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To truly appreciate the best places to visit in Myanmar, it’s essential to look beyond the surface and embrace the extraordinary natural settings, cultural encounters, and authentic local experiences each region offers. At Shanti Travel, our curated journeys to Myanmar’s highlights are designed to reveal these deeper layers, blending adventure with respect for Myanmar’s rich heritage and communities. If you're dreaming of an immersive journey, consider our expert-led trip to Myanmar which highlights these remarkable destinations with responsible and culturally sensitive travel.
Myanmar has on its territory a variety of unusual landscapes and reliefs, which every year attracts many travellers. Pagodas and stupas frozen in time, millennial temples and monasteries are sometimes there where you least expect them, which makes their discovery unexpected, exciting and magical. At the bend of a path, buried in the vegetation in the middle of the sugar palm trees or even half-submerged in the crystal clear waters of Inle Lake, these architectural curiosities mingle with the green nature of the country and create stunning landscapes of incomparable beauty.
Here are our top picks of the best places to visit in Myanmar, one of the most spectacular countries in Asia:
At the edge of Shan State in the southern region of Inle Lake is a timeless and rarely-visited place: Sagar. What distinguishes Sagar is its magical collection of over 100 ancient stupas, some dating back to the 15th century, many of which are partially submerged in a tranquil lagoon. This unique sight is truly mystical, especially during high-water months when the stupas seem to float on the water’s surface, enveloped in silence and reflection. Travelers reach Sagar by an evocative canoe journey, passing through floating villages and lush rice fields. Along the way, you’ll encounter the Pa-O and Intha communities, witness traditional pot-making, and perhaps sample potent local rice liquor in small cottages. Sagar’s peaceful setting offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in local life and Myanmar’s serene countryside.
Travel tip: Respect local etiquette when visiting villages and temples—cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes at religious sites, and ask before photographing residents.
It is impossible to talk about the best places to visit in Myanmar without mentioning the famous Bagan Archaeological Zone. Constructed in the mid- to late- 9th century, this area offers a landscape dotted with more than 2,000 surviving temples, pagodas, and monasteries. The sight of these ancient monuments at sunrise or sunset is simply unforgettable—the golden light illuminates the spires and brickwork, casting long shadows across the plain.
For the most memorable experience, consider exploring lesser-visited temples where you’ll find fewer crowds and more intimate, contemplative moments. E-bikes are a popular way to traverse the broad plains, and for a touch of magic, nothing compares to a hot air balloon ride at dawn, drifting above the temples as the mists lift.
Responsible travel tip: Always walk clockwise around pagodas, never climb on monuments unless permitted, and support local guides and artisans in the Bagan region.
Daydream or fantasy? The Mergui Archipelago in the Tanintharyi region in the south of the country consists of more than 800 islands lying in the Andaman Sea. With its remote location and late opening to foreign visitors, this is one of the planet’s most unspoiled tropical marine environments.
Whether you’re a passionate diver or a beachcomber, the Mergui Archipelago promises deserted white sand beaches, hidden lagoons, and lush virgin forests. Its marine life is awe-inspiring—thriving coral reefs, vibrant fish, and, if you’re lucky, the graceful ballet of manta rays. Mergui is also home to the Moken, a nomadic sea-gypsy community whose traditions are intimately linked to the sea.
Conservation advice: Book small-scale, eco-friendly cruises or liveaboards to minimize your impact, avoid single-use plastics, and always ask permission when interacting with the Moken or visiting their villages.
The karst landscapes of the Hpa-an region, similar in their dramatic beauty to Halong Bay in Vietnam, offer a mix of serenity and adventure. Here, rivers, green hills, and iconic limestone outcrops create Myanmar’s most peaceful countryside vistas.
Hpa-an is the perfect base for exploring hidden Buddhist caves like Sadan and Kawgun, where hundreds of Buddha statues and intricate murals blend spirituality and nature. Venture out for boat rides on the Thanlwin River or join short treks into the nearby hills for sweeping views. Each corner reveals local customs—village life along the banks, serene pagoda visits, and spontaneous markets catering to both locals and travelers.
Expert tip: Wear sturdy shoes and follow local guides in caves to safely discover murals and spiritual sites while helping preserve delicate cave ecosystems.
Among Myanmar’s most remarkable and isolated landscapes, Chin State stands out for its wild, mountainous terrain and rich ethnic culture. The region is best known for its treks, framed by misty valleys and remote villages clinging to the hillsides.
A highlight of Chin State is meeting the region’s diverse ethnic groups. Many communities continue traditions such as intricate face tattooing for women—an ancient practice steeped in local legend—as well as weaving and elaborate festivals. For thoughtful travelers, visiting during cultural festivities or joining a guided trek introduces a rich world of Chin customs, dances, and rituals.
Responsible engagement: Dress modestly, learn a few local greetings, and always seek permission before photographing residents or participating in ceremonies to honor tribal privacy and dignity.
Contact your Shanti Travel Expert for personalized recommendations and responsible travel arrangements to discover the best places to visit in Myanmar safely and authentically!
