Myanmar, still known as Burma to many, is fondly referred to as 'the Golden Land' because of the abundant use of gold leaf on its temples and shrines. It is a country with a rich diversity of cultures, religions and languages - home to more than 100 ethnic groups - and a history spanning over three millennia, reflected in some of Southeast Asia's most opulently adorned temples. The majestic gold-plated Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the temple ruins of Bagan, and the mystical Mandalay are just some of the unique drawcards that bring visitors to Myanmar's well-guarded borders.
Myanmar is situated along the eastern coast of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, and its northern borders stretch all the way up to the Eastern Himalayan mountain range. It borders India to the west, China to the north, and Thailand and Laos to the east. One third of Myanmar's perimeter is uninterrupted and largely undeveloped coastline.
This scenic country has a rocky political past. It was a British Colony from 1885 until 1948, and since independence has largely been ruled by a military dictatorship. However, Myanmar has taken long strides towards democracy in the last few years. Certainly, this once secretive and isolated country has enthusiastically flung open its borders to travellers, and although ethnic conflict is still a problem, foreigners are seldom targeted.
Myanmar is still a fairly young international travel destination due to its internal politics, but its lovely beaches, incredible historical attractions, snow-capped mountains, and jungle wilderness attract lots of attention. Myanmar is one of the most authentic and unspoiled countries in Asia, an irresistible destination for travellers wanting to experience the ancient traditions of the continent.
Key Facts
Language:
Burmese is the official language, yet English is widely spoken and understood.
Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to Myanmar must hold confirmed return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. They will also require a tourist visa, which is valid for 28 days. Applications for visa extensions are not possible once in Myanmar; however, a fine of USD 3 per day overstayed can be paid at Immigration upon departure. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Myanmar if visitors are arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area.
All visitors to Myanmar need to purchase COVID-19 medical insurance from Myanma Insurance. This is required regardless of any other insurance cover visitors may have. Visitors will be expected to take a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test at the airport, regardless of their vaccination status. They should bring MMK 15,000 with them or be prepared to convert cash at one of the exchange counters. If the test result is
negative, they will be free to leave. Travellers who display symptoms or test positive will be isolated and taken to a hospital or hotel designated by the Ministry of Health at their own expense. This is in addition to the test they need to take 48 hours before their arrival. Which test they can take depends on if they are fully vaccinated or not. Fully vaccinated travellers should present proof that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before their arrival in Myanmar with an accepted vaccine such as CoronaVac, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Johnson and Johnson, or Modema, and a negative result from a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Diagnostic test, taken no more than 48 hours prior to their arrival in Myanmar. Visitors who are not fully vaccinated should present proof of a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test, taken no more than 48 hours before their arrival in Myanmar.
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after
the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency:
The official currency is the kyat (MMK) - pronounced 'Chat'. The best foreign currency to travel on in Myanmar is the US dollar, but it is less of an alternative currency than it once was. Notes will not be accepted if they are damaged or torn in any way, or have pen marks on them.
There is a big difference between the official and unofficial exchange rates in Myanmar, with street moneychangers offering more favourable rates than official channels. It's risky to change money with people on the street, though many tourists do.
ATMs accepting international credit cards are increasingly common in cities, towns and tourist areas, but machines don't always work in areas that are off the beaten track.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. European plugs with two circular metal pins are most common.
Travel to Myanmar
Overview
Myanmar is a perfect destination for those who enjoy off-the-beaten track travel. The sightseeing in the country includes scenic wonders, religious sites, and many historical attractions.
Thousands of ancient and intriguing temples, each one unique, await visitors in Bagan. The floating villages of Lake Inle can be explored on a hired longtail boat to the beautiful double storied gardens. The city of Mandalay draws visitors with its scenic surroundings, royal palace complex and the Mahamuni Buddha. The Ngwe Saung coastline attracts people with its white sands and unspoiled beauty. The astounding Shwedagon Pagoda will blind you with its golden plated domes, standing sentinel over the city of Yangon. Myanmar's many bustling markets will enchant visitors and the country's sacred sites are excpetionally moving. These are just a few of the attractions that await visitors to Myanmar.
Climate in Myanmar
Myanmar has a tropical monsoon climate and three seasons: the very hot summer from March to May; the wet and humid monsoon from May to October; and the cold, dry winter from November to February. During the long rainy season it can rain almost daily, and typhoons occasionally occur in Myanmar between April and October. There is less rainfall in the interior than on the coast. It is a hot country, and the average daily temperatures usually reach around 86°F (30°C) in the hot months, while the evenings are slightly cooler. During the winter season, average temperatures are around 77°F (25°C) with evening temperatures dropping to 59°F (15°C). Coastal areas are usually much more humid, but slightly cooler overall. The hottest and driest months are March and April, when temperatures can rise as high as 110°F (43°C), with high humidity thrown in. Visitors should note that climate in Myanmar varies according to altitude and can be quite changeable.
The
best time to visit Myanmar is between November and February, which allows you to miss the rainy monsoon season and the worst of the heat, which can be extremely oppressive.
Health Notes when travelling to Myanmar
Vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B are recommended for all travellers. Malaria is common in Myanmar, especially during the rainy season (May to October) and visitors are usually encouraged to take anti-malaria medication, although there is no danger if you are only visiting the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Travellers from yellow fever infected areas require a vaccination certificate to enter Myanmar. If you will be spending a lot of time outdoors in rural areas you should also consider getting vaccinated for rabies and Japanese encephalitis.
The tap water should not be drunk but bottled water is available throughout the country.
There are basic medical facilities in Yangon (Rangoon) and Mandalay, but in general medical facilities in Myanmar are poor and evacuation is recommended for serious medical cases. Payment in cash is usually required before any treatment. Comprehensive medical insurance is
advised.
Safety Notes when travelling to Myanmar
Due to the ongoing risk of armed conflict, travellers are advised to avoid some parts of Myanmar, including most of the states of Rakhine and Kachin and the north of the state of Shan. Special care should be taken in border areas; there are only a handful of legal crossing points. While Myanmar does boast one of the lowest crime rates in the world, violent political protests are still common and should be avoided at all costs. Visitors are also advised not to take any photographs of the police, military, or demonstrations.
The monsoon season is June to September in the southwest of Myanmar and December to April in the northeast, and flooding may occur. Severe weather often also precedes monsoon season.
Customs in Myanmar
It is rude to step over any part of a person or touch an adult on the head, and hugging and kissing in public is frowned upon. Most Burmese families don't wear shoes in their homes and if visiting it is advised to remove shoes before entering the house. Monks should be treated with respect, even if they are children, and women should not speak to or touch monks. Religion practices, beliefs and sites should be treated with respect; insulting religion is a prosecutable offense in Myanmar. Homosexuality is technically illegal but the law is seldom enforced.
Duty Free in Myanmar
Two litres of liquor, 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250gm of tobacco, and 150ml of perfume are allowed per person. Valuables including jewellery, cameras, electronic equipment, etc, should be declared at customs upon arrival. Purchases of locally bought goods may require receipts upon departure.
Doing Business in Myanmar
Business hours are generally 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday. Lightweight suits are recommended during the day and jackets are needed for top-level meetings. Most commercial business transactions will be conducted in English. Business cards in Burmese script can be useful. It is important to maintain trust, honesty, and friendship in a business relationship. Favours received, such as a reference, should be repaid later in the future.
Communication in Myanmar
The international dialing code for Myanmar (Burma) is +95. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code. Most businesses in the country list a few numbers, as landlines often go dead and calls don't go through. Prepaid SIM cards are widely available and travellers can expect to find wifi in big cities, where most hotels and guesthouses, and some restaurants will usually offer it for free. The government has been known to monitor and censor internet usage and some websites may not be available.
Tipping in Myanmar
The Burmese offer their help freely and genuinely, and don't expect much in return, though gratuity is greatly appreciated. Tipping 10 percent on a meal is considered quite generous. Porters, drivers and tour guides expect a small tip.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Myanmar must hold confirmed return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. They will also require a tourist visa, which is valid for 28 days. Applications for visa extensions are not possible once in Myanmar; however, a fine of USD 3 per day overstayed can be paid at Immigration upon departure. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Myanmar if visitors are arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area.
All visitors to Myanmar need to purchase COVID-19 medical insurance from Myanma Insurance. This is required regardless of any other insurance cover visitors may have. Visitors will be expected to take a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test at the airport, regardless of their vaccination status. They should bring MMK 15,000 with them or be prepared to convert cash at one of the exchange counters. If the test result is
negative, they will be free to leave. Travellers who display symptoms or test positive will be isolated and taken to a hospital or hotel designated by the Ministry of Health at their own expense. This is in addition to the test they need to take 48 hours before their arrival. Which test they can take depends on if they are fully vaccinated or not. Fully vaccinated travellers should present proof that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before their arrival in Myanmar with an accepted vaccine such as CoronaVac, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Johnson and Johnson, or Modema, and a negative result from a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Diagnostic test, taken no more than 48 hours prior to their arrival in Myanmar. Visitors who are not fully vaccinated should present proof of a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test, taken no more than 48 hours before their arrival in Myanmar.
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after
the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Myanmar. A visa is required.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Myanmar. A visa is required.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Myanmar. A visa is required.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Myanmar. A visa is required.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Myanmar. A visa is required.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Myanmar. A visa is required.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Myanmar. A visa is required.
Tourist Offices
Ministry of Hotels and Tourism: http://www.tourism.gov.mm/
Myanmar Embassies
In the United States:
Embassy of Myanmar, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 332 3344.
In Canada:
Embassy of Myanmar, Ontario, Canada: +1 613 232 9990.
In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Myanmar, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0) 20 7499 4340.
In Australia:
Embassy of Myanmar, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 (0)2 6273 3811, 6273 3751.
In South Africa:
Embassy of Myanmar, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 341 2557/2556.
Foreign Embassies in Myanmar
American Embassy
United States Embassy, Yangon (Rangoon): +95 1 536 509.
Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Yangon (Rangoon): +95 1 384 805.
British Embassy
British Embassy, Yangon (Rangoon): +95 1 370 865.
Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Yangon (Rangoon): +95 1 230 7410.
New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Yangon (Rangoon): +95 1 230 6046.
South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Bangkok, Thailand (also responsible for Myanmar): +66 2 659 2900.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Burma (Myanmar)
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Burma, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Burma. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Cholera is a risk in parts of Burma. CDC recommends this vaccine for adults who are traveling to an area of active cholera transmission. Most people do not travel to areas of active cholera transmission. Avoiding unsafe food and water can also prevent many cholera infections. Cholera is rare in travelers but can be severe. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease (more information).
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
You may need this vaccine if your trip will last more than a month, depending on where you are going in Burma and what time of year you are traveling. You should also consider this vaccine if you plan to visit rural areas in Burma or will be spending a lot of time outdoors, even for trips shorter than a month. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Burma.
Talk to your doctor about how to prevent malaria while traveling. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, especially if you are visiting low-altitude areas. See more detailed information about malaria in Burma.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Burma, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Burma
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Burma. The government of Burma requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Burma, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Burma. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Cholera is a risk in parts of Burma. CDC recommends this vaccine for adults who are traveling to an area of active cholera transmission. Most people do not travel to areas of active cholera transmission. Avoiding unsafe food and water can also prevent many cholera infections. Cholera is rare in travelers but can be severe. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease (more information).
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
You may need this vaccine if your trip will last more than a month, depending on where you are going in Burma and what time of year you are traveling. You should also consider this vaccine if you plan to visit rural areas in Burma or will be spending a lot of time outdoors, even for trips shorter than a month. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Burma.
Talk to your doctor about how to prevent malaria while traveling. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, especially if you are visiting low-altitude areas. See more detailed information about malaria in Burma.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Burma, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Burma
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Burma. The government of Burma requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Note: Zika is a risk in Burma (Myanmar). Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women should not travel to Burma (Myanmar). Partners of pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy should know the possible risks to pregnancy and take preventive steps (more information).
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Burma, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Burma. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Burma include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Burma. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Burma’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Malaria is a risk in Burma. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Burma may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Burma, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Burma (Myanmar) for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the kyat (MMK) - pronounced 'Chat'. The best foreign currency to travel on in Myanmar is the US dollar, but it is less of an alternative currency than it once was. Notes will not be accepted if they are damaged or torn in any way, or have pen marks on them.
There is a big difference between the official and unofficial exchange rates in Myanmar, with street moneychangers offering more favourable rates than official channels. It's risky to change money with people on the street, though many tourists do.
ATMs accepting international credit cards are increasingly common in cities, towns and tourist areas, but machines don't always work in areas that are off the beaten track.
Exchange rate for 1 MMK - Myanma Kyat
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Exchange Rate for U.S. Dollar to Myanma Kyat
1 USD = 0.00 MMK
Exchange Rate for Euro to Myanma Kyat
1 EUR = 0.00 MMK
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to Myanma Kyat
1 CAD = 0.00 MMK
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to Myanma Kyat
1 GBP = 0.00 MMK
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to Myanma Kyat
1 AUD = 0.00 MMK
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to Myanma Kyat
1 NZD = 0.00 MMK
Exchange Rate for South African Rand to Myanma Kyat
1 ZAR = 0.00 MMK
Yangon International Airport (RGN) Yangon International Airport http://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/
Location: Yangon The airport is situated six miles (9km) outside of Yangon.
Time: Local time is GMT +6.5.
Contacts: +95 1 533 030
Getting to the city: Taxis are available at the airport.
Car rental:
Airport Taxis: Taxi counters are situated at the arrival halls of each terminal.
Facilities: There are many restaurants and bars available, from high-end to fast food options. Yangon Airport also contains many clothing stores, duty-free stores, ATMs, smoking lounges, and news stores.
Parking: Parking A and B service international travellers and are located opposite the international terminal. There is no charge for the first 30 minutes and a cost of 5000 MMK for 24 hours. Domestic parking is next to the domestic terminal and costs 1000 MMK for one hour. Travellers will pay 4000 MMK for four hours and 500 MMK per hour after that.
Mandalay International Airport (MDL) Mandalay International Airport http://www.mandalayairport.com
Location: The airport is situated 24 miles (38km) outside of Mandalay.
Time: Local time is GMT +6.5.
Getting to the city: Taxis are available.
Car rental:
Airport Taxis: Airport Taxi Counters are located outside the baggage claim area. Taxi fares are fixed. Coupons for taxis must be purchased at the taxi counter.
Facilities: Services include dining, duty free shopping and currency exchange.
Parking: The airport has 11 short-term parking spaces and six long-term parking spaces.
Overview of the Attractions in Myanmar
Myanmar is a perfect destination for those who enjoy off-the-beaten track travel. The sightseeing in the country includes scenic wonders, religious sites, and many historical attractions.
Thousands of ancient and intriguing temples, each one unique, await visitors in Bagan. The floating villages of Lake Inle can be explored on a hired longtail boat to the beautiful double storied gardens. The city of Mandalay draws visitors with its scenic surroundings, royal palace complex and the Mahamuni Buddha. The Ngwe Saung coastline attracts people with its white sands and unspoiled beauty. The astounding Shwedagon Pagoda will blind you with its golden plated domes, standing sentinel over the city of Yangon. Myanmar's many bustling markets will enchant visitors and the country's sacred sites are excpetionally moving. These are just a few of the attractions that await visitors to Myanmar.
Bagan Yangon
Bagan is an ancient city dating back to the 9th century that was home to the first kingdom of a unified Myanmar. A seemingly impossible collection of thousands of temples and monuments scattered over a vast plain, the buildings range in condition from ruined to resplendent, although many retain the power and majesty their devout designers intended. Most of the structures were built between the 11th and 12th centuries, when Bagan was the capital of the First Burmese Empire. Regrettably, many temples have suffered under the government's poor attempts at restoration, but others have been well preserved by organisations like UNESCO.
The temples can best be viewed via bicycle, which allows for independent exploration as bike trails link all the temples. This attraction still feels relatively undiscovered and allows visitors to feel that they are the only ones exploring a temple. Each is thoroughly unique so visitors can spend days exploring
and remain enthralled. Sunset is prime time in Bagan, as locals and visitors alike head for the highest temples to enjoy the magnificent sunsets over the stupa-dotted plain. Another popular way of seeing the temples is from the air, in a hot air balloon.
Shwedagon Pagoda Yangon
Shwedagon Pagoda is Myanmar's most famous sight, an iconic landmark that stands as a highlight for any visitor to the region. The stupa is covered in gold plates weighing an estimated 52 metric tons and topped with a 76-carat diamond, as well as being covered by many other jewels. The temple was built between the 6th and 10th centuries, although the site atop Singuttara Hill has been considered holy for over 2,500 years.
Also known as the Golden Temple, Shwedagon is the most sacred site for Burmese Buddhists, and is a daily focus for worship. Relics of the Buddha are said to be housed in the stupa, along with many other historical artefacts and great treasures. There are stairways at the north, south, east, and west and you can ascend using any of these, or the elevator if you want to skip the climb. The southern entrance is the most used because it rises out of the city; and the eastern stairway, although damaged by the British long ago,
is popular because it leads down to the bazaars, making it a good exit point for prospective shoppers.
Shwedagon is a place of worship, prayer and meditation, and it is important to act with respect and keep noise levels down. Dress conservatively, with long pants and sleeves, and remove your shoes when entering the complex. Be discreet when using your camera. Sunset and sunrise are the most powerful times to visit the stupa.
Ngwe Saung Yangon
Ngwe Saung is one of the most laid-back places in the country, where visitors can unwind along a gorgeous, 10-mile (15km) stretch of palm-lined beach. A small touristy village has materialised on the beach's parallel road, with craft stalls selling cheap trinkets and delicious seafood. At low tide a small island appears which you can walk to and around.
Package tours can arrange transport and hotel, but the beach is easy to get to from Yangon without pre-arrangement. The bus station next to Yangon's train station sells tickets for the five to six hour ride to the lovely coast. However, passengers should be wary of being passed off to smaller buses and charged again. Ngwe Saung is a popular excursion from Yangon, and many choose to stay one or two nights to enjoy the lovely beaches.
Lake Inle Yangon
Located at the base of steep green hills, Inle Lake is remarkable because of its inhabitants: around 70 000 people who live on and around the lake. Whole villages rest on stilts surrounded by water, rather like a bamboo and teak Venice, where men steer rowing boats through water roads. The men have adapted a unique way to row, wrapping one leg around an oar and standing with the other, which frees their hands to fish at the same time.
Tourists can hire a boat and guide to lead them through floating markets and workshops making silks, cigars (cheroots), and jewellery. An impressive wooden temple on the water is also open to visitors; bizarrely, the monks at the temple are famous for having trained cats to jump through hoops and perform tricks.
Visitors first arrive in the town of Nyaungshwe to a host of riverside guesthouses and restaurants. Boat hire can be done through hotels or independently at the town's river.
Expensive hotels on the lake can be booked in advance but more rustic accommodation can usually be found without pre-planning. Depending on the season the town can flood, making the concept of living on water a little more practical than it first seemed.
Mandalay Yangon
Mandalay is Myanmar's second-largest city and the former royal capital of the Burmese kingdom. A good place to start a visit is to hike up the 780-foot (240m) stairwell to the top of Mandalay Hill, a holy site with an ornately decorated temple with a Buddha statue overlooking the former capital city and far-reaching flatlands. Dominating the city's centre are the 150-year-old palace grounds of King Mindon and King Thibaw, with an adjacent temple and surrounding moat. For local travellers the Mahamuni Buddha is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists in Myanmar.
Aside from sightseeing, shopping is Mandalay's major pastime. A jewel market, where visitors can watch craftsmen shape gems, is worth a visit. Crafts such as monk's umbrellas, gold leaf, ornate furniture, and lacquer-ware are made and sold within the city. Motorbike taxis are available, as are trishaws, which are traditionally used in rural
Myanmar.
Bogyoke Aung San Market Yangon
The Bogyoke Aung San Market is the perfect place for tourists to start their visit to Myanmar, not only because it is the best place in town to convert foreign currency, but because it gives an idea of what the country has in store.
In the past, the official exchange rate of the Myanmar kyat was kept artificially strong by government-set rates, creating a large black market trade in the currency at a much better price for tourists. The black market has endured and the best place to change currency is in the central jewellery section of the market. To maximise the rates it is best to ask several different vendors and bargain hard. Be careful to count your money and do the exchange math yourself. Exchanging currency on the black market is risky, but many travellers go this route.
Once you have converted money the market is a great place to buy crafts, artwork, jewellery or antiques. Popular souvenirs include Burmese
cigars, and old Burmese currency, some of which was issued in the curious but numerologically auspicious denominations of 35, 75 and 90 kyat notes. Bogyoke Aung San Market is open daily from about 9am to 5pm and is centrally located in downtown Yangon. Locals will be happy to direct you if you get lost.
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