Destination Myanmar

How to Travel in Myanmar?

In Myanmar most touring destinations throughout the country will be accessed via domestic flights. Whilst roads within and surrounding a major cities are good, highways connecting city’s are in a poor condition. Train travel throughout Myanmar is also a slow and tiring means of transport.

Air Access

International Flights

International flights are available from Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai Air Asia, Silk Air, Jetstar Asia Airway, Malaysian Airlines, Air Bagan, Air China, Indian Airlines respectively. Myanmar’s national carrier Myanmar Airways International flies to Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Flights from Chiang Mai to Yangon are operated by Air Mandalay.

Domestic Flights

Within Myanmar, Destination Asia utilize three domestic carriers, Yangon Airways, Air Bagan and Air Mandalay. The aircraft employed are French ATR 42/72, regulated and operated under French aviation regulations. All airlines use foreign and local pilots. Both impose a 20 kilogram baggage limit per person and excess baggage fees may be charged. We suggest you leave items not needed upcountry in Yangon, and collect them upon your return.

Automobiles

All motor vehicles used by Destination Asia for overland road journeys, tours and transfers are modern and air-conditioned, licensed to carry foreign visitors and fully insured. Separate luggage vans are used for groups as required. We typically fill coaches to only 85% of their capacity for greater client comfort.

Domestic boat trips

If you have plenty of time, the river is an interesting option for travel from Bagan to Mandalay (or vice-versa). Both ‘slow’ and ‘fast’ boats are available, although the fast option may still take a full day of travel. Myanmar has a lot of transport through its rivers, but it’s not often used by tourists. The boat from Mandalay to Bagan is the most famous. There is now a fast boat connecting these 2 cities.

Bus

Transportation by road is hard and long. There are several big bus companies doing the touristic route: Yangoon-Mandalay: it takes about 10 hours with a few stops. Public transport in the cities is not much comfortable, but it’s a great way to get to know the local people.

Train

Myanmar Railways provides services on several routes, the principal line being Yangon to Mandalay (journey time – 12 to 14 hours). First class is available but, with the exception of the Yangon to Mandalay line, services are regularly afflicted with delays caused by climatic, technical and bureaucratic difficulties. Tickets must be purchased as part of an organized tour group. There are regular services from Yangon to Mandalay.

Taxi

Only around Yangoon you will find taxis. They are very cheap. Either they have a meter, otherwise you should make a deal on the price on beforehand.