin Temple was built in the early 13th century and is one of the most beautiful temples in Bagan because of its exterior facade. The beautiful Gawdawpalin Temple is one of the highest temples in Bagan so you will be able to see it from afar when you are riding your e-bike around Bagan. Inside there is not much to see, but you will find some interesting Buddha statues. Just before entering the temple you can find stalls with fresh fruit juices which are really refreshing.
17. Bagan Viewing Tower, Nyaung-U
Access to the tower is subject to a fee, which is not included in the entrance fee to the archaeological site, which is the entire plain. On the lower floor of the tower there are exhibits: wood carvings, looms, mannequins with Burmese clothes, and on the upper floors there are two floors with restaurants. On the upper floors there are two floors with restaurants. On the top floor is the observation deck where a breathtaking view unfolds with stupas and temples in the distance. On the right, the Min Nan Thu village area on the southern plain, where there are temples that are not often visited, but whose view as a whole does not detract at all; and on the left, Tayone Taung.
18. Abeyadana Temple, Bagan
It is a temple built in 1102 in the Sinhalese style, legend has it that it was built by the wife (Abeyadana) of King Kyanzitha while he was hiding from his successor King Sawlu. The most important feature of the temple and unique in all of Bagan are its frescoes, 550 wall paintings with scenes of the Jataka and various Hindu deities that were restored by Unesco in 1987. There is also a brick seated Buddha inside.
The Best Places in Mon State
19. Win Sein Taw Ya, Mawlamyine
It is the largest reclining Buddha in the world. The Win Sein Taw Ya is 30 metres high and 180 metres long. Located opposite the Buddhist shrine of Kyauktalon Taung, the reclining Buddha is filled with rooms displaying dioramas of Buddha’s teachings and a shrine. To reach the Win Sein Taw Ya Reclining Buddha, take the road from Mawlamyine to Mudon, with the entrance on the left hand side. There is an entrance to the road that leads to the Buddha with huge birds. Go down this road where a line of monks will accompany you practically to the big Buddha. Once you reach the area, take a small path on the right, from where you have a perfect view of the whole Buddha.
The Best Places in Rakhine State
20. The Htukkanthein temple, Mrauk U
Many of Mrauk’s Buddhist temples are fortified. One that most clearly shows this military aspect is Htukkanthein: it stands on an elevation, with a single entrance and a few windows that look more like embrasures. It was built in 1571 by King Min Phalaung. In the centre is a dome topped by a mushroom-shaped crown, surrounded by four smaller stupas at the corners. There is a square window designed in such a way that, at sunrise, the sun’s rays fall directly on the main Buddha image inside the central dome. The temple, made of brick and stone, contains a total of 180 Buddha images.
21. Ngapali Beach, Rakhine
This is possibly the most popular stretch of sand in Myanmar and makes up for one of the most popular relaxation spots in all of Myanmar. The combination of the yellowish-white sand is what makes it one of the most beautiful places where you can sit, tan and let go of the thoughts that intrigue you. Found around the Bay of Bengal, the vibrant shades of blue of the waves further add to the beauty of the place. Salt-washed boats often wash up on the shore, in and out of the bay, making it one of the most incredible places to enjoy freshly caught seafood. In addition to the relaxing experience, you can also sign up with a local tour organiser and immerse yourself in some of the most popular water sports such as scuba diving and water skiing.
The Best Places in Sagaing Region
22. Bodhi Tataung, Sagaing
Translated as ‘1000 Buddhas’, this temple features the second largest Buddha statue in the world, which is the most incredible in itself. The statue consists of 31 floors that you can climb and witness the paintings. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Myanmar. You can’t say you have been to Myanmar if you haven’t visited this place.
23. Thanboddhay Paya, Monywa
You will be surprised to know that this temple has 5,823,631 Buddha images on its premises. Now you know that it is not famous just like that. Moreover, the colourful interior and exterior of this temple will impress you. So, make sure to add this to your itinerary while on holiday in Myanmar as this is one of the interesting and unforgettable places to visit in Myanmar.
24. Mingun Temple, Mingun
This pagoda would have been the largest in the world had work on it not been interrupted in 1819 after the death of King Bodawpaya, who intended it to be a stupa 150 metres high and 210 metres wide to rival the pyramids of Egypt. Today the monument stands as it was left incomplete in the 19th century. Although incomplete, the Mingun Pahtodawgyi stupa holds the world record for being the largest pile of bricks in the world. Unfortunately it was badly affected by the 1838 and 2012 earthquakes, so today it is impossible to climb to the top for obvious safety reasons. However, it is possible to climb up the side of one of the highest corners of the pile. This is quite an adventure depending on the time of day, as you have to climb barefoot and the ground really burns. Today it is more of a monument than a temple, but there is a small chapel inside.
The Best Places in Shan State
25. Inle Lake, Shan
Is the second largest in the country and occupies one of the highest elevations. It is located in Shan and is home to numerous endemic species of snails and fish. Unfortunately, their numbers have dwindled, but that shouldn’t be a deterrent. Stilt houses dot the channel and the only way to see them is by boat. As you head towards the village of In Dein, you’ll be greeted by two groups of ancient pagodas, the Shwe Indein pagodas and the Nyaung Ohak pagodas. Some are in ruins, while others have been restored.
26. Kakku Pagodas, Shan
This group of pagodas is one of the most spectacular pagodas to see in Myanmar. It is located on the outskirts of Inle Lake and a visit with a guide is a must. There you will find almost 2,500 stupas. Most of them date back to the 17th and 18th centuries but this site is over 2,000 years old and is truly spectacular! It is a very important religious centre for the Pa’O people, a Buddhist tribe in Myanmar. Undoubtedly one of the most impressive places to see in Myanmar.
27. Inle Floating Gardens, Taunggyi
This point of Inle Lake is one of the great wonders of the place and one of the most sought after areas for any visitor. Perfectly ordered, these floating crops allow the inhabitants of the villages to enjoy fruits, vegetables and some plants that facilitate their daily life and complement their diet. The crops, attached to bamboo poles anchored to the bottom of the lake, require a similar level of dedication as land-based agricultural plantations. Narrow canals run through the plantations, forming labyrinthine alleys within, just wide enough for boats to pass. Some of these canals are very crowded with people from nearby villages and are a most spectacular sight with boats passing in one direction or another.
The Best Places in Tanintharyi Region
28. Macleod Island, Mergui Archipelago
Macleod Island is one of the best places to visit in the country. It is located at the southern tip of Myanmar and is one of the 800 unspoilt islands in the Andaman Sea. Not only will you be able to witness an amazing view all around, but the island is also rich in a vivid variety of flora and fauna that further compensates the overall experience of visiting this place. If the tropical climate is something you wanted to experience while in Myanmar, visiting Macleod Island is an ideal option to venture out.
The Best Places in Yangon Region
29. Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon
No sightseeing tour of Myanmar is complete without a visit to the fabulous golden Shwedagon Pagoda. It is considered one of the most sacred pagodas in Myanmar. Over 2,000 years old, with hundreds of gold plaques and over 4,500 diamonds embedded in the top of the stupa, it is an architectural marvel that will take your breath away. It is the most important pagoda in Myanmar. It is a treasure for Buddhists as it houses some of Buddha’s relics such as a piece of cloth and eight hairs of Siddhartha Gautama. The entrance fee is 10,000 kyats (about €6).
30. Chaukhtatgyi Paya, Yangon
Myanmar is known for its Buddhist temples and the Chauk-htat-gyi Buddha Temple is one of them. It houses a huge 65-metre reclining Buddha. This is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar, especially if you are touring the country’s temples. Even if you have seen many reclining Buddhas, the relaxed pose and peaceful expression of this image is extremely soothing.
31. Kyauk Daw Kyi, Yangon
A giant seated Buddha overlooking the city; it is an undeniably beautiful landmark in Yangon. Carved from a block of marble found near Mandalay in 1999, the statue was carefully transported to the top of the mountain, making it very special to Myanmar. Clad in glass, the statue is stunningly detailed and reflects the immense effort of the artists, while the ceiling of the room is supported by delicate golden columns. A perfect place to watch the sunset or sunrise over Yangon.
32. Kandawgyi Park, Yangon
If you are a person looking for peace and quiet on your holiday, this is the perfect place for you. The park was built during the colonial period and was very important for the British rulers. Now it is the best place to relax your mind and soul. It offers picturesque views that you can feast your eyes on.
33. Taukkyan War Cemetery, Yangon
The Taukkyan Cemetery houses the graves of 6,374 Allied soldiers who died in the Burma and Assam campaigns of World War II, as well as the memorial with the names of nearly 20,000 soldiers who died as unaccounted for. Apart from its immense size, it is also worth mentioning the green gardens. Hedgerows and other trees form part of the gardens and give it the appearance of a haven of peace. On the ground you can see the thousands of graves of people who have fallen in battle. At the memorial to the 20,000 fallen you can see the perfect symmetry and majestic construction. On some panels you can read the names of the allies who died during the war, many of them from India.
34. Sule Pagoda, Yangon
Downtown Yangon is home to the Sule Pagoda, a place of peace and meditation in the middle of the busy city. It is believed to be over 2,000 years old. It is high on the list of Myanmar destinations, especially among devotees, because it houses a relic of Buddha’s hair. Sometimes overlooked by tourists, it should feature on their trips to Myanmar because it is one of the only points of interest in this part of Yangon.
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