Yangon, the capital city, is the main gateway to Myanmar. Evergreen and cool with lush tropical trees, shady parks and beautiful lakes. The name Yangon means “End of Strife” which was anglicized to Rangoon. The present day Yangon covers over 350 sq.km.and has a population of over 5 millions.
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Thanlyin was formerly known as Syriam, is a city in Yangon Division in Myanmar. It is located on the bank of Yangon River, and is a major port. In the late 1500s, Thanlyin was the base of the Portuguese adventurer, Philip De Brito.The main tourist attraction in Thanlyin is Kyaikkhauk Pagoda and Yeylel Pagoda. There is also the National Races village across the river.
Located only 80 km from Yangon, Bago was an ancient capital of Mon Kingdom in 15th century. Shwe-tha-lyaung Reclining Buddha (55 metres long), Shwe-maw-daw Pagoda, Kalyani Sima (Ordination Hall), 28 metre high huge Buddha Image of Kyaikpun Pagoda and the Palace of King Bayinnaung are some of the places of interest.
Kyaikhtiyo pagoda is usually visited from October to March every year.The famous legendary Pagoda on the Golden Rock is about 160 km from Yangon and 11 km of hiking from the base camp at Kyaikhto. Visitors can also go by car up to the point about a mile away from the Pagoda. This pagoda is situated on a rocky mountain 3615 ft above sea level. The pagoda, about 15 feet high, is situated on the hill of the same name on the ridge between Sittaung and Thanlwin. It is built on a huge, almost egg-shaped, rounded granitoid boulder perched on the very summit of a projecting and shelving tubular rock, which in itself is separated several feet from the mountain by a rent or chasm, now spanned by a small foot bridge of iron and on the further side drops perpendicularly into a valley blow.
Mawlamyine, a charming town, is the capital of Mon State, situated at the mouth of the Thanlwin River (Salween River). It is easily accessible by road and rail from Yangon.Sites to see in Mawlamyine are Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, Uzena Pagoda, Caves of Kawguan and Payon, famous for its countless Buddha images, stalagmites and stalactites. Kyaikkhami Pagoda, perched on the rocks by the sea and joined to the land by a covered causeway, is the main attraction. About 34 km from Mawlamyine is Thanbyuzayet, an Allied War Memorial Cemetery for the prisoners of war who lost their lives in the building of the famous Death Railway across the River Kwai.
Bagan was the capital of the first unified Empire of Anawrahta founded in 849 AD, and flourished from 1044 to the 13th century. Bagan is just 193 km south of Mandalay in Upper Myanmar. It is on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River. Bagan city covers an area of 42 sq.km. There, one can find over 2,000 pagodas, temples and monasteries built during the Bagan Dynasty. Notable among the ancient glory are Shwezigone, Ananda, Thabyinnyu and Dhammayangyi.
Popa is about 50 kilometers from Bagan. Popa region is situated in Kyaukpadaung Township, Mandalay Division, in the central part of the country. Mount Popa is also known as an extinct volcano and the adobe of the 37 spirits. The Mount Popa is a distinctive mountain in this region & 4900ft high above sea level.
Mandalay, the capital city of the last reigning dynasty of Konbaung Kings, is situated on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River in central Myanmar. It is now the second capital and center of Myanmar’s art, cultures and learning Buddhism . The exquisite tapestry works, stone sculpture, the traditional art of gold leaf home industry are worth a visit. Mandalay can boast of the largest standing during the reign of the benevolent King Mindon, he had commanded the experts to chisel the entire scriptures of Tipitaka on 729 stone slabs in 1857. The mammoth book still serves as reference to the learners in Buddhist teachings. Other interesting places are the Mahamuni Holy Image, the Mandalay Hill, and the Sagaing Hill where Buddhist Sangha and nuns lead a peaceful secluded life of meditation.
Mingun is a town in Sagaing Division, Myanmar, located 11 km up the Ayeyarwady River from Mandalay. Mingun Pahtodawgyi – It is the ruined Mingun Paya, a Buddhist temple with the remains of a massive stupa begun by King Bodawpaya in 1790. If the constrution had been completed, it would have been the largest in the world at 150 meters. It was again damaged by 1838 earthquake. Mingun Bell -The Mingun Bell weighs 90 tons, or 55555 viss and is today the largest uncracked, ringing bell in the world. Mingun Bell is situated right next to the Mingun Pahtodawgyi. King Bodawpaya dedicated to construct a gigantic Pagoda, a gigantic bell and a gigantic lion during his reign. But he was not able to complete the pagoda.
Once an ancient capital, Sagaing lies 21 km south west of Mandalay, beside the Ayeyarwaddy River. The Sagaing Hills are dotted with pagodas and there are over 500 monasteries, a retreat for some 6000 monks and nuns. Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda, Kaung Hmudaw Pagoda (a copy of the Mahaceti Pagoda in Sri Lanka), and Ywahtaung village (home of the silversmiths’ guilds) are places worth visiting.
About 136 km to the west of Mandalay is Monywa, the commercial center of Chindwin Valley. Sites to see in Monywa are Than-bok-de Pagoda with over 500,000 Buddha Images, Bodhi-ta-htaung (one thousand Bo trees), Ledi Kyaungteik monastery where Buddhist scriptures are inscribed on 806 stone slabs and Kyauka Village known for its own style of lacquer ware.
Over 1000 meters above sea level, Pyin-Oo-Lwin is a popular hill-station about 69 km away from Mandalay. It is well known for its colonial-style houses with large compound and pine trees, eucalyptus and silver-oak abound in town. Delightfully cool and pleasant the whole year round, the 175 hectare Botanical Garden, Pwe Kauk and Ani-sakan Waterfalls, Goteik Viaduct and Peik Chin Myaung Caves are places of interest.
Taunggyi,1430 meters above sea level is the capital city of Shan State which is largest state in Myanmar and hence Taunggyi is an important city of trade.Taunggyi meaning “The huge mountain” in Myanmar. The town has an interesting market place daily filled with colourful ethnic tribes. There is also a five-day market place. There is also a gem market on the eastern part of the town, where jade, rubies and sapphires are sold.The Shan State Museum and Shan State Library is also in downtown. Shan Noodle and Shan Tofu shops can be found everywhere.
This vast picturesque lake, 900 meters above sea level, is one of the main tourist attractions in Myanmar. The lake, 22 km long and 10 km across, has a population of some 150,000, many of whom live on floating islands of vegetation. Inlay Lake, natural and unpolluted, is famous for its scenic beauty and the unique leg rowing of the Inthas, the native lake dwellers.
Kalaw , a popular hill station of Myanmar is situated in Shan State. It is a peaceful and quiet place. At an altitude of 1320 metres it’s also pleasantly cool and a good place for hiking and amid gnarled pines, bamboo groves and rugged mountain scenery.
Loikaw is the capital of Kayah State in Burma. It is located in the Karen Hills area, near the State’s northern tip, just above an embayment on the Pilu River. The inhabitants are mostly Kayah. The very traditional Loikaw, one of the best places to head in Southeast Asia for a window into authentic tribal life. Here, there is no chance you’ll feel like you’re visiting a “living museum” – like you may feel in some parts of northern Thailand .Loikaw’s famous is Taungkwe Pagoda, which towers over the city. Built in the 11th century across two mountains, legend says that each mountain was inhabited by opposing groups, who frequently fought.The pagoda and the bridge that was built in between the two mountains represents peace between the two groups.The Kayhto Bo, or spirit poles, are found in most villages around Loikaw. These sacred poles are worshipped once a year, around April. This to be of particular interest, since most of the tribes have been converted to Christianity (some to Buddhism), though they still maintain speckles of their traditional animist customs. Colorful villages of the Kayan, Kayah and Kayaw, on an adventure you will never forget.
This port city of the Rakhine State sits at the mouth of the Kaladan River where it empties into the Bay of Bangal. Off shore delta islands form a wide protected channel that has served as an important harbour for many centuries. Two huge cargo steamers a day plied back and forth between Calcutta and Sittwe. There is a distinctive Rakhine twist on standard Myanmar culture that includes the enjoyment of much spicy food and brighter-coloured clothing.
Mrauk-U is another interesting historical site in Rakhine, fast becoming a tourist attraction. The city was founded in 1430 AD and flourished till 1785 as recorded in its history. Known as the Golden City by foreign travelers of the era, it was a focus of trade due to its strategic on the coastal region of Bay of Bengal. Many historical sites such as the old palace grounds and ancient pagodas principally Shitthoung Pagoda, the old city of Vesali, the Mahamuni Image of Kyauktaw offers a glimpse into the Rachine history.
Taungoo (Kaytumadi) was founded by King Mingyinyo in 1510 AD. Although few visible remnants survived, Taungoo was the capital of one of the most powerful post- Bagan Burmese kingdoms, over which seven kings reigned for a period of 155 years.All four sides of the brick city wall remain, with the exception of a portion of the southern wall.The main industry of the region is forestry products, with teak and other hardwoods extracted from the mountains.The main transport options to Taungoo is rail and motorways.Sporting several interesting temples such as Shwesandaw Paya,Myasigon Paya ,a lively central market and a pretty lake is Kandawgyi Lake in town and can also be used as a base to visiting Sein Ya Elephant Camp in the hills to the west.The majority of residents are Theravada Buddhists, followed by Baptist and Roman Catholic Christians.Taungoo is home to a number of Karen Christian association headquarters and 15 churches.The famous are Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Cathedral , Paku Church , Taungoo Burmese Church , Trinity Church.
Pho Kyar Forest Resort is located in Yedashe Township of Thargara.From Taungoo to Thargara Pho Kyar Forest Resort by car is 26 miles.In the area of Swa forest reserve area. on the bank of Thaing creek. The resort has 20 acres in area.It is also famous for being the gateway to Sein Ya Elephant Camp and which is larger than Myaing Hay Wun Elephant Camp. This forest can be accessed from Yangon to Swa Township. Thargara by car is 204 miles. From Thargara to Pho Kyar Resort the drive by car is 10 miles all seasons. Like many other forest resorts. It has a great opportunity to study natural forest plants including different species of hardwood. Large forests teak wood other valuable forest plants different life span bamboos ,cane and different flora.Tour offers elephant riding for short trips and long trips. Bathing and washing elephants can also be viewed.
This camp is located in south of the country and easily accessible from Yangon City . It is easily accessible by car from Yangon to Taikkyi Township and only about 90 minutes drive.Vegetation is primarily deciduous forest which has Wild Elephant, Barking Deer, Monkeys and other Mammals. Only 50 bird species have been recorded, with many yet to be discovered, it is believed.Elephant Research Camp covers an area of 10 acres.It was established in 1986. It is one of 28 elephant logging camps that were recommended for such a transformation by the Ministry of Forestry last year.Plans are now under way to turn it into a tourist attraction. Observation of Wild Elephants capturing technique and training seeing the elephant show, elephant riding, wild elephant watching, study of the demonstration of logging with elephants and trekking to Mt. Seintaung can be made. The best time to go is from November to April.
Moeyungyi wetlands located in Bago Division, It was established in 1986 and about 70 miles (112km)north of Yangon covering 40 square miles. To conserve resident and migratory water birds and their habitats. Every year, millions of birds usually fly from the northern hemisphere to the south along the East Asian Australian Flyway to escape from winter. They stop to rest and feed in Asia. So the flyway contains a network of wetlands and Moeyungyi is one of them. Moeyungyi is a vital shelter for both resident and migratory waterfowls. A census at Moeyungyi revealed that there are 125 species of water birds including 70 species of migrants. Little Grebe, Purple Heron, Grey Heron, Sarus Crane, Asian Open-Bill, Ruddy Shelduck, Purple Swamp hen, Spot-Billed pelican, Pheasant Tailed Jacana, Black Winged Stilt, Great Cormorant, etc., can be seen abundantly. Study wetland environment by boat. Nine boat-shaped timber houses accommodating two in each room at ecologically friendly Moeyugyi Wetlands Resort Hotel is situated. The hotel is a cluster of boat shaped houses built in the wetlands. The best season to visit is from November to February.
Ngapali Beach is a beach located 7 kilometres (4 mi) from the town of Thandwe (Sandoway), in Rakhine State, Myanmar. It is the most famous beach in Myanmar and is a popular tourist destination. Ngpali Beach is the most beautiful beach of Southeast Asia. The beach stretches for 3 km (2 mi) and overlooks the Indian Ocean. The name “Ngapali”, has no meaning in Burmese, but comes from the Italian “Napoli” (the city of Naples). Ngapali Beach has been promoted as a major tourist destination in Myanmar. Ngapali used to have private bungalows, but these were torn down in the late 1990s to make way for the development of hotels. The hotels and small tourism industry help to provide income for the villages around Ngapali and also Thandwe. There is also a golf course nearby.The beach is served by Thandwe Airport. All of Myanmar’s internal airlines to Thandwe from most of their destinations. Ngapali’s isolation means that few people are able to afford the airfare, thus making it more popular amongst tourists as an unspoilt and private beach.
Chaungtha is a village and beach resort located in Ayeyarwady Region, Myanmar. Chaungtha received its name from the small stream (chaung) which flowed at the western part of the village. In the Burmese language, Chaungtha means Pleasant Stream. Chaungtha Beach, as it is more commonly known, is about 5 hours’ drive away from Yangon, and is a popular resort with Yangonites from October to April. Chaungtha is renowned for its fresh and reasonably priced seafood. A major attraction is a small pagoda built on a limestone boulder at the southern end of the beach. Nearby fishing villages and tidal mangrove forests are also popular among the tourists.
Ngwe Saung is a beach resort located 48 km west of Pathein, Ayeyarwady Region, Myanmar. The beach is 5 hours’ drive away from the principal city of Yangon, and an airport is in the works. Opened in March 2000.Ngwe Saung is newer than nearby and more popular Chaungtha Beach, and is designed to attract people with larger holiday budgets. An unspoilt 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) stretch of silvery sand and modern amenities have made Ngwe Saung a popular destination for less budget conscious tourists from Lower Myanmar. Still Ngwe Saung has much to develop. Its choices for nightlife activities remain paltry, even by local standards. Chaungtha and Ngapali beaches have greater choices of nighttime activities. At this point, a nearby elephant training camp is a main daytime attraction at Ngwe Saung.
Naypyitaw having been founded on a greenfield site in the scrubland some 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) west of Pyinmana, and approximately 320 kilometres (200 mi) north of Yangon, with construction starting in 2002. Naypyitaw is a Union Territory under the direct administration of the President . Naypyitaw located near Pyinmana, officially replaced Yangon as the capital of Myanmar in November 2005. It officially goes by the acronym of NPT including the airport and many hotels ,all government offices and ministries were relocated in Naypyitaw. Military headquarters were located in a separate compound from the government ministries, and civilians have been banned from entering either. Vendors are restricted to a commercial zone near the government offices. Famous visit places to Thatta Thattaha Maha Bawdi Pagoda, Uppatasanti Pagoda or Peace Pagoda is a permanent landmark of the city, Naypyitaw Zoological Garden and Naypyitaw Myoma Market is currently the commercial centre of Naypyidaw. Other shopping areas include Thapye Chaung Market, Capital hyper market & Junction shopping Centre.
Thilawa SEZ is a 2,500 hectares (6,200 acres) special economic zone being developed in Kyauktan and Thanlyin Townships, 25 kilometres (16 mi) south of Yangon. The first phase of the SEZ is slated to complete in 2016, but was launched at the end of September 2015. The project was announced in January 2011.Thilawa SEZ is being developed by a joint venture, initially between the Japan External Trade Organization and the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry.The Burmese and Japanese governments established a consortium including Japan Thilawa SEZ Company (backed by Mitsubishi, Marubeni and Sumitomo corporations), Myanmar Thilawa SEZ Holdings, Thilawa SEZ management committee and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on 29 October 2013 to proceed with development.Construction on the $3.28 billion project began in May 2014.Thilawa SEZ, which is expected to be operational by 2015, includes a large industrial zone, a deep sea port, factories and housing projects.
Dawei is the capital of Tanintharyi Division, in Southeastern Myanmar. Dawei connected to the rest of Myanmar by road and rail. There are plans to construct a deep water port in Dawei.In November 2010, the Myanmar Port Authority signed a US$8.6 billion deal with Italian-Thai Development to develop the seaport at Dawei.The Dawei Special Economic Zone would become Myanmar’s first special economic zone (SEZ), which includes plans to develop a 250 square kilometres (97 sq mi) industrial estate, with sea, land (railway and road) infrastructure links to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, as well as a gas pipeline to Thailand’s Kanchanaburi Province and commercial and residential developments.The development of the SEZ has been linked to land confiscations and land grabs from farmers of upwards of 63,768 acres (258.06 km2) (direct) and 153,919 acres (622.89 km2), potentially displacing 500,000 Dawei natives .Dawei is also getting a proposed special economic zone plus deep sea port called the Dawei Port Project.