Myanmar
‘Hidden Gem’ is often used for many locations in Indochina, but this really does sum up Myanmar nicely. Cut off from the outside world for many years, you’ll experience a country reflecting a bygone era.
Step back in time as you visit the busy temples, pagodas and wander through the colonial streets, and don’t miss a journey along the Irrawaddy River delighting you with the cultural scene at Bagan.
Things are changing and the country is embracing tourism. Come and visit before the hordes descend on Myanmar. Not sure who to ask for help and advice.......
just AsktheTraveller.
Local weather information
Mandalay
When is the best time to travel
The ‘dry season’ typically between October and May is considered the best time to visit Myanmar as the whole country is accessible. During this period you can enjoy an itinerary including the river, the beaches, the various cities, towns and the huge array of temples.
However, Myanmar can be visited year round and for those who want to explore the more remote hill tribe regions and stunning local scenery in this area, then June to August is when the cruising along the Chindwin is at it’s best. Note that the beach areas will be closed down during this period and September should be avoided.
It should be noted that Myanmar is now very popular, so best to book early for peak period especially.
Peak Season:
October to May
Alternative:
June to August (especially those interested in visiting remote hill tribe regions)
Myanmar in brief
Myanmar has been untouched by the outside world for a long time which makes this destination a real adventurous treat for travellers. The hospitality of the people is something that draws visitors back and this really is a wonderful time to be visiting Myanmar.
Myanmar is a large country approximately the size of the UK and France combined with a population of around 49 million. 50% of the country is covered in forest.
The central and lower regions have an average temperature of 90F with the northern highland region averaging 70F.
The real opportunity here is to visit a diverse landscape with beaches, amazing temples, highlands and hill tribes, colonial history, the rivers and of course the wonderfully hospitable population
Myanmar history & Culture
The history of Myanmar can be traced back to the 2nd century when the Rakhine ruled the west coast and the Pyu civilisation ruled the central regions. Great kingdoms then came and went until the 3rd Myanmar Empire fell to the colonial British in 1885. Independence was then gained in 1948.
There are more than 100 ethnic groups in Myanmar all with their own languages and dialects, although the majority will speak Myanmar (Burmese)
85% of the population is Buddhist and there are significant numbers of Muslims, Hindhu and Christians. As a result, it’s not uncommon to see Churches, Pagoda’s and mosques in the same area.
For many years, Myanmar closed it’s doors to the outside world during a period of self-isolation. Only recently have these doors been reopened to welcome visitors, who now have the opportunity to see Myanmar relatively untouched, beautiful, and with an exceptionally warm and welcoming population.