My thoughts on my first visit to Myanmar

When I first set foot on the land of Myanmar, I was immediately deeply attracted by its unique cultural atmosphere. Myanmar, as a country with a long history and rich cultural heritage, is amazed by its diversity and purity. Whether it is a bustling city or a peaceful countryside, one can feel a natural beauty that has not been eroded by commercialization everywhere.

Walking on the streets of Yangon, I was moved by the kindness of the locals. Whether it’s the vendors in the market or the pedestrians on the street, their smiles and kindness make me feel warm. The magnificent scene of the Yangon Pagoda is even more unforgettable to me. The towering pagoda shines brightly in the sunlight, as if telling the story of Myanmar’s centuries long religious beliefs and cultural heritage.

Leaving the city and delving deeper into Myanmar’s countryside, one can better appreciate the simplicity and natural beauty of this country. On the banks of the Irrawaddy River, the morning mist envelops the surface of the river, and the surroundings are quiet and peaceful. The local fishermen rowed small boats and quietly walked on the water surface, as if time had come to a standstill here. In Lake Yinlai, I took a small boat tour and witnessed the unique technique of foot rowing, which is a wisdom passed down from generation to generation and full of the philosophy of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

The charm of Myanmar lies not only in its magnificent natural scenery, but also in its profound cultural heritage and simple humanistic sentiment. Whether it’s the ancient Pagoda of Pagoda Pagoda or the quiet rural path, every corner exudes mystery and attraction. Myanmar, this mysterious and beautiful land, has left an indelible impression on me and made me deeply appreciate the true meaning of travel.

Yinlai Lake

Yinlai Lake, located in Shan State, Myanmar, is a picturesque freshwater lake with an area of approximately 116 square kilometers, surrounded by mountains. Yinlai Lake is not only known for its charming natural scenery, but also attracts countless tourists due to its unique cultural landscape. There are many floating villages scattered on the lake, which are built by bamboo rafts and wooden stakes, forming a unique water painting.

The local fishermen are known for their unique rowing style, using single leg rowing techniques. They wrap one leg around an oar and stand the other leg at the stern of the boat. This rowing style not only demonstrates their balance ability, but also becomes a unique scenic spot on Lake Inne. Fishermen mainly catch silver fish in the lake, which are a major local specialty.

The unique market on Lake Yinlai is also one of the attractions that tourists cannot miss. A cyclical floating market is held every five days, touring different villages on the lake. The market sells fresh agricultural products, handicrafts, and local specialty cuisine. Tourists can experience the most authentic Burmese style here.

In addition, there are many scenic spots worth visiting around Lake Yinlai, such as the Paudou Pagoda located on the east bank of the lake. This pagoda is one of the most important religious buildings in the area, and a grand pagoda festival is held here every year. Tourists can also visit handicraft villages on the lake, such as Silversmith Village, Textile Village, and Tobacco Village, to learn about local traditional crafts and cultural heritage.

In short, Lake Yinlai is not only a treasure trove of natural beauty, but also a place full of culture and history, providing a rich and colorful experience for every visiting tourist.

Pugan Ancient City

The ancient city of Pugan is located on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River in central Myanmar and is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. This ancient city was built between the 9th and 13th centuries AD and was the capital of the Pagan dynasty. Nowadays, the ancient city of Pugan is renowned for its magnificent Buddhist pagodas and temple clusters, making it an important location for exploring Myanmar’s history and culture.

The landscape of Pugan Ancient City is breathtaking. There are over 2000 Buddhist pagodas and temples scattered throughout the ancient city, among which the most famous include Ananda Temple, Ruixi Palace Pagoda, and Darbiniu Temple. These buildings not only showcase the brilliance of Myanmar’s Buddhist architectural art, but also carry rich historical and religious significance.

Watching the sunrise and sunset in Pugan is an unforgettable experience. The best viewing locations include the Ruixi Palace Pagoda and the Buddhist pagoda group on the Puganping Plain. From these high places, one can overlook the entire ancient city, immersed in the Buddha pagodas and temples in the morning or sunset, and the scenery is particularly magnificent.

In addition to those famous temples, Pugan also has many less well-known but equally worth visiting places. For example, you can go to Mingkaba Village, which preserves some ancient temples and pagodas, away from major tourist routes, providing a more peaceful and private experience. In addition, the Damayangji Temple is also worth visiting, known for its grand scale and unique brick and stone structure.

Whether it’s history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, or photography enthusiasts, Pugan Ancient City provides visitors with a rich experience. Here, you can delve deeper into the history of Burmese Buddhism, appreciate the architectural wonders that have been preserved for thousands of years, and feel the sanctity and tranquility of the ancient city.

Qindun River

The Qindun River is one of the natural beauty that Myanmar cannot miss, flowing through magnificent mountainous areas and vast plains, forming a unique ecological corridor. The ecological environment here is extremely rich, inhabited by numerous rare animal and plant species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and ecotourism. Along both sides of the river, there are many traditional villages that preserve Myanmar’s unique culture and way of life. The local residents make a living through agriculture and fishing, living a simple and simple life, demonstrating the wisdom of harmonious coexistence with nature.

In the villages of the Qindun River basin, you will find traditional wooden houses, handicrafts, and local markets, all of which showcase the unique charm of Burmese folk culture. The villagers are warm and hospitable, and tourists can experience the pure customs and traditions of Myanmar. The local festival activities are rich and colorful, filled with traditional music, dance, and cuisine, making it an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Burmese culture.

Taking a boat tour of the Qindun River is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this region. The recommended tour route includes starting from Bhamo upstream, passing through Mandalay along the river, and finally arriving in Yangon. This route not only allows you to fully appreciate the scenery of the Qindun River, but also allows you to visit historical relics and religious sites along the way, such as Amarapura and Mandalay Hill.

In addition, tourists can also choose short trips to explore specific attractions on both sides of the Qindun River. For example, you can take a boat to Thabeikkyin to enjoy the magnificent waterfalls and pristine forests; Or go to Monyin to visit ancient temples and pagodas. These scenic spots are not only beautiful, but also full of historical and cultural charm.

In short, the Qindun River not only attracts tourists with its natural beauty and diverse ecological environment, but also provides rich experiences for tourists through its unique culture and traditional way of life. Whether it’s a long-distance or short trip, the Qindun River can bring you unforgettable memories.

Maisuo Village

Among the many hidden attractions in Myanmar, Maiso Village is undoubtedly an unmissable place. This village is located in the mountainous areas of northern Myanmar, and despite its remote location, it has attracted many tourists to explore its unique culture and traditions. The long necked women in the village are famous for their long necks wearing copper rings, which is not only a cultural symbol but also an important symbol of their identity.

The custom of wearing copper rings among long necked women has a history of hundreds of years. The purpose of wearing copper rings is to protect their necks, while also symbolizing beauty and nobility. As one ages, the number of copper rings gradually increases, ultimately forming a unique aesthetic effect. Tourists visiting Maiso Village can not only witness this unique cultural custom with their own eyes, but also communicate with the locals and gain a deeper understanding of their lives and beliefs.

In addition to the cultural customs of long necked women, Maiso Village also offers a series of colorful activities for tourists to experience. For example, tourists can participate in handicraft production and learn how to weave traditional handicrafts. These handicrafts are not only exquisite but also full of the essence of local culture. In addition, traditional performances in the village are also a major highlight. Tourists can watch authentic dance and music performances, and feel the strong Burmese folk customs.

During the visit to Maiso Village, tourists can choose to stay in local homestays and experience the most primitive rural life. This is not only a cultural journey, but also a spiritual baptism, allowing people to find a peaceful place in the busy modern life.

In short, Maiso Village attracts tourists from all over the world with its unique culture and rich activities, making it a rare travel experience.

Huangjinyan

Golden Rock, located in the state of Mong Bang in Myanmar, is a Buddhist holy site with great religious significance. The uniqueness of Golden Rock lies in its suspension on the edge of a cliff, as if it could fall at any moment, but it has stood steadily for hundreds of years. According to local legend, this giant stone is supported by the Buddha’s hair, so even if it is blown by strong winds or shaken by earthquakes, it still stands firm.

This rock is covered in thick gold foil, shining with a mysterious golden light, attracting thousands of believers and tourists to come and worship. The small pagoda at the top of Golden Rock enshrines the sacred relics of the Buddha, making it a holy land in the hearts of devout Buddhists. Every year, thousands of believers come tirelessly from all over the country to pray for blessings on this sacred land.

The best time to worship is in the evening, when the afterglow of the sunset falls on the Golden Rock, the whole scene is like a fairyland. In addition, the morning is also a good time for worship. At the moment when the sun rises, the Golden Rock emits a soft light in the morning, making people feel peaceful.

Going to Golden Rock is not an easy task, but it is precisely where its charm lies. Firstly, you need to depart from Yangon and take a bus for about five hours to reach Kivu town. Next, take a truck or hike about 11 kilometers from Kivu town to reach the summit. During this process, you can not only enjoy the natural scenery of Myanmar, but also experience the enthusiasm and faith of the local people.

Overall, Golden Rock is not only a religious holy site, but also a place where people’s souls can be elevated. Whether you are a believer or a traveler, this place will bring you an unforgettable experience.

Best Travel Time

The climate in Myanmar can be divided into three main seasons: dry season, rainy season, and cool season. Each season has its unique climate characteristics and travel advantages. Understanding the differences in these seasons can help tourists choose the best travel time.

The dry season usually lasts from November to April. During this period, the weather is dry and the sunshine is abundant, making it a golden period for tourists to visit Myanmar. The advantage of the dry season lies in the warm climate, which is suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing, especially visiting pagodas and temples. However, the dry season is also a peak season for tourism, with a large number of tourists, and popular attractions may be crowded.

The rainy season lasts from May to October. During this period, there was frequent rainfall, especially in July and August, when the rainfall reached its peak. Although rainfall during the rainy season may affect outdoor activities, it also brings a lush natural landscape. A significant advantage of the rainy season is that there are fewer tourists, attractions are less crowded, and accommodation and airfare prices are also more favorable.

The cool season from November to February is the most comfortable season in Myanmar, with pleasant temperatures and low humidity. This period is also an ideal time to visit Myanmar, suitable for long-term hiking and city sightseeing. The picturesque scenery of Myanmar during the cool season is particularly suitable for photography enthusiasts.

To avoid peak tourism periods, it is recommended that tourists visit in the early or late stages of the dry season, such as in November or early April. During this period, the weather is moderate and the number of tourists is relatively small. In addition, tourists can also choose to travel on weekdays instead of weekends to avoid crowds.

In summary, understanding the climate characteristics of Myanmar and the advantages and disadvantages of each season can help tourists choose the most suitable travel time for themselves, in order to better enjoy the beautiful scenery of Myanmar.

Myanmar, as a travel destination full of diverse cultures and natural landscapes, has equally diverse transportation and accommodation options. Whether traveling to Myanmar or within Myanmar, there are multiple convenient options available.

Transportation mode

Firstly, the main international airports to Myanmar are located in Yangon and Mandalay, both of which have direct flights to many major cities in Asia. In terms of domestic travel, airplanes are also a fast and relatively economical option, especially for travelers with limited time. There are multiple airlines in Myanmar that provide flights connecting major cities and tourist attractions.

Trains are another way to explore Myanmar, although relatively slow, the scenery and local living experience along the way are unparalleled. The main railway lines connect Yangon, Mandalay, Pagan, and other important cities. Long distance buses are an economical choice, and many companies offer comfortable sleeper bus services, making it convenient for travelers to travel at night and saving time and accommodation costs.

Accommodation recommendations

Myanmar offers accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget homestays and youth hostels. For budget conscious travelers, they can choose The Strand Hotel in Yangon or Mandalay Hill Resort in Mandalay, which offer top-notch facilities and services. For mid budget travelers, Bagan Thande Hotel in Pugan or Inle Resort by Lake Inne are both cost-effective options.

For travelers who pursue economic affordability, Myanmar has many clean and comfortable youth hostels and homestays, such as BaobaBed Hostel in Yangon or Ostello Bello in Mandalay. When booking accommodation, it is recommended to make reservations in advance through well-known booking websites such as Booking.com or Agoda to ensure sufficient options and avoid price increases during peak seasons.

When booking, it should be noted that the network coverage in some areas of Myanmar is not as developed as in cities. Therefore, please download the booking confirmation email or screenshot in advance so that you can smoothly check in even without the internet. In addition, it is recommended to carry a copy of your passport with you, as many accommodation locations require proof of identity.

Budget recommendations

Understanding and preparing a reasonable budget is crucial when planning a trip to Myanmar. According to different travel days and activity arrangements, travel expenses may vary. Here are some rough budget ranges and suggestions to help you better control your expenses.

Firstly, transportation costs are a significant part of the travel budget. The ticket price for international flights departing from China is approximately between 2000 and 4000 RMB, depending on the departure city and booking time. After arriving in Myanmar, domestic transportation mainly includes airplanes, trains, and buses. Domestic flight fares generally range from 300 to 700 RMB, while trains and buses are relatively cheaper, with each journey costing approximately 50 to 200 RMB.

In terms of accommodation, Myanmar offers a variety of options, ranging from budget hotels to high-end hotels. Tourists with limited budgets can choose youth hostels or economy hotels, with prices typically ranging from 100 to 300 RMB per night. If you want a more comfortable accommodation experience, the prices for mid-range and boutique hotels are approximately between 400 to 800 RMB per night.

In terms of catering, Myanmar’s cuisine is of good quality and affordable. The prices of street snacks and local restaurants are very affordable, with a simple meal costing around 10 to 30 RMB. In slightly upscale restaurants, the cost of each meal per person ranges from approximately 50 to 100 RMB.

The cost of tourist attraction tickets is also one of the factors that needs to be considered. Many famous attractions in Myanmar, such as the ancient city of Pagan and the Yangon Pagoda, have ticket prices ranging from approximately 50 to 100 yuan. Some smaller attractions and temples are usually free or only charge symbolic fees.

To save money, you can consider booking transportation and accommodation in advance, which usually leads to discounted prices. In addition, choosing public transportation over taxis, as well as dining at local restaurants over international chain restaurants, can significantly reduce expenses.

In summary, based on different travel days and activity plans, the total budget for the trip to Myanmar is approximately 300 to 600 RMB per person per day. Of course, this budget can be adjusted based on personal preferences and actual itinerary.