Myamnar is a country filled with golden temples, endless rice fields, pristine beaches and bustling cities. Add the friendliest people on earth and you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable experience. With enough culture and history to satisfy the most curious traveler, Myanmar is one of those countries you have to visit before it becomes mainstream.
Even though not even 10,000 photos would be enough to show you the beauty of this country, I will take you on a Myanmar photo tour. I’ve spent one month wandering around Myanmar and during my journey I had the chance to photograph some of the most beautiful places.
This Myanmar photo gallery will make you fall in love with the land of temples. Let’s start!
1. Yangon Circular Train
Take a step back in time and ride the circular train around Yangon. Built during the colonial times, this train ride is the perfect chance to spend some time among the locals. Keep your camera ready while the locals will pass by selling food. Also, don’t forget to take a look out the window – you will pass by local villages and vegetable markets – a treat for those passionate about photography.
2. Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon
Probably one of the most popular photography locations in Myanmar, the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon is a true wonder. This huge gold plated stupa is surrounded by tens of other smaller temples, shrines and stupas. If you are looking for the best photography opportunities in Myanmar, be sure to add the Shwedagon Pagoda to the list.
3. Burmese child in Yangon
Don’t be surprised if you see Burmese people wearing a white-yellowish paste on their face – it’s called thanka and is believed to prevent sunburn. Some of the most beautiful photos in Myanmar are those of local people. They are absolutely beautiful!
4. Yangon traffic
Traffic in Yangon is at a whole different level comparing to other cities around the world. Although motorcycles are banned from the city, the traffic becomes unbearable during the rush hour. However, traffic makes for some of the most incredible photos so take advantage of it!
5. Yangon architecture
Some of my most beautiful photos in Myanmar are those taken in the heart of cities. Narrow alleys surrounded by tall, cramped apartment buildings are some of the most photogenic locations. It’s fascinating to see the concrete jungles of Myanmar.
6. Ananda Temple, Bagan
Our Myanmar photography tour continues with one of the preferred tourist destinations in the country – Bagan. Ananda Temple is one of the most beautiful temples around Bagan and is definitely worth a visit. Its white exterior and beautiful details make it look like a scene from a fairy tale.
To find out which temples you can still climb in Bagan, click here.
7. Dhammayan Gyi Temple, Bagan
One of the most beautiful Myanmar photography spots is the Dhammayan Gyi Temple. Although left unfinished, this temple is definitely impressive. Hop on your e-bike and visit it!
8. Hsinbyume Pagoda
Hsinbyume Pagoda near Mandalay is a personal favorite. Take a half day trip to Mingun and explore this amazing round-shaped white pagoda. If you want, you can climb to the top and enjoy some of the best views around Mingun. Don’t miss this pagoda!
9. Mandalay Hill
Climbing the Mandalay Hill is not an easy task but the view makes it worth it. If you are looking for the best sunset viewpoints in Mandalay, I can assure you that there is no better place than the Mandalay Hill.
10. U Bein Bridge, Mandalay
A popular photography place in Myanmar is the U Bein Bridge. This 1.2 kilometers long bridge which crosses the Taungthaman Lake is believed to be the oldest and longest teakwood bridge in the world. Head there at sunset and enjoy its reflection in the water.
11. Balancing fisherman, Inle Lake
The next place on the list in my Myanmar photo gallery is Inle Lake or more specifically, the balancing fishermen at Inle Lake. Famous for their fishing technique, these fishermen have become an international sensation. Tourists from all around the world come here to see them balancing on one foot while holding their cylindrical net in their hands. Take a boat tour around the lake and admire them!
12. Lotus weaving, Inle Lake
You’ve probably heard about silk weaving before but what about lotus weaving? At Inle Lake, locals have developed a new technique of making clothes, scarves and other textiles from lotus. The lotus items are even more expensive than silk!
13. Win Sein Taw Ya, Mawlamyine
If you traveled in Asia, you’ve probably already seen lots of Buddha statues but this is not an ordinary statue. Win Sein Taw Ya is the biggest reclining Buddha in the world and it is 180 meters long and 30 meters tall. This off the beaten path destination in Myanmar is definitely worth visiting!
14. Kyeik Than Lan Pagoda, Mawlamyine
Myanmar is known as the country of golden temples but this temple in particular is one of the most beautiful I’ve seen. Situated in Mawlamyine, the Kyeik Than Lan Pagoda is extremely photogenic.
15. Kaugun Cave, Hpa An
Another off-the-radar destination in Myanmar is Hpa An. Mostly known for its countless caves filled with Buddha statues and carvings, Hpa An also offers hiking opportunities. Also, don’t forget to explore its rice fields and beautiful pagodas!
16. Children monks
As a predominantly Buddhist country, people in Myanmar – including children – devote a big part of their lives to religion. It’s not unusual to see children monks around the country.
17. Mrauk U
If you want to take tons of amazing photos in Myanmar, head to Mrauk U. This less popular alternative to Bagan is a heaven for photographers and culture vultures. The views are incredible and there are almost no tourists to bump into. You’re welcome!
18. Ngapali Beach
Head south to enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches around Southeast Asia – Ngapali Beach. With white sand, turquoise water and tall palm trees, this beach is a hidden paradise. Make sure to spend at least 3 days here – you’ll love it!
19. Local woman praying
The Burmese people are some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met! Don’t be afraid to talk to them as they love to practice their English. I’m ending my Myanmar photo gallery with this beautiful Burmese woman praying. I hope you’ve enjoyed it!
May the travel bug bite you!
More about Myanmar:
- Backpacking Myanmar – all you need to know – click here
- The most beautiful temples around Myanmar – click here
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Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.
She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here.
To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!