In a recent study by Forbes magazine and British website Money.co.uk which ranked the top 50 most beautiful countries in the world, five countries in Southeast Asia made that list, with Indonesia taking the crown as the most beautiful place on Earth! The list followed a February 2022 Money.co.uk article titled “Natural Beauty Report” which initially created the rankings.

The study was based on the number of natural wonders in each country such as volcanoes, tropical rainforests, glaciers and coral reefs, as well as the availability of nature-based activities for locals and visitors.

Here’s a look at the natural wonders of the five ASEAN countries on Forbes’ “World’s 50 Most Beautiful Countries” list and why they are the perfect destinations for your next epic adventure.

Indonesia

Ranked No. 1

Taking the top spot is Indonesia, home to over 17,000 breathtaking islands. Just off the shores of these islands, there are over 50,000 square kilometres of coral reef, teeming with life, much of which can be explored from the popular island of Bali.

Other natural attractions that helped propel Indonesia to the top of the list include Komodo National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in East Nusa Tenggara; Sumatra’s Gunung Kerinchi, the largest volcano in Southeast Asia and a popular destination for hikers worldwide; the exotic rainforests of Kalimantan (home to an orangutan sanctuary); and Raja Ampat Islands in West Papua Province, a paradise for divers, nature lovers and underwater photographers.

Philippines

Ranked No. 17

Comprising over 7,000 islands and islets, the Philippines offers endless opportunities for island-hopping getaways, beach adventures, water sport activities and underwater explorations in and around beautiful islands like Boracay, Cebu, Palawan and Siargao.

Landlubbers are not left out as the country is also home to world-renowned natural wonders like Banaue and Batad Rice Terraces, Chocolate Hills of Bohol, Mayon Volcano National Park, Taal Lake and Volcano, and Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ASEAN Heritage Park), as well as architectural marvels like the four UNESCO World Heritage Baroque Churches that have stood the test of time.

Malaysia

Ranked No. 24

Malaysia’s rich and varied landscape, spread across Peninsular or West Malaysia and East Malaysia, offers plenty of opportunities for amazing outdoor adventures. The country has tropical rainforests teeming with flora and fauna, mountain ranges, caves, natural rock formations, swamplands, beaches and more.

On West Malaysia, adventure-filled experiences await in the jungles of Taman Negara, Endau Rompin National Park and Gunung Ledang National Park; rolling hills of Cameron Highlands; and islands of Langkawi, Pangkor, Perhentian, Redang and Tioman.

Must-visits for nature enthusiasts and adventure buffs in Sabah and Sarawak include Kinabalu Park (Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site), Gunung Mulu National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Bako National Park, Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, Maliau Basin, Niah Caves, Sipadan Island, Mabul Island and Tun Sakaran Marine Park.

Thailand

Ranked No. 38

The Land of Smiles is a magnet for adventure lovers and pleasure seekers looking for exploration, exploits and action. Its picturesque beaches and islands are tropical playgrounds, offering plenty of fun in the sun, sand and sea.

Dive with whale sharks at Chumphon Pinnacle (northwest of Koh Tao), Hin Daeng (accessible from Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta), and Richelieu Rock (north of Similan Islands); snorkel in the waters of Koh Lipe, Koh Nang Yuan, Koh Phi Phi and Surin National Marine Park; and scale the limestone cliffs at Krabi’s Railay Beach.

For hikers and wildlife lovers, there are spectacular national parks like Erawan, Khao Sok, Khao Sam Roi Yot, Khao Yai, Kui Buri, Kaeng Krachan and Doi Inthanon for enriching nature discoveries.

Myanmar

Myanmar has an amazing landscape and natural beauty, many of which are waiting to be discovered. Boasting an abundance of sharks, rays, fish and coral reefs, the waters around Mergui Archipelago and Burma Banks are on many divers’ bucket lists, while the crystal clear waters of Cocks Comb Island (or Emerald Heart Island) is a snorkeller’s paradise.

Thrilling rafting activities can be enjoyed on Malikha River, May Kha River and Nam Lang River, and some of the best hiking and trekking experiences await in Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park, Mount Victoria, Mount Popa, Mount Zwegabin, Hsipaw, Lashio, Kalaw and Putao.

No trip to the Golden Land would be complete without a visit to the ancient town of Bagan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see its majestic pagodas and temples, and experience a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the town from a hot air balloon.

The post 5 Most Beautiful ASEAN Countries According To Forbes For Epic Adventures appeared first on Southeast Asia.

Bein mont

Rice flour pancake topped with nuts and seeds

Burmese briyani

Burmese curry

Burmese paratha with sweet pea pyote

Pan-fried flatbread served with sweet bean paste

Burmese thali

An assortment of rice, curries, vegetables, soups and chutneys

Hinto

Steamed banana-leaf parcels of rice, onion, leek and cabbage

Hsa nwin ma kin

Small cakes made with semolina flour, coconut milk, ghee/butter and raisins

Karyanchintheet thoke

Tomato salad

Kausuetho

Burmese rice noodles with masala spices and lemon juice

Kyay oh

Dry or soup rice noodles with meat balls or seafood

Laphet thoke

One of Myanmar’s most famous dishes, this salad comprises fermented tea leaves (laphet) mixed with cabbage, tomatoes, deep-fried beans, nuts, dried shrimp and peas, and tossed with garlic oil, chili slices and garlic.

Meeshay

Rice noodles with pork, vegetables and soup

Mohinga

A rice noodle dish served in a fish-based broth, mohinga is regarded as the national dish of Myanmar

Moun pyit thalet

Burmese-style pancakes

Myae oh myee shae

Claypot noodles

Myin kwa yuet thoke

Pennywort salad

Nangyi thoke

The Burmese version of spaghetti, this rice noodle salad is made up of thick round rice noodles tossed in curry chicken gravy, mixed with chicken, fish cake, bean sprouts, hard-boiled eggs, onions, coriander, cabbage, chilli oil and crispy fritters, served with lime wedges and toasted chickpea flour.

Nga htamin

Shan-style turmeric rice topped with fish

Ngapi

Fermented fish or shrimp paste

Ohn no khao swe

Egg noodles in a coconut-based chicken curry soup

Pone yay gyi

Pork curry

Shan-style noodles

Rice noodles in clear peppery broth with chicken or pork, sprinkled with toasted sesame and garlic oil, served with pickled vegetables on the side

Shan tofu

Soy-free tofu made with chickpea flour

Shwe yin aye

Dessert of rice flour jelly, sticky rice, sago, bread crusts in coconut milk/cream

The post Burmese Specialities appeared first on Southeast Asia.

One of Myanmar’s busiest cities, Yangon offers plenty of attractions for exciting explorations and discoveries.

The former capital of Myanmar was founded by King Alaungpaya of the Kone Baung Dynasty when he took the village of Dagon in 1755. The king named the settlement Yangon which means “end of strife”.

The city has a unique charm, with its tree-lined streets, green parks, serene lakes and colonial era buildings, coupled with the hustle and bustle of street vendors and thriving markets.  

No visit to Yangon would be complete without checking out these four places.

1. Bogyoke Aung San Market



Famous For
Rare antiques, old coins, Burmese jade, black market moneychangers, colonial architecture

Did You Know?
Built in 1926, the market was originally known as Scott Market, named after Mr. C. Scott, the then Municipal Commissioner. It was later renamed Bogyoke Aung San Market in honor of the country’s national leader, General Aung San, who was assassinated in 1947.

The market houses over 2,000 stalls selling luxury items, handicrafts, foodstuff, clothing, jewellery, fashion and consumer goods.

Shop For
Traditional handicrafts, handmade clothes, traditional Myanmar dishes

Insider Tip
The market has one of the largest selections of traditional longyi and gemstones. As sellers consider the first sale of the day to be very auspicious, arrive at the market early to enjoy some of the best prices.

To escape the intensity of the market, stop at the nearby Holy Trinity Cathedral for some peace and quiet contemplation.

Opening Hours
9am – 5.30pm daily except Mondays. Closed on public holidays.

Admission
Free

Location
Bogyoke Aung San Road

2. Shwedagon Pagoda

Famous For
Myanmar’s most revered Buddhist pilgrimage site and the nation’s most beloved landmark. The pagoda is said to enshrine sacred relics such as eight strands of hair from the head of Gautama Buddha, a piece of the robe believed to have belonged to Kassapa Buddha, a water filter attributed to Konagamana Buddha and the staff of Kakusandha Buddha.

Did You Know?
According to archaeologists and historians, the 99m-high pagoda which sits on top of Singuttara Hill, was built by the Mon people, an ethnic group from Myanmar, between the 6th and 10th centuries AD.

Look Out For
Its main gold-plated dome is topped by a stupa that is encrusted with 7,000 diamonds, rubies, topaz and sapphires, offset by a massive emerald that is positioned to reflect the last rays of the setting sun. The tip of the stupa is said to contain a 72-carat diamond.

Insider Tip
Lifts and wheelchairs are available at the pagoda’s southern entrance.

Cover up your knees and shoulders, and remove your shoes and socks before entering the pagoda. You can borrow the traditional longyi (long piece of cloth similar to a sarong) at one of the four entrances to cover up.

Sunset is one of the best times to visit the pagoda as you can see the changing hues of the gilded stupa as well as witness monks chanting their evening prayers.

To see the pagoda from a different perspective and for a quieter stroll, take the lower footpath encircling the compound. This pathway is accessible from all four entrances and is not as frequented by tourists. 

Opening Hours:
• 4am – 10pm daily (last admission at 9.45pm)
• The Visitor Centre is open from 8am – 9pm
• On the following days, the pagoda is open 24 hours:
* Waxing Day of Tabaung – the day before full moon day of the Myanmar Lunar month Tabaung (around March)
* Waxing Day of Wakhaung – the day before full moon day of the Myanmar Lunar month Wakhaung (around June which is the beginning of the Buddhist Lent)  

Admission
US$10

Location
Ar Zar Ni, Road Pha Yar Gyi Ward, west of the Kandawgyi Lake on Singuttara Hill

3. Chaukhtatgyi Paya (Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple)



Famous For
Its huge 65m-long, 16m-high reclining Buddha image which is housed in a metal-roofed shed.

Did You Know?
Clad in a golden robe and adorned with a crown encrusted by diamonds and other precious stones, the Buddha image features a white face, red lips, blue eye shadow and red finger nails. Its eyes are made of glass imported from Japan and its eyelashes are made from the feathers of a peafowl.

Look Out For
The soles of the Buddha’s feet showcase 108 segments in red and gold colours, with images that represent the 108 lakshanas (auspicious characteristics) of Buddha. Close to the Buddha’s feet is the small shrine of Ma Thay, a holy man who had the power to stop the rain so that sailors could have a safe journey.

Insider Tip
In the vicinity of the pagoda are monasteries that house over 600 monks. See how the monks honour Buddha’s teachings and get a glimpse of their monastic lifestyle.

Opening Hours
6am – 8pm daily

Admission
Free

Location
Shwe Gon Taing Road, Tamwe Township

4. Yangon City Hall



Famous For
British colonial architecture, adorned with Burmese decorative details such as peacocks, nagas (serpents) and pyatthat (traditional tiered roofs).

Did You Know?
The City Hall was designed by prominent Burmese architect U Tin who also designed the Yangon Central Railway Station. Today, the building still houses the city’s administrative body – Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC).

Look Out For
Check out the traditional Burmese peacock and the Myanmar flag at the main entrance, and see the Municipal Corporation of Rangoon insignia on the iron gates at the back of the building.

Insider Tip
To capture the entire building in a single image, take your shot from Maha Bandula Park just across the road.

Opening Hours
10am – 4pm, Monday to Friday (closed on Saturday and Sunday)

Admission
Free

Location
Maha Bandula Road


To explore Yangon and discover the best things to do in the city, click here to book a tour.

The post Top 4 Attractions In Yangon appeared first on Southeast Asia.

Bagan

• Ananda Temple

No trip to Bagan is complete without visiting this temple, considered to be one of the city’s largest, best preserved and most revered temples. Built during the reign of King Kyanzittha of the Pagan Dynasty in 1105 AD, the temple’s architecture features Mon and North Indian influences, designed on a perfectly proportioned Greek cross plan. Its most distinctive feature is its gilded sikhara, the tower-like spire on top of the pagoda.

Legend has it that eight Indian monks visited King Kyanzittha and raved to him about the legendary Nandamula Cave in the Himalayas where they meditated. Impressed, the king decided to replicate the temple in Bagan. After Ananda Temple was built, the king had the monks killed as he didn’t want a similar temple to be built elsewhere.

The temple houses four standing Buddhas, each 9.5m high, facing outward from the centre of the temple: Kakusandha (north), Kassapa (south), Konagamana (east) and Gautama (west).

• Bupaya Pagoda

The name of the pagoda is made up of two words – “bu” and “paya” – which translates as “pagoda in a gourd shape”. This cylindrical shaped Pyu-style pagoda stands on the banks of the Irrawaddy River and is built above rows of crenellated terraces.

Tradition attributes the pagoda to King Pyusawhti, who ruled Bagan in 3rd century AD.

The pagoda’s entrance, decorated with Burmese art elements, is guarded by two white and gold chinthes (Burmese mythological lions), flanked by two small figurines to welcome worshippers and devotees. Look out for a shrine dedicated to the “God of storms” as well as ornate pavilions within the pagoda grounds.

• Dhammayangyi Temple

Said to be Bagan’s largest and best-preserved temple, Dhammayangyi Temple has an impressive architecture which resembles an Egyptian pyramid. Built in the 12th century by King Narathu, the temple has a brutal history. It is said that the king built the temple to atone for his sins of killing his father, brother and one of his wives.

However, the temple was never completed as the king was assassinated by eight men, disguised as Brahmin priests, who were sent by the father of the wife that the king executed. Following the death of the ruthless king, the builders proceeded to fill the inner centre of the temple with rubble, blocking off the walkways, corridors and interiors as “payback”. The temple’s bad karma may be the reason it remains one of the few temples that has not undergone major restoration.

• Gawdawpalin Temple

Standing at 55m tall, this two-storey temple is Bagan’s second highest temple after Thatbyinnyu Temple. Built during the reign of King Narapatisithu and finished under the reign of King Nadaungmya, the temple has porticoes on all four sides.

The temple’s three lower terraces are surrounded by a corridor that showcases a Buddha image on each of the four sides, while its four upper terraces house one Buddha image. The terraces are topped by a square tower, conical spire and hti (umbrella).

• Gubyaukgyi Temple

• Htilominlo Temple

Said to be the last Myanmar-style temple to be built, this three-storey, 46m-high temple was built by King Nandaungmya (aka King Htilominlo) in 1218 to commemorate his selection as crown prince from among his five brothers.

The selection of an heir to the throne followed a tradition where all the king’s sons had to stand in a circle around a white umbrella. If the umbrella tilted and pointed towards one of the son, that son would be the next king. As the umbrella pointed towards King Nandaungmya, he was chosen to succeed his father.

Originally covered in carved white stucco, some of the temple’s finely detailed plaster can still be seen today. The walls from the entrances leading to the inner sanctuary contain arched recesses where small Buddha images are enshrined. Both floors contain four large gilded Buddha images, each facing one side of the temple. There are also murals and frescoes of Buddhist depictions done in several colours, though some of them have faded considerably.

• Lawkaoushaung Temple

• Manuha Temple

• Pyathadar Temple (Pyathatgyi Temple)

• Sein Nyet Sister Temples

• Shwegugyi Temple

• Shwesandaw Pagoda

• Shwezigon Pagoda

• Sulamani Temple

• Thambula Temple

• Thatbyinnyu Temple

Bago

• Hintha Gon Pagoda
• Mahazedi Pagoda (Great Stupa)
• Shwemawdaw Pagoda
• Shwethalyaung Buddha

Inle Lake

• Alodaw Pauk Pagoda
• Kakku Pagoda
• Nyaung Oak Pagodas
• Phaungdawoo Pagoda
• Shwe Indein Pagoda

Mandalay

• Kaungmudaw Pagoda
• Kuthodaw Pagoda (world’s largest book)
• Kyauktawgyi Pagoda
• Mahamuni Buddha Temple
• Maha Myat Muni Pagoda
• Sandamuni Pagoda (largest iron Buddha image)
• Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin Pagoda
• U Min Thone Sae Pagoda

Mon State

• Kyaiktiyo Pagoda

Perched precariously on top of a granite boulder and covered with gold leaves pasted on by devotees, Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is said to be supported by a strand of hair from Buddha. Also known as the Golden Rock, the pagoda is a very popular Buddhist pilgrimage site.

Legend has it that a Buddhist hermit received a strand of hair from Buddha, which he then gave to the king. In return for his gift, the king gave him a boulder that was shaped like his head, and used magical powers to pull the boulder from the sea. The king then built a small pagoda on top of the rock to enshrine the Buddha’s hair for all eternity.

Mrauk U

• Htukkanthein Temple
• Koe-thaung Temple
• Shite-thaung Temple

Naypyidaw

• Uppatasanti Pagoda

Pyin Oo Lwin

• Maha Ant Htoo Kan Thar Pagoda

Yangon

• Botataung Pagoda

• Buangdawgyoke Pagoda

• Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda

The pagoda is famous for its enormous 65m-long, 16m-high reclining Buddha which is housed in a metal-roofed shed. Clad in a golden robe and adorned with a crown encrusted by diamonds and other precious stones, the Buddha image features a white face, red lips, blue eye shadow and red finger nails. Its eyes are made of glass imported from Japan and its eyelashes are made from the feathers of a peafowl.

Look out for the soles of the Buddha’s feet showcase 108 segments in red and gold colours, with images that represent the 108 lakshanas (auspicious characteristics) of Buddha. Close to the Buddha’s feet is the small shrine of Ma Thay, a holy man who had the power to stop the rain so that sailors could have a safe journey.

In the vicinity of the pagoda are monasteries that house over 600 monks. See how the monks honour Buddha’s teachings and get a glimpse of their monastic lifestyle.

• Kaba Aye Pagoda

• Maha Wizaya Pagoda

• Shwedagon Pagoda

Myanmar’s most revered Buddhist pilgrimage site and the nation’s most beloved landmark. The pagoda is said to enshrine sacred relics such as eight strands of hair from the head of Gautama Buddha, a piece of the robe believed to have belonged to Kassapa Buddha, a water filter attributed to Konagamana Buddha and the staff of Kakusandha Buddha.

According to archaeologists and historians, the 99m-high pagoda which sits on top of Singuttara Hill, was built by the Mon people, an ethnic group from Myanmar, between the 6th and 10th centuries AD.

Its main gold-plated dome is topped by a stupa that is encrusted with 7,000 diamonds, rubies, topaz and sapphires, offset by a massive emerald that is positioned to reflect the last rays of the setting sun. The tip of the stupa is said to contain a 72-carat diamond.

Sunset is one of the best times to visit the pagoda as you can see the changing hues of the gilded stupa as well as witness monks chanting their evening prayers.

• Sule Pagoda

Said to have been built before Shwedagon Pagoda, this Mon-style, octagonal-shaped pagoda sits in the middle of a traffic circle in the heart of Yangon’s busy downtown area. Its unique octagonal shape continues right up to its bell and inverted bowl.

Taking its name from a derivative of the Myanmar word “su-way” which means “meeting”, the pagoda is highly revered as it is said to enshrine a hair relic of Buddha.

Look out for a small golden karaweik (royal boat designed in the shape of a mythical bird) close to the pagoda’s north entrance, where devotees can place their prayer cards and the cards will be sent up to a shrine higher up in the stupa via a wire pulley system.

Around the pagoda are small shops offering astrology and palmistry services.

• Swe Taw Myat Pagoda (Buddha tooth relic pagoda)

The post Must-Visit Pagodas/Temples appeared first on Southeast Asia.

Bagan (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Ananda Temple

No trip to Bagan is complete without visiting this temple, considered to be one of the city’s largest, best preserved and most revered temples. Built during the reign of King Kyanzittha of the Pagan Dynasty in 1105 AD, the temple’s architecture features Mon and North Indian influences, designed on a perfectly proportioned Greek cross plan. Its most distinctive feature is its gilded sikhara, the tower-like spire on top of the pagoda.

Legend has it that eight Indian monks visited King Kyanzittha and raved to him about the legendary Nandamula Cave in the Himalayas where they meditated. Impressed, the king decided to replicate the temple in Bagan. After Ananda Temple was built, the king had the monks killed as he didn’t want a similar temple to be built elsewhere.

The temple houses four standing Buddhas, each 9.5m high, facing outward from the centre of the temple: Kakusandha (north), Kassapa (south), Konagamana (east) and Gautama (west).

• Bagan Archaeological Museum

This three-storey museum with an octagonal base houses rare and fine ancient artefacts from and around Bagan including reclining Buddhas, original images, inscribed stones and mural re-creations.

At the museum’s portico is a statue of the legendary King Pyusawhti, standing with five animal sculptures – bird, boar, tiger, flying squirrel and wild weed gourd.

As you enter the museum, be greeted by bronze statues of four famous Bagan kings – Anawyahta, Kyansitthar, Alaungsithu and Kyaswa – and a large 3D mural painting of the Bagan archaeological site.

On the ground floor, look out for arts and crafts from the Bagan era, portraits of Bagan society and battlefields, language and literary works, archaeological designs, ancient clothing and statues. On the second floor are portraits of ancient pagodas, ancient wall paintings, artistic designs of Buddha and images of Buddha in different postures. Head up to the top for a panoramic view of Bagan and its pagodas.

• Bagan Golden Palace

This is one of four ancient palaces reconstructed, as part of a government plan, after 1988 based on its original architectural structure. Built opposite the excavated site of the actual palace, the reconstruction was completed in 2007 and the palace opened to the public in 2008.

The original royal palace was built in the 11th century by King Anawrahta, under whose reign the Bagan Empire reached its peak and established the classic Burmese arts and architecture.

• Bupaya Pagoda

The name of the pagoda is made up of two words – “bu” and “paya” – which translates as “pagoda in a gourd shape”. This cylindrical shaped Pyu-style pagoda stands on the banks of the Irrawaddy River and is built above rows of crenellated terraces.

Tradition attributes the pagoda to King Pyusawhti, who ruled Bagan in 3rd century AD.

The pagoda’s entrance, decorated with Burmese art elements, is guarded by two white and gold chinthes (Burmese mythological lions), flanked by two small figurines to welcome worshippers and devotees. Look out for a shrine dedicated to the “God of storms” as well as ornate pavilions within the pagoda grounds.

• Dhammayangyi Temple

Said to be Bagan’s largest and best-preserved temple, Dhammayangyi Temple has an impressive architecture which resembles an Egyptian pyramid. Built in the 12th century by King Narathu, the temple has a brutal history. It is said that the king built the temple to atone for his sins of killing his father, brother and one of his wives.

However, the temple was never completed as the king was assassinated by eight men, disguised as Brahmin priests, who were sent by the father of the wife that the king executed. Following the death of the ruthless king, the builders proceeded to fill the inner centre of the temple with rubble, blocking off the walkways, corridors and interiors as “payback”. The temple’s bad karma may be the reason it remains one of the few temples that has not undergone major restoration.

• Gawdawpalin Temple

Standing at 55m tall, this two-storey temple is Bagan’s second highest temple after Thatbyinnyu Temple. Built during the reign of King Narapatisithu and finished under the reign of King Nadaungmya, the temple has porticoes on all four sides.

The temple’s three lower terraces are surrounded by a corridor that showcases a Buddha image on each of the four sides, while its four upper terraces house one Buddha image. The terraces are topped by a square tower, conical spire and hti (umbrella).

• Htilominlo Temple

Said to be the last Myanmar-style temple to be built, this three-storey, 46m-high temple was built by King Nandaungmya (aka King Htilominlo) in 1218 to commemorate his selection as crown prince from among his five brothers.

The selection of an heir to the throne followed a tradition where all the king’s sons had to stand in a circle around a white umbrella. If the umbrella tilted and pointed towards one of the son, that son would be the next king. As the umbrella pointed towards King Nandaungmya, he was chosen to succeed his father.

Originally covered in carved white stucco, some of the temple’s finely detailed plaster can still be seen today. The walls from the entrances leading to the inner sanctuary contain arched recesses where small Buddha images are enshrined. Both floors contain four large gilded Buddha images, each facing one side of the temple. There are also murals and frescoes of Buddhist depictions done in several colours, though some of them have faded considerably.

• Lawkaoushaung Temple

• Mani-Sithu Market

• Manuha Temple

• Mount Popa

• Pyathadar Temple (Pyathatgyi Temple)

• Sein Nyet Sister Temples

• Shwegugyi Temple

• Shwesandaw Pagoda

• Shwezigon Pagoda

• Sulamani Temple

• Thambula Temple

• Thanakha Gallery

• Thatbyinnyu Temple

Bago

• Hintha Gon Pagoda

• Kanbawzathadi Palace

• Mahazedi Pagoda (Great Stupa)

• Shwemawdaw Pagoda

• Shwethalyaung Buddha

Inle Lake

• Alodaw Pauk Pagoda

• Inle Lake Floating Gardens

• Nga Phe Kyaung (Jumping Cat Monastery)

• Nyaung Oak Pagodas

• Phaungdawoo Pagoda

• Shwe Indein Pagoda

Mandalay

• Kaungmudaw Pagoda

• Kuthodaw Pagoda (world’s largest book)

• Kyauktawgyi Pagoda

• Mahamuni Buddha Temple

• Mandalay Cultural Museum

• Mandalay Hill

• Mandalay Palace

• Mingun Bell

• Sandamuni Pagoda (largest iron Buddha image)

• Shwenandaw Kyuang (Golden Palace Monastery)

• Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin Pagoda

• U-Bein Bridge

• U Min Thone Sae Pagoda

Mawlamyine

• Win Sein Taw Ya
At 180m-long and 30m-high, Win Sein Taw Ya is said to be the the world’s largest reclining Buddha statue. Look out for a row of life-size monk statues standing in single file with alms bowl in hand on the side of the road leading to the entrance.

Mon State

• Kyaiktiyo Pagoda

Perched precariously on top of a granite boulder and covered with gold leaves pasted on by devotees, Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is said to be supported by a strand of hair from Buddha. Also known as the Golden Rock, the pagoda is a very popular Buddhist pilgrimage site.

Legend has it that a Buddhist hermit received a strand of hair from Buddha, which he then gave to the king. In return for his gift, the king gave him a boulder that was shaped like his head, and used magical powers to pull the boulder from the sea. The king then built a small pagoda on top of the rock to enshrine the Buddha’s hair for all eternity.

Nawnghkio

• Gokteik Viaduct

Mrauk U

• Htukkanthein Temple

• Koe-thaung Temple

• Shite-thaung Temple

Yangon

• Aung San Suu Kyi’s House

• Bogyoke Aung San Market

Built in 1926, the market was originally known as Scott Market, named after Mr. C. Scott, the then Municipal Commissioner. It was later renamed Bogyoke Aung San Market in honor of the country’s national leader, General Aung San, who was assassinated in 1947.

The market houses over 2,000 stalls selling luxury items, handicrafts, foodstuff, clothing, jewellery, fashion and consumer goods. It is known for its rare antiques, old coins, Burmese jade and black market moneychangers.

The market has one of the largest selections of traditional longyi and gemstones. As sellers consider the first sale of the day to be very auspicious, arrive at the market early to enjoy some of the best prices.

• Bogyoke Aung San Museum

• Botatung Pagoda

• Buangdawgyoke Pagoda

• Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda

The pagoda is famous for its enormous 65m-long, 16m-high reclining Buddha which is housed in a metal-roofed shed. Clad in a golden robe and adorned with a crown encrusted by diamonds and other precious stones, the Buddha image features a white face, red lips, blue eye shadow and red finger nails. Its eyes are made of glass imported from Japan and its eyelashes are made from the feathers of a peafowl.

Look out for the soles of the Buddha’s feet showcase 108 segments in red and gold colours, with images that represent the 108 lakshanas (auspicious characteristics) of Buddha. Close to the Buddha’s feet is the small shrine of Ma Thay, a holy man who had the power to stop the rain so that sailors could have a safe journey.

In the vicinity of the pagoda are monasteries that house over 600 monks. See how the monks honour Buddha’s teachings and get a glimpse of their monastic lifestyle.

• Chinatown

• Inya Lake

• Kaba Aye Pagoda

• Kalaywa Monastery

• Kandawgyi Lake

• Karaweik Palace

• Maha Bandula Park

• Maha Wizaya Pagoda

• Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue

• Myanmar Gems Museum

• National Museum of Myanmar

• Saint Mary’s Cathedral

• Shwedagon Pagoda

Myanmar’s most revered Buddhist pilgrimage site and the nation’s most beloved landmark. The pagoda is said to enshrine sacred relics such as eight strands of hair from the head of Gautama Buddha, a piece of the robe believed to have belonged to Kassapa Buddha, a water filter attributed to Konagamana Buddha and the staff of Kakusandha Buddha.

According to archaeologists and historians, the 99m-high pagoda which sits on top of Singuttara Hill, was built by the Mon people, an ethnic group from Myanmar, between the 6th and 10th centuries AD.

Its main gold-plated dome is topped by a stupa that is encrusted with 7,000 diamonds, rubies, topaz and sapphires, offset by a massive emerald that is positioned to reflect the last rays of the setting sun. The tip of the stupa is said to contain a 72-carat diamond.

Sunset is one of the best times to visit the pagoda as you can see the changing hues of the gilded stupa as well as witness monks chanting their evening prayers.

• Sule Pagoda

Said to have been built before Shwedagon Pagoda, this Mon-style, octagonal-shaped pagoda sits in the middle of a traffic circle in the heart of Yangon’s busy downtown area. Its unique octagonal shape continues right up to its bell and inverted bowl.

Taking its name from a derivative of the Myanmar word “su-way” which means “meeting”, the pagoda is highly revered as it is said to enshrine a hair relic of Buddha.

Look out for a small golden karaweik (royal boat designed in the shape of a mythical bird) close to the pagoda’s north entrance, where devotees can place their prayer cards and the cards will be sent up to a shrine higher up in the stupa via a wire pulley system.

Around the pagoda are small shops offering astrology and palmistry services.

• Swe Taw Myat Pagoda (Buddha tooth relic pagoda)

• Taukkyan War Cemetery

• Yangon City Hall

Built between 1925 and 1940, Yangon City Hall is a fine example of British colonial architecture, adorned with Burmese decorative details such as peacocks, nagas (serpents) and pyatthat (traditional tiered roofs).

The City Hall was designed by prominent Burmese architect U Tin who also designed the Yangon Central Railway Station. Today, the building still houses the city’s administrative body – Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC).

Check out the traditional Burmese peacock and the Myanmar flag at the main entrance, and see the Municipal Corporation of Rangoon insignia on the iron gates at the back of the building.

• Yangon Zoological Gardens

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Bagan

• Shwe Ou Food Garden

Mandalay

• 16th Street Myee Shay (16th Street between 81st and 82nd streets)
• 26th Street Tea Salad (26th street between 65th and 64th streets)
• Night Market on 76th Street
• Saya Gyi (28th Street between 70th and 71st streets)
• Shan Tofu (71st street between 34th and 35th streets)
• Shwe Pyi Moe Tea Shop (66th Street between 26th and 27th streets)
• Shwe Taung Tan (66th Street between 26th and 27th streets)
• Yadanarpon Night Market

Nyaung Shwe/Inle Lake

• Mingalar Market food stalls (Nyaung Shwe Market)
• Night Market (off Kyauk Taing Ah Shae Street)

Yangon

• 19th Street (Chinatown between Mahabandoola and Anawrahta Street)
• Little India
• Maha Bandula Park
• Street Food Night Market (Strand Road)

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Here are some practical and useful travel information and tips to help make your trip to Myanmar a memorable one.

TIME ZONE
GMT+6.30

POWER PLUG
• Voltage: 230 volts
• Frequency: 50 hertz
• Power socket: Plug types C, D, F, G

CURRENCY
Burmese kyat (MMK)

Denominations
• Notes: K1, K5, K10, K20, K50, K100, K200, K500, K1,000, K5,000, K10,000
• Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 pyas

US dollars and euros are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, domestic airline offices and road transport services while kyat is preferred at local markets and shops.
US dollar or euro banknotes should be in pristine condition. Banknotes that are slightly creased, have small tears or have writing or ink stamps on them will most likely not be accepted. When accepting US dollars or euros, inspect the bills carefully.

US $100 bills with series beginning with CB may not be accepted because they are associated with a counterfeit “superbill” which was in circulation some time ago. Money exchangers may also not accept US bills issued before 2006.

VISA
Visa Exemption
Citizens of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam can enter Myanmar without a visa.

eVisa Online
Apply and pay online for a Myanmar visa here.

CULTURAL DO’S & DON’TS
Do’s
• Greet others with a smile and by saying “Mingalarbar” (roughly translated as “auspiciousness to you”).
• Address locals with the honorific title “U” for older men or “Maung” or “Ko” for younger men, and “Ma” for older women or “Daw” for younger women before their first or last names.
• Show respect to the elders by lowering your head when you are passing through in front of them and allowing the oldest to be served first.
• Remove your shoes before entering pagodas, monasteries or private homes.
• Always ask permission before taking photographs.
• Always use both hands to pass items to others.
• Always treat Buddha images in the temples as well as Buddha-themed souvenirs with respect. If you have religious tattoo images on your body, be sure to cover them up.

Don’ts
• As the head is considered the most sacred part of the body and the soles of feet the least, do not touch a person’s (even a child’s) head or use your foot to point at a person or any object.
• A man should not shake hands with a woman unless the woman extends her hand first.
• Women should not touch Buddhist monks or hand anything directly to them.
• Do not sit with your back towards Buddha images. Your feet should also not be pointed towards Buddha images.
• Avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, short skirts or shorts when visiting temples.
• Do not show physical affection in public places.
• Do not discuss religion with any local.

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• Visit temples and pagodas especially the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon and Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock) in Kyaikto, Mon State, to understand Buddhism

• Experience the local life on the Yangon Circular Train

• Take a slow train ride from Mandalay to Lashio to see the spectacular Gokteik Viaduct railway bridge

• Soar among the clouds on a hot air balloon (Bagan, Inle Lake, Mandalay, Ngapali Beach)

• Enjoy thrills, spills and more at Yangon Waterboom and Natural World Amusement Park

• Explore Pyin Oo Lwin’s (former British hill station) botanical gardens, Anisakan Falls and attractions

• Visit the ancient capital of Ava by horse and cart

• Explore Bagan’s countryside and temples on bicycles

• Trek to the peak of Mount Victoria, Mount Zwegabin or the much lower Mandalay Hill to enjoy stunning vistas

• Get a taste of local village life by trekking up to a hill tribe village such as Danu or Yasakyi (Palaung hill tribe) villages in Pindaya or Kalaw

• Enjoy the beach life at Ngapali

• Go island-hopping in Cocks Comb Island (Emerald Heart Island) and Nyaung Oo Phee Island

• Explore Inle Lake on a long-tailed boat

• Cruise along Irrawady River to enjoy captivating panoramas and bustling river activity

• Go on a sunset cruise to catch the amazing glow of lights and soak up the evening breeze

• Visit one of Myanmar’s stunning waterfalls such as Dee Dote, Nam Tok, Pwe Kauk and Kyone Htaw

• Explore the famous caves of Hpa-An

• Feed and bathe elephants at an eco camp

• Catch a traditional Burmese puppet show

• Shop for souvenirs at Bogyoke Aung San Market in Yangon

• Learn about gems and how they are mined in Myanmar at Myanmar Gems Museum in Yangon

• Attend a gold leaf workshop like the King Galon Gold Leaf Workshop in Mandalay to discover how gold leaf is made

• Take a cooking class in Yangon or Mandalay and learn how to cook Burmese food

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Burma Banks

Cocks Comb Island (Emerald Heart Island)

Mergui Archipelago

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Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park

Upper Chit Kyaung Valley

Hsipaw

Kalaw

Kanpetlet

Kayah State

Keng Tung (Kyaing Tong)

Kyaukme

Lashio

Mindat

Mount Phongun

Moung Ponyin

Mount Popa

Mount Victoria

Mount Zwegabin

Nat Ma Taung National Park

Pindaya

Putao

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