Dress Code
2 tipsCover Up at Religious Sites
CriticalShoulders and knees must be covered when entering any pagoda, temple, or monastery. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers the knees — shorts are not appropriate. Many sites will loan you a sarong (longyi) at the entrance if needed, but it's best to carry your own. This applies to ALL religious sites, large or small.
Dress Modestly in General
HelpfulWhile beach dress is acceptable at beach destinations, dressing modestly is appreciated throughout Myanmar. Visitors wearing excessively revealing clothing in towns and cities can attract unwanted attention and is considered disrespectful. Light, modest clothing is also more practical in the heat. The Burmese longyi (sarong) is comfortable and appropriate everywhere.
Temple Etiquette
2 tipsAlways Remove Shoes at Pagodas
CriticalYou must remove your shoes (and socks) before entering any Buddhist religious compound — not just the temple building itself, but the entire walled compound. Look for the shoe removal area near the entrance. Bare feet are required as a sign of respect. The ground can be very hot in summer — visit in the morning or evening.
Never Point Your Feet at Buddha Images or Monks
CriticalIn Buddhist culture, feet are the lowest and most impure part of the body. Never point your feet toward a Buddha statue, a monk, or an altar. When sitting on the floor of a temple or monastery, tuck your feet behind you or to the side. This also applies in homes — avoid stretching your legs out toward elders or religious objects.
Cultural
5 tipsWomen Should Not Touch Monks or Hand Objects Directly
CriticalTheravada Buddhist monks observe strict rules. Women must not touch monks, hand objects directly to them, or sit next to them. If a woman needs to give something to a monk, she should place it on a cloth or tray, or hand it to a man who then passes it on. Men can hand items directly to monks.
Ask Permission Before Photographing People
ImportantAlways ask before photographing monks, novices, worshippers at prayer, or local people going about their daily lives. A smile and gesture toward your camera is usually enough. Many people are happy to be photographed; some are not. Photographing military installations is strictly prohibited and can result in serious consequences.
Be Sensitive About Discussing Politics
ImportantMyanmar's political situation is complex and sensitive. Avoid openly discussing or criticizing the government in public spaces. Locals may be hesitant to discuss politics with strangers. Be respectful of the situation. In private settings locals may speak more freely, but never put anyone in a difficult position with political questions.
Bargaining Is Fine in Markets, Not in Restaurants
HelpfulGentle bargaining is accepted in markets, souvenir shops, and for taxi fares. However, do not bargain in restaurants, food stalls, or at fixed-price shops. Start with 50–70% of the asking price in markets and negotiate from there. Always be friendly and smile — aggressive bargaining is considered rude. It's okay to walk away.
Visa Requirements — Check Before You Travel
CriticalMost nationalities require a visa to enter Myanmar. E-visas can be applied for online prior to travel. Some nationalities qualify for visa-on-arrival. Requirements change and policies can shift — always check the latest information via the official Myanmar Embassy or a trusted travel advisory before booking your trip.
Health
4 tipsDo Not Drink Tap Water
CriticalTap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Myanmar. Always drink bottled water (check the seal is unbroken) or filtered water. Be cautious with ice in drinks at local stalls — it should be the commercial cylindrical ice (safe) rather than irregularly shaped chunks. In hotels and better restaurants, ice is generally safe.
Protect Yourself From Mosquitoes
ImportantDengue fever is present throughout Myanmar, especially during and after the rainy season (May–October). Malaria exists in some rural and border areas. Use insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin, especially at dusk and dawn. Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings. Check with a travel doctor before visiting remote areas about antimalarial medication.
Guard Against the Extreme Heat
ImportantMyanmar can be extremely hot, especially from March to May (temperatures up to 42°C in places like Bagan and Mandalay). Stay hydrated — drink plenty of clean water. Carry a small bottle of water at all times. Wear a hat and light, loose clothing. Take breaks in shade during midday (11am–3pm). Heatstroke can occur quickly when sightseeing outdoors.
Medical Facilities Are Limited Outside Major Cities
ImportantQuality medical care is mainly available in Yangon and Mandalay. Rural areas have very basic facilities. Bring a comprehensive travel first-aid kit including diarrhea medication, rehydration salts, painkillers, antiseptic, and any prescription medicines you need. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
Money
2 tipsUSD Bills Must Be Perfect Condition
CriticalIf exchanging US dollars at money changers (often the best rates), the notes must be in perfect, crisp, unmarked condition — no tears, no pen marks, no folds, no stamps. Even a small pen mark or slight fold can cause them to be refused. Bring pristine bills from your bank before traveling. Euros and Singapore dollars are also widely accepted.
Mobile Payments Are Widely Used
ImportantKBZPay, Wave Money, and AYAPay are widely used mobile payment apps in Myanmar. Many shops, restaurants, and even street vendors accept QR code payments. ATMs exist in major cities but can be unreliable — always have cash backup. Outside of Yangon, Mandalay, and tourist hubs, cash (MMK) is king.
Scams
2 tipsBe Cautious With Gem and Jade Purchases
ImportantMyanmar is famous for rubies, jade, and other gems — but the market is full of fakes and inflated prices targeting tourists. Never buy gems from strangers who approach you, or from non-certified shops. If you're serious about purchasing, go to reputable licensed dealers with verifiable certification. The "gem deal of a lifetime" is nearly always a scam.
Agree on Taxi Fares in Advance
ImportantMost taxis in Myanmar do not use meters. Always agree on the price before getting in. Use apps like Grab in Yangon for transparent, fixed pricing. If taking a regular taxi, state your destination clearly and ask "How much?" before departure. Having a small card with your destination in Burmese script helps. Motorbike taxis are cheaper for short trips.
Transport
2 tipsNight Buses: Choose Reputable Operators
ImportantOvernight bus travel is very common in Myanmar. Book with known operators (JJ Express, Mandalar Min, Shwe Mandalar). Always choose VIP or first-class buses for night travel — they're better maintained and safer. Bus stations are often outside of town — arrange a taxi in advance. Buses can be heavily air-conditioned; bring a jacket.
Road Travel Can Be Challenging
ImportantRoad conditions outside major cities can be poor. Landslides during the rainy season can close mountain roads. If renting a motorbike, wear a helmet (legally required, and essential). Traffic drives on the right in Myanmar, but many vehicles are right-hand drive — be especially vigilant when crossing roads in cities. Driving standards are varied.
Safety
1 tipKey Emergency Numbers
HelpfulPolice: 199 | Fire: 191 | Ambulance: 192. Myanmar Red Cross: (01) 383-681. In case of emergency, your best option is often to ask hotel staff or locals to assist — language barriers can complicate emergency calls. Save your country's embassy number in your phone before traveling.