How To Get Around In Myanmar In 2 Weeks – Celebrate A Rich Heritage
As Myanmar covers a massive 680,000 square kilometers, you will begin to understand the enormity of the nation as you move through its mesmeric landscapes in search of a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. Thus, keep in mind that traveling within Myanmar can exhaust more time than in other Southeast Asian countries. Therefore, careful preparation and planning ought to be your guiding light and for those wanting an in-depth perspective of how best to maximize their time across 2 weeks in Myanmar, do continue to read on.
Assess the cost element
By and large, air travel to and from Myanmar is more expensive than in neighboring countries in Southeast Asia. Domestic air travel is treated in a similar fashion with hotel accommodation also appearing on the higher side. However, do not be put off by the cost factor as budget travel is a possibility given that you make your bookings at the earliest whilst paying special attention to deals and offers on some of the world’s most visited and used travel booking sites.
Plan ahead
Ideally, break your itinerary down into digestible bits and have a plan that will see you covering a majority if not all of Myanmar’s traversed regions. Against such a backdrop, include popular stopovers such as Yangon (former capital), Mandalay, Bagan, and Inle Lake which combine to afford a remarkable and insightful glimpse of what Myanmar stands for.
Week 1
Yangon city, Night view | Image via unsplash
The first 2 days of your holiday must be reserved for Yangon City as there is much to learn and appreciate. Use day 1 to schedule a visit to the country’s most iconic attraction; the Shwedagon Pagoda which is a stunning monument and work of art. Should you want to stay away from crowds, then the Royal Lake where many parks can be called by in its immediate vicinity for a relaxing and peaceful walk might be contemplated. Come at lunchtime, head off to Bogyoke Aung San Market where traditional handicrafts, brightly coloured longyis, and hearty snacks will entice and thrill you. Begin day 2 by riding the circular train where you will be greeted by the ways of the locals and thus, it will be mandatory to bring along your trusty camera to capture these amazing scenes. Next up would be Chinatown and its numerous stalls where souvenirs of varying kinds can be picked up. Thereafter, head to Bagan for the following 3 days where temple visits to sites such as Sulamani and Dhammayangi can be scheduled. Also, consider a hot air balloon ride in the wee hours of the morning in the event you desire a bird’s eye view of Bagan and its absorbing culture. Days 6 and 7 must be reserved for a trip to Mandalay. Herein, look to visit the Golden Palace which is renowned for housing impressive teak carvings before stopping by the flower market and fish market by the Ayerwaddy River in order to mix and mingle with the friendly locals.
Week 2
The region of Kalaw and essentially, Inle Lake must never be excluded and for the first 3 days of your 2nd week in Myanmar, do take time to trek through its glorious environs. Hiking fanatics will find Kalaw well worthy of their time but if you want to travel directly to Inle Lake, then go right ahead. Employ the services of a boat guide who will take you to a truly fascinating people who pride themselves as being the masters of one-legged fishing on Inle Lak; a peculiar yet distinctive practice that will warm the hearts of the foreign traveler. A slew of floating villages such as the weaving village of Phaw Khone and the fishing village of Nampan will warrant your attention as well. Head south on day 11 in the direction of Hpa-An where vistas of mountains and fields will act as a prelude to walks around Kan Thar Yar Lake and Shweyinhmyaw Pagoda. The following day you may beeline towards Myanmar’s 4th largest city of Mawlamyine which is a seaside town in the south where attractions such as Win Sein Taw Ya Giant Buddha, Setse Beach, and Bilu Island can be delighted in. Your penultimate day can focus on Ngwe Saung which is perfect for beachgoers and leisure travelers with the local market serving as a good way to sample scrumptious Asian, Thai, and of course Burmese dishes. Conclude at the administrative capital of Nay Pyi Taw. Check out the Myoma Market, Nay Pyi Taw Bagan where evidence of the Pyu Era will be on view, and the Hluttaw which is the parliament complex. Accommodation in the form of PARKROYAL Nay Pyi Taw which is a good hotel Naypyidaw Myanmar has to offer can be factored into your itinerary too.
