How to spend 2 weeks in Myanmar – travel guide & itinerary

How to spend two weeks in Myanmar

Defying all expectations, Ruchi and I didn’t feel ready to leave Myanmar. Sitting in the departure lounge looking like a pair of jilted brides at the altar, post-holiday blues had already kicked in.

You know you love a place when you find yourself practically holding back the tears because you really, really, don’t want to leave. It’s hard not to feel this way after being bedazzled by golden pagodas, mesmerised by Intha fishermen, and charmed by the kindness of strangers.  In only two weeks, this country had given us a profoundly wonderful experience that would be hard to find anywhere else in the world.

Though we concluded that two weeks really wasn’t enough to see everything that Myanmar has to offer, it’s still a good length of time to see many of its highlights if you follow an itinerary.

This doesn’t mean you have to be anal about sticking to a concrete plan, we certainly didn’t, we planned on being more active, but on arrival we both adopted a fairly relaxed pace of travel. Ruchi also ended up getting the lurgy on our way to Mandalay so we had to sack off any plans for a hike in Hsipaw.

However, even though we didn’t stick to a strict itinerary, there are certainly some must-see attractions and places that every person who is visiting Myanmar should see and do. To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together this 2-week itinerary to help you plan your own trip to this fascinating country.

A quick breakdown of days

  • Yangon – 2 nights
  • Golden Pagoda – Day trip or 1 night
  • Bagan – 2 or 3 nights
  • Kalaw – 1 night (optional)
  • Inle Lake – 3 or 4 nights
  • Mandalay – 2 nights

I’ve suggested an extra night in Bagan and Inle Lake if you have a couple of nights going spare. Depending on your mood they are both places from which you can either do a lot of activities and sightseeing, as well as just relaxing and enjoying the beautiful landscape they have to offer.

How to spend 2 weeks in Myanmar: A detailed itinerary

Myanmar’s charm lies in its authenticity and diverse experiences, whether you’re exploring ancient temples, engaging with locals, or soaking in its natural beauty. As you journey through this captivating country, embrace the opportunity to connect with its history, culture, and warm-hearted people.

Managing expectations

It’s not as developed as other countries in South East Asia, economically it’s the least developed so don’t expect super fancy restaurants and bars – instead, enjoy eating at local places and trying the unique flavours. 

We used buses to travel around Myanmar which were decent. Some are better than others. You can pay a bit more for more comfortable buses which I suggest doing on long journeys. 

Anyhow, below is a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your journey through Myanmar:

Yangon | 2 or 3 nights

Scott's Food Market in Yangon

Yangon may be the country’s largest city but it’s not the capital, at least not anymore – the title now goes to Naypyidaw since 2005.

Since Naypyidaw is largely used for administrative purposes, there is little culture there comparative to many other cities and places in Yangon, therefore it’s not necessary to visit, at least not if you only have 2 weeks in Myanmar. Furthermore, visitors are often limited to government-approved areas.

Regardless, Yangon is the biggest and most popular city in Myanmar and still commonly mistaken as the capital. It’s an easy mistake to make since Yangon is the international gateway, and usually the first stop on any itinerary to Myanmar.

Buildings in Yangon

I recommend staying two or three nights to get a decent feel of the city, making sure to wander down the colonial district. The buildings here are full of character, most have been left to perish with no real prospect of renovation since the capital’s relocation to Naypyidaw.

Taxis are inexpensive in the city and worth getting if you want to catch all the main attractions whilst having enough time to indulge in the city’s culinary offerings. You’ve got to try lahpet thoq (fermented tea-leaf salad).

2 weeks in Myanmar - a travel itinerary

Main attractions in Yangon

  • Shwedagon Pagoda
  • Kandawgyi Lake
  • Bogyoke Market (also known as Scott’s Market)
  • Chaukhtatgyi Paya (Reclining Buddha)
  • Botataung Pagoda (houses what is believed to the sacred hair of buddha)
Botataung Pagoda in Yangon
Botataung Pagoda

Recommended accommodation in Yangon

For budget travellers: Hotel G Yangon offers such great value for the location, service, and cleanliness. Located in the heart of downtown Yangon, you’ll be close to lots of restaurants and attractions. I don’t think you’ll find a better night’s stay in the city for the price. 

For luxury travellers: If you’re looking for somewhere that has pulled out all the stops, look no further than Pan Pacific Yangon. Granted it doesn’t have the local feel of a small independent hotel, but it offers all the modern comforts to ensure your style in Yangon runs as smooth as a whistle. Perhaps the best things about the hotel is the outdoor infinity pool overlooking gorgeous views of the city, including Shwedagon Pagoda at night.

Where to eat in Yangon?

Tea Leaf Salad

Compared to smaller places, like Bagan and Inle Lake which offer relatively basic dining options, there are quite a number of fancy dining options in Yangon is you’re looking to treat yourself. However, most of the fancier options serve up French cuisine, so I suggest sticking to local cuisine because you’re in Myanmar after all. 

  • Wai Wai’s Noodle Place – If you’re a fan of noodles, this place specialises in Shan noodles. However, they also serve up rice dishes and salads. The Shan people are the second largest ethnic group in Burma. Their culinary influence spreads widely across the country, making it a popular and widely eaten cuisine all over Burma. Address: No 283 U wizara Road Sanchaung Township Yangon
  • Feel Myanmar Restaurant is a good first stop for an introduction to Burmese food. This restaurant is part of the ‘Feel group’, a collection of restaurants throughout Myanmar with various names that produce delicious, good quality food. www.feelrestaurants.com

Golden Rock – Full day or 1 night

Golden Rock, Myanmar

I almost didn’t go to see the Golden Rock (also known as Kyaiktio) due to jet lag, but I’m so glad I did because the whole experience of getting there was hilarious. Instead of spending a night on the mountain, Ruchi and I woke up at the crack of dawn determined to see it in a day.

From Yangon it took approximately 5.5 hours, but I’d say the journey really begins in Kinpun, the small village where the bus terminates. Once here, you then transfer onto a dump truck refurbished with seats for the 25 minutes journey up the mountain. Sitting in a dump truck is one thing, but being squashed inside like a can of sardines is another thing altogether. It sounds dreadful but I can’t tell you how much fun it was, holding on for dear life without a seat belt, sitting on the cusp of exhilaration and fear.

The whole experience was like being on a rollercoaster in a theme park. You even have to wait in a queue before getting on the ride…

Travelling to Golden Rock in Myanmar

Once we made it to the top it didn’t take long to spot the Golden Rock, utterly defying all notions of gravity.

Exploring the area around Golden Rock, Myanmar

Don't forget:

  • Earplugs, it’s impossible to sleep on a day-bus without them.
  • Cover your shoulders and legs, and don’t wear anything too clingy.
  • The latest bus back to Yangon is at 5pm.

Where to stay: See hotels and guesthouses near Kyaiktio.

Further reading →  Yangon to Golden Rock by Bus in 1 day

Would you prefer a guided tour of Golden Rock?

Bagan | 2 or 3 nights

Balloons over Bagan in Myanmar

From Yangon we took an overnight bus ride to Bagan, taking approximately 9- 10 hours. Not wanting to compromise on sleep we paid extra for a bus with reclining seats.

Expect to pay about 15 – 20 US dollars which is extremely reasonable considering how far we had to travel. You could fly to Bagan but it’s much pricier, and these night buses are surprisingly comfortable so you also get to save on accommodation for the night as well.

Once we arrived in Bagan, people were waiting for us with horse and carts to take us our accommodation. This sounds quite amusing as I type, it sounds like a Cinderella-esque fairy tale, but that’s the common mode of getting from A to B in Bagan. We arrived extremely early in the morning, and combine that with a 10 -hour bus journey, we felt like anything but Cinderella let me tell you! 

Things to do in Bagan, Myanmar

Once in Bagan, prepare for pagoda overload! This is an ancient city that really is unlike anywhere else, the sheer number of ruins is truly a vision to behold. Scattered across an arid plain in a bend of the Ayeyarwady are the ruins of around 2000 monasteries, temples, shrines and stupas – telling the story of a bygone era.

Bagan is at its most magical at sunrise or sunset, with the warm light intensifying the red-brown hues of their brickwork. During this time, many tourists climb atop the ruins to watch the sky transform in colour. It’s an incredibly uplifting experience.

Sunset in Bagan, Myanmar

Whilst here you should rent a bike or an e-bike if you feel confident enough. Since neither Ruchi or I had tried e-biking before, we thought there was no time like the present to give it a bash. Though we survived to tell the tale, it was at times very concerning to watch Ruchi wobble towards oncoming cars. She’s a scary woman when she’s let loose on the road! 

E-biking in Bagan, Myanmar

Renting a bike in Bagan

Must-see pagodas in Bagan

  • Ananda Temple
  • Shwezigon Pagoda
  • Htilominlo

Recommended accommodation in Bagan

I recommend staying in Old Bagan at The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate where you’ll have your ancient temples within all within close proximity.

The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated with beautiful teak wood. When you wish to relax, take a dip in the hotel’s pool or read a book on one of the comfortable deck chairs. If you want to do any tours, the hotel will be happy with arrange activities for you using their local knowledge.

Alternatively, if you have a bicycle or e-bike then staying in New Bagan or even Nyaung U won’t be an issue.

Where to eat in Bagan

Black Bamboo:  What a gem! I loved their chilli pumpkin soup and papaya salad. If you’re looking for something quite romantic, I think this one ticks that box, sit outside in the beautiful garden which is elegantly decorated with candles. Address: Yar Thin That Street, Nyaung U, Bagan

Khaing Shwe Wah: If you’re looking for fresh, health and tasty vegetarian cuisine, look no further. It’s a lovely family-run restaurant serving up yummy curries, salads and juices. Make sure to take the coconut rice over the regular rice for added aroma. I had the Kachin potato curry which was delish!

(Optional 1 night in Kalaw)

Kalaw lies between Bagan and Inle Lake and from here you can embark on a two-day hike to Inle Lake. My friend Kat did this through Uncle Sam Trekking and she gives it her seal of approval. This is what she had to say about her experience:

I think I paid $30 for the two day trek, which included all meals (their food was some of the best I had in Myanmar!) and accommodation. Which was in a rustic bamboo hut, blankets provided. No shower, and only squat loos - be sure to take toilet paper! I am really squeamish about squat loos, but managed it fine on the trek. The trek itself wasn't too difficult, maybe 15km each day but I actually wished we walked longer, it was so wonderful. One of the highlights of my trip to Myanmar.

Inle Lake | 3 or 4 nights

Leg-rowing fishermen in Inle Lake, travelling in Myanmar.

I fell in love with Inle Lake, it’s incredibly peaceful and the culture of the Intha people and the captivating work of the leg-rowing fishermen who live in stilt villages along the fringes of the lake is truly fascinating to discover.

Travelling to Inle Lake in Myanmar

I could easily have spent longer than three nights here, it’s a place that can make you forget about everything, a place to relax and do little of nothing. Yet there’s also a lot more to do and see than anywhere else.  We stayed in Nyaung Shwe which is utterly charming, a town with lots of small cafes, markets and local shops.

Travel to Myanmar, fishermen at Inle Lake.

Things to do in Inle Lake

  • Boat trip on Inle Lake (a must!)
  • Get a massage
  • Visit the Saturday floating market
  • Join a cookery class
  • Hire a bike

Recommended accommodation in Inle Lake

We stayed in Nyaung Shwe which is Inle Lake’s main town. As a result it’s the liveliest town around the lake and where you’ll find most of the restaurants, bars and markets. 

The hotel I stayed at is no longer running. However, I researched alternative places and Inle Cottage Boutique Hotel looks and sounds very lovely and authentic with some glowing reviews to match. 

Where to eat in Inle Lake

Bamboo Hut – This place was located just outside of Nyaung Shwe but worth the trip. Set within a beautiful location where most of the vegetables used in their dishes are homegrown from their lovely garden.

Sun Flower – Using fresh products from the market, you can really tell the difference when you eat here. Everything is super fresh and delicious. The steamed fish and eggplant curry is super tasty. Sun Flower also cater well for vegetarians and offer cooking classes too.

Mandalay | 2 nights

Mandalay Palace in Myanmar

From Inle Lake we caught an overnight bus to Mandalay for the final leg of our trip. On the arrival at the bus terminal I couldn’t find Ruchi after we disembarked the bus to collect our rucksacks.

A few taxi drivers approached me to see if they could take me somewhere and I told them I wouldn’t be going anywhere until I found my friend. I was starting to get worried, but then one man pointed over to a dumpster by the edge of a road. There she was, trying to shield herself from the crowds as she puked up. My girl was poorly. 

You know you’re travelling when one of you gets a stomach bug, eh? At least it was toward the end of our trip.

We took it easy in Mandalay, ensuring that Ruchi was within close quarters to a toilet on our first day. We visited Mandalay Palace which was nice and had a little stroll to Mandalay Hill but to be honest, we didn’t warm to the city I have to say.

This might have been down to Ruchi feeling under the weather, but I just didn’t find it as exciting either. There seems to be less local life and atmosphere. The roads are really long and wide and the traffic never seems to stop. Waiting to cross is just plain tedious unless you’re quick on your toes.

Exploring Mandalay in Myanmar

Day-trip to Mingun from Mandalay

The highlight of visiting Mandalay was a trip to Mingun. I’m surprised Ruchi agreed to going, since we had to take a boat there, but she’s a trooper.

It’s home to the the stunning Hsinbyume Pagoda that sits as a vision of white, modelled after a Buddhist mythological mountain, Mount Meru. 

Hsinbyume Pagoda in Mingun, Myanmar
Hsinbyume Pagoda in Mingun

We didn’t have time to visit nearby Amarapura, the former capital of Myanmar, and where the much photographed U Bein Bridge is located.

It was on our list, but we decided to take it easy so Ruchi could recover. I’ve heard great things about it, so if you have time, make sure to get yourself there – it only takes 20 minutes in a taxi.

Recommended Accommodation

Splurge – If you want to indulge in a place with a pool and the full works, Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel is the place to be. It’s very close to Mandalay hill from where you can see a gorgeous view of the whole city.

On a budget – Located in Mandalay close to Sri Ganesh Temple and right next to Mandalay Palace, Moon Light Hotel is a simple hotel but has everything you’ll need. You’ll also have free use of the hotel’s bikes which is a great way to explore the city.

Got a few more days to spare?

If we had a few more days we would definitely have caught the train from Mandalay to Lashio which, in part, is connected by the infamous Gokteik Bridge, a gravity-defying feat of engineering described by Paul Theroux as, “a monster of silver geometry in all the ragged rock and jungle”.

In this region you could also go hiking in Hsipaw, I’ve heard really good things about this region, it’s less touristy and the landscape is extremely rural.

Alternatively, for a dose of relaxation, head to Ngapali Beach. Unwind on its pristine shores, indulge in fresh seafood, and take in the picturesque sunsets over the Bay of Bengal.

Are you planning on a trip to Myanmar?

Two week travel itinerary for Myanmar
the culture map blog

Hi, I'm Shing

Welcome to The Culture Map, a place where I share my travel guides, adventurous tales, and capture the inspiring diversity of our world.

25 Responses

    1. In the morning you can take a hot air balloon over Bagan to get a bird’s-eye view of all the temples, however, it’s really, really expensive so I decided against it. Plus, you could say the best view is looking out at the balloons when they get released.

      I agree with you Mike, Myanmar is super exotic with its unique sights and cultures.

  1. It was my pleasure — nothing makes me happier than being able to pass on travel tips to people! I’m sure you’d agree with me there 🙂 x

    1. We just didn’t have the time, or at least we didn’t prioritise the beach. I think Kat went though, right? Are you going to go? I heard from some people that the South has some incredible and more remote beaches near Dawei too. X

      1. Hi Lee and Yoong,
        What a very nice tips… concerning beaches, does anyone already went there? Some tips?
        We are planning our 15 days trip to Myanmar but we would like to spent some 4 day anywhere on the beach but it seems hard to get there.
        Anyone can help?
        cheers,
        Miguel

  2. Nice informative article Shing. i am planning a solo trip to Myanmar end November for around 2 weeks and my itinerary (as of now) looks like this – 3 nights Yangon, 3 nights Bagan, 1 night Kalaw (if reqd), 3 nights Inle, 2 nights Mandalay and then depart for Bangkok. Its very similar to your itinerary. I would love to do a leisurely 2 days trek through villages and at the same time spend time relaxing and doing nothing. Can’t wait.

    1. Hi Saurav, your itinerary sounds great! You’ve allocated enough time in each place to get to know the area and also go on day-trips if you wish. In regards to your question, I took a bus between Bagan and Inle Lake. It was a day bus that picked me up from my hotel at approx 8am and I arrived in Bagan at approx 4pm (although I think it took a little longer but the journey is scenic and it stops off on a rest break). You’ll be able to book the bus through your hotel which makes arranging things easier!

      If you have anymore questions, let me know and enjoy your trip!

      1. Hi Saurav and Shing, your itinerary sounds very nice. We will do something quite similar (2N Yangon, 3N Inle, 2N Mandalay, 2N Bagan, 4N Ngapali beach) and for bus information we have been checking this website: http://www.myanmarbusticket.com
        We are also thinking to take a flight from Bagan to Ngapali beach, and another one back to Yangon. Anyone knows if it is safe to buy the tickets on-line directly on the airline’s website (air kbz)?
        Thanks in advance

    1. Hi sorry to bother, I will take a trip to Myanmar, on may arriving in Yangon on the 2nd I am planning e two weeks tour and my itinerary is very similar to Ms.Yoong. I was just wandering in which city you are working and if could get in touch with you to explore the area you would be available to.
      I case this would be wonderful .

  3. Hi Shing, I’ve absolutely loved reading your blog! I’m leaving for Myanmar in a few weeks and I keep re-reading about your trip and learning more each time. I think we are going to more-or-less follow your itinerary. I can’t wait! I was just wondering if you have any suggestions about the food in Myanmar. I want to eat as much as possible but I also want to avoid getting sick. Any tips from you or Ruchi? Thank you so much for taking the time to share your stories and beautiful photos!

    1. Oh no, I’m so sorry I missed this comment Maria – I hope you had an amazing time in Myanmar, and managed to seek out some good food?! You’ve actually made a point, I should definitely add further information about food and restaurants I enjoyed for future readers.

      I hope you tried the Tea Leaf salad, I couldn’t get enough of it!

  4. My boyfriend and I are thinking of going to Myanmar as part of our 12 month backpacking trip. We are currently in Bali and will be making our way there in the next couple of months. I read other blogs with the route of Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and then Inle Lake and looking at the map, it makes sense as you pass Mandalay going to Inle. Did you fly into Yangon and then fly out of Mandalay, is that why it was your final stop? We are trying to figure out logistics. Thanks and your trip sounded awesome!

    1. Hi Janeli, sorry for the delayed reply. Are you sure you mean Inle Lake? As Mandalay is definitely further north than Inle Lake… From there we caught the overnight bus to Mandalay and arrived really early in the morning. Yes, you’re correct, we flew into Yangon and flew out of Mandalay, however, in retrospect we loved Yangon, Bagan and Lake Inle a lot more than Mandalay so we would also have been happy to swap that city for somewhere en route back to Yangon. Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly in and out of the same airport… so it’s good to way out both options. Let me know if you have anymore questions!

  5. Oh, interesting and inspiring trip! Two weeks in Myanmar help you to discover all the major highlights of Myanmar. Have you travelled to any beaches or islands in Myanmar? I think they deserve to be explored.

Any questions? We'll try and answer them below.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Discover more unique places from around the world

© 2024 The Culture Map · Privacy Policy