If you’re thinking of visiting Myanmar, it can seem overwhelming to plan due to its size and diverse places to see. That’s why we’re going to break it down for you with a simple 7-day itinerary. This schedule covers the highlights of the country without tiring you out with non-stop travel. You’ll get a taste of the culture, nature, and history without feeling rushed.
Day 1: Arrival in Yangon
Start your trip in Yangon, the country’s largest city. Though it’s no longer Myanmar’s capital, it remains a key cultural and transportation hub. Once you get off the plane, settle into your hotel and rest a bit. Depending on how you feel, day one can either be a relaxing day or an introduction to Yangon.
Visit Shwedagon Pagoda
Later in the day, visit the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. It’s probably the most famous landmark in Myanmar. This 2,500-year-old golden pagoda stands 99 meters tall and is said to house strands of the Buddha’s hair. It’s best to visit in the late afternoon, as the sun sets and the gold stupa glows beautifully. Take your time; you’ll want to soak in the serenity.
Wander Around Kandawgyi Lake
If you have more time, head over to Kandawgyi Lake. You’ll have beautiful views of the lake with Shwedagon in the background, plus it’s a peaceful spot for a short walk. Grab dinner from one of the nearby street vendors before calling it a night.
Day 2: Yangon to Bagan
On your second day, it’s time to head north to Bagan. Early morning flights to Bagan’s Nyaung U Airport are frequent and only take about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Explore Bagan’s Temples
Once you’ve arrived and settled into your hotel, rent an e-bike and get exploring. Bagan has more than 2,000 pagodas and temples scattered across the plains. You’ll want to see the big ones like Ananda Temple and Shwezigon Pagoda, but don’t forget to check out some lesser-known ones as well for quieter experiences.
Sunset Views
As the day nears its end, find a good viewpoint for sunset. Popular spots like Shwesandaw Pagoda can get crowded, but you can ask a local guide to take you to one of the smaller, lesser-known pagodas for a more private experience. End the day with a nice dinner somewhere in New Bagan or Nyaung U.
Day 3: Bagan Hot Air Balloon and More Temples
Fly Over Bagan at Sunrise
If you’re okay with splurging a bit, take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Bagan. It’s a fantastic way to see the sprawling temple complex from above, especially in the early morning light. It’s often a highlight for many travelers, but book it well in advance as the spots fill up fast.
Visit More Temples
After your flight, continue exploring more temples by e-bike. This time, head into some of the more off-the-beaten-path temples. Bring water and plenty of sunscreen, as Bagan can get very hot, especially around noon.
Optional: Relax by the Pool
If you’re feeling templed-out, consider taking a break in the afternoon and relax at your hotel’s pool. There are some beautiful stays in Bagan that offer great places to rest in between explorations. End your day with a simple, local dinner.
Day 4: Bagan to Mandalay
On day four, take a bus or a quick flight to Mandalay, the second-largest city and cultural old capital in Myanmar. A bus ride takes about 5-6 hours with some nice scenery along the way, while flights are around 30 minutes.
Visit Mandalay Hill
After you’ve arrived and checked in, make your way to Mandalay Hill. The top of the hill offers 360-degree views of the city and the Irrawaddy River. The climb to the top is around 30 minutes, but you can also catch a ride if you prefer not to walk.
Explore Kuthodaw Pagoda
An important site to see in Mandalay is the Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to the world’s largest book (it’s housed on marble slabs). It’s a fascinating place and not too crowded, so you’ll have time to enjoy the scenery.
Sunset at U Bein Bridge
Finish the evening with a trip to U Bein Bridge. This 1.2-kilometer wooden bridge crosses Taungthaman Lake and is nearly 200 years old. It’s a popular sunset spot, so arrive early to secure a nice view. The sky turns stunning shades of pink and orange, reflecting off the water below.
Day 5: Mandalay’s Royal History
Visit the Royal Palace
Start your day by exploring the Mandalay Royal Palace. Although much of it was rebuilt after World War II, it’s still an impressive site that gives insight into Myanmar’s royal past. The palace grounds are vast, so give yourself some time to wander inside.
Day Trip to Mingun
Next, take a short boat trip up the Irrawaddy River to Mingun. It’s about an hour-long boat ride, and when you arrive, you’ll find attractions like the Mingun Pahtodawgyi, an unfinished pagoda that would have been the largest in the world. You’ll also find the Mingun Bell, one of the world’s largest bells. It’s a great mix of history and scenery.
Day 6: Travel to Inle Lake
On day six, head to Inle Lake, one of Myanmar’s most serene and unique destinations. You can reach Inle Lake from Mandalay by bus (around 7 hours) or a short flight. Once you’ve arrived in Nyaungshwe, the town that serves as the base for Inle Lake adventures, settle into your hotel before heading out to explore.
Boat Tour of Inle Lake
Inle Lake is known for its floating villages, gardens, and the local Intha fishermen who row with their legs. The best way to explore is by boat. Take a boat tour in the afternoon to visit the local markets, pagodas, and monasteries on the water. You’ll get amazing photos of the fishermen and the peaceful lake views.
Day 7: Exploring Inle Lake
Indein Village and Floating Gardens
On your final day, head to Indein Village. It’s home to a stupa-filled site called the Shwe Indein Pagoda Complex, which offers some fantastic views and beautiful, crumbling ancient stupas. From here, you can also visit the floating gardens, a unique way farmers grow crops on the lake’s surface.
Relax Before Departure
Spend your last few hours relaxing. Grab a drink at the lakeside or stroll through Nyaungshwe for any last-minute souvenirs or snacks. Depending on your onward journey, hop on your transportation back to Yangon, or catch a flight home from Heho Airport near Inle Lake.
Wrap Up
This 7-day trip through Myanmar gives you a nice balance of culture, history, and nature. Myanmar is still opening up to the world, and you’ll find friendly locals, unique sites, and rich traditions. Take your time, stay flexible, and enjoy the beauty that Myanmar has to offer.
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