You will get a range of alternatives for getting around in the country. The country has a mix of a variety of public and private options which will enable you to travel comfortably from one place to another within your budget.
AIR TRAVEL
The country is well-connected by air with the rest of the world. There are 4 international airports at Yangon, Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw and Bago and lmost all the regions and states of the country have domestic airports. Air travel is the fastest way to travel in the country, although not the most economical. While many international airline operators operate flights to and fro from Myanmar, the leading domestic airline operators include Air KBZ, Asian Wings Airways, Golden Myanmar Airlines, Mann Yadanarpon Airlines, Myanmar National Airlines and Yangon Airways.
BOAT
Take a boat ride on the Ayeyarwady river and we promise, you will never forget it. There are public transport options as well as luxury cruises for travelling by boat. Although travelling by boat will be slower than other modes of transport, you will get the opportunity for leisurely travel exploring the beautiful countryside. You can also travel by boat in the Myeik Archipelago region as well as travelling between Mrauk U and Sittwe.
BUS
Buses are the cheapest modes of transport as well as the simplest way to get around the country. It is also the only way to get to certain destinations unless you want to travel in a private car. The country has several authorised private bus operators who run bus services around the country. Please note that there are restrictions for travelling by road to some places in the country such as Putao and Kyaing Tong for foreigners. They can only be reached through air travel.
TRAINS
Embark in some of the scenic train rides of your life in Myanmar. Trains in Myanmar have different classes – the ordinary class which is the cheapest way to travel in the country and comes with simple wooden benches, a first class where wooden benches have cushions and upper class which has larger cushions. There are standard sleeper compartments with 2 or 4 beds and shared bathrooms. They run from Yangon to Mandalay and Mandalay to Myitkine. A special sleeper cabin is also available for travelling between Yangon and Bagan. They have beds and linens, a sitting area and a private bathroom and can accommodate up to 4 people. You can travel in the upper class or overnight sleeper carriages which offer a more comfortable journey than buses at times. The ordinary class is the cheapest option to travel by train. If you want to explore the amazing scenery of the country, we recommend a ride on the following routes:
- Mandalay to Hsipaw
- Mandalay to Myitkyina
- Thazi to Shwenyaung, Inle Lake
- Yangon to Bagan
- Yangon to Bago to Taungoo
- Bago to Mawlawmyine
- Yangon’s Circular Train Route
How to cross a Myanmar overland borders with a car, motorcycle and cycle
Crossing into Myanmar with your own vehicle (motorhome, car or motorbike) requires special permission and you will have to be accompanied by a guide from a tour company. If you are planning to self drive into Myanmar, prepare well in advance and start your processing at least 1 month in advance.
!! Cyclists also need special permission.
Your Tour Operator needs the following information to apply for your border crossing permission:
- Names of group members crossing the borders
- Details of hotel location in Myanmar
- Car / Motorcycle papers
- Insurance papers
- If you are using a radio, satellite phone you need to communicate you need to share the details of the device.
Your Tour Operator might ask you for more details.