A Peek into Burmese Lives and Routines

Myanmar is a beautiful country with friendly people. Apart from the stunning temples of Bagan, the pristine white beach of Ngapali and the undiscovered ruins of Mrauk U, the locals of Myanmar are friendly and helpful. They will always have smiles on their faces to welcome new people into their land.

Thanaka – The Ever present Facial Mask

The first thing that would strike you when you’ll put down your foot   on the land of Myanmar is Thanaka. Thanaka is basically a creamy-white pastewhich is made by grinding the bark/ roots of the thanaka tree and is applied on the face and arms and all the visible area of the body to prevent them from sunburns.

Longyi – Traditional Attire of Myanmar

Longyi is traditional Burmese attire which is worn by literally everyone in the country. It is actually a long piece of cloth that goes all the way to the ankles from the waist. It is wrapped around the waist and tied securely a knot.

Local Markets – The Veins of Myanmar

The vibrancy of Myanmar is partially because of its markets which are the lifelines of Burma. In these markets, you can find from kitchenware to really gorgeous pieces of wedding attire. There s also a separate area where fresh vegetables and fish are sold. If you need anything at all you just have to make a trip to the local markets near you.

Art and Handicraft  

Including so many other things, the art of Myanmar is really fascinating. And that can be found everywhere in Myanmar. These paintings are very eye catching as these are made by sprinkling sand on paper. These paintings usually depict murals found within the temples of Bagan and are a big draw for tourists here.

Spirituality and Religion

Religion plays a really significant part in Myanmar. The predominant religion here is Theravada Buddhism which is practiced by nearly 88% of the population. The remaining 12% are religious minorities. However, religion has been a controversial topic of late in this country.

Monks are highly revered in this country. There are special ceremonies which takes place when a young child is given up for monkhood. Once you visit here you will see a number of these younger monks at the pagodas where worship is still offered.

Food

Food could surely be one of the reasons to visit Myanmar. A meal in this country is not a small affair. A meal in this country is not a small affair. A must have dish here is shrimp curry. The tea leaf salad and the samosa salad are really tasty dishes one should definitely not miss on their trip to Myanmar.

Also note that people in Burma eat with their hands as in most South and Southeast Asian countries. Here spoons are used for salads while Chinese style spoons are used for soups.

Transport

Yangon is a pretty modern city, hence they use cars. However, trains, buses, tuk-tuks are common means of transport. It is interesting to ride the Yangon Circular train when you are in the city. You can witness the true spirit of Burma while travelling in the train.

In case you’re planning to visit Myanmar, then get in touch with us by visiting our website i.e. www.e-visamyanmar.com/ . Also we’ve a 24*7 customer care executives in order to assist you with your queries.

5 Things You Shouldn’t Miss Doing While in Myanmar

Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar is a country with loads of potential. Myanmar is rapidly developing, despite being the neighbor of powerhouse of Southeast Asian tourism, Thailand. This country is very rich in natural and cultural attractions and is an amazing destination to discover.

1.   Temples of Bagan

One of the must visit places to explore in Myanmar is Temples of Bagan. Situated in the eastern banks of the Ayeyarwady River, it is an archaeological site with thousands of Buddhist monuments and Pagodas. It’s a popular place to visit because of its amazing views and incredible atmosphere.

2.   Explore the Golden Rock

Olden rock is an iconic monument in Myanmar. It is considered to be one of the country’s most spiritual and religious sites. It’s a Buddhist pilgrimage located in the Mon state and is known for its huge granite boulder covered with thousands of gold leaves which are pasted onto the rock by its devotee.

3.   Boat Ride on The Inle Lake

It wouldn’t be much if we say Inle Lake is one of the nicest lakes that one can visit in the Southeast Asia. This lake is situated between the Shan provinces; it’s the largest lake in the country and is well-known for its floating gardens, rustic wooden stilt houses and iconic fishermen who navigate their boats with one leg.

4.   Climb to The Popa Taungkalat Monastery

Mount Popa is an extinct volcanic mountain which is located in central Myanmar. On the foot of the mountain lies a monastery which is perched dramatically atop a huge rocky cliff. Here lies the spiritual center of the 37 Nats (Burmese Spirits), represented by various statues.

5.   Walk Around the Shwedagon Pagoda

If you’ve the plan to visit the capital city of Yangon, you must also visit the city’s most iconic pagoda – the Shwedagon. It is one of the largest and oldest pagodas in the world and stands as a remarkable landmark about 100 meters high in the center of the city. It is completely covered in gold and decorated with diamonds and is an incredibly nice place to visit.

If you’re planning to visit Myanmar, you can get in touch with us by visiting our website i.e. www.e-visamyanmar.com/. Also we’ve a 24*7 customer care executives in order to assist you with your queries.  

Travel Guide to Myanmar

If you’re planning to visit Myanmar, this article have you sorted. In this article we have listed down everything that you need to know before visiting Myanmar; such as if you need a visa for Myanmar, where to stay, where to eat, and the point of interest in Myanmar, we have covered it all.

E-Visato Myanmar

Unlike the traditional way of getting a Visa by visiting an embassy and standing in the long queue, e-Visa is electronic Visa; which is done completely electronically.

Steps

ü Visit the website www.e-visamyanmar.com/in order to apply your application for e-Visa

ü Check if you’ve a valid passport not expiring for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Myanmar

ü You will need a colour photograph taken within the past 3 months

ü If you wish to pay from credit or debit card, keep the card handy

ü Fill in the secured online e-Visa form

ü Confirm and pay

ü Get your e-Visa within 2 days of application on your email ID

Entering Into Myanmar

You can enter Myanmar via one of the three international airports which are Yangon, Mandalay or Nyi Pyi Taw or by one of the three Thailand-Myanmar land border crossings (Tachileik, Myawaddy, and Kawthaung).

Handy Tips

ü Myanmar Currency – Kyat

ü Hello – Mingalabar

ü Bye – Tata

ü Thank You – Jujubae

Myanmar Essentials before Taking a Trip

Myanmar has recently opened up to the outside world, hence the travelers are venturing into the country. In this article, we will discuss all the essential things to know before taking a trip to the beautiful country of Myanmar.

Visas

It is only possible to enter Myanmar on an e-Visa at Yangon, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw international airports; and at three Thai-Myanmar land border crossings Tachileik, Mayawadi (Myawaddy) and Kawthoung. If you wish to apply for visa, you can do that online as well. E-Visa is electronic visa which is completely an online application system which helps you keeping away from long queue and you can also apply for it from the comfort of your home.

Accommodations

In the major destinations such as Yangon and Bagan, there is shortage of hotel rooms. Hence, it is advisable to pre-book the hotel. Accommodations in these major places fill up as far as a month in advance, particularly if it is a place listed in a guidebook. Most of the places can be pre-booked online. Hence, reserve your room as soon as you can.

Money                             

Myanmar is not a cheap destination anymore, so make sure to adjust your budget accordingly. Even for basic accommodations prices have risen drastically.

Network  

The smart option to keep in touch in Yangon and Mandalay is by buying a cheap SIM. Moreover, internet access has also improved there. Wi-Fi has become a norm, hence every hotel, guesthouses and cafes offers it for free.

Safety      

Comparative to other countries, Myanmar is safe for foreigners. However, you should take the usual precautions of using hotel lockers or safes for your valuables. Female travelers should not experience any harassment or different treatment.

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Etiquette Tips 

Myanmar is still a very conservative country. People here still adorn traditional clothes such as longyi for men and htamein for women; and both are sarong-like garments. Exposing knees or shoulders will make the localites uncomfortable.

Also note that, money is handed over and received with the right hand, while the left hand loosely supports the right arm.

5 Top Myanmar Festivals That Reflects the Beautiful Burmese Tradition

Myanmar has a beautiful culture which has festivals throughout the year. The Burmese people are known for their cheerful spirit and festive mood, and that’s the reason Myanmar festival celebrations are bliss to be in, and even more wonderful to participate in.

Here is our list of top 5 Myanmar festivals that reflects the beautiful Burmese tradition:

1.   Kachin Manaw Festival

This popular festival is the combination of a lot of other festivals such as New Year, battle victories, the tribes’ reunion. In the celebration, Manaw poles are erected and men and women dance around it. This festival is considered to be one of the most delightful festivals of Myanmar.

Where – Myitkyina and Putao in Kachin, Myanmar

When – 4^th January, 2019 – 11^th January, 2019

2.   Ananda Pagoda Festival

This festival celebrates the Buddhist rituals and ceremonies of social gathering and also the pomp of Buddhism. And this is also the best time to enjoy the local food. It is also one of the most widely celebrated festivals in Myanmar.

Where – Ananda Pagoda, Bagan, Mandalay Division

When – 15^th January, 2019 – 20^th January, 2019

3.   Thingyan Water Festival

 The Myanmar water festival is celebrated to mark the beginning of the New Burmese Year. In the festival, people get on the streets by bamboos and drench each other in the water. People splash water through pipes from jeeps and trucks, and children enjoy with little water pistols. Also in these festivals captive birds and fishes are also freed during Thingyan Water Festival.

Where – Kandawgyi Pat Lann and Kabaraye Roads, Yangon, Myanmar

When – 13^th April, 2019 – 16^th April, 2019

4.   Kason Festival

The purpose behind celebrating Kason festival is to announce the auspicious birth of Buddha. You can also join in the processions followed by the locals and pour water on the sacred Bodhi tree or take river cruises around for watching the festivity and celebration.

Where - Nationwide  

When – May

5.   Taunggyi Balloon Festival

The balloon festival is celebrated every year after the rainy season. During this festival, the whole sky is lit with the balloons. These are believed to drive away all the evil spirits and invite positivity and happiness to the lands.

Where – Nationwide

When – October – November

Visit Myanmar and you can get in touch with us by visiting our website i.e. www.e-visamyanmar.com/. Also we’ve a 24*7 customer care executives in order to assist you with your queries.

Myanmar Temples: 5 Diving Sanctums in Mystic Landscapes

It would take a life time to explore all the temples, monasteries, pagodas and stupas in this spiritual country; Myanmar. Hence we have listed out few of the must visit temples for you which you can easily squeeze into your trip.

1.    Lawkaoushaung Temple, Bagan

This temple is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples of Myanmar. At the second and third floor of this temple there is a patio which gives a spectacular 360 degree view of the Myinkabaa plain blanketed by the remarkable early morning mist.

2.    Htukkanthein Temple, Mrauk U

It’s one of the largest temples in Myanmar and this place says “don’t get lost”. In this temple visitors coils around the passageway until they reach the Central Buddha Statue. It is also one of the most beautiful Myanmar temples.

3.    Kawthaung, Mrauk U

Kawthaung is one of the best kept secrets of Myanmar. It is also known as the ‘Myanmar temple having ninety thousand Buddha images’. This place has stone carvings which depicts the conquests of Buddha against the demons.

4.    Myaw Yit Pagoda, Dawei

This place is located at the end of the Dawei’s peninsula; the Myaw Yit Pagoda is absolutely breathtaking. In this temple, monks still resides inside the temple. And from this temple one can get a spectacular view of the Andaman Sea.

5.    Bayin Nyi Monastery, Hpa An

This monastery is built into a cave. It’s a peaceful place and nature friendly. Is also home to family of naughty monkeys who are hanging on the trees. Also make sure to explore thousands of temples proudly scattered across the plains and enjoy a little peace among the ruins that are sure to make you feel complete.

Visit Myanmar and you can get in touch with us by visiting our website i.e. www.e-visamyanmar.com/. Also we’ve a 24*7 customer care executives in order to assist you with your queries.

5 Hidden Myanmar Beaches That You Must Visit At Least Once

Myanmar is a beautiful country which is home to some unbelievably beautiful however, hidden beaches. Here is our list of top 5 beaches which is spread over a coastline of 2000 km:

Ngapali Beach

One of the most popular beaches of Myanmar, this beach is spread over a huge expanse of white sand and is adorned with beautiful palm trees and turquoise blue water. If you wish to experience some local culture, then this beach is the best for you to visit in Myanmar.

Mergui Archipelago

Archipelago is situated in the southernmost part and has a stunning white beach which is stretched for kilometers. When in Archipelago another interesting thing to do is to spot monkeys snacking on crabs on the coastlines of its beaches.

Ngwe Saung

This beach is 5 hour drive from Yangon and it can be accessed by a private car or a bus as well. It’s a small fishing village that boasts of one of the most beautiful beaches in Myanmar. If you’re visiting Myanmar alone, then this beach is just perfect for some ‘me time’.

Chaung Tha Beach

This beach is 6 hour drive from Yangon and shares many similarities with other beaches of Myanmar. However, the water here is comparatively clear and act as a secret getaway place for locals who come here on weekends and during holidays.

Kanthaya Beach

In Myanmar, Kanthaya beach is considered to be the most highly rated beaches. It does not have any beach sports, shops, or restaurants and will provide a good detox from the modern facilities that we are addicted to.

5 Wonderful Reasons to Visit Myanmar

Myanmar is located on the edge of Southeast Asia, is a beautiful vast country which is full of rich tradition, delicious food and breathtakingly natural sights. Tourists from all over the world visit Myanmar and fall in love with this wonderful country.

Delicious Local Cuisines

Myanmar cuisine is an amalgamation of various flavors and ingredients which make Myanmar cuisine one of the most desired cuisines in the world. For a unique main course you may try nangyi thohk. Or you can also try Myanmar’s famous tea leaf salad, that is chock full of nuts, tea leaves, and shrimp sauce, making for one of the world’s most interesting salads. Also dishes can be as cheap as 1,000 kyat however depends on where the visitors dine.

Electric Bike Riding in Bagan

Hopping on a motorbike and exploring Bagan is one of visitors’ favorite things to do. And the electric bicycles in Bagan are what make this country beautiful. These electric bikes are environment friendly and reasonable as well.

Friendly Locals

Locals in Myanmar are the friendliest. They are most welcoming to the visitors from Yangon’s city center to or in the jungle on the way to Inle Lake from Kalaw. So even if you’re lost on your way through the country, locals will definitely come to your rescue.

Budget Friendly Experience

Myanmar is filled with wonderful places and things to discover. If you’re travelling on a rigid budget, Myanmar is the best place to travel as it is the cheapest country in comparison.

Ballons over Bagan

To get the most breathtakingly beautiful view of Bagan, hopping into a hot air balloon is a must. Also, catch a glimpse of the Bagan Archaeological zone from one too many meters high in the air in one of these ballons, which apparently began in 1999.

Top 5 Instagram Perfect Locations in Myanmar

Myanmar is an Asian country which has amazing old architecture and some pleasant beaches. The country has some fair share of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, gold-tripped Pagodas, and breathtaking sunsets.

Here are some of the Insta perfect pictures which you must follow:

1.   Bagan 

2. Dee Doke Fall

3. Mergui Archipelego

4. Mount Popa

5. Inle Lake

If you plan to visit Myanmar, get in touch with us by visiting our website i.e. www.e-visamyanmar.com/ . Also, we've a a 24*7 customer care executives in order to assist you with your queries. 

A Handy Food Guide for Your Next Trip to Myanmar

If you’re in Myanmar, you should definitely indulge in delectable Burmese cuisine which you will thoroughly enjoy. The Burmese cuisine is an amalgamation of Indian and Thai flavors and it comes out as a delicious Asian delight.

1.    Mohinga

When in Myanmar, trying Mohinga is a must. Mohinga is a bowl of rice noodles with a base of fish soup and topped with crispy fried fitters. It’s considered to be the staple breakfast meal for the locals.

2.    Dan Bauk

Also known as Burmese Biryani in Myanmar, this dish has a typical desi touch of turmeric, saffron, and coconut milk, the Burmese made their own version of Biryani by adding Ambrosia, veggies, and meat.

3.    Burmese Fish Curry

Burmese curry taste slightly different from Indian fish curry or Thai curry.  Locals in Myanmar relish this food a lot.

4.    Khao Suey Thote

 It’s delicious taste of chicken noodles soup which is known Khao Suye in Myanmar. This Burmese food is made up of spicy coconut milk broth and boneless chicken which makes an unusual combination but tastes heavenly.

5.    Sticky Rice with Shredded Coconut

If you’re a rice person, Myanmar has a lot to offer. Try sticky rice with shredded coconut while you’re in Myanmar. This Burmese dish is served with a hint of lemon flavor and fried corn sprinkled on sticky rice.

Visit Myanmar and you can get in touch with us by visiting our website i.e. www.e-visamyanmar.com/. Also, we’ve a 24*7 customer care executives in order to assist you with your queries.

5 Things You Need To Know About Christmas and New Year in Burma

If you’re a backpacker, you should visit Myanmar at least once in your lifetime. December and January are two of the best months to visit Burma (Myanmar), which is just around the corner. Hence, get started with the planning to visit Myanmar as your next vacation.

We have listed out the reasons that why you should visit Burma for Christmas and New Year:

1.    Away from the Commercial to a more relaxing Christmas

The overall population of Burma is Buddhist; hence Christmas here has not been popularized in the way that we might expect in the west. The celebration here is very modest between the Christian communities.

2.    The weather is at its loveliest

In the month of December and January, the weather of Burma is pleasant (it’s much less humid than those in the months ahead). Quite a novelty for those of us used to bite winds and thick piles of snow in winter.

3.    Enjoy a Good Christmas Dinner On The Beach

Wish to witness the best of both the worlds? Head to the beach paradise of Ngapali and enjoy a lovely dinner around the place, especially on the Christmas Eve.

However, it must be slightly pricey in comparison to the other time of the year due to Christmas. Sip some cocktails on the beach in a Santa hat which can be a pretty cool way to end a year.

4.    Visit the Burma Churches

If you wish to celebrate Christmas in a religious manner, there are Churches in Burma where you can celebrate the religious side of Christmas. Burma has a small religious community which dates back to the early 1800s when missionaries from Europe and the US arrived. If you want a good dose of carol singing, you may visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral or even the Saint Mary’s Cathedral (which are both in Yangon)

5.    Great excuse to avoid New Year’s Eve

For Buddhist, New Year actually takes place in April which they celebrate with Thingyan; a water festival. If you like to avoid the hustle and bustle of city life, leave the hordes of crowds, overpriced taxis or unfulfilled resolutions for another time.

For more information you can call us on visit our website www.e-visamyanmar.com/. We have a 24*7 customer care executives to assist you with your queries.