5 Best Attractions For A Family Vacation In Myanmar (Burma)

Formerly known as Burma, the Southeast Asian country of Myanmar is a fascinating destination for a family vacation. What with its idyllic, white-sand beaches on the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, and its fascinating temples, the country is a unique destination for the family. Read on to find out more about the best attractions in Myanmar for a family vacation.

1. Ngapali Beach, Bay of Bengal, Myanmar

One of the most popular beach destinations in Myanmar, Ngapali Beach offers pristine, palm-backed white sand and the crystal-clear waters of the Bay of Bengal. Formerly just a tiny fishing village, this destination now offers stylish accommodation options. Meanwhile, the fishing village is still there, where the locals are friendly and welcoming.

2. Pindaya Caves, Shan State

Located outside the town of Pindaya in Shan State, Myanmar, Pindaya Caves are an iconic Buddhist pilgrimage site. However, these days they are also a popular tourist attraction. There are three caves tucked in the limestone ridge, but currently, visitors can only explore the most southern one. The cave extends for around 490 feet and the interior is known for more than 8,000 images of Buddha that can be seen there.

Meanwhile, this area in the Myelat region forms part of the ancestral homeland of the Danu people. The site is so iconic scholars are pushing for the caves to be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

3. Hot air balloon ride over Bagan

The unreal and mystical landscape of Bagan with its beautiful pagodas makes it an ideal location for a hot air balloon ride. However, the ballooning season runs from October to the middle of April to avoid the heat. Most balloon rides leave at sunrise when the first golden rays of the sun light up the land. Looking down on this awe-inspiring landscape of ancient Buddhist temples is thrilling for all ages.

Meanwhile, the experience brings to mind the hot air balloons over fascinating Cappadocia in Türkiye. However, the difference is that Cappadocia’s landscape is filled with geological wonders, not temples. Here, the family will gaze down on the beautiful pagodas, sacred peaks, agricultural fields and the shining river below.

4. Inle Lake, Shan State, Myanmar

This beautiful freshwater lake is located in the Taunggyi District of Shan State in Myanmar and is the largest lake in the country. The lake is located at an elevation of 2,900 feet and features a hot water spring on the northwestern shore. Meanwhile, the lake is home to more than 20 species of snails and nine species of fish, found nowhere else in the world.

The lake offers spectacular scenic views, pretty stilt villages on the water and floating gardens. Also, families can shop for unique, traditional handicraft items to take home while watching the local fishermen out on the water.

5. Golden Rock (Kyaiktiyo Zedi)

Locally dubbed Kyaiktiyo Zedi, Gold Rock is a truly iconic sight. A pagoda (zedi) nestles on a huge rock, and both are covered with gold leaf, hence the name. According to the locals, the rock that stands at 3,609 feet above sea level was placed here by a miracle of Buddha. Meanwhile, the pagoda is also said to contain a strand of Buddha’s hair.

Golden Rock is around a five-hour drive from Yangon and includes a long walk up the staircase to the pagoda complex. Due to the long walk, this option is only recommended for families with older children. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy a number of Buddha shrines and viewing platforms.

Take the family to Myanmar for the vacation of a lifetime – a trip that will be remembered for all the children’s lives.