Myanmar travel FAQs

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a country located in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by China to the north and northeast, India and Bangladesh to the west, and Thailand and Laos to the east and southeast. To the south, Myanmar has a long coastline along the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, making it a significant maritime nation in the region. The country’s capital is Naypyidaw, while Yangon (formerly Rangoon) is its largest city and main commercial and cultural hub.

The safety of visiting Myanmar depends on the current political and security situation, which can vary widely by region and over time. Since the military coup in February 2021, the country has experienced significant political instability, including protests, civil unrest, and localized violence. While some areas, such as major cities like Yangon and Mandalay or popular tourist destinations like Bagan and Inle Lake, may be relatively stable, other regions—particularly those near borders or with ongoing armed conflicts, such as parts of Shan, Kachin, and Rakhine states—should be avoided.

Myanmar is a linguistically diverse country with over 100 languages spoken by its various ethnic groups. The official language is Burmese, which is the most widely spoken language and serves as the primary means of communication in government, education, and media. English is also commonly taught in schools and serves as a second language, especially among educated urban populations. Other languages, such as Chinese, Hindi, Urdu, and Zomi, are spoken within minority communities.

Myanmar vacationers are in for a captivating journey as they navigate the country's three distinct seasons, each with its own allure. From February to May, the nation welcomes travelers with its hottest and driest season, where temperatures can soar to a scorching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). However, there's relief to be found in the higher altitudes, where cooler temperatures offer a more comfortable experience.

During the monsoon season from May to October, Myanmar transforms into a lush paradise. Don't let the term "monsoon" mislead you; this season is relatively mild, with refreshing rains nurturing the landscape and providing a unique perspective of the country's natural beauty.

From October to February, Myanmar takes on a different persona, offering a dry and mild climate that's perfect for vacationers. This period provides an excellent opportunity to explore the country comfortably, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's the ideal time to immerse yourself in the heart of Myanmar's culture, from its bustling markets to its serene pagodas, all set against a backdrop of clear skies and gentle breezes.

The official currency of Myanmar is the Kyat, abbreviated as MMK. The symbol for the Kyat is "Ks." While the Kyat is the primary currency used for transactions in the country, US dollars (USD) are also accepted in some places, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

The international country code for Myanmar is +95.

Myanmar is a country with a diverse range of religions such as Theravada Buddhism (90%), Christianity (4%), Islam (4%), Hinduism.

It really just depends on your spending habits. Generally, it costs about $35 for a budget day in Myanmar including food and drink. The price of traveling from Yangon airport to the city center by car is about $10. Traveling by taxi within the city center depends on your distance. The average journey is about $1.5. We often find that even those who say they don’t like to shop, end up falling in love with some of the unique crafts in Burma and end up bringing back more than they planned. Souvenirs are not as cheap as you’ll find in Thailand but they aren’t super expensive either.

Yes, most travelers to Myanmar require a visa to enter the country. The most common visa for visitors is the tourist visa, which is typically valid for 28 days. Travelers can apply for a tourist visa at a Myanmar embassy or consulate before their trip, or they can opt for an eVisa, which is an online application process that is available for citizens of many countries. The eVisa allows a stay of up to 28 days for tourism purposes. For those traveling for business, a business visa is required, and for those merely passing through Myanmar on their way to another destination, a transit visa may be necessary. Some countries, especially those in the ASEAN region, do not require a visa for short visits, typically ranging from 14 to 30 days.

You have the option to apply for a visa online by filling out the designated application form, or if you're traveling with Go Myanmar Tours, we can handle the application process for you. Further details regarding the visa can be found here.

Chinese citizens can enter certain border regions of Myanmar without a visa for short stays

No, there are no restricted nationalities in Myanmar.

The processing time is minimum 3 working days for normal Business and Tourist eVisa.

The cost of a Myanmar visa varies based on the type of visa, method of application, and the applicant's nationality. For a tourist visa, the fee is approximately $50 USD.

You are permitted to stay 28 days for Tourist Visa, 70 days for Business Visa.

As of January 2025, travel insurance is not legally required for entry into Myanmar.

Most travelers fly into Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, or Naypyidaw International Airport, with flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and other major hubs. Airlines like AirAsia, Thai Airways, and Myanmar National Airlines operate these routes.

Land crossings are possible from Thailand (Mae Sot to Myawaddy, Ranong to Kawthaung), China (Ruili to Muse), and India (Moreh to Tamu), often requiring permits.

As of July 8, 2024, Myanmar has lifted all COVID-19-related travel restrictions, including the mandatory use of face masks. While face masks are no longer required by the government, it's advisable to carry one, as some private establishments or local areas may still enforce their own mask policies.

While we strongly advise all visitors to ensure they are vaccinated against COVID-19 to help curb the spread of the disease, as of September 23rd, 2022, there are no COVID-19 vaccination requirements for adults or children entering Myanmar. Additionally, there is no mandatory quarantine upon arrival.

Random COVID-19 testing will not be conducted at any entry points into Myanmar; however, testing may be arranged if a guest displays symptoms or requests it.

In the event that a guest tests positive for COVID-19 during their stay in Myanmar, they will be allowed entry into the country without undergoing a quarantine period. However, they must adhere to wearing a face mask at all times and observe other precautionary measures until they test negative.

There are no specific COVID-19 protocols for departing Myanmar unless the guest's destination country requires them.

Getting to your hotel from Myanmar’s airports is easy. Taxis are widely available, costing $4–$10 depending on the city. Ride-hailing apps like Grab offer convenient, cashless options in major cities. Some airports have shuttle services, and many hotels offer private transfers if arranged in advance. Public buses are available but can be challenging for first-time visitors.

In Myanmar, there are several transport options available for getting around. Domestic flights are common for long-distance travel, with airlines like Myanmar National Airlines and Air KBZ connecting major cities such as Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, and Heho.

Buses are an affordable option for travel between cities, with VIP buses offering more comfort on longer journeys. Trains are also available, particularly between Yangon and Mandalay, but they are often slow and less comfortable. For short trips, you can hire a vehicle and driver through a car rental company or or a tourism service provider such as a Go Myanmar Tours.

When traveling in Myanmar, wear light and comfortable clothes like cotton or linen. Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, especially at temples. Slip-on shoes are best since you’ll need to take them off at religious sites.

It is strongly advised for all visitors to Myanmar to be accompanied by a guide. This ensures a positive experience while exploring our country and discovering its highlights. Guides also ensure the safety and well-being of visitors, especially in rural areas where encounters with wild animals and challenges posed by altitude and terrain may occur. While guides are not required for every activity, such as dining out and shopping, it is recommended that they accompany visitors for experiences like temple visits and exploring local attractions. Additionally, guides are mandatory for all trekking activities and for journeys extending to visit cultural sites.

For visitors entering Myanmar through land borders, hiring a guide is generally not compulsory, but it is highly recommended, especially for travelers who are unfamiliar with the area or language.

Myanmar provides diverse lodging options, ranging from opulent five-star hotels to charming homestays set in traditional village environments.

Yes, LGBT individuals are allowed to visit Myanmar. The country does not have any laws that explicitly prohibit travel based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and foreign LGBT visitors can generally travel freely.

Myanmar is located in a tropical region, so mosquitoes and other insects are quite prevalent. You should bring insect spay when traveling to Myanmar.

Electrical outlet in Myanmar is 220-240 Volts, and electrical sockets tend to be one of the two European standard types: the "Type C" Europlug and the "Type E"/"Type F" Schuko.

Yes. Ministry of Hotels and Tourism of Myanmar is considered as an information and tourism centre. There are also many information center in the airport and city.

Upon arriving at Yagon International Airport or at banks, major hotels, and authorized currency exchange establishments in Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw, you have the opportunity to exchange your local currency for Kyat.

Burmese law does not limit the amount of foreign currency brought into the country, but any amount over $10,000 must be declared on customs and currency declaration forms. Departing tourists who claim over $10,000 on arrival must have receipts for all items purchased in Burma.

Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted at larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and tourist businesses in cities like Yangon, Mandalay, and Bagan, but many smaller places do not accept them. You may also face transaction fees. ATMs are available in major cities, allowing you to withdraw Myanmar kyat (MMK) with international cards, but withdrawal limits and fees apply. 

However, cash remains the preferred payment method across most of the country, especially outside major cities, so it’s essential to carry enough cash, ideally in US dollars or MMK.

Internet and Wi-Fi in Myanmar are generally good in major cities like Yangon, Mandalay, and Bagan, where many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. Mobile data is also available with local SIM cards at reasonable prices. However, in rural or remote areas, internet connectivity can be slower and less reliable. While 3G and 4G networks are common in cities, coverage may be limited outside urban areas.

Major entry points like Yangon International Airport and Mandalay International Airport have kiosks and shops for the main mobile operators, making it convenient to purchase a SIM card as soon as you land. Official stores for Ooredoo, Telenor, and MPT are also available in cities.

There are no specific regulations regarding attire for visitors. However, when visiting places of religious importance, it is recommended to wear respectful smart-casual attire that covers your body from shoulders to knees, which is both suitable and appreciated.

While a guide is not required in Myanmar, it can enhance your experience, especially in remote areas or when navigating cultural sites. In major tourist cities like Yangon, Bagan, and Mandalay, independent travel is possible, but a guide can provide valuable insights, assist with language barriers, and help with logistics like transportation and accommodation. Hiring a guide can be particularly beneficial for deeper cultural experiences or trekking in less-visited regions.

During your Burma trip, you might explore Diamond Plaza, a glitzy six-story shopping mall in Mandalay, often nestled amidst gold leaf workshops and stores selling traditional crafts. Mandalay, known as Myanmar's cultural capital, offers a wealth of shopping experiences. In Yangon, make sure to visit Bogyoke Aung San Market, where you'll find a wide range of luxury goods, handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and connoisseurs. 

Preserving significant antiques and artifacts within Myanmar is integral to safeguarding our heritage for future generations. We have legislation that outlines which artistic, historical, cultural, religious, social, archaeological, and technical objects cannot be taken out of the country upon departure. To ensure that any items you obtain adhere to these regulations, you will require necessary permits.

If your inquiry relates to your tourism activities, you can contact Ministry of Hotels and Tourism directly at +95673406458. For emergency services, please dial 067 - 420005 for fire, 067 - 420096 for an ambulance, or 067 - 414224 for the police.

Entrance fees at monuments and sites in Myanmar typically do not offer discounts for tourists, but some sites may offer reduced rates for children, students, or local residents. However, foreign visitors usually pay a standard fee. 

Most religious sites are open daily from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to late afternoon (around 6:00 PM). Museums and cultural sites typically open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Street food snack = 300-400-500-800 MMK
Bottle of beer in a bar or restaurant = 1500-2000 MMK
Banquet in a small, locally-run restaurant = 2000-3000 MMK
Dinner in a high-end hotel restaurant = 10,000+ MMK