Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable journey through southern Myanmar on the Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip! This 7-day road trip starts and ends in Yangon and covers a distance of 683 km. The best time of year for this road trip is during the dry season, from October to April. On this journey, you will travel through Bago and Mawlamyine, two towns rich in history and culture. Along the way, you will get to explore a variety of historical sites, including ancient temples and monasteries. Be aware that the roads in the region are generally of poor quality and can be narrow at times. Despite these conditions, the Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip is an experience that will leave you with lasting memories. It is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a reasonable budget. So if you're looking for an exciting adventure, this is the perfect road trip for you!
7
number of days
4,367 km
route length
moderate
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Yangon
Distance 4,367 km
Driving time 78.1 h
Pace: modest
1,135.3 kWh
Airports
RGN
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Yangon, Myanmar is a bustling city set in Southeast Asia and often serves as a starting point for the Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip. It is a great place to begin your journey, as it is full of fascinating sights and activities to explore.
A must-see in Yangon is the Shwedagon Pagoda, a golden stupa that rises 98 meters into the sky and is said to contain relics of four different Buddhas. Tourists can also explore the National Museum of Myanmar, which contains artifacts from Myanmar’s history, and the Maha Wizaya Pagoda, a colorful temple featuring Buddha images and stupa architecture.
For those traveling by air, Yangon International Airport (RGN) is the closest international airport and offers car rental services. Visitors can rent a car and begin their road trip to explore the rest of Myanmar.
Whether you want to explore the city’s rich culture or start the Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip, Yangon is an ideal destination to begin your journey. Take in the sights, sounds and smells of the city and enjoy the unique experience of Myanmar.
1
Yangon
- Bago
Distance 81 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: slow
18.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing journey from Yangon to Bago? This trip will take you through beautiful landscapes, iconic landmarks, and quaint villages. It's only a 87km drive and it won't take more than 3 hours. On this drive, you'll get to witness some of the most stunning views and take in the fresh air. You'll be driving on a narrow road in sections, so make sure to keep to the speed limit. As you drive along, you'll be treated to picturesque views of the countryside, with plenty of opportunities to take some amazing photos. Make sure to keep your eyes open as you drive for some of the most spectacular sights, including colonial architecture and ancient temples. Once you reach Bago, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore, including the Bago Market, the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, and the Kyaik Pun Pagoda. All of these places are steeped in history and offer an insight into Myanmar's rich culture. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road on this incredible Yangon to Bago trip!
Bago - Myanmar - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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2
Bago
- Kyaiktiyo
Distance 2,073 km
Driving time 35.7 h
Pace: modest
539.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready to embark on an exciting road trip from Bago to Kyaiktiyo? This 89km drive will take you less than two hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll experience stunning views of the mountains, lush green fields, and winding roads. Narrow sections of the road will require you to be extra careful while driving. As you travel, don’t forget to visit some of the most interesting places in Bago and Kyaiktiyo, such as the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the Mahazedi Pagoda, and the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda. Make sure to take pictures of these places to remember your journey! For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, look up the itinerary for this stage of the tour. Enjoy your road trip!
Kyaiktiyo - Myanmar - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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3
Kyaiktiyo
- Mawlamyine
Distance 140 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: modest
36.3 kWh
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Greetings road-trippers! We invite you to come and explore the incredible journey from Kyaiktiyo to Mawlamyine. This leg of the journey is only 140 km and takes less than 3 hours, but don’t worry, there are enough attractions along the way to keep you occupied.
In Kyaiktiyo, you’ll find the famous Golden Rock, one of the most sacred sites in Myanmar. The incredible golden boulder balanced on the edge of the cliff is a must-see. On your way to Mawlamyine, you’ll pass through Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery, a memorial to over 6,000 Allied soldiers who died in the Burma Campaign of World War II.
Mawlamyine, the final destination, has plenty of attractions as well. Stop by Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, a beautiful golden pagoda in the heart of the city. You can also take a relaxing stroll along Strand Road, which offers stunning views of the Thanlwin River.
Keep in mind that this is just a small part of a larger tour, and there are many more attractions and activities around each of these locations. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Mawlamyine - Myanmar - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Mawlamyine
- Hpa An
Distance 60 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
13.8 kWh
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Embark on a road trip adventure from Mawlamyine to Hpa An, two of the most beautiful cities of Myanmar. The 62 km drive (less than two hours) will take you to the limestone mountains of Hpa An. Along the way, make sure to stop and admire the amazing views of the Thanlwin river. A visit to Mawkanin Cave, one of the oldest and largest Buddhist monasteries in the area, is highly recommended. Once you reach Hpa An, don't miss the opportunity to explore Kawgun Cave and the surrounding limestone mountains. This area is known for its magnificent natural beauty and is considered to be one of the most scenic views in the country. Keep an eye out for the beautiful Shwe Yin Myaw Pagoda and the Sadan Cave, two of the most popular attractions in the area. Last but not least, don't forget to visit the Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda, a stunningly beautiful pagoda located on the top of a hill. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Hpa An - Myanmar - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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5
Hpa An
- Yangon
Distance 2,013 km
Driving time 35.4 h
Pace: modest
523.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome fellow road-trippers! We invite you to join us on a journey from Hpa An to Yangon. This stage of the tour encompasses a distance of 305km, and will take no more than 6 hours of driving.
The beauty of this journey is that there are numerous attractions to discover and enjoy. Start your trip with a visit to the Bayin Nyi Cave in Hpa An, the stunning Shwe Yin Myaw Pagoda, and the breathtaking Mount Zwegabin. You may also want to explore the city's many markets and enjoy the local cuisine.
As you travel towards Yangon, you will pass through the Bago Region and take in its historic sites, including the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, the Mahazedi Pagoda, and the Kanbawzathadi Palace.
Finally, you will arrive in Yangon, where you can visit the stunning Shwedagon Pagoda, the historical Bogyoke Aung San Market, the Sule Pagoda, and the City Hall.
Along the way, you will be able to take in the stunning landscape and take pictures of the magnificent views.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you enjoy this journey!
Yangon - Myanmar - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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Yangon
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Yangon is the final destination of the Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip. It is the largest city in Myanmar, and its location on the banks of the Yangon River, surrounded by mountains, makes it an ideal place to end the journey.
The city is home to many historical and cultural attractions. Among the most noteworthy are the Shwedagon Pagoda, the most sacred Buddhist temple in the country, and the former capital of Yangon, the Yangon City Hall. The city also has several museums, such as the National Museum of Myanmar and the Yangon Zoological Gardens.
Visitors can explore the city's vibrant street life in its bustling markets, such as Bogyoke Aung San Market. The city also has plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues, making it the perfect spot to end the journey.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Yangon International Airport (RGN).
Yangon is the perfect place to end the Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip. With its rich history, culture, and vibrant street life, there is something to suit every traveler's tastes. Whether you're looking for historical sites, museums, or simply to explore the city's lively markets and nightlife, Yangon has something for everyone.
Yangon - Myanmar - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Yangon
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End:
Yangon
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Distance:
4,367 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Yangon International Airport (RGN)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip is a captivating 7-day journey that begins and ends in the bustling city of Yangon, covering a total distance of approximately 683 kilometers. This scenic route allows travelers to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes, from the lush countryside to the sparkling coastline, while exploring the rich culture and heritage of southern Myanmar.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Bago: This ancient city is a treasure trove of Myanmar's history, featuring the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, which at 114 meters is one of the tallest pagodas in the country. Visitors can also explore the Kanbawzathadi Golden Palace, a reconstruction of the original 16th-century palace of King Bayinnaung with its intricate wood carvings and grandeur.
- Mawlamyine: Once the capital of British Burma, Mawlamyine exudes a nostalgic colonial charm and is known for the Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, which inspired Rudyard Kipling's famous poem `Mandalay.` The Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery is another poignant site, serving as a memorial for Allied soldiers who perished during World War II while building the infamous Death Railway.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period for embarking on this Road Trip is between October and April. During these months, the dry season prevails, ensuring travelers can enjoy comfortable weather, clear skies, and the best conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Potential Risks:
Roadtrippers should be mindful of varying Road conditions. Some stretches may be poorly maintained, with narrow lanes that pose challenges for less experienced drivers. Extra caution is particularly necessary during the rainy season when Roads can become slippery and more prone to flooding.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Budget-friendly: Southern Myanmar's cost of living is relatively low, allowing for an affordable Road Trip experience that doesn't compromise on the quality of attractions and experiences.
- Driving conditions: While suitable for all levels of driving experience, it's important to stay alert and adaptable to the diverse Road conditions encountered.
- Cultural immersion: The Trip provides a deep connection with Myanmar's culture, from sampling local Mon cuisine to participating in traditional ceremonies.
- Unique wildlife: Southern Myanmar is home to unique species such as the Gurney's Pitta bird, which can sometimes be spotted in the region's dense forests.
A good choice for:
The Southern Myanmar Classic Road Trip offers an extraordinary and enriching experience for those seeking both adventure and cultural exploration in one of Southeast Asia's less-traveled destinations. It's a journey that promises to leave travelers with a deeper understanding of Myanmar's past and present, as well as memories to last a lifetime.
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