Top Tourist Attractions in Myanmar (Ticket & Entrance Fee)

The beauty of nature in Myanmar is as captivating as its culture. The country is dotted with stunning landscapes, awe-inspiring lakes, and ancient pagodas that showcase the spirituality of its people. Whether you prefer to trek through the mountains, float on the lakes, or gaze at the architectural marvels, these stunning natural attractions will make for a memorable experience.

Bagan

Bagan is the former kingdom of Myanmar and regarded as one of South East Asia’s most important archaeological sites. One of those unique locations is Bagan, where you can meander around, take in all of the historical artifacts, and practically picture the area’s original residents strolling around centuries ago. Over 10,000 pagodas and temples were constructed between the eleventh and thirteenth centuries, of which more than 2,000 monuments still stand today in varying states of repair.

Ananda Temple

• Address: Bagan, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00
• Entrance Fee: included in the Bagan Zonal Fee $20/person

One of the most well-known and exquisite temples in Bagan is the Ananda temple. It is a well-preserved example of one of Bagan’s first great temples. Known by several other names, including Ananda phaya and Ananda pahto, the Ananda pagoda is a one-story building that dates back to the early Bagan period.

The Ananda is a graceful, Greek cross-shaped building that is symmetrical. The central gilded top, known as the shikhara, is one of the building’s most striking and exquisite features. This tower-like structure is native to North India, and the Ananda’s architectural style reflects Indian influence.

One of the few temples in Bagan that permits women to approach the Buddha statues and place golden patterns on them is this one. These days, Ananda Temple resembles a museum showcasing every kind of art produced in Myanmar, including murals, glass, ceramics, wood carving, stone and grout architecture, stone carvings, and more.

That Bin Nyu Temple

• Address: 5V97+G5V, Old Bagan, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 06:00 – 21:00

One of Bagan’s tallest structures is the Thatbyinnyu pagoda, standing at a little over 60 meters. From most of the Bagan plains, one can see the magnificent pagoda rising above other surrounding temples and pagodas. Thatbyinnyu Temple is distinct from many other Buddhist temples in Myanmar because it is one of the first two-story structures of its kind. Standing more than 120 feet tall, Thatbyinnyu dominates the surrounding monuments. Offering a sweeping view of Bagan, the surroundings of the temple are every bit as stunning as the temple itself. Unlike many other stunning temples, Thatbyinnyu is peaceful and uncrowded. It provides a serene environment for taking pictures and taking in the view.

Shwezigon Pagoda

• Address: Nyaung-U, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 05:00 – 21:00

The Shwezigon Pagoda is a significant location for prayer and contemplation and a great place to meet people from the area while they are there for worship. It was among the first of its kind to be built, and it has a shape akin to a classical golden bell. Shwezigon served as the model for all other pagodas constructed in Myanmar after it was constructed. The pagoda was originally gold-plated, but during one of its renovations, copper was applied, giving it a more durable yet still exquisite finish. At sunset and sunrise, when the orange hues in the sky combine with the golden monument to create an amazing shimmering display, it’s an especially beautiful sight.

Dhammayangyi Temple

• Address: 5V6F+R72, Old Bagan, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00
• Entrance Fee: included in the Bagan Zonal Fee $20/person

One of the most well-known temples in Myanmar is Dhammayangyi Temple, which is a must-see location for tourists interested in learning more about the spirituality and rich history of the nation. This historic temple, which is situated in the center of Bagan, was constructed in the tenth century by King Narathu. Its intriguing building history brings in a large number of visitors each year.

The distinctive architecture of the temple, which is characterized by terracotta material and a pyramid shape, is immediately apparent to visitors as they approach. Two stunning gold-plated statues with distinctive shapes can also be seen outside the temple. The elaborate design and style of the temple’s dome, however, stand out the most and demonstrate the temple’s significance in the spiritual world.

The main entrance to the temple is located on the east side, and there are four other entrances that lead to spacious corridors. You will be in awe of the interior’s grandeur and beauty as soon as you enter the temple. The temple’s distinctive architecture attests to both its spiritual significance and the inventiveness of its builders.

Htilominlo Pagoda

• Address: 5VHH+FQW, Nyaung-U, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 06:00 – 21:00
• Entrance Fee: Free

Sulamani Pahto’s architectural style is reminiscent of Htilominlo Pahto, a 46-meter-tall temple. King Htilominlo, also called Zeya Theinkha or Nadaungmyar, constructed it. The old tale states that King Narapatisithu’s five sons formed a circle and surrounded a white umbrella in the middle when the monarch needed a successor. Htilominlo was selected at that time to become the next king, and he was the one who was pointed by the umbrella as the heir. The temple bears the name of the succeeding king, most likely because it was constructed on the site where King Htilominlo was chosen. The exterior of the temple features carvings of Makara Sea creatures and ogres. Inside, there are four enormous Buddha images that are positioned on either side of the temple.

Mandalay

The second city of Myanmar, Mandalay is often overlooked by visitors flying straight into Yangon and onto the more popular areas of Bagan, Inle Lake and Ngapali Beach. But this bustling metropolis is a treasure trove of gorgeous pagodas, spectacular waterfalls, friendly locals and tasty food.

Mahamuni Pagoda

• Address: Near the Pagoda, Mandalay, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 06:00 – 20:00
• Entrance Fee: $4/person

Comparable in significance to the Golden Rock of Kyaikto and the magnificent Shwedagon of Yangon, the Mahamuni temple is the most significant religious location in Mandalay. Built in 1785 by King Bodawpaya to house the Mahamuni, an image of the Buddha taken from Arakan in the state of Rakhine in western Myanmar, it is relatively new. Despite its impressive architecture, the temple’s main focus has always been the veneration of the image itself, as it is the object of devotion.

Kuthodaw Pagoda

• Address: 2437+V5W, Mandalay, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 20:00
• Entrance Fee: Free

Kuthodaw Pagoda, also called Mahalawka Marazein, was rebuilt during King Mindon’s reign in 1857 and is situated in Mandalay at the base of Mandalay Hill. This architectural wonder serves as both the protector of Myanmar’s rich cultural legacy and a symbol of majesty and spiritual reverence.

Gleaming in gold and white, the central stupa exudes divinity and symbolizes the core of the pagoda’s spiritual significance. It serves as a visible reminder of Myanmar’s profound adherence to Buddhism and the precepts of Gautama Buddha. Furthermore, the significance of safeguarding sacred knowledge for future generations is symbolized by the 729 smaller stupas that surround the central one. Every stupa, painstakingly crafted to hold a marble slab engraved with holy texts, serves as a reminder of the part culture plays in preserving spiritual legacy.

Su Taung Pyae Pagoda

• Address: 2475+W2R, On Mandalay Hill, Mandalay, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 06:00 – 19:00
• Entrance Fee: $1/person

The Su Taung Pyae Pagoda, perched atop Mandalay Hill, is a silent reminder of Myanmar’s extensive Buddhist heritage. The name of this pagoda, which stands over the once bustling capital of Amarapura, suggests that wishes can come true. A magnificent Buddha watches over the treasured Peshawar relics—holy pieces of the Buddha’s bone—from within its walls. A panoramic tableau of Mandalay, the echo of timeless Burma, and the Irrawaddy, the liquid chronicle of history, opens up from its terrace. At the Su Taung Pyae Pagoda, each stone and wind whisper tell a story, a poetic ode to the beauty and spirituality of Myanmar.

Shwenandaw Buddhist Temple

• Address: 2427+7G2, Mandalay, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 07:30 – 17:00
• Entrance Fee: $10/person

Situated in close proximity to Atumashi Monastery and 14th Street in Mandalay, the Shwenandaw Monastery is a magnificent, yet incredibly delicate, 19th-century wooden monastery building in the nation. It was once a part of the Mandalay Royal Palace and was entirely gilded.

The massive Shwenandaw Pagoda, constructed in the traditional Burmese architectural style, has a four-tiered roof made up of several sections that get smaller as you go down from the top level to the bottom level. Detailed and intricate wood carvings adorn the roof lines. The carved representations of mythological animals, dancers, flowers, and creatures are displayed on the roof bargeboards.

The monastery is surrounded by a finely carved teak verandah on the ground floor. Inside the monastery, there is still some gold plating from the time the building was fully gilded and covered in glass mosaics.

A number of beautifully preserved panels that block sunlight and weather are located inside the structure. Among all these shelters, several have carved panels that portray scenes from the Jataka stories, which are stories of the Buddha’s past lives.

Sandamuni Pagoda

• Address: 2435+CW7, Mandalay Hill St, Mandalay, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 20:00
• Entrance Fee: Free

Buddhist pagodas are a must-see on almost any travel itinerary to Mandalay, Myanmar, according to travelers. Sandamuni Pagoda is one of Myanmar’s most well-known pagodas with the largest iron Buddha image and 1774 slabs engraved with Buddhist teachings.

The Buddha’s teachings are engraved on the slabs. They include commentaries and sub-commentaries in addition to the three baskets that comprise the Tripitaka: The Sutta Pitaka, Vinaya Pitaka, and Abhidhamma Pitaka. Each 1.68-meter-tall by 1.07-meter-wide slab is kept in a little white shrine known as Dhamma ceti.

Yangon

Yangon, the former capital of Myanmar, is unquestionably one of the country’s most stunning cities. Yangon offers a plethora of tourist attractions, a diverse cuisine, and golden pagodas. It’s also a fantastic place to explore numerous British colonial buildings and learn more about Myanmar’s culture.

Shwedagon Pagoda

• Address: Ragoon, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 04:00 – 22:00
• Entrance Fee: $5/person

The Shwedagon Pagoda is a well-known and expansive Buddhist temple situated in Yangon, Myanmar. It is one of the most revered locations for the people of Myanmar because it is more than 2500 years old and has a rich history and architectural style. The pagoda, also known as Paya, is distinguished by the enormous golden stupa that looms over the cityscape. Shwedagon is a must-see destination for all travelers and is one of the top tourist destinations in Yangon.

The grand stupa underwent numerous reconstructions after being destroyed, and the current structure was restored at some point in the 1800s. Around the main stupa, numerous smaller stupas were constructed during this period. Inspired by characters from Chinese Buddhism, the stairs are adorned with dragons that ascend towards the door. While navigating the hallways, you’ll notice that the walls are covered in exquisite paintings that portray various scenes from the Jataka that relate to the Buddha’s travels. At the top of the central stupa is an ornament known as hti, which is adorned with priceless stones.

Sule Pagoda

• Address: Junction of Sule Pagoda Road, Maha Bandula Road, Yangon 11141, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 04:00 – 23:00
• Entrance Fee: $2.5/person

Sule Pagoda, which has a typical pagoda architecture, is located in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, three Asian countries. You must see the 48-meter-tall Pagoda, which is shaped like an octagonal bell and is encircled by tiny temples. It also has a good collection of Buddha images and bronze bells.

The Pagoda is well-known for its octagonal bell shape, which is reminiscent of the chedi style of the Mon people of Myanmar. To be more precise, it measures 44 meters in height and nearly 79 meters in length. As a matter of fact, the bronze bells vary somewhat in size and age according to when they were donated. By writing down their names and the dedication dates, people can help themselves remember their Ñeicated.

Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple

• Address: R567+MFQ, Yangon, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 06:00 – 20:00
• Entrance Fee: $5/person

A popular destination for travelers visiting Myanmar, Chaukhtatgyi Paya is a spiritual gem situated in Yangon, Myanmar. The massive Reclining Buddha, a 66-meter-long statue that embodies the historical Buddha’s path to enlightenment and exudes a serene aura, is the main attraction of this spiritual haven. In Myanmar, the temple is a revered site with great spiritual and cultural significance that attracts both pilgrims and visitors. It is a must-visit location for travelers exploring Myanmar’s rich spiritual traditions and legacy because it offers visitors the chance to experience the temple’s serene atmosphere amid verdant surroundings and the stupendous presence of the Reclining Buddha.

National Museum of Myanmar

• Address: 66 Pyay Rd, Yangon 11191, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 09:30 – 16:30 (except Monday)
• Entrance Fee: $4/person

The National Museum in Yangon is a fascinating location to see exhibits of Myanmar’s prehistoric history and culture. Established in 1952, the exhibits span 480000 square feet within an imposing five-story building. More than thirty of the more than four thousand items that are on show have thorough audio explanations available in Chinese, Japanese, English, and Myanmar. The museum houses two art galleries, musical instruments, royal regalia, decorative arts, and artifacts from the indigenous people of Myanmar.

Thiri Mingala Kabar AyePagoda

• Address: Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yangon, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 06:00 – 20:00
• Entrance Fee: $5/person

Situated in the Myanmar city of Yangon is the expansive Buddhist temple known as the Kaba Aye Pagoda, or Paya. Originally intended to house a Buddhist council honoring two millennia of the Buddha’s enlightenment, the World Peace Pagoda was constructed. Among the main draws for tourists visiting Yangon are the pagoda’s magnificent architecture and the nearby Maha Pasana Guha cave.

There is a circular shrine with five entrances encircling the stupa. The sanctuary’s exterior walls are painted in a combination of gold, red, and green, with gemstones placed at each stop along the enormous arches. The interior walls are exquisitely decorated with paintings of the Jataka stories. Four seated Buddha images surround a hollow pillar in the center of the shrine, which is heavily painted with murals

Bago

The capital city of the Bago region in Myanmar is Bago, also known as Pegu. It is renowned for its historic sites and pagodas and was one of the ancient cities that grew on the banks of the Irrawaddy River. The town, which was once called Hanthawaddy, is home to many of Myanmar’s most significant archaeological sites.

Shwemawdaw Pagoda

• Address: 8FPW+QMF, Shwemawdaw, Pagoda Street, Bago, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 07:00 – 18:00
• Entrance Fee: $10/person

Situated in the Myanmar city of Bago is the expansive ancient Buddhist shrine known as Shwemawdaw Paya. With a height of 114 meters, this temple from the tenth century is renowned for its enormous golden stupa, which makes it the tallest pagoda in the nation. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city and is renowned for its lengthy history and traditional Burmese Mon architecture.

Kanbawzathadi Golden Palace

• Address: Myin Taw Thar Rd, Bago, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
• Entrance Fee: $10/person

Kanbawzathadi Palace, situated approximately 80 kilometers from Yangon in Bago, the erstwhile capital of Myanmar, is a testament to one of the country’s most illustrious dynasties. If you enjoy large palaces and other royal structures, you really should visit this location. Over 2,000 Buddha statues, 167 of the original teak pillars, and the original foundations were all found during archaeological digs. In Bago, many of these original Kanbawzathadi Palace components are on display. The original Kanbawzathadi Palace was a collection of structures with 76 residential units and a number of halls used for public events and imperial administration activities. The famous structure with the seven-tiered Burmese roof is a reconstruction of the Bhammayarthana Throne Hall, which once housed the King’s and his immediate family’s private apartments. The Great Audience Hall, the largest structure in the original palace and the place where the King met with his ministers and officials, is the other significant building that has been rebuilt.

Kyaik Pun Pagoda

• Address: 8F35+MH3, Bago, Myanmar
• Opening Hours: 04:00 – 21:00
• Entrance Fee: $2/person

Enchanting and possessing an extensive 1,000-year history, the Kyaik Pun Pagoda epitomizes both human inventiveness and spiritual devotion. Constructed in the 7th century by King Migadippa, this pagoda is home to four enormous statues of sitting Buddhas that face the four cardinal directions. In Theravada Buddhism, each statue—named Kassapa, Kakusandha, Konagamana, and Gautama—represents a Buddha from the current cosmic cycle.

With its majesty and unique style, the Kyaik Pun Pagoda is a striking example of the Mon period’s architectural genius. This 27-meter-tall sculpture is a work of art that demonstrates the delicacy and nuance of Buddhist art at the period.

Shwethalyaung Buddhist Temple

• Address: Ma Zin Rd, Bago, Myanmar 
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00
• Entrance Fee: $10/person

One of the biggest reclining Buddha images in Burma is the Shwethalyaung Buddha. It is kept in Bago’s Shwethalyaung Paya, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site where people come to honor the Buddha. The picture, which is 16 meters high and 55 meters long, shows the Buddha just before he passes away and enters Nirvana. Another enormous reclining Buddha, the Mya Thar Lyaung, is located in front of the Shwethalyaung pagoda.