5-Day Myanmar Itinerary for First-Time Tourists

🗓️ Day 1: Arrive in Yangon

Morning: Arrive in Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city.

Explore:

Shwedagon Pagoda: Begin your day with a visit to this iconic golden pagoda, a must-see for all visitors.

Sule Pagoda: Situated in the city center, it offers a glimpse into the history and architecture of Yangon.

Bogyoke Aung San Market: Perfect for picking up local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Afternoon:

Kandawgyi Lake: Take a relaxing stroll along the lake and enjoy views of the Karaweik Palace.

Overnight: Yangon

🗓️ Day 2: Yangon → Bagan (Flight or Bus)

Morning: Fly or take a bus from Yangon to Bagan (about 1 hour by flight).

Explore:

Bagan Archaeological Zone: Visit some of Bagan’s most famous temples, including Ananda Temple, Thatbyinnyu Temple, and Shwezigon Pagoda.

Sunset Viewpoint: Head to a higher pagoda (e.g., Shwesandaw Pagoda) for a stunning sunset over the Bagan plains.

Evening: Optional Irrawaddy River cruise for a peaceful end to the day.

Overnight: Bagan

🗓️ Day 3: Full Day in Bagan

Morning: Take a hot air balloon ride over Bagan (available from November to March).

Explore by E-Bike or Horse Cart:

Htilominlo Temple and Sulamani Temple: These temples feature stunning murals and architecture.

Bagan Lacquerware Workshop: Visit a local workshop to see how traditional lacquerware is made.

Lunch: Enjoy local dishes at one of Bagan’s charming restaurants.

Afternoon:

Mt. Popa (Optional): If time permits, take a half-day trip to Mount Popa to climb the 777 steps to the Taung Kalat Monastery, which offers panoramic views.

Evening: Relax and enjoy the sunset over Bagan’s temples.

Overnight: Bagan

🗓️ Day 4: Bagan → Mandalay (Flight or Bus)

Morning: Fly or take a bus from Bagan to Mandalay (about 1 hour by flight).

Explore:

Mandalay Hill: Visit for a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

Mahamuni Buddha Temple: One of the most important religious sites in Myanmar.

Kuthodaw Pagoda: Home to the World’s Largest Book—a collection of Buddhist scriptures inscribed on stone slabs.

Evening: Watch the sunset from the iconic U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest teak bridge.

Overnight: Mandalay

🗓️ Day 5: Mandalay → Inle Lake (Flight or Bus)

Morning: Fly or take a bus from Mandalay to Inle Lake (about 1 hour by flight).

Explore:

Boat Tour on Inle Lake: Explore the floating gardens, traditional stilt houses, and local markets.

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda: One of the most sacred pagodas in Myanmar.

Inle Lake Villages: Visit local villages known for their unique weaving and silversmithing.

Evening: Relax by the lake and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Overnight: Inle Lake

🧳 Travel Notes:

Transportation: Domestic flights are the quickest option between destinations. Buses and taxis are also available, but flights will save time.

Best Time to Visit: November to February for cooler, dry weather.

Packing Tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for temple visits, and a good camera for the stunning landscapes.