Once Upon a Time in Myanmar

Since childhood Thais are told the long history of relations between Thailand and Myanmar. Experiencing the real Myanmar is so different, it leaves us with magical impressions and unforgettable memories.

Once viewed as a country shrouded in mysticism, Myanmar is now accessible to visitors who wish to admire its past glories, beautiful temples, and a local way of life that continues to hold fast to faith. This change has attracted tourists from all over the world.

Locals in Myanmar still happily lead simple lives, spending time with their family and helping each other earn their livelihoods. Often they are shy when meeting foreigners, but we can see their friendly smiles and sense their warm welcome.

Buddhism is the official religion of this country, and locals visit temples as part of their daily routine. Even older temples continue to serve as spiritual centers, and thus are well-preserved and in great condition.

Traveling around this country is convenient as groups or as couples, and it is easy to rent a car with a driver. You will need a tour guide to help tell you about the history of each site and to inform you about the rules in entering various sacred spaces.

Locals normally eat rice, of which there is a variety in different regions according to local preferences. Simple dishes like fried eggs, fried chicken and vegetables are served to visitors who may not be as adventurous.

If your time is limited these are the top five must-visit places:

SHWEDAGON TEMPLE 
Shwedagon temple is located in Yangon. Shwedagon means “God of Dagon” (“dagon” is the ancient name of Yangon). Legend says if you make a wish there, it will come true. It has a history full of magic, and the beauty of the long-gone golden city. A must-visit site!

KYAIKTIYO PAGODA
Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site in a town called Kyaikhto at approximately 3,600 m above sea level. It is surrounded by spectacular mountains. Thus one has to climb up hills to pay homage to this sacred, historical place.

SHWEZIGON PAGODA 
Shwezigon Pagoda is located in the picturesque city of Bagan. It is a beautiful Buddhist stupa and is a long-time, iconic Myanmar landmark.

SHEWMAWDAW PAGODA 
Shewmawdaw Pagoda holds the record of the tallest pagoda in the country. It was built in the Mon architecture style, and is believed to enshrine strands of the Buddha’s hair. It was a spiritual center for both Myanmar people and Thais in the past. It was rebuilt after an earthquake and is still a popular pilgrimage site. It is believed your life will be secure if you place a piece of broken wood that has never touched the ground at the pagoda.

MAHAMUNI BUDDHA IMAGE
According to legend, the Mahamuni Buddha statue was moved from Rakhine state to Mandalay by transporting it along the Irrawaddy River during a war. The Mahamuni Buddha statue is clothed elegantly and majestically like a king, and has been a spiritual center for locals since ancient times. It is considered a “Living Buddha”, so every morning believes perform sacred rituals to wash and clean the statue’s face, as a highly venerated gesture of serving Buddha.

Another place we simply felt we had to witness with our own eyes is the “most beautiful sunrise in the world”: the sunrise over 2,200 Bagan stupas. Birds flocked around the structures, which softly reflected the sun’s rays.

Overall, it’s a beautiful example of the charm of Southeast Asia’s ancient civilizations. Friendly locals continue to worship at gilded, religious sites, each still a reflection of history passed down from ancient times to later generations – all this confirmed our impression of Myanmar – of its magnificence.