Top 10 Must Do Things in Myanmar - Best List for South African Travellers

Myanmar holds plenty of activities to do for people either looking for spiritual experience or thrilling adventure. Below list covers recommended things to do in Myanmar that should not be missed.

Admire the Splendid Shwedagon Pagoda

Can be seen from miles away, Shwedagon Pagoda is a world-famous holy monument of Yangon capital. Shwedagon Pagoda dates back to over 2000 years ago alongside legends about Buddha’s hair strands being kept inside the shrine.

First impression of this site is the golden color overwhelmingly covering almost everything which could make people squint their eyes as it sparks when reflecting sun rays. Shwedagon striking appearance consists of golden-plated stupas being guarded by Myanmar’s mythological lion-like creatures - the Chinthes. Surrounded by 64 stupas, the main chamber of Shwedagon gilded with gold plates as well as encrusted with thousands of diamonds and precious stones.

This place is truly fascinating, must be seen to be believed. As a matter of fact, Shwedagon Pagoda - Myanmar’s most prominent landmark is put on top of the list in every Myanmar travel itinerary.

Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage - Bagan from the Hot Air Balloon

Known for its impeccable sunrises and sunsets, image of Bagan has been a Burmese jewel that became the main reason why people decide to choose to visit this country.

Peaceful Bagan has more than 3000 temples dotted over the plain, dating back to nearly 1000 years ago. You can sign up for a hot air balloon ride to witness the whole ancient town drifting by. Enjoy the bird-eye view of this sacred land is a truly worthwhile experience whether at first sun rays of the day or in evening glow.

If the floating basket is over your budget, please rest assure that it is equally mystical and serene observing the scene from top of a hill. As being said, our Myanmar trip will never be completed without spending few days in Bagan.

Take a Boat Trip on the Peaceful Inle Lake

It is easy to see why tourists get attracted to Inle Lake. The beauty not only comes from the gifted nature scene but also outstanding features from the life of the local inhabitants.

Best way to explore Inle Lake is to ride on a boat trip that gives you an authentic insight into fisherman life. The extraordinary fishing technique where fishermen posing on a daring position, one leg paddling the boat while the other one try to balance on the edge of the boat. Drift pass by various local stilt houses alongside their floating gardens.

It is truly an interesting experience observing Burmese find their way to live on the river and cultivate their crops which is also fluctuating above the water. The boat trip will drop you by some eye-opening Burmese traditional handicraft productions as well. 

Explore Myanmar Waterways & Landmarks from the River Cruises

Irrawaddy river is Myanmar’s largest river and also the most important one in terms of commercial. Running through the heartlands of Burma, Irrawaddy river has  been the source of everything for Burmese that make the riverbank life becomes a cultural treasure for tourists to explore. Starting from great city of Mandalay, there are cruises head down to the south sailing to Bagan as well as some heading north to Katha dock. Both ways have entricities to offer.

Beside magnificent monuments, pagodas and bridges you passing by, you get to encounter generous Burmese people living near or actually on the river which has fascinating daily lifestyle and handicrafts. Among all things, being surrounded by nature and waking up to picturesque landscape and cool breeze are what cruises on Irrawaddy river are about.

Enjoy the Oceane Air at Ngapali Beach

Beach time in Ngapali is worthwhile if you looking for some changes during your Myanmar journey. Stretched along the Bay of Bengal, Ngapali white sand and palm-tree-lined pristine beach welcome numbers of visitors.

Known for its quiet ambiance, Ngapali offers emerald water for swim lover and abundant of activities like snorkeling, scuba diving and even surfing in monsoon season.  Ngapali can also be explored by cycling or riding motorbike to the villages or simply along the coastline viewing to the vistas. Boat trips to nearby islands are available for tourists who want to discover further offshore. 

Trekking in Kalaw

For those who love to be immersed in nature, Kalaw offers several trekking trails vary from one-day experience to 4-day course or even more if tourists prefer nature over culture. Short breezy routes will take you to neighboring minorities ethnic villages like Peinnepin Palaung, Taungni, Lut Pyin or to the Viewpoint with eye-widen mountainous view.

One of the most popular trekking expeditions here is to go for a hike from Kalaw to Inle Lake. This trek is slightly more challenging but definitely not miserably hard even for those with no trekking experience. The route takes travelers to hilly areas where local inhabitants plant their tea, wheat, vegetables; passing refreshing bamboo forest and most importantly, authentic encounters with tribal villagers, observing their way of life on high altitudes. 

Take a Spectacular Train Ride Through the Goteik Viaduct

Travelers certainly do not want to miss one of the greatest railway journeys in the world - the train ride crossing Gokteik Viaduct. Located in Shan State to the west, Gokteik Viaduct railway trestle is considered a world-class masterpiece since 1900 when it was constructed.

Gokteik Viaduct normally plays as as part of 6-hour ride between Pyin Oo Lwin to Hsipaw. Standing over 200 meters above, it is truly thrilling crossing the bridge. Tourists are given around half an hour to marvel at a breathtaking view. The verdant valley below with jagged mountains, steep cliffs and beautiful river are extremely visually satisfying. 

Contemplate the Mesmerizing Sunset in U Bein Bridge

Sunset and sunrise has always been the most captivating scenes that appears to be very tempting for photo hunters. Travelers can easily capture such glorious moments when visiting Mandalay city, U Bein Bridge in particular.

Set across the vast Taungthaman lake, U Bein Bridge originally made completely by teak spans and pillars. Since 1857, the bridge has been playing a prominent role in locals life and gradually became a hot tourism spot for visitors all thanks to its ideal location above the water that turns golden at dusk along with peaceful lush surroundings. Come to U Bein Bridge to cherish this wooden masterpiece and observe reddish-orange hue of the sky while life moves in much slower pace at sundown.

Be Astonishing by the Extraordinary View of the Golden Rock

Among thousands of religious sites in Myanmar, the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, also known as the Golden Rock is truly one of a kind. Looking from afar, Kyaiktiyo is a massive boulder sitting at the edge of a cliff, on top there is a small shrine which is said to be holding a grip of Buddha’s hair. Legend has it that Buddha’s hair plays as an anchor that prevent the rock crashing down to below valley.

The rock and the shrine are covered in gold leaves that look spectacular under the sun. The way it is defying gravity for 2600 years is beyond your imagination.The site remains a sacred and mystical atmosphere with burning incense sticks, prayers and offerings brought by pilgrims from everywhere. 

Explore the Diverse Wildlife of Mergui Archipelago

Consists of 800 islands, Mergui Archipelago is like a paradise on earth. Carpeted by deep tropical forest, posses wonderful white beaches with emerald water rich in coral, Mergui Archipelago is teeming with wildlife. This has to be a dream destination for jungle explorers, bird watcher, snorkelers, scuba divers, etc., all nature lovers who find off-the-beaten-track journey tempting.  

Myanmar is definitely ideal destination for you and your family to come and have relaxation. This stunning golden land is promising not to make you disappointed. Let's contact with our Vietnamtravels.co.za to book a trip now.