Myanmar Travel Guide
Country Southeast Asian country known for diverse cultures
Rangoon’s Shwedagon Pagoda, a sprawling complex of golden spires, attracts those seeking spiritual solace and architectural marvels. Beyond the capital, Bagan’s ancient temples rise from the plains, while Inle Lake’s stilted villages and floating gardens offer a serene glimpse into traditional life. Myanmar’s allure lies in its contrasts.
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Why Visit Myanmar #
Bagan’s plains filled with thousands of pagodas are a must - sunrise or sunset from a temple gives the clearest sense of scale. Hot-air balloons are popular but pricey; climbing a permitted temple at dawn gives an intimate experience without the fanfare and makes for excellent photography.
Inle Lake’s stilt villages, floating gardens and leg-rowing fishermen create an unusual lakeside culture. Rent a boat for a half-day to visit silk workshops, Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda and local markets; choose a longtail with a driver who knows the less touristy channels.
Yangon’s Shwedagon Pagoda is Myanmar’s spiritual heart: gilded, ornate and alive with devotees at dusk. It’s large and sometimes crowded, but the layered rituals and the evening light give a memorable, solemn atmosphere - dress respectfully and linger to watch nighttime candle offerings.
Kyaiktiyo (Golden Rock) is a dramatic pilgrimage site built on a balancing boulder, reachable by a steep, scenic climb and minibuses from Kinpun. The climb and the ritual atmosphere are part of the attraction; visit at sunset for cooler temperatures and to see pilgrims in full swing.
Mandalay’s cultural hustle and the sunset at U Bein Bridge in Amarapura make a compelling tandem: crafts, royal sites and a long teak-bridge silhouette over Taungthaman Lake. It’s best enjoyed slowly, with time for a workshop visit to see traditional gold-leaf and woodcraft.
Who's Myanmar For?
Ancient temple sunsets in Bagan and slow boat trips on Inle Lake can be deeply romantic, but current political tensions mean check advisories before planning.
Historically family-friendly temple visits and boat tours exist, but instability and variable infrastructure make family travel unpredictable and often inadvisable right now.
Once a backpacker staple with cheap guesthouses in Yangon and Bagan, recent conditions and travel advisories have reduced overland independence and hostel reliability.
Due to sanctions, limited banking options and unstable connectivity outside main cities, Myanmar is currently unsuitable for sustained remote-work setups.
Burmese classics like mohinga and tea-leaf salad reward curious eaters in Yangon markets; street stalls deliver bold, understudied flavors.
Boat trips, temple cycling and lake treks around Inle are appealing, but trekking in some regions is restricted and travelers should heed current warnings.
Nightlife in Yangon and Mandalay exists on a small scale, but the scene is subdued and travel advisories affect international nightlife tourism.
Riverine landscapes of the Irrawaddy and remote forest areas are ecologically rich, yet access and safety are variable in many regions today.
Best Places to Visit in Myanmar
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Where to Go in Myanmar #
Bagan
An ancient temple landscape of stupas and pagodas stretching across the plain-Bagan is Myanmar’s most iconic archaeological area. Sunrise and sunset over pagoda-strewn horizons are unforgettable, and bicycle or e-bike is a relaxed way to explore. The site’s scale and spiritual atmosphere reward slow, deliberate wandering.
Top Spots
- Temple Plains - Thousands of pagodas across a dusty plain.
- Sunset Points - Balloon flights and golden-hour views.
- Nyaung-U Market - Local life and souvenirs.
Yangon
The country’s largest city and cultural crossroads, Yangon mixes colonial streets with bustling markets and holy sites. Shwedagon dominates the skyline and is essential at dawn or dusk. Yangon is a sensory, chaotically charming place to sample street food, antique shops and Myanmar’s urban pulse.
Top Spots
- Shwedagon Pagoda - Myanmar’s gilded spiritual heart.
- Bogyoke Aung San Market - Crafts, jade and street food.
- Downtown District - Colonial architecture and trams.
Inle Lake
A tranquil freshwater lake ringed by mountains, famous for its one-legged oarsmen, floating gardens and stilted villages. Boat trips reveal local weaving workshops, markets and monastery life. It’s a relaxed region rich in craft traditions and photogenic daily rhythms.
Top Spots
- Floating Gardens - Unique leg-rowing fishermen and markets.
- Inle Villages - Stilted houses and local crafts.
- Phaung Daw Oo - Important lakeside pagoda festival.
Mandalay
Upper Myanmar’s cultural centre, where royal history and craft industries remain visible in monasteries and bridge crossings. U Bein Bridge’s sunsets and Mandalay’s marble carvings draw photographers and culture seekers. Use the city as a base for river trips and visits to nearby historical sites.
Top Spots
- Mandalay Hill - Panoramic city views at sunset.
- Amarapura - U Bein Bridge and traditional silk workshops.
- Mingun - Unfinished stupa and giant bell.
Rakhine Coast
Western seaboard with some of Myanmar’s best beaches and a quieter, less-touristed feel. Ngapali is the standout for palm-backed sands and seafood, while Mrauk U offers atmospheric temple mounds further inland. The region is remote, atmospheric and an appealing diversion from busier circuits.
Top Spots
- Ngapali - Palm-fringed beaches and low-key resorts.
- Mrauk U - Stone temple ruins and remote archaeology.
- Thandwe - Gateway to coastal retreats.
Mergui Archipelago
A remote chain of largely uninhabited islands in the far south, prized for diving, snorkeling and deserted beaches. Travel is by liveaboard or charter dhow and infrastructure is minimal, so trips are rustic and expedition-like. Expect excellent marine biodiversity and real isolation for adventurous travellers.
Top Spots
- Diving Sites - Pristine reefs and marine life.
- Remote Islands - Uninhabited beaches and simple camps.
- Traditional Dhow Cruises - Island-hopping by wooden boat.
Top Things to Do in Myanmar
All Attractions ›
Planning Your Trip to Myanmar #
1 Week Myanmar Itinerary
See Yangon's Shwedagon Pagoda and colonial streets, fly to Bagan's temples for sunrise and sunset, then visit Mandalay including U Bein Bridge and nearby monasteries.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Yangon; Shwedagon Pagoda at sunset.
- Day 2 - Colonial downtown and Bogyoke Aung San Market.
- Day 3 - Fly to Bagan; temple sunset boat ride.
- Day 4 - Sunrise balloon or temple cycling day.
- Day 5 - Fly to Mandalay; U Bein Bridge at dusk.
- Day 6 - Mandalay Palace, Amarapura and Sagaing day trip.
- Day 7 - Fly to Yangon or beach extension at Ngapali.
2 Weeks Myanmar Itinerary
Link Yangon and Bagan's temples with Mandalay's cultural sites, then travel to Inle Lake for stilt villages and floating gardens, finishing with beach time at Ngapali.
Show itinerary- Day 1-2 - Arrive Yangon; pagodas and markets.
- Day 3-5 - Fly to Bagan for temples, cycling, and boat sunset.
- Day 6-8 - Mandalay region: U Bein, Amarapura, and Sagaing.
- Day 9-11 - Inle Lake: boat villages, floating gardens, and markets.
- Day 12-14 - Ngapali Beach for rest, snorkel, and fishing villages.
3-4 Weeks Myanmar Itinerary
Combine Yangon's temples with deep exploration of Bagan and Mandalay, spend relaxed days at Inle Lake, and finish with coastal time at Ngapali or optional Mrauk U if accessible.
Show itinerary- Day 1-3 - Yangon extended: pagodas, colonial architecture, and markets.
- Day 4-8 - Bagan multi-day exploration of temples and local villages.
- Day 9-12 - Mandalay and surrounding towns including Pyin Oo Lwin.
- Day 13-16 - Inle Lake slow travel and hiking to nearby villages.
- Day 17-20 - Head west to Rakhine State's Mrauk U if accessible, otherwise explore beaches.
- Day 21-25 - Ngapali and coastal relaxation, fishing village visits.
- Day 26-28 - Return to Yangon for last markets and departure.
Best Time to Visit Myanmar #
Myanmar has a tropical monsoon climate with three main phases: a cool, dry season (roughly November-February), a hot pre-monsoon season (March-April) with the Thingyan festival in April, and a rainy southwest monsoon (May-October). Travel is easiest and most comfortable during the cool, dry months.
January
January is within Myanmar's cool, dry season with generally clear skies and comfortable temperatures, especially in central and northern areas. This is a popular month for travel and cultural sightseeing.
Events
No major festivals this month.
February
February remains dry with warm daytime temperatures and lower humidity, making it good for exploring temples and inland attractions. Coastal areas are pleasant as well before the hot season sets in.
Events
No major festivals this month.
March
March sees rising temperatures and increasing heat in many parts of the country, though rainfall is still limited. Some travelers find March a good compromise between cooler winter months and the hot pre-monsoon period.
Events
No major festivals this month.
April
April is Myanmar's hottest month leading into the rainy season; Thingyan in mid-April is the country's biggest festival and draws large local and visitor crowds. Travel can be affected by extreme heat in central regions.
Events
- Thingyan (Burmese New Year) - The national water festival takes place in mid-April with countrywide celebrations, processions and water-throwing traditions.
May
May often marks the transition to the monsoon with rising humidity and the first heavier showers in some regions. Conditions become less comfortable for extended daytime sightseeing, especially inland.
Events
No major festivals this month.
June
June is within the southwest monsoon period: heavy rain and high humidity are common, particularly in the delta and coastal zones. Inland travel and some boat services can be disrupted by flooding and strong rains.
Events
No major festivals this month.
July
July typically brings frequent heavy downpours and high humidity across much of Myanmar, reducing visibility at some cultural sites. Some remote areas become harder to reach due to muddy roads and swollen rivers.
Events
No major festivals this month.
August
August continues the monsoon pattern with regular storms and localized flooding in low-lying areas. While city sightseeing is still possible, outdoor excursions and trekking are often limited.
Events
No major festivals this month.
September
Rainfall remains significant in September but typically starts to ease late in the month, improving conditions for travel. River levels and some transport links may still be affected by residual flooding.
Events
No major festivals this month.
October
October is a transitional month: the monsoon typically winds down and skies begin to clear, especially toward the end of the month. Festivals such as Thadingyut provide cultural highlights for visitors.
Events
- Thadingyut (Lighting Festival) - The lighting festival usually occurs in October, marked by illuminated pagodas and local celebrations.
November
November offers drier conditions and more comfortable temperatures across the country, making it a popular month for tourism. Inland and coastal sightseeing becomes much easier after the rains.
Events
No major festivals this month.
December
December is part of the cool, dry season with clear skies, lower humidity and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. It's a favorable month for visiting major cultural sites and rivers.
Events
No major festivals this month.
How to Get to Myanmar #
Most international visitors fly into Yangon International Airport (RGN); Mandalay (MDL) and Naypyidaw (NYT) also handle some international and many domestic services. Overland crossings exist from Thailand (Mae Sot and Tachileik areas) and from China and India at specific border points - some crossings require permits and have varying accessibility.
- Myanmar offers e‑visas for tourism to citizens of many countries (typically valid for a single entry of up to 28-30 days). Some nationalities still require a visa obtained in advance from a Myanmar embassy; check the official e‑visa portal for eligibility.
- Passport generally must be valid for at least 6 months and you may be required to show onward travel and proof of accommodation. Entry rules can change quickly - verify visa policy, permitted border crossings and local safety advisories before travel, as access to certain regions may be restricted.
International Airports
Border Crossings #
Myanmar ↔ Thailand
Thailand-Myanmar land travel is among the most common overland routes in Southeast Asia. Two well-known crossings for tourists are Myawaddy-Mae Sot (popular for access to Yangon/central Myanmar) and Tachileik-Mae Sai (gateway to eastern Shan State and access to Chiang Rai). Note: Myanmar requires a visa for most foreign nationals; an eVisa system exists but its acceptance at all land checkpoints can be limited - many travelers obtain a visa from a Myanmar embassy/consulate in advance. Border hours and the availability of onward transport vary by checkpoint.
Crossings
- Myawaddy - Mae Sot (Kayin State (Myanmar) to Tak Province (Thailand)) - One of the busiest trade and passenger crossings on the Thailand-Myanmar border, frequently used by buses and cargo trucks. Immigration and customs formalities are established and often busy on market days. Useful for travelers transferring between Yangon and northern Thai destinations via road.
- Tachileik - Mae Sai (Shan State (Myanmar) to Chiang Rai Province (Thailand)) - A gateway into eastern Shan State; popular with tourists heading to Tachileik (close to Kengtung) and as a crossing for visa runs. The border area is set up for tourism services, but expect small-scale market activity and currency exchange near the gates. Crossing is commonly used by those combining northern Thailand and eastern Myanmar itineraries.
Myanmar ↔ China
The Myanmar-China border is an important trade corridor; the Muse-Ruili crossing (Muse on the Myanmar side, Ruili on the Yunnan side) is the main gateway for goods and passenger travel between Yunnan province and northern Myanmar. Entry requirements: China has strict visa rules, and Myanmar requires a visa for many nationalities - overland crossings may have additional documentary requirements for commercial traffic. Check current security and customs conditions, as the border area has seen closures or restrictions at times.
Crossings
- Muse - Ruili (Northern Shan State (Muse) to Yunnan (Ruili)) - Major commercial crossing with heavy truck and trade traffic; passenger coaches also operate between Mandalay/ Lashio and Kunming. Expect formal customs inspections, separate lanes for freight and passenger vehicles, and occasional administrative delays. Travelers should verify opening times and the paperwork required for cross-border transport.
Myanmar ↔ India
The Moreh-Tamu crossing connects Myanmar with India’s northeastern state of Manipur and is the principal official land link for passengers and goods between the two countries. Travel here can be more complex than the Thailand or China borders: permits, vehicle paperwork, and local security conditions should be checked closely before travel. Indian and Myanmar visa rules apply - most foreign nationals need visas/permits issued in advance.
Crossings
- Tamu - Moreh (Sagaing Region (Myanmar) to Manipur (India)) - Primary overland gateway for travel between northwestern Myanmar and India's northeast, used for both passenger buses and trade. Checkpoint procedures include immigration and cargo inspections; services on either side are limited compared with busy cross-border towns elsewhere. Travelers should confirm visa/entry permit requirements and current security advisories before attempting this crossing.
How to Get Around Myanmar
Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover Myanmar’s large distances; major local carriers include Myanmar National Airlines and private operators such as Air KBZ. Routes link Yangon with Mandalay, Heho (for Inle Lake), Nyaung U (for Bagan) and other tourist hubs.
Expect economy fares to vary by season; book ahead for holiday periods and important festivals.
Long‑distance buses connect major cities and are widely used - services range from basic hard‑seat buses to more comfortable VIP coaches with air conditioning. Prices are generally low (often under USD 20-40 for overnight intercity trips), but journeys can be slow due to road conditions.
For comfort and safety, choose reputable operators recommended by hotels or tour desks.
Myanmar Railways operates an extensive but slow network; notable routes include the Yangon‑Mandalay line and services to remote towns. Trains are very affordable and scenic in places, but schedules are slower and less reliable than buses or flights.
Booking can often be done at stations; bring water and supplies for long journeys.
Ride‑share platforms are limited; taxis, trishaws and private car hires are common in cities. Metered taxis exist in Yangon, but it’s advisable to agree a fare in smaller towns or use hotel‑arranged drivers - expect modest daily rates for car hire with driver.
Private drivers are a convenient option for day trips to archaeological sites where public transport is scarce.
In tourist towns like Bagan and Inle Lake, bicycles, e‑bikes and motorbike taxis (the ‘motodop’) are common for short distances. Rental e‑bikes and bikes are inexpensive; negotiate rates ahead and wear helmets where available.
Respect local restrictions - some temple complexes limit motorised access and require walking or bicycle travel.
Where to Stay in Myanmar #
Yangon and Mandalay provide city hotels; boutique lodges cluster around Bagan and Inle Lake offering scenic views and easy access to temples. In tourist hubs, upgrades often include breakfast and bicycle rental.
Guesthouses are the backbone of accommodation in Bagan, Nyaung Shwe (Inle) and Yangon’s downtown. Budget travelers find cheap single rooms and helpful local staff who can arrange day tours and boat transfers.
Homestays around Inle Lake, Kalaw and remote Shan villages offer cultural immersion and treks. They’re typically simple but include meals and local guides - arrange stays through reliable tour operators or community programs.
Irrawaddy river cruises and converted heritage ships provide overnight travel between Bagan and Mandalay. These are practical for seeing river towns and temples while sleeping onboard between stops.
Longer stays in Yangon and Mandalay are possible with apartments and serviced flats; Bahan and Yankin districts are popular in Yangon. Check internet reliability before committing to remote work arrangements.
Staying Connected in Myanmar #
Myanmar’s connectivity is highly variable: urban areas have basic 4G service, but nationwide reliability is affected by political events and network controls. Mobile speeds and availability can change rapidly, and outages occur periodically.
Prepaid SIMs can be bought from MPT and Ooredoo Myanmar at airports and city outlets. Packages vary; expect modest data bundles around $5-20 depending on availability.
Registration with passport is required.
MPT (state operator) and Ooredoo Myanmar provide the main mobile networks; service quality can be inconsistent and subject to restrictions. Data access and speeds may be throttled during shutdowns.
Mobile coverage is best in Yangon and major towns.
Yangon has cafes and a handful of coworking spaces with usable Wi‑Fi, but performance is often variable. Many hotels provide Wi‑Fi, though outages and slowdowns are possible.
Plan for intermittent connectivity outside main cities.
Frequent shutdowns, throttling and restrictions are possible - mobile data can be unreliable. eSIMs are not a dependable option; carry a physical SIM and offline backups.
Health & Safety in Myanmar #
Myanmar currently presents elevated risks due to political instability, armed conflict, travel restrictions and reduced consular access in many regions. Travelers should avoid conflict areas, verify permits, follow official travel advisories, and take standard precautions for vector-borne diseases and poor road conditions.
- Political Stability & Conflict Zones - Myanmar has active conflicts, restrictions and periodic violence in several regions. Travel to conflict-affected areas is hazardous and often restricted; follow government and embassy advice and avoid demonstrations and checkpoints.
- Travel Restrictions & Permits - Certain regions (Rakhine, Chin, Kachin, northern Shan) may be inaccessible without special permits and are often closed to foreigners. Check up-to-date entry requirements and local movement restrictions before travel.
- Health Risks (Malaria & Dengue) - Malaria and dengue occur in rural and forested areas; prophylaxis and bite prevention are important. Carry repellents, insecticide-treated nets where needed, and seek care early for febrile illness.
- Road Safety - Roads can be poorly maintained, with limited lighting and unpredictable driving behavior. Public transport may be unreliable-use reputable drivers and avoid long night journeys on rural roads.
- Scams & Petty Crime - Petty theft and opportunistic scams occur in tourist centers. Keep valuables secure, avoid displaying large amounts of cash, and use trusted services for money exchange and transport.
- Natural Disasters (Monsoon & Flooding) - Monsoon season brings heavy rains, landslides and flooding, especially in upland and delta regions. Check weather forecasts, avoid river crossings after heavy rains, and heed local evacuation advice.
History & Culture of Myanmar #
Myanmar is a country where Theravada Buddhist practice, pagodas and monastery life are visible in everyday scenes; ethnic diversity, regional cuisines and traditional dress (longyi) shape local culture. Recent decades of political upheaval mean civic life and travel conditions can change quickly.
History of Myanmar
Myanmar’s history includes early city-states and larger empires-most notably the Pagan (Bagan) Empire-which left a remarkable legacy of temples and manuscript culture. Over centuries, shifting capital cities and regional polities shaped a multiethnic landscape.
From the 19th century Myanmar (then Burma) was colonized by Britain and later gained independence in 1948; the postcolonial period saw long stretches of military rule, a pro-democracy movement, limited reforms in the 2010s and a military takeover in 2021, all of which continue to influence daily life and travel.
Notable Figures
- Anawrahta - 11th-century king credited with founding the Pagan Empire and establishing Theravada Buddhism in the region.
- Bogyoke Aung San - Independence leader who negotiated Burma's postwar future and was assassinated in 1947; he is widely revered as a founding father.
- Aung San Suu Kyi - Pro-democracy leader and Nobel laureate who became a central figure in Myanmar's pro-democracy movement and later a national political leader.
- General Ne Win - Military leader whose 1962 coup ushered in decades of centralized, socialist-style rule.
Key Dates
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c. 9th-13th c.Pagan (Bagan) becomes a major political and religious center and builds thousands of temples, many of which remain tourist sites today.
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1824-1886Three Anglo-Burmese wars lead to gradual British annexation and incorporation into British India.
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1948Burma gains independence from Britain and becomes a sovereign nation.
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1962A military coup led by General Ne Win initiates decades of authoritarian rule and isolation.
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1988Nationwide pro-democracy protests (the 8888 Uprising) lead to significant political upheaval and a powerful civic movement.
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2015General elections bring Aung San Suu Kyi's party to prominence amid ongoing ethnic conflicts.
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2021A military coup overturns the civilian government, creating a fluid political environment that affects travel and public life.
Burmese cuisine reflects Indian, Chinese and Southeast Asian influences; breakfasts of noodle soups and ubiquitous tea-shop snacks make food one of the most immediate cultural experiences for travelers.
Language
Burmese (Myanmar) is the main official language, written in its unique script; many ethnic regions also use their own languages, so English may be limited outside major tourist and business centers.
Useful Phrases
- Hello - မင်္ဂလာပါ ming-ga-la-ba
- Good morning - မနက်ခင်းပါ ma-nek-khin ba
- How are you? - ဘယ်လိုတွေရှိပါသလဲ? beh lo de shi ba lae?
- Where is the restroom? - အိမ်သာဘယ်မှာလဲ? ein-tha beh mha leh?
- How much is it? - ဘယ်လောက်ပါလဲ? beh laut ba leh?
- Call a taxi, please - တိုက်ဆိုက်ပေးပါ taxi kweh pay ba
- Thank you - ကျေးဇူးတင်ပါတယ် kyay zu tin ba de
- It's delicious - အရသာရှိတယ် ah-ya-tha shi de
- Where can I eat? - ဘယ်မှာစားကြမလဲ? beh mha sa kya ma leh?
- Help! - ကယ်ပါ! keh par!
- Call emergency services - အရေးပေါ်ဆေးဘက်ဆိုင်ရာကူညီပါ ayaye paw say-bhet saing-ya ku-nyi ba
- I need a doctor - ကျွန်တော်/ကျွန်မ နာဆေးလိုချင်တယ် kyun-daw/kyun-ma na say lo chin de
Responsible Travel in Myanmar #
Myanmar’s rich cultural heritage and sensitive political context mean travellers should prioritise respectful temple behaviour, careful site conservation, and ethical spending decisions that consider who benefits from tourism.
- Temple Etiquette & Photography: At Shwedagon Pagoda, Bagan and other sacred sites dress modestly, remove shoes and headwear where required, and follow posted rules about photography and areas closed to tourists to respect religious practice and conservation.
- Current Context & Ethical Choices: Myanmar’s political situation affects communities-check up‑to‑date travel advisories and prefer tour operators, accommodations and experiences that are transparent about whom your payments support to avoid funding problematic actors.
- Protecting Archaeological Sites: In Bagan and other archaeological zones, use marked paths and licensed guides, do not climb temples or remove artifacts, and support conservation efforts for fragile stupas and murals.
- Support Local Artisans & Small Businesses: Buy lacquerware, hand‑woven textiles and other crafts from reputable cooperatives and family workshops to channel income to local artisans rather than larger intermediaries.
Travel Resources for Myanmar #
Official
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Myanmar) Government
- Myanmar Tourism (official) Travel Advice
Travel Advisories
Useful Apps for Myanmar
- Google Maps - Maps and directions across Yangon, Mandalay and rural areas.
- Google Translate - Translate Burmese text and spoken phrases where needed.
- WhatsApp Messenger - Commonly used for arranging transport and local contacts.
- Booking.com - Find and reserve hotels in major Myanmar cities.