Myanmar is said to possess the primeval charm of Asia showcased via its spectacular nature and gracious people. Without a doubt, this golden land is the ideal destination for ecotourism, in which the tourists come to experience and evaluate the rich national parks and wildlife here.

If you’re thinking of the Myanmar Ecotour, it’s your turn to commence such the once-in-a-lifetime journey to 40 National Parks system in Burma, including the Wildlife Sanctuaries, Bird Sanctuaries, Protected Areas, etc. The parks are all managed by the Wildlife Department of Ministry of Forestry. So, which Parks to visit for the best ecotourism experience? Though there are many, three candidates stand out of the crowds.

#1: Khakaborazi National Park

With the height of 9,052 meters, Khakaborazi is the highest mountain in Myanmar where the significant National Park was built in 1996. The park formerly served as the nature reserve and then it was recognized as the National Park in 1998 for protecting the rich biodiversity surrounding the mountain.

This eco-site is full of pine and deciduous forests that attract many rare butterflies such as the yellow-and-black Swallowtail. Besides, Khakaborazi National Park stores some species of the native orchids. Today, many tourists and climbers visit the Park and make it the great base camp to enjoy the scenic views from the mountain peak.

#2: Nat Ma Taung National Park

ASEAN granted Nat Ma Taung (Mount Victoria) the great title as Myanmar’s newest Heritage Park in October 2012. The Park itself was founded in 1994 and covered the area of 720 square kilometers. Such area protects the evergreen and mixed forests associated with the rare species of orchids and butterflies that are only found in Myanmar. About the wildlife here, it includes the leopards, wild boars, tigers, gibbons, and hundreds of the different species of birds. There are lots of endangered species protected in this natural park.

#3: Hlawaga National Park

About 35km to the north of Yangon, Hlawaga National Park is the popular destination for the eco-tourists who have the strong passion for the wildlife. The park also attracts many families coming to witness up to 21 different species of mammals, 145 species of birds, and 8 kinds of reptiles. Besides, the presence of the mini zoo lets you see how some wild animals like tigers, leopards, crocodiles, and bears live in an authentic manner. You can also expect to experience the elephant ride, rock climbing, boating, and trekking through the green park.

In fact, Myanmar Ecotourism has won the eco-tourists’ praises for its rich collection of national parks & wildlife. Some other great options are Popa Mountain National Park, Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park, Lenya National Park, Lampi Island Marine National Park, National Kandawgyi Botanical Garden, etc. These fantastic options ensure the eco-travelers to see the wildlife and biodiversity in Myanmar fully. Check out Myanmar ecological tour 10 days here !

Apart from the golden temples and pagodas or the enigmatic history, Myanmar National Parks delights the nature lovers via the real safari experience in the lush and mixed deciduous forest, hill grassland, pine trees, etc. And, the interesting wildlife makes the National Parks their homes as well as the popular destinations for the adventurers in the world.

Travelling to Myanmar (previously Burma) is like stepping into a different world, filled with spirituality and adventure. Long isolated from the world, Myanmar is finally opening up. With heartwarming people, breath-taking landscapes, and some of the most impressive ancient temples in Asia, Myanmar is the perfect destination for those after an authentic escapade, off the beaten path. Follow our top Myanmar travel tips to make the most of your travels…

When to go

Luckily you can travel to Myanmar all year round, although November to February are fairly busy months (especially with Chinese New Year) and accommodation availability can be tricky.

Visa & passport advice

When planning your trip to Myanmar, it’s important to ensure your passport is up to date. You’ll need at least 6 months validity beyond your intended return date to get a Burmese visa. You’ll also need to have a visa before you arrive. Single-entry tourist visas last 28 days and cost US$25.

Safety

Myanmar is a very safe country to visit—in fact, I would say it’s probably the safest. The Buddhist culture discourages crime and so thefts or robberies are very rare. Since the 2015 elections, the country is gradually democratising, and the influence of the military has diminished.

If you’re consulting the FCO’s foreign travel advice you will see most of the country marked green, though with several specific areas marked yellow (‘advise against all but essential travel’).

We work with local partners who have operated in Myanmar for years, and our network of local guides know their areas like the back of their hands. Myanmar is considered a safe destination for tourists, including solo female travellers.

Money

The national currency of Myanmar is the Burmese Kyat (pronounced chat). It often appears as ‘K’ or ‘MMK’ and it only comes in notes.

ATMs are now plentiful in airports, cities, and major tourist destinations, though occasionally travellers find that their debit cards don’t work in Myanmar. Bringing cash is a good idea: do make sure to take clean unfolded notes (folded or tattered notes may not be accepted) and US dollars are more easily exchanged than Pound sterling.

Note that travellers cheques are not generally accepted anywhere.

Food

Myanmar is brimming with culinary delights, offering its own distinct cuisine though also influenced by Chinese, Indian and Thai cuisine.

Your first thing to try is a Burmese curry, which is not just a meal but an experience. After your main dish a seemingly never-ending succession of little side dishes will follow, making this a true foodie adventure.

Myanmar is also known from some specific dishes, such as the tea leaf salad known as lephet, Shan-style rice, and the Mohinga breakfast — fine, round rice noodles served in a hearty broth.

What to see

Myanmar is a very cultural destination and there’s plenty of interesting places to see. Of course, we highly recommend including key sights such as the cities of Yangon and Mandalay, Inle Lake, and the temples of Bagan.

Our tour of Inle Lake takes you off the usual tourist trail and lets you experience village life on the lake, while our cycling tour in Bagan gives you a local guide as well as ample free time to explore some of the hidden temples around the area. If you want to do something a bit different, you can also visit the fringed shores of Ngapali Beach (yup, Myanmar has also a beach!) located on the Bay of Bengal coast, in Rakhine State. Cocktail in hand simply kick back and relax.

Oh – and don’t miss the less famous (but no less interesting!) locations such as the hidden temples of Mrauk U, the emerald hills of Kalaw, or the charming colonial city of Pyin Oo Lwin. It’s especially the smaller places that give you a true taste of Burma.

Etiquette

The typical Myanmar character is friendly, helpful and polite, so please do smile, it’ll lighten up everyone’s day.

Don’t touch anyone on the head as it’s considered an aggressive action, even for children.

Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting pagodas and temples also take off your shoes and socks. If you need to sit, please ensure your feet are tucked away so they never face the Buddhas.

Don’t disturb people praying or meditating and try to be as quiet as possible when in sacred areas.

Learn a few words in Burmese, the locals love it!
mingala ba – ‘hello’
thwa:bi – ‘good night’ or ‘good bye’
kyei:zu:tin ba de – ‘thank you’

You might experience electricity outages. Please remember Myanmar is very much unspoilt by mass tourism and it can have its limitations.

Inspiration

Myanmar is a truly cultural, unspoiled destination and it offers plenty of opportunities for meaningful experiences. If you like a bit of moderate trekking Myanmar is the perfect destination for paths-less-travelled.

If you’ve got enough time you can also combine a trip to Myanmar with neighbouring Thailand. With easy flight connections between Bangkok and Yangon, you’ll be able to experience Myanmar’s tranquility with buzzing Thailand.

Click here and our experienced travel agent specialist can help you organize the time of your life!