Destination Myanmar
- Location
- When to Travel?
- How to Travel?
- Who Is My Guide?
- Hotels and Restaurants
- Expectations & Preparations
- Health and Safety
- Visas
Travelling in Myanmar
Myanmar has… an atmosphere – a something undefined which has appealed irresistibly to all who have fallen under its influence. The appeal lies no doubt in the happy gaiety of the people, the kindly tolerance of their customs… and their grace.”C M Enrique’s, A Burmese Wonderland (1922
Moving further afield across Myanmar is easy as the main tourist areas are well serviced by air, road and often rail. There is a choice of service for everyone depending on time and budget.
By Air
Air travel is the most efficient way of moving within Myanmar based on limited schedule of flights. There are daily flights to most towns; charter flights are also available. Approximate Flight Times from Yangon to Mandalay is 2 hours 10 minutes; to Bagan is 1 hour 30 minutes; and to Heho is 1 hour 25 minutes.
By Water
The best way of seeing Myanmar is by boat, particularly between Bhamo–Mandalay and Mandalay–Bagan. Trips can only be arranged as part of an organized tour group.
By Rail
The train system in Myanmar is old and slow but also cheap and great to meet the local people. There are 2 classes: high and ordinary with respectively soft and hard benches.
By Road
Traffic drives on the right. There has been some modernization of Myanmar’s once antiquated vehicles. Roads are poorly maintained and can become impassable in the rainy season, from May to October.
Bus: Owing to the ongoing privatization program of the transport industry, a fleet of privately operated buses is also available. The main lines are from Yangon to Pyay, Mandalay, Beaches areas and Taunggyi. Private buses are air conditioned and accept payment in Kyat, US Dollars or FECs.
