Yangon

• Shwedagon Pagoda: Myanmar’s most sacred Buddhist stupa, standing about 98 meters tall and covered in gold leaf, with its spire adorned with diamonds and gemstones. Best enjoyed at sunset or night. (2 hours)
• Sule Pagoda: A central city landmark and the focal point of Yangon’s streets and traffic, surrounded by clusters of colonial-era buildings. (1 hour)
• Chaukhtatgyi Buddha: A massive 66-meter-long reclining Buddha with a serene expression, located in a well-known Yangon temple. (1 hour)
• Bogyoke Aung San Market: A hub for jade, wood carvings, longyis, and handicrafts, offering a taste of local life. (2 hours)
• Yangon Circular Train: A roughly 3-hour ride through the city’s suburbs and rural outskirts, providing an authentic local experience. (Half day)

Bagan

• Shwesandaw Pagoda: One of the classic sunset viewpoints, offering panoramic views over the temple-studded plains. (1 hour)
• Ananda Temple: Bagan’s most exquisite temple, featuring four impressive standing Buddha statues and well-preserved white exterior walls. (1 hour)
• Dhammayangyi Temple: The largest brick structure in Bagan, known for its imposing size and tightly packed bricks. (1 hour)
• Sulamani Temple: Renowned for its beautiful interior murals, it is considered one of the most attractive temples in Bagan. (45 minutes)
• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soaring above the ancient temples at sunrise is Bagan’s most iconic experience, available only in the dry season. (About 1 hour)
• Irrawaddy River Cruise: An evening boat ride offers wide-open views of the river and sunset. (1.5 hours)
• Nyaung-U Market: A local market in Bagan where you can find handicrafts and lacquerware, perfect for picking up supplies. (1 hour)

Mandalay

• U Bein Bridge: A long teakwood bridge spanning Taungthaman Lake, best admired at sunset for its striking silhouette. (1.5 hours)
• Mahamuni Buddha Temple: Home to a revered Buddha image that devotees continuously cover in gold leaf; Mandalay’s most sacred site. (1 hour)
• Golden Palace Monastery: An entire monastery intricately carved from teakwood, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. (1 hour)
• Inwa Ancient City: Known for its teak temples and ancient pagoda ruins, best explored by horse-drawn carriage. (Half day)
• Mandalay Hill: Offers sweeping sunset views over the city and the Irrawaddy River. (1 hour)

Inle Lake and Southern Myanmar

• Inle Lake: Famous for leg-rowing fishermen, floating markets, and the Jumping Cat Monastery—it’s the jewel of the Shan Plateau. (2–3 days)
• Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda: The most sacred pagoda on Inle Lake, housing five golden Buddha images.
• Ngapali Beach: A tranquil white-sand beach ideal for relaxation and going out to sea.
• Mrauk U: A complex of ancient temples in Rakhine State, perfect for in-depth exploration by adventurous travelers.