The nation formerly known as Burma has undergone more changes than just its name over the centuries. Myanmar is a melting pot of cultural wonders, with influences from its bordering nations of Bangladesh, India, Laos, China and Thailand. From gilded pagodas and frantic markets to silk-weaving workshops and puppet theatres, Myanmar is a land of diverse and enthralling experiences.
However, there are certain cultural attractions, shopping experiences, restaurants and entertainment that you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your next Myanmar holiday. With more than 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve also found the best value hotels for creating a comfortable home base during your stay.
Top Myanmar Cultural Attractions
1. Chauk-htat-gyi Buddha Temple
Located in the historic capital city of Yangon, the 1900s Chauk-htat-gyi Buddha Temple is world-famous for housing the 66-metre-long reclining Buddha. Visitors often offer flowers and burn incense sticks inside the temple to pay their respect to the Buddha image.
2. Inle Lake
Inle Lake is bordered by four cities and numerous small villages around the shoreline and on the actual water. This makes daily life on the lake quite lively as locals in wooden boats motor from rustic stilt houses to floating markets, fishing areas and various over-the-water restaurants.
3. Golden Rock Pagoda
Also known as Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, the Golden Rock Pagoda has earned its name from its gold leaf-covered boulder that’s supposedly perched on a strand of Buddha’s hair. It’s a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site about 1,100 metres high, set on top of Mt. Kyaiktiyo. The pilgrimage also reveals picturesque Myanmar countryside from the mountaintop.
Amazing Myanmar Shopping
1. Bogyoke Aung San Market
Located in the centre of Yangon, Bogyoke Aung San Market is a bustling bazaar with colonial buildings housing stalls selling antiques, Burmese handicrafts, artwork, handmade clothing and jewellery. The cobblestone streets within the sprawling market also lead to food stalls, juice vendors and coffee shops.
2. Silk-Weaving Workshops
Silk weaving is a timeless Myanmar tradition that is best experienced by visiting some of the country’s top workshops. Thein Nyo Silk is a renowned silk-weaving workshop in Mandalay where you can watch local artisans make stunning garments out of colourful silk, including the traditional longyis, paso and htamein.
3. Myinkaba Village
Myinkaba Village is a rural commune on the Irrawaddy River, and one of the main reasons for visiting is the morning market. You’ll find it down a little dirt road near Old Bagan, filled mostly with locals searching for fresh chicken and fruits and vegetables, various types of fish and local nuts and herbs.
The Best Myanmar Entertainment
1. Mintha Theater
If you’re visiting Mandalay, don’t miss a performance at Mintha Theater, a local school dedicated to classical Myanmar dance. You catch one of the shows nightly at 8pm, which showcase traditional costumes, a live orchestra and beautifully choreographed dance pieces ranging from folk to court styles.
2. Htwe Oo Myanmar Traditional Puppet Theatre
Located near the Yangon River, the Htwe Oo Myanmar Traditional Puppet Theatre lets you watch or even learn the art of traditional Myanmar string puppetry. The shows take place most nights and feature a range of beautifully created puppets with vibrant costumes, acting out engaging stories.
3. Bogyoke Aung San Stadium
Bogyoke Aung San Stadium is located near the Yangon Central train station and is the largest sporting venue in Myanmar. On game days, you can join almost 40,000 spectators flooding the stadium to watch the local football team, Yangon United FC, compete in the Myanmar National League.
Incredible Myanmar Restaurants
1. Le Planteur
Located in a villa overlooking Inya Lake, Le Planteur is a renowned Yangon restaurant serving authentic French cuisine in a serene waterside garden. The wine bar serves 32 different types of wine from various French wine-growing regions, while the afternoon High Tea offers a delectable range of finger foods with Champagne.
2. Mingalabar Restaurant
Mingalabar has four restaurants around Myanmar, but the one in Mandalay stands out for its sprawling dining room adorned in natural finishes. The flavoursome Burmese cuisine is highlighted with hearty portions and side dishes, including salmon curry and fried goat. You can also order traditional Burmese bread and desserts.
3. Pleasant View Islet Restaurant
Located at Ngapali Beach, Pleasant View Islet Restaurant is somewhat of a pilgrimage for seafood lovers, with many patrons wading through the shallow water or catching ferries to reach the restaurant. Once there, you can sit back and enjoy the beautiful coastal views while digging into fresh seafood platters.
12 Most-Popular Myanmar Hotels
Sule Shangri-La Yangon
Located in the heart of downtown Yangon, the 5-star Sule Shangri-La Yangon is renowned for its luxurious facilities, including a state-of-the-art fitness centre, inviting outdoor pool and four on-site dining establishments. This includes themed gastronomic nights at Café Sule, authentic Cantonese cuisine at Summer Palace and the 1800s-style Gallery Bar.
Choose from 470 well-appointed rooms and suites that either overlook the city, pagodas or river. The entry-level Deluxe Room has a bath and lounge seating, while the suites add separate sitting areas, rainforest showers and Horizon Club Lounge access. The Presidential Suite is particularly indulgent with its kitchenette, dining room, sitting room and panoramic city views.
Nearby Attractions
- Sule Square shopping mall (350 metres)
- Pansodan Art Gallery (950 metres)
- Mahabandula Park (850 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 102 – USD 243
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 223 Sule Pagoda Road, Yangon, Myanmar
Belmond Governor’s Residence
The opulent Belmond Governor’s Residence is a tranquil retreat in the south of Yangon. Lush tropical foliage surrounds the traditional buildings, mirror-esque pool, cushioned sun loungers and grassy lawns. Relaxation comes naturally at the exclusive day spa, which offers signature Tibetan treatments. You can also taste exquisite Burmese and European dishes crafted from local produce at Mandalay Restaurant.
The rooms and suites combine modern comforts with traditional wooden furnishings, including king-size beds, lounge seating and large terrazzo baths. The historic Governor’s Rooms were some of the first accommodations in Yangon and reflect this rich history with intricate wood carvings and hand-carved bed canopies.
Nearby Attractions
- National Museum (600 metres)
- Yangon Planetarium (1.1 kilometres)
- People’s Park (1.6 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 477 – USD 636
Guest Rating: 9.4
Address: 35 Taw Win Road Dagon Township, Yangon, Myanmar
Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort Bagan
Discover the old-world luxury and traditions of Myanmar while staying at Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort Bagan. The extravagant hotel is nestled among the ancient temples within the Bagan Archaeological Preservation Zone. This history flows throughout the intimate villas, which boast antiques, artefacts and local artwork as well as king-size beds, separate living rooms and soaking baths.
Timber walkways lead past ponds and statues to the resort’s sun-drenched infinity pool and the soothing sanctuary of The Nature Spa. Views of the surrounding redbrick temples can be found at the pool and the gourmet restaurant, which serves seafood specialties. The resort also has a gym and organises horse-drawn carriage rides.
Nearby Attractions
- Nan Myint Tower Bagan (400 metres)
- Bagan Nyaung Oo Golf Club (3.7 kilometres)
- Nanda Pyinnyar Cave (1.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 215 – USD 300
Guest Rating: 8
Address: Min Nanthu Village, Bagan, Mandalay, Myanmar
Mercure Mandalay Hill Resort
HotelsCombined visitors have fallen in love with Mercure Mandalay Hill Resort, thanks to its beautiful views of Mandalay Hill’s pagodas, moat and Royal Palace. You can enjoy these views from your window in the Deluxe Room, which has a king-size bed, sitting area and work desk. Upgrade to the Corner Deluxe for access to the Executive Lounge.
Culture abounds at the on-site Kinsana Outdoor Restaurant, known for its Dance from Dynasties show. You can also enjoy fusion Chinese, Thai and Burmese cuisine at Ming S or indulge in cocktails and cigars at Kiplings Lounge and Cigar Bar. The resort’s outdoor pool has an adjoining bar and there’s also a tennis court, fitness centre and three meeting rooms.
Nearby Attractions
- Shwe Mann Taung Golf Course (1.4 kilometres)
- Nandawun Park (2.6 kilometres)
- Su Taung Pyae Pagoda (1.8 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 133 – USD 255
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: No 9 Kwin 416B 10th Street, Mandalay, Myanmar
Villa Inle Boutique Resort
Villa Inle Boutique Resort offers a magical setting between the mountains and Inle Lake. Intimate, wooden villas are spread out across the countryside, with lakeside and garden settings. They have floor-to-ceiling windows, local artwork, high ceilings, adjoining living rooms, private balconies and king-size beds. However, our favourite feature is the indulgent spa bath in each one.
On-site dining highlights the region’s unique produce and flavours, including grilled fish reeled in from Inle Lake and tropical Inthar specialties. You can join a cooking class, experience local wine tasting or trek to neighbouring villages. The Sun-Set Bar is ideal for evening drinks, but don’t forget a dip in the infinity pool or a traditional Shan massage at Lotus Spa.
Nearby Attractions
- Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery (5.7 kilometres)
- Mine Thauk Market (2 kilometres)
- Maing Thauk Monastery (2.3 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 178 – USD 635
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: Maing Thauk Village, Nyaung Shwe, Inle Lake, Myanmar
Sandoway Resort
The beachfront Sandoway Resort is a luxurious coastal getaway with a lagoon-style pool and day beds overlooking the sand, timber beach deck, private cinema and architecturally stunning library. The Sandoway Spa offers full-body massages in rooms surrounded by waterfalls, while the on-site restaurant serves fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients by the beach.
You can stay one of 15 cosy cottages, including five with beachfront locations. They also have sunroofs, separate lounges, writing desks and private decks. Alternatively, book one of the villas for a private loft bedroom and a balcony overlooking the bay.
Nearby Attractions
- Gyeiktaw Monastery (1.4 kilometres)
- Bawdi YoteKha Pagoda (5 metres)
- Win Pearl & Souvenir Shop (400 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 330 – USD 690
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Mya Pyin Village, Ngapali Beach, Thandwe, Myanmar
Sanctum Inle Resort
Sanctum Inle Resort has been rated as one of the top resorts in Asia in Condé Nast Traveler. It doesn’t take long to realise why once you see the resort’s unique facilities, such as the Workshop Boutique selling handmade local goods and The Sanctuary Spa, which offers de-stressing treatments.
You can also admire lake views from the infinity pool, work out in the gym or dine on Shan culinary creations at The Refectory. The exquisite rooms have been built from natural materials and boast private terraces, king-size beds, lounge seating and views of gardens or Inle Lake. Stay in the Abbey Suite for an upstairs bedroom, separate living room and a bath.
Nearby Attractions
- Mine Thauk Market (350 metres)
- Maing Thauk Monastery (750 metres)
- CARVING MYANMAR Woodcarving & Show Room (850 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 130 – USD 500
Guest Rating: 9.7
Address: Maing Thauk Village Inle Lake, Inle Lake, Myanmar
Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min
Enjoy mesmerising views of Inle Lake while staying in one of the lakeside villas at Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min. These luxe accommodations typically have separate living rooms, private balconies, king-size beds and soaking baths. You can also book a suite with lake or garden views, a balcony and sitting area.
On-site dining combines the beauty of Inle Lake with fresh, local fare. The brasserie, Sunset, has a walk-in wine cellar, while Terrace serves Asian and international dishes. You can also sip cocktails while occasionally moving from your sun lounger to the pool, book a specialty treatment at the spa or work out in the gym.
Nearby Attractions
- CARVING MYANMAR Woodcarving & Show Room (1.1 kilometres)
- Maing Thauk Monastery (1 kilometre)
- Mine Thauk Market (600 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 104 – USD 347
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: Mine Thauk Village Inle Lake, Inle Lake, Myanmar
Pristine Lotus Resort Inle
Pristine Lotus Resort Inle is a true lakeside oasis that blends seamlessly with its natural environment. Natural hot springs and waterfalls create alluring Jacuzzis and timber huts and walking platforms sit alongside grassy lawns and verdant plants. The pool and sun loungers are surrounded by water and greenery, while the restaurant’s terrace overlooks the hillside.
The accommodations have natural materials, along with luxurious extras, including baths, private balconies and separate living rooms. The boat-shaped Floating Cottages overlook the misty Shan Mountains, while the two-storey Lotus Villa has a private jetty and an attic-level balcony.
Nearby Attractions
- Inn Tain Pagoda (750 metres)
- Tofu House Inle Lake (900 metres)
- Lin Kin Monastery (2.8 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 124 – USD 370
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: Khaung Daing Village, Nyaung Shwe, Inle Lake, Myanmar
Best Western Chinatown Hotel
Looking for budget-friendly Yangon accommodation? The Best Western Chinatown Hotel offers affordable Superior Rooms with LCD TVs, queen-size beds, mini bars and complimentary Wi-Fi. You can upgrade to an Executive Room for views of Shwedagon Pagoda or splurge on a Junior Suite for a sitting area and workspace.
The on-site Eastern Orchid Café serves an international buffet breakfast and an a la carte menu of Asian and Western favourites, while the three flexible meeting rooms cater to cocktail evenings and conferences. The central hotel is also surrounded by shops and restaurants, including Yangon Book Plaza.
Nearby Attractions
- Mingalar Cinema (750 metres)
- Thakhin Mya Park (1.6 kilometres)
- Pansodan Art Gallery (1.9 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 47 – USD 221
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: 127-137 Anawrahta Road, Corner of Lanmdaw Street, Yangon, Myanmar
Pullman Yangon Centrepoint
Located in the downtown Colonial Quarter overlooking Maha Bandoola Park, the 4-star Pullman Yangon Centrepoint is within walking distance of pagodas and night markets. The hotel has a Thai-inspired wellness centre with rejuvenating treatments and a sauna, along with a gym and an inviting outdoor pool with day beds.
The rooms have views of the gardens, city or river, along with complimentary Wi-Fi, work desks, baths and rainfall showers. Book the Premium Deluxe Room for an additional sitting area. Don’t miss the award-winning Italian wine, cheeses, oils and pastas at E Cucina or the signature cocktails in Gustave Lobby Bar & Lounge.
Nearby Attractions
- Yangon Night Market (600 metres)
- Mahabandula Park (500 metres)
- Sule Pagoda (300 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 116 – USD 264
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: No 65 Corner of Sule Pagoda Rd & Merchant St Kyauktada Township, Yangon, Myanmar
The Loft Hotel Downtown Yangon
The boutique Loft Hotel Downtown Yangon has contemporary guest rooms and duplex suites with plush bedding and natural finishes. The Duplex Suite is the pinnacle of luxury with its mezzanine-level bedroom and private sun terrace, separate living room and Japanese garden.
Alex’s Gastro Bar & Garden pairs a serene garden courtyard setting with delicious local meals and a variety of drinks. You also have access to laundry services, an executive lounge and airport transfers.
Nearby Attractions
- Yangon Zoological Garden (2 kilometres)
- New Zero art gallery (450 metres)
- Sule Pagoda (1.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 76 – USD 174
Guest Rating: 9
Address: No.33, Yaw Min Gyi Street, Dagon Township, Yangon, Myanmar
Hotel Location
Discover the Charms of Myanmar
When visiting Myanmar, it’s best to leave no stone unturned. Otherwise you may miss one of the country’s fascinating pagodas, natural enclaves or memorable dining experiences. We’ve covered some of the highlights, but there’s so much more to discover. Fortunately, you’ve got a great range of hotels to choose from, many of which have their own enticing dining and entertainment.
Where do you want to explore in Myanmar? Let us know in the comments below.
