Myanmar is a country rich in history, culture, and traditions. It is midway between urbanization and traditions, so you will see an incredible mix of modern and old when you visit. Pagodas seem scattered across the landscape, nowhere more apparent than in Bagan.
They even grace balancing rocks and the centre of cities. But while pagodas, which are great to explore for solo travel in Myanmar, are some of the biggest attractions here, the country also flaunts stunning natural landscapes and tourist-friendly beaches. It is also popular among Buddhist followers as it is home to many Buddhist temples. Just check out the list of places to visit in Myanmar to see what this Southeast Asian area offers. If you are considering a solo trip to Myanmar, it will be an incredible experience.
You will experience ancient traditions, unique dress, and a relaxed way of life. There are some stunning temples, friendly local people, and many fascinating sites. It is a fantastic destination, and a solo trip will give you insight into this fascinating Buddhist country. Remnants of British colonial History are easy to find, and many people speak English when you are going on a solo travel experience in Myanmar.
This makes it easy to communicate when travelling to Myanmar, especially in tourist areas. There are golden pagodas and beautiful Buddha statues throughout Myanmar, such as the one pictured above from Yangon in the Nga Htat Gyi Pagoda. This impressive Buddha statue is three storeys tall and decorated with gold leaves and intricate wood carvings. While travelling in Myanmar, you will visit many beautiful Buddhist temples and see countless stunning statues of the Buddha.
36 Top Places to Visit in Myanmar in 2025
We have listed the top attractions for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar while on your trip. Keep scrolling down and reading along. Choose what areas you will cover on your solo trip.
1. Sule Pagoda: Destination For Meditation
Downtown Yangon is home to the Sule Pagoda, a place of peace and meditation amid the bustling city. It is believed to be over 2000 years old and is at the top of the list of destinations. In devotees because it houses a hair relic of Buddha. Tourists often overlook the Sule Pagoda on their solo travel itinerary to Myanmar. Still, it should be figured in your travels because it is one of Yangon's only points of interest.
2. Mount Popa: Paradise For Hikers
If you are in Mandalay, make it a point to visit Mount Popa. If you love hiking, the extinct volcano is not just magnificent; the Popa Taungkalat Monastery, perched on an outcrop, tops it. Seven hundred seventy-seven steps will take you to the top, and then you will reward yourself with panoramic views of the plains. It is one of the best places for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar.
3. Chauk Htat Gyi Buddha Temple: Pay A Visit
Myanmar is known worldwide for its Buddhist temples, and the Chauk Htat Gyi Buddha Temple is one of them. It houses a vast 65-meter reclining Buddha. It is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar, especially if you travel solo to Myanmar's temples. Even if you have seen many reclining Buddhas, this image's relaxed pose and peaceful expression are incredibly calming.
4. Shwedagon Pagoda: The Most Sacred Pagoda
Myanmar sightseeing is incomplete without visiting the fabulous gilded Shwedagon Pagoda. It is considered to be one of the most sacred pagodas in Myanmar. Over 2000 years old, with hundreds of gold plates and more than 4500 diamonds encrusting the top of the stupa, it is an architectural wonder that will take your breath away. If there is only one Pagoda you can visit during your travels and tours in Myanmar, it must be included in your Solo Travel Guide to Myanmar.
5. Bagan: For Breathtaking Views
The old city of Bagan may be one of the most fascinating places to visit in Myanmar. Over 2000 Buddhist monuments dot the Bagan Archaeological Zone, which covers 26 square miles. The best way to see this stunning city is to hop into a hot-air balloon and fly over it. The rides take place in the early hours of the morning. Carry a good camera to take photos of the monuments from above when you are travelling solo to Myanmar.
6. Inle Lake: Go for Boating
Inle Lake is the second-largest lake in the country and occupies one of the highest elevations. It is situated in Shan and is home to many endemic snail and fish species. Although their numbers have dwindled, solo travellers can only see one of the best places to visit in Myanmar by boat. As you move towards the village of Dein, two groups of old pagodas will greet you: the Shwe pagodas and Nyaung Ohak pagodas.
7. Ngwe Saung: Laze Around On The Beach
Beaches, these little-known gems, are incredibly picturesque and have all the hallmarks of great beaches. Palm trees, blue seas, and pale sands are great places to spend lazy days soaking in the sun. Ngwe Saung, or Silver Beach, is one of the top attractions for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar. There are scuba diving and snorkelling facilities where you can explore the water. Cafes and restaurants nearby serve dish after dish of lip-smacking seafood and snacks. Beaches are best visited during December- April, when spring lends to warm weather.
8. Kyaiktiyo Pagoda: Witness the Balanced Rock
Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, also known as Golden Rock in Mon State, is one of the most striking places in the country because of its location. It is perched on a boulder covered with gold leaves, one of the great places for solo travel experiences in Myanmar. The boulder looks to defy gravity as it properly balances itself on another rock atop Mt. Kyaiktiyo. The boulder is believed to be in its unusual position by the hair relic enshrined in the Pagoda.
9. Kakku Pagodas: Gape At The Symmetry
Visiting Kakku Pagodas, believed to date back over 2000 years, makes you feel like you have entered another world filled with stupas. Around 2,500 of them dot the hills near Inle Lake. Some have fallen into ruin, but many are well preserved. You can also see a few restored stupas. This is one of the best places for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar.
10. Mahamuni Buddha Temple: Take a Dip In The Culture
The country's list of places to go ends with the Mahamuni Buddhist Temple. This vital pilgrimage site houses one of the most revered Buddha images, a 13-foot-tall sculpture covered in gold leaves. To the extent that parts of the sculpture appear damaged. The Temple complex is one of the top attractions for solo travellers in Myanmar. It also houses the Mahamuni Museum, which educates visitors on Buddha's life. There are also shops selling offerings if you come without them.
11. Kalaw: Ideal For Adventure Fanatics
If you visit Myanmar, it is solely to calm your adventure; Kalaw is where you must be. This place was one of the least explored areas. Still, it has gradually crept through the tourist scene because of its excellent trekking trails and beautiful picture-friendly destinations that must be included in your solo travel itinerary for Myanmar. The country's eastern mountains are currently taking up the overall seam of every trekker's dream in Myanmar. It is situated atop the beautiful and magical stature of the Shan Hills. It was initially considered a mountain town under British rule. Owing to its altitude, it was considered a fantastic spot to beat the burning Myanmar heat. The destination is packed with resorts and hotels and has an excellent food market. The best aspect is that you can hike through without a permit.
12. Mandalay: A Popular Pilgrimage Site
Mandalay, one of the famous towns for solo travel in Myanmar, is known worldwide for its rich heritage due to its contributions made by some of the dynasties that existed back then. The place also highlights the doings of the mighty Shwenandaw Monastery and is considered around for its plethora of areas that are not just prose but poetry, too.
This Temple has been considered one of the most critical factors in the rich History and literature of the place around it. This is the second biggest town in Myanmar. It is best for pilgrims and people who love visiting temples and amazing picture-friendly surroundings. Maha Myat Muni, or the Royal Palace, is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites and is excellent for solo travelling in Myanmar.
13. Ngapali: Opt for Watersports
Yet another of the must-visit places in Myanmar is Ngapali. This is the most popular sand stretch around Myanmar, making up for one of Myanmar's most famous relaxing spots. The combination of yellow and white sand makes it one of the most beautiful spots to sit and tan yourself and let loose the thoughts that intrigue you. It is an excellent place for a solo trip to Myanmar as it is situated around the Bay of Bengal, and the vibrant hues of the blue waves add to the beauty of the place even further. The salt-washed boats often come ashore in and out of the bay, making it one of the most relaxing experiences. You can also indulge in famous water sports, like scuba diving, jet skiing, sea kayaking, and more.
14. Pindaya: Trek and Explore Places
The country is widely known for its religious beliefs, and Pindaya is one of the off-the-beaten-track sites you may encounter. Even this is situated on the rise of the majestic Shan Hills, predominantly in the eastern Myelat region, and does make up for one of the sites infiltrated by tourists. It is one of the best places for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar. It is predominantly known for providing a glimpse into the Buddhist histories of the nation. The entire landmark is wholly formed from a series of deep caves and is home to over 8000 images of Lord Buddha. The statues and pictures are adorned in beautiful hues of gold and brass with a glittering effect under caverns.
15. Hsipaw: Hiker's Dream Location
As brutal to spell as the name Hsipaw, it is an enthralling location loved and adored by tourists all year round. This is every adventurer and trekker's trail they sport. It was the capital of the kingdom of Shan back in the day and slowly became a trekking spot for tourists over the years. It is even fighting off to take the palace of Kalaw as one of the most loved trekking spots around, providing solo travel experiences in Myanmar. The mystique views of the sun-scorched forest and rich cultural traditions can keep you locked in its beauty longer than you could have imagined. Check out the town's central market for a fantastic experience and get some gifts.
16. Hpa An: For Mesmerising Views
Hpa An is a very famous traveller town around Myanmar which is not necessarily a lot visited by tourists but does make up for providing you with a fantastic experience altogether. This specific town's rugged and rustic vibes make it unique and loved by most tourists. It is situated across the tranquil and reflective waters of the Thanlwin River. One of the most essential and top attractions for solo travellers in Myanmar around Hpa An is the Zaydan Road, littered with coffee joints and amazing relaxing spots. The lakeside of Kan Thar Yar is another fantastic spot, so make sure you enjoy the water's reflective transparency when walking along it.
17. Mawllamyine: Perfect Rustic Countryside
If you are all done with the rustic countryside and small towns, then Mawlamyine can be a good change in those terms. It offers you a break from the same and does contribute to your city's demands. It is located in the territory of Mon, close to the borders of Thailand, and is well known and appreciated for its excellent cultural forefront. Apart from the city's hustle and bustle, you can visit pagodas like the Mahamuni Paya, famous for its architectural creativity and solo travel in Myanmar. You can even see the Uzina Paya stupa, one of the most popular sites for pilgrims.
18. Mergui: Sail Around the Place
The Mergui Archipelago is known around the globe for its pool of destinations it showcases. Some of its scattered parts are around the Andaman Islands, often regarded as the Myeik Archipelago and the Pashu Islands. Each place has a unique character, which makes it great for a solo trip to Myanmar. It was not just a relaxing day there but also a good chunk of the beauty of the place. It is a restful day there, and there are many activities around here, including fantastic sailing expeditions.
19. Naypyidaw: For a Vivid Experience
The authorities and delegates follow the list of fantastic places to visit in Myanmar. Owing to its mesmerizing beauty, the palace is the country's capital. It is not a destination you will come across like every other one. In Myanmar, the Burmese military leader Ghan Shwe announced the palace as the capital of 2005. Make sure you visit the parliament complexes and the infamous Uppatasanti pagoda to add to your vivid solo travel experiences in Myanmar.
20. Mrauk U: Most Visited Site
Yet another picture-friendly and popular attraction is the off-the-beaten-track destination of Mrauk U. It is considered one of the best alternatives to visiting Bagan because of the similarities between the majestic hills of the Rakhine State in the far western reaches of the country. The place is rich in many stupas and temples, which are the primary attractions of that specific tourist site. You should visit the age-old Arakanese religious building, one of Myanmar's top attractions for solo travellers.
21. Shan State: Offbeat Destination
While you might often come across destinations to visit in and around the Shan State, you wouldn't necessarily come across someone suggesting you explore the Shan State itself. Once you are done exploring the popular sites of attraction in and around Shan, take a day or two to simply and casually stroll around the state. You can even get engrossed in its beauty altogether. One of the best places to visit in Myanmar for solo travellers is known for its picture-friendly landscape. The best thing about this place is the wide range of delectable cuisine you can try around here.
22. Gokteik Viaduct: Opt For a Train Ride
If history intrigues you, you should visit Gokteik Viaduct. The best way to reach this bridge is by taking the train across the longest railway bridge in Myanmar. The entire bridge was completed around 1901, which adds to the overall excitement and the History of the place. The bridge is 2300 feet long and 30 miles from Pyin Oo Lwin, one of the best places for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar. You will witness this bridge on the way to Mandalay, and the overall experience of riding through is something you would be a complete fool to miss out on.
23. Macleod Island: Witness The Bucolic Nature
While you need a recluse from constantly visiting the places of pilgrimage around Myanmar, Macleod Island is a good enough place to visit. It is located in the far southern end of Myanmar and is one of the 800 untouched islands in the Andaman Sea. Not only do you see a fantastic view all around, but the island also has a variety of flora and fauna that further make up for the overall experience of visiting this destination, one of the top attractions for solo travellers in Myanmar. If tropical weather is something you want to experience while in Myanmar, then visiting Macleod Island is the best option for you to venture into.
24. Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda: Admire The Lush Greenery
Last but not least on the viewing spot list is the Kyauk Ka lat Pagoda, near Hpa An. The Kyauk Ka lat Pagoda's limestone tower leaves every tourist speechless and in awe. Apart from the Pagoda itself, you also experience the lush greenery surrounding it, which adds to its beauty and is a must-have in your solo travel itinerary for Myanmar.
25. Thanboddhay Paya: Colourful Interior and Exterior
You will be amazed after acknowledging that this Temple flaunts 5,823,631 pictures of Buddha on its premises. Now you know it is not popular just like that. Also, the colourful interior and exterior of this Temple will impress you. So make sure you add to your itinerary while visiting Myanmar with family and friends. This is one of the most interesting places to visit on your solo trip to Myanmar.
26. Kandawgyi Park: Spend Recreational Time
If you are looking for peace on a holiday, this is the perfect place. The park was made during the colonial period and was essential to the British rulers. Now, it is one of the best places to relax your mind and soul. It provides picture-friendly views, too, so ensure you consider it in your list of tourist places in Myanmar.
27. Bagan Archaeological Museum: Check Out The Murals
The government runs the museum, providing insight into a vast collection of pieces from the ruins of Bagan, one of the best places for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar. From inscribed images to murals, it has an extensive collection that you should look into. It also has proof that shows how the people of Bagan lived in old times, which is why it is one of the most famous places in Myanmar.
28. Dukkanthein: See The Spiral Structure
This is one of the distinctive temples in Myanmar. Its spiral structure in the interior will take your breath away. It has three different sides, led by broad stone steps. Each side showcases different things. The temples have various Buddha images that are just beautiful.
29. Bodhi Tataung: For Buddha Statues
Your trip is incomplete without visiting this place, which is great for solo travel in Myanmar. This Temple features the world's second-largest Buddha statue, which is the most incredible. The statue comprises 31 storeys, which you can climb to witness the paintings. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Myanmar.
30. Taukkyan Wat Cemetrey: Salute To The Brave Soldiers
Suppose you are looking for historical tourist places in Myanmar. Then, you must visit the popular Taukkyan War Cemetery, built for the soldiers who died in the battle of Burma during World War II. The cemetery is situated in Taukkyan village, 25 kilometres from Yangon, and is one of the best places for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar. It receives peak tourist footfall yearly and is still maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
31. Maha Bandoola Garden: Relax and Unwind Here
Searching for recreational places to visit in Yangon? After sightseeing, you can relax with your friends or family and unwind. Earlier, this place was called Fytche Square. It was dedicated to Albert Fytche, the Chief Commissioner of British Burma. This place was remodelled over the years, and the park we see has existed since 2012. It should be included in your solo travel itinerary to Myanmar.
32. Mingun Temple: Explore the Ruins
Another popular place in Myanmar is Mingun Temple, an unfinished project started by King Bodawpaya in 1790. People who are nature lovers and history buffs head to this place to explore the ruins and learn more about its History. The story of this place fascinates several tourists, so you must explore it during your vacation in Sri Lanka.
33. Thatbyinnyu Temple: Pay A Visit With Family
Thatbyinnyu Temple's History dates back to the 20th century during the reign of King Alaungsithu. It is situated in Bagan and is one of the top places for solo travellers to see in Myanmar. A vacation to this place with family calls for a visit to Thatbyinnyu Temple. The Temple is shaped like an asymmetrical cross and has two storeys, one of which bears the image of Buddha.
34. Htilominlo Temple: Cherish The Intricate Work
There is no dearth of Buddhist temples in Myanmar, so the other one is the Htilominlo Temple in Bagan. It is believed that it is one of the oldest temples in Myanmar, and the construction of this one can be dated back to the reign of King Htilominlo during 1211-1231. With a total height of 46 meters, the Temple is three storeys tall and is built mainly of red brick. The best part to explore here is the intricate plastic mouldings, so ensure you include them in your list of best places for solo travellers to visit in Myanmar.
35. Saddar Cave: Haven for Buddhist Followers
The Saddar cave is one of its kind in Myanmar, and it has been adorned with hundreds of Buddhist idols over the years. Once you reach the cave, you will see several miniature Buddha statues that add to its beauty. Inside the caves, you will also witness brilliant rock formations illuminated with a flash. There should be no doubt that it is one of the top tourist places in Myanmar to explore.
36. Purcell Tower: In The Heart of Myanmar
Wondering where to go on a solo trip to Myanmar? Well, it is just the right place for you, under the name Purcell Tower. You will get to know this off-white, red tower in the heart of the country with a clock studded on the top. This is indeed a must-visit place. Your vacation will remain incomplete. So scribble it down to include it in your itinerary.
Is Myanmar safe for solo travellers?
While there is a lot of poverty in rural areas, the strict Buddhist religion in the country prohibits violence or crime. As a result, solo travel in Myanmar is generally very safe in tourist areas. There are some parts of the country that you should NOT travel to. There is resistance to Myanmar's military government, with political unrest and violence in some parts of the country.
Money For Myanmar Travel
- When you arrive at the airport, change money; the exchange rate is as good as in the banks.
- The 'Kyat' is the local currency in Myanmar.
- The exchange rate is favourable if you spend hard currency while travelling in Myanmar.
- ATMs and banks are easy to find, and it is easy to get money from a credit card, which is important to notice in the solo travel guide of Myanmar.
- Credit cards are not accepted everywhere, so cash is usually in US dollars or local currency.
- Bring new US dollars and keep them flat, not folded, or they may not be accepted.
- Change your leftover Kyats before you leave the country, or they may become souvenirs. You will probably have trouble changing them outside Myanmar.
Internet access for Travelling in Myanmar
- The Internet is cheap and reliable in built-up areas in Myanmar. Buying a SIM card is much more affordable than roaming and more reliable than free Wi-Fi. Also, most hotels provide free Wi-Fi, which is essential to know when travelling solo in Myanmar.
Language for Myanmar Travel
- The official language of Myanmar is Burmese, and several minority indigenous languages are also used.
- English is widely spoken in cities and monasteries, but it may be harder to communicate in rural areas.
- The locals are very welcoming and friendly; communication is not a problem.
Dress and Etiquette for Myanmar Travel
- Dress modestly on a solo trip to Myanmar, especially if you are a strict Buddhist. People are very religious. Both men and women wear traditional longyi (long wrap skirts), and modest dress is customary. Knees and shoulders must be covered when visiting temples and monasteries.
- The popular Shwedagon pagoda in Yangon has a stringent dress code, and visitors will not be allowed to enter unless they are dressed appropriately.
- Never point your feet towards the Buddha when sitting. This isn't nice, and you will probably be told to sit correctly. Sit on your legs with your feet pointing behind you. If in doubt, copy the locals.
- Remember, a smile is a universal language and will most likely be reciprocated when travelling solo to Myanmar.
- Do not touch people you meet. Shaking hands is considered bad manners.
- Take money in smaller notes when you visit temples, as you may be often asked for donations. Monks and nuns rely entirely on donations of food and money from the local community. It is considered bad manners to refuse to donate if asked when travelling to Myanmar.
6 Important Safety Tips for Solo Travellers
Travelling solo can be an enriching experience. But when you go on your solo journey to discover a new place, we encourage you to stay safe and cautious. Read the Myanmar solo advice for solo adventurers below.
We have mentioned some key safety tips for making solo travel fun and memorable.
Vehicle of Choice
Drive a small car that is easy to manoeuvre and park in the right place. Try to pick a car that gives you good mileage. A smaller vehicle would also make sure you do not have space to provide a lift to a random stranger.
Carry a map at all times.
Carrying a map with you wherever solo travelling in Myanmar can be beneficial. Instead of letting a stranger know you are lost, stop looking at your map for a while and figure out where you need to be if you are on the road—it's Google Maps!
Ensure your family knows your schedule.
When travelling solo, one of the first rules is to give the family details of your stay and itinerary. Tell them about your schedule so that if your phone does not catch the signal at any point, they still know exactly where you are and won't worry. One of the most essential Myanmar solo travel tips is to use most cars' connectivity to sync up your phone to speak with family quickly.
Keep your valuables inside your bag.
Pickpockets always look for cameras, phones, and other expensive gadgets you might carry while discovering a new city. Ensure you use these gadgets only when needed and try not to flaunt them. Keep the belongings under your car seat away from prying eyes.
Do not disclose your details.
You might meet many new people and can even make friends with locals. But remember that your place of stay or any other personal information should not be disclosed at any point, especially when on a solo trip to Myanmar. Avoid trusting unquestioningly, especially when travelling solo.
Learn emergency phrases
It is good to know a hello or a thank you in the local language, but it is even better to learn phrases that will help you in an emergency, like losing your way or needing to call the police.
Best Time To Visit in Myanmar
November and March are the best time for solo travellers to visit Myanmar. The weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. However, this is also the peak tourism season, so flights, food, and accommodation prices are usually higher.
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