Myanmar is a beautiful and undiscovered destination in South East Asia that hasn’t been explored as much as the other destinations.
1. Shwemawdaw Paya
Called the “great glittering god” because of its sheer size and golden sheen, at 114 meters, it is the tallest pagoda in Myanmar. It is said to contain many relics of the Buddha and is about 1,000 years old.
2. An Irrawaddy Cruise
Take a cruise along the longest river in Myanmar for a great way to see the country as it cascades down from the Himalayas all the way to the Andaman sea. Check with your Myanmar travel agency of choice for the types of cruises that are provided and locations.
3. Inle Lake
The Inle Lake is absolutely beautiful with its almost mirror-like clear blue surface. It is also home to the famous stilt houses of the Mon descendants, the Intha. Fishermen propel their ships with their leg using a technique that is popular among tourists.
4. Taung Kalat
Fixed atop an extinct volcano plug, the mountain monastery of Taung Kalat is an absolute spectacle. From the top, which is reached by a 777-step stairway, you can see Bagan in the distance as well as the distinct shape of the volcano, Mount Popa.
5. Shwedagon Pagoda
The Great Dragon Pagoda is one of the most sacred sites in Buddhism. The pagoda is on every one of the top must-visit lists including on Aitken Spence Travels. It is 2,500 years old though the true origins have been lost in time. What started as a pagoda of 8 metres has evolved into a 99-meter pagoda over the years.
6. Bagan
The number one destination in Myanmar, though it depends on who you are asking. An iconic “gilded city” as Marco Polo referred to, is a magical place that words cannot describe.
