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HomeRoad TripsAsiaSouth East AsiaMyanmar

Road Trips in Myanmar

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a country in Southeast Asia that is quickly becoming a popular destination for travelers. One of the best ways to experience Myanmar's natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse landscape is by taking a road trip. Whether you're driving along the coastline, through the mountains, or exploring the countryside, there are many reasons why a road trip in Myanmar should be on your travel itinerary.

Firstly, Myanmar is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Southeast Asia. From the rolling hills of Shan State to the golden plains of Bagan and the pristine beaches of Ngapali, there's no shortage of natural beauty to discover. A road trip allows you to take in the scenery at your own pace, with opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Secondly, a road trip in Myanmar is a unique way to experience the country's rich culture and history. Myanmar has a long and complex history that is reflected in its many temples, pagodas, and historic sites. Driving through the countryside, you'll encounter many small villages and towns where you can interact with locals, sample traditional food, and learn about Myanmar's customs and traditions.

Lastly, a road trip in Myanmar offers the chance to get off the beaten path and explore some of the country's lesser-known destinations. While the popular tourist destinations like Yangon and Mandalay are certainly worth a visit, some of the most memorable experiences in Myanmar can be found in the lesser-known areas. A road trip allows you to discover hidden gems that you might not find on a typical guided tour.

Overall, a road trip in Myanmar is a great way to experience the country's diverse landscape, rich culture, and unique history. With so much to see and do, a road trip is the perfect way to explore Myanmar at your own pace and on your own terms. Whether you're traveling solo or with a group, a road trip in Myanmar is sure to be an adventure you'll never forget.

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Value Value
Historical sites Historical sites
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Culture Culture
Nature Nature
Shopping Shopping
Urban life Urban life
Security Security

Best months to drive

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Northern Myanmar Classic Road Trip Northern Myanmar Classic Road Trip
Northern Myanmar Classic Road Trip
Asia - Myanmar
845 km 45 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Myanmar Road Trip Myanmar Road Trip
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Asia - Myanmar
1,910 km 48 km/h 12 days roadtrip
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Asia - Vietnam
2,630 km 50 km/h 21 days roadtrip
Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip
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Asia - Myanmar
683 km 48 km/h 7 days roadtrip
Burma Road Burma Road
Burma Road
Asia - China
1,140 km 52 km/h 4 days roadtrip

Road Trip Highlights in Myanmar

A must-see attraction during your journey around Myanmar is its old capital - Yangon, an economic and a cultural hub. Its greatest attractions include the Holy Trinity Cathedral, multiple pagodas, and Bogyoke Aung San Market that will charm you with colonial architecture and cobbled streets. While sauntering around the city, you should definitely visit some of its museums, especially the National Museum as well as the Myanmar Gems Museum. 

Yangon is not the only urban jewel of South Myanmar. The same title can be given to Taungoo, where you can find historical mansions, and Pyay, which made a name for itself owing to one of the most important pilgrimage places in the country - Shwesandaw Pagoda. After a tour around the southern recesses of the country, it's worth moving west to Demoso, a tiny scenic town. 

Central Myanmar is a true treasure trove of attractions. For example, you'll find there a dormant volcano Mount Poppa that is located at an altitude of 1518 metres above sea level. On top, you can spot the Buddhist monastery Taung Kalat considered one of the most beautifully located buildings of this type in the world. While travelling around the central part of the country, you can't miss the scenic Lake Inle and the nearby towns: Nyaung Shwe and Kalaw. 

If you still feel unsatisfied, you should definitely direct your steps to such cities as Magwe, Bagan, and Mandalay. Here, you'll be enthralled by top-notch ambiance and imposing buildings. Among the most interesting edifices, you'll find the Mahamuni Buddha Temple, Royal Palace, and Shwenandaw Monastery. The Yadanabon Zoological Gardens and Mandalay Hill are also worth mentioning. From the hill, you'll admire a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings. 

Myanmar is a beautiful and diverse country in Southeast Asia, offering road trippers a wide range of experiences. Here are three of the best road trips to take in Myanmar:

These road trips offer a variety of experiences, from exploring ancient temples and pagodas to hiking through hilltop villages and taking in the natural beauty of Myanmar's landscapes. No matter which road trip you choose, you're sure to be rewarded with unforgettable sights and experiences.

Car Rentals in Myanmar

Myanmar offers residents and tourists a variety of affordable means of public transport, including trains and buses. Unfortunately, they are considered really slow and inconvenient; therefore, many tourists decide to rent a vehicle, often with a personal driver. In order to drive a car in Myanmar, you need to have a local driving licence or obtain a special permit, which is rather a daunting challenge. 

When planning a car trip, be prepared for extreme conditions - most roads in the country are unpaved and have damaged surface. Despite the fact that Myanmar follows right-hand traffic, most cars have steering wheel on the right side. Up until 1970, Myanmar had followed left-hand traffic. 

When taking a Road Trip in Myanmar

If you are planning a road trip in Myanmar, it is important to be aware of some essential information to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some things to keep in mind:

By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Myanmar.

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Myanmar

The best time to take a road trip in Myanmar is during the cool and dry season, which runs from November to February. During this time, the weather is relatively mild and pleasant, with less rain and lower humidity. It is also the peak tourist season, so popular destinations and attractions may be more crowded and expensive.

However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly and less crowded option, the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to October can also be good times to visit. During these periods, the weather can be warm and sunny, but there may also be occasional rain showers.

The rainy season, which runs from June to August, is generally not recommended for road trips in Myanmar due to heavy rains and potential flooding, especially in more remote areas. Road conditions can also be more difficult to navigate during this time.

It is important to note that Myanmar has a tropical climate, so temperatures can be quite hot and humid throughout the year, even during the cooler months. It is recommended to pack light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated while on a road trip in Myanmar.

What to pack for a Road Trip in Myanmar

If you are planning a road trip in Myanmar, it's important to pack carefully to ensure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential items to pack and bring:

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Myanmar

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that can be helpful for a road trip in Myanmar:

Overall, it's important to have reliable maps and guidebooks when embarking on a road trip in Myanmar, as the country's road networks can be confusing and unpredictable. It's also recommended to pack light but essential items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, and plenty of water.

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