Top Myanmar Attractions

Welcome to my Top Myanmar Attractions page.

Myanmar (Burma) is a large and interesting country blessed by nature with varied landscapes ranging from the lofty peaks of the Eastern Himalayas to the turquoise beaches of the Andaman Sea, from fertile plains to tropical rainforests. It is rich in natural resources such as timber, oil, minerals and gems and is peopled by diverse ethnic groups such as Burmese, Chins, Kachins, Mons, Kayahs, Arakanese (Rakhines), Karens and Shans.

Largely closed off to foreign tourists during decades of military rule the country had a spell of democracy before the military took over again. I visited during the Aung San Suu Kyi leadership when the country was open to foreign visitors and investment and was playing catch up in terms of infrastructure and economic development. Unfortunately Myanmar has since had a coup and the military is now engaged in civil war with its own citizens.

During my two visits I barely scratched the surface of this beautiful and fascinating country. I have not yet for example seen two of the most popular attractions, scenic Inle Lake and the famous stupas of Bagan. Nor have I taken a cruise on the Irrawaddy River, another mainstream tourist activity. Hopefully I will cover these if and when things improve.

In the meantime, here are my recommended Top Myanmar Attractions based on my travels:

Top Myanmar Attractions - Pyin Oo Lwin

National Kandawgyi Gardens

The National Kandawgyi Botanical Gardens is, in my opinion, among the finest botanical gardens in the whole of Asia, and should be the highlight of any visit to Pyin Oo Lwin.

Maymyo Hill Station

Anyone interested in colonial era history will want to make a bee-line for Pyin Oo Lwin, formerly known as Maymyo. It has a wonderful climate, many well preserved colonial buildings and beautiful flowers and gardens.

Pyin Oo Lwin English Cemetery

This is a slightly quirky and offbeat choice but while in Maymyo, you might want to visit the Christian Cemetery containing European, mixed race and Burmese military and civilian graves.

Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin Train

Taking the Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin Train is a popular way to get to Pyin Oo Lwin, provided you are not in a hurry.

Mandalay

Impressions of Mandalay

Despite its famous name, Mandalay is not a very old city, having been founded by King Mindon in 1857. It was heavily damaged during World War II and modern development has given the streets a fairly nondescript feel. However there are sights worth seeing including the exquisitely carved Shwenandaw Monastery, the views from Mandalay Hill and copious Buddhist temples and pagodas.

Yangon

A Stroll Around Yangon

Apart from the famous Shwedagon Pagoda, the giant Chauk Htet Gyi reclining Buddha, Bogyoke Market and British colonial era architecture are among the highlights of my visit to Yangon.

What’s In A Place Name?

This is an article I wrote on my Thrifty Traveller blog some time ago concerning the change of name from Burma to Myanmar and some other name changes.

Hope you enjoy discovering these Top Myanmar Attractions as much as I have.