Tips for Visiting Myanmar
Essential advice and practical information for travelers to Myanmar
Welcome to Myanmar
Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a beautiful Southeast Asian country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're visiting for business, tourism, or family reasons, these tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Quick Facts
- Capital: Naypyidaw
- Largest City: Yangon
- Currency: Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
- Language: Burmese
- Time Zone: MMT (UTC+6:30)
Travel Essentials
Visa Requirements
- Tourist visa required for most nationalities
- E-visa available online for many countries
- Visa on arrival available at some airports
- Passport must be valid for 6+ months
- Business visa needed for work purposes
Best Time to Visit
- Cool Season (Nov-Feb): Best weather, peak tourist season
- Hot Season (Mar-May): Very hot, fewer crowds
- Rainy Season (Jun-Oct): Monsoon rains, lowest prices
- Avoid major festivals for better accommodation availability
- Book early during cool season
Currency & Money
- Myanmar Kyat (MMK) is the official currency
- US Dollars widely accepted in tourist areas
- Bring crisp, new USD bills (no tears or marks)
- ATMs available in major cities
- Credit cards accepted in upscale establishments
Health & Safety
- Hepatitis A & B vaccinations recommended
- Japanese encephalitis vaccine for rural areas
- Malaria prophylaxis for certain regions
- Drink bottled or boiled water
- Travel insurance highly recommended
Cultural Etiquette
Religious Customs
Temple Visits
- Remove shoes and socks before entering
- Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
- Don't point feet toward Buddha statues
- Photography may be restricted
- Maintain quiet, respectful behavior
Buddhist Etiquette
- Don't touch monks or their belongings
- Women should not directly hand items to monks
- Stand when monks enter a room
- Don't sit higher than monks
- Respect meditation times
Social Customs
Greetings
- Traditional greeting: hands together, slight bow
- Handshakes acceptable with foreigners
- Use both hands when giving/receiving items
- Address elders with respect
- Smile is universal and appreciated
Dining Etiquette
- Wait to be seated
- Try a little of everything offered
- Use spoon and fork (not chopsticks)
- Don't waste food
- Tea is offered frequently - accept graciously
Practical Travel Tips
Transportation
- Domestic Flights: Most reliable for long distances
- Buses: Extensive network, varying comfort levels
- Trains: Scenic but slow, book upper class
- Taxis: Negotiate fare beforehand
- Motorbike Taxis: Quick for short distances
- Grab: Available in major cities
Accommodation
- Book in advance during peak season
- Guesthouses offer authentic experiences
- Hotels range from budget to luxury
- Homestays available in rural areas
- Check power and water availability
- WiFi may be limited outside cities
Communication
- English spoken in tourist areas
- Learn basic Burmese phrases
- Download translation apps
- SIM cards available at airports
- Internet can be slow and restricted
- VPN may be useful
Shopping & Bargaining
- Bargaining expected in markets
- Start at 50% of asking price
- Fixed prices in malls and restaurants
- Popular items: gems, textiles, lacquerware
- Check authenticity of expensive items
- Keep receipts for customs
Must-Visit Destinations
Yangon
Former capital with colonial architecture and the famous Shwedagon Pagoda
- Shwedagon Pagoda
- Bogyoke Aung San Market
- Colonial downtown area
- Kandawgyi Lake
Bagan
Ancient city with thousands of temples and pagodas
- Hot air balloon rides
- Ananda Temple
- Sunset viewing points
- Archaeological Museum
Inle Lake
Scenic lake with floating gardens and unique leg-rowing fishermen
- Boat tours
- Floating markets
- Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda
- Traditional crafts villages
Mandalay
Cultural capital with royal palaces and traditional arts
- Mandalay Palace
- U Bein Bridge
- Kuthodaw Pagoda
- Traditional workshops
Naypyidaw
Myanmar's modern capital city with wide boulevards and government buildings
- Uppatasanti Pagoda
- National Museum
- Zoological Gardens
- Government buildings
Mount Popa
Sacred volcanic mountain with monastery and stunning views
- Popa Taungkalat Monastery
- Nat spirit worship site
- Panoramic views
- Pilgrimage destination
Recommended Travel Guides
4-Day Myanmar Itinerary
Complete guide for traveling around majestic Myanmar in 4 days, covering the essential destinations and experiences.
Read Full GuideBest Burmese Food Guide
Discover the authentic flavors of Myanmar cuisine, from street food to traditional dishes you must try.
Explore Burmese CuisineLearn Burmese Cooking
Want to cook authentic Myanmar dishes at home? Learn traditional Burmese recipes and cooking techniques from Club Rangoon.
Club Rangoon CookingCultural Experiences
Meet the faces of Myanmar and learn about unique cultural experiences like traditional pogo dancing.
Discover Myanmar CultureAdventure Activities
Experience unique adventures in Myanmar, including traditional pogo dancing and other cultural activities.
Adventure GuideSafety & Security
General Safety
- Check current political situation before travel
- Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings
- Register with your embassy upon arrival
- Keep copies of important documents
- Use hotel safes for valuables
- Be cautious with street food initially
- Avoid tap water and ice
- Use reputable tour operators
Emergency Contacts
Useful Burmese Phrases
Ready to Visit Myanmar?
Need help with visa applications or have questions about travel requirements? Contact us for professional assistance.
Get Travel Assistance