Things to do in Myanmar
Go Pagoda crazy
The classic picture of Burma is one of gilded cones rising out of the mist, stretching into the haze of the horizon. Once in Burma, you won’t need to go far to take your own similar travel snap. The “Land of the Golden Spires” is literally packed with pagodas, temples and stupas – conical or burial mound-type structures, filled with relics, jewels and offerings to Buddha.
But not all pagodas are created equal, and to avoid the ever-present threat of “pagoda fatigue”, you should pick and choose which ones you want to see, rather than running after every shiny peak you see. Yangon’s Shwedagon is the country’s most iconic and sacred; the 99m-high structure contains eight strands of hair from Gautama – the historical Buddha. The pagoda is covered in gold; pilgrims from across Burma donate gold to add to it.
The stupa atop the Golden Rock wins the most precarious pagoda award; while Bagan is fascinating for their sheer quantity. With over 2,000 structures of all shapes, sizes and styles, this is for hardcore pagoda fans only. Cycle away from popular spots and find your own secret, favourite stupa.
The mythical Irrawaddy River is a giver of life: irrigating rice field, used to transport goods, and supporting entire ecosystems and communities along the length of Burma![]()
Cruise the "Road to Mandalay"
Boat tours follow the “Road to Mandalay”, exploring tiny riverside dwellings, markets, monasteries and – of course – hidden temples along the way. Take a daytrip, or settle down on deck-top mattresses for a longer cruise along the mighty Irrawaddy River, which flows all past Mandalay, Bagan and Yangon, out into the Andaman Sea. Bring your PJs – the waterway is refreshingly cool at night.
Craft workshops
Burma’s isolation encouraged self-sufficiency – and this has extended far beyond food and fuel. Burmese craftspeople are astonishingly skilled and resourceful, with no power tools or machinery to aid their art. Workshops can be visited around the country but Inle Lake is the artisan hub. There is a craft here for everyone – from the cheroot cigar rolling and silk weaving, to silversmithing and gold leaf pressing.
One of the more unusual crafts is lotus weaving – often done by the women of the Kayan tribe, many of whom still wear brass neck rings. The lotus stem is sliced and pulled apart, revealing thread-like fibres. These are coloured – often using natural dyes – and woven on handmade wooden looms. Supporting artisans encourages traditions to continue – and provides an income for communities with few alternatives, meaning this os one of the best things to do in Burma. You also get a wonderful souvenir!
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Myanmar tailor made tour, tea, temples & trails
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Everything is tweak-able, giving you the freedom to build a unique and personal trip for your chosen date. Upgrade your accommodation for all - or just part - of your trip, slow down the pace with few extra nights here and there or add a few more active adventures along the way.
Everything is tweak-able, giving you the freedom to build a unique and personal trip for your chosen date. Upgrade your accommodation for all - or just part - of your trip, slow down the pace with few extra nights here and there or add a few more active adventures along the way.
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Mix up your transport
Explore the countryside on foot, by bike and even by horse and cart, while the lakes and rivers are ideal for calming cruises and long-tailed boat rides past villages, fishermen and floating markets. More intrepid voyagers can hop on a local bus. It won’t be the most comfortable ride in the world, but it will be one of your most memorable, and a real glimpse into daily Burmese life.
The journey becomes the destination in Burma. You can ride slow trains through Yangon's suburbs and the countryside, using the opportunity to mix with local folk![]()
More Myanmar (Burma) articles
You want to avoid the intense heat and the intense rain, so the best time to visit is between October and March.
Myanmar opened up to tourists again in 2011, piquing the interest of travelers around the world.
Discover the best way to meet the craftspeople of Inle Lake, how to get around the thousands of stupas in Bagan.
Myanmar’s relative isolation has helped to preserve its long, rich culture and visitors today will be dazzled.
Not visiting the temples of Bagan in Burma is akin to avoiding Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Myanmar’s second largest lake is a little bit special and not just for the 70,000 Intha people living and working around its edges.
Traveling in Myanmar as a family needn't be daunting if you do your research and book with the right family company.
Find out the place to meet elephants, how to bring up Burmese politics, and where to see Genghis Khan murals.
This country is just opening up to tourism after decades of dictatorship and isolation.
