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HomeRoad TripsAsiaEast AsiaChinaBurma Road
The_Road_to_Shan_State.jpg

Burma Road

Kunming - Dali - Dehong - Muse - Lashio

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Urban life Urban life
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Historical sites Historical sites
Culture Culture
Burma Road ACTIVATE MAP Stages4 km1,140 h/stage5.5

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Burma Road in China?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 720EUR drive & more 150EUR sleep & more 187EUR eat & more 192EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 529EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,249EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,160EUR drive & more 200EUR sleep & more 319EUR eat & more 288EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 807EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,967EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,024EUR drive & more 275EUR sleep & more 682EUR eat & more 384EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,341EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,365EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 900EUR drive & more 313EUR sleep & more 220EUR eat & more 192EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 725EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,625EUR
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Burma Road Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Burma Road road trip! This route will take you from Kunming in China all the way to Lashio in Myanmar, covering a distance of approximately 1140km in 4 days. As you go, you will be able to explore some of the most spectacular landscapes, from the rolling hills of Dali to the lush jungles of Dehong and the bustling markets of Muse. The best time of year to take this journey is during the dry season, when the roads are in good condition and the views are unobstructed. As you traverse the Burma Road, you will have to cross a border, so be sure to check up on the requirements and regulations. Note that the roads can be quite curvy and narrow in places, so caution and a steady hand on the wheel are advised. This road trip is sure to provide you with an experience and memories that will last a lifetime. It is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a fair budget. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Burma Road journey today!
number of days 4 number of days
route length 1,140 km route length
budget moderate budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Kunming

Distance 1,140 km Driving time 21.8 h Pace: modest 296.3 kWh Airports KMG
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Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province in China, is the perfect starting point for the “Burma Road” road trip. It is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, cultural diversity, and mild climate all year round. The city is home to numerous attractions that should not be missed, including the Stone Forest, Yuantong Temple, and Dianchi Lake. The closest international airport to Kunming is Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) and car rentals are available there. For those embarking on the “Burma Road” road trip, Kunming is the ideal location to begin their journey. The city offers an array of activities and experiences that will make the trip unforgettable. From visiting the temples and lakes to exploring the natural beauty of the region, Kunming is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip.

1 Kunming - Dali

Distance 489 km Driving time 9.6 h Pace: modest 127.2 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road sections of steep road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road junction of road trips
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Are you ready to take on a spectacular road trip? Then get your car and embark on an amazing journey from Kunming to Dali. This stretch of 489 km will take you less than 10 hours, and you will have the chance to explore some of the most stunning places in China. The road is mostly scenic, with a few steep ramps, winding sections, and narrow roads. Make sure to keep a safe distance and take frequent breaks to admire the views. In Kunming, make sure to visit the Stone Forest and the Bamboo Temple, and in Dali, you must explore the Three Pagodas and the old city. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!

2 Dali - Dehong

Distance 375 km Driving time 6.1 h Pace: fast 112.4 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road sections of steep road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road junction of road trips
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Embark on a road trip from Dali to Dehong for an unforgettable experience! This 375 km drive will take you less than 6 hours to complete. The scenic road is a highlight of this journey, with steep ramps, winding sections, and narrow roads. You will be rewarded with beautiful views of the mountains and rivers. In Dali, explore the old city, visit the Three Pagodas, and take a boat trip on Erhai Lake. In Dehong, you can appreciate the cultural diversity of the Dai and Jingpo people, visit the Dai minority villages, and explore the lush forests of the Gaoligongshan Nature Reserve. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a thrilling road trip from Dali to Dehong!

3 Dehong - Muse

Distance 105 km Driving time 3.2 h Pace: slow 24.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road sections of steep road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road border crossing
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Embark on a 105 km road trip from Dehong, China to Muse, traveling through some of the most picturesque and serene landscapes in the country. This journey takes a little over 4 hours, and you will be crossing a state border. Along the way, you will come across steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections, so pay attention to the scenic roads. Among the places to visit, the highlights include the ancient city of Ruili and the tranquil town of Mangshi. Enjoy the stunning views of the Pianma River and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Golden Triangle. As you drive through the lush jungles of the Gaoligong Mountains, take a moment to appreciate the stunning beauty of the region. Don't forget to explore the ancient temples and ruins of the Dai ethnic minority. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage. So grab your keys and let the journey begin!

4 Muse - Lashio

Distance 171 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: modest 44.6 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road sections of steep road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road accommodation options
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Take a road trip from Muse, Myanmar and explore the wonders of Lashio – just a 171km drive away! Enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside as you take in the views of the rolling hills and lush forests. Winding roads, steep ramps, and some narrow sections make this journey all the more exciting. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the local wildlife, too! After a few hours of driving, you’ll reach Lashio, where you can explore the city’s many attractions. Be sure to visit the Lashio Night Market, the Lashio Bazaar, and the Lashio Museum – all fascinating places to explore the city’s culture and history. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Bon voyage!

  Lashio

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Lashio is a great destination for those looking to end their road trip along the Burma Road. Located in the northern Shan State of Myanmar, Lashio is a bustling town with a unique mix of cultures and traditions. The most popular attraction in Lashio is the Naung Tong Market, a sprawling bazaar where you can find everything from local produce to traditional Burmese arts and crafts. The market is a great place to mingle with locals, buy souvenirs, and get a taste of the unique culture of the Shan State. Lashio is also home to many Buddhist temples, including the Lashio Monastery, the oldest surviving Buddhist temple in the area. Visitors will find a peaceful oasis of calm and serenity here, as well as a stunning view of the surrounding mountain landscape. The nearest international airport is Heho Airport (HEH), located about an hour and a half away. Lashio is the perfect destination for those wanting to explore the unique culture and beauty of the Shan State, or just looking for a peaceful end to a road trip along the Burma Road.

Burma Road Road Trip at a glance

Facts for safer driving in China

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.2
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 80 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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