Myanmar Traditional Food – Must Try Dishes from the Burmese Cuisine

                              

Like any other culture, food is an integral part of Burmese tradition as well. People from Myanmar love to indulge in food and spend hours preparing and eating a meal. Lunch and dinner here are no small affairs. Myanmar traditional food is wholesome, nutritious and filled with goodness.

Here is a list of top traditional Burmese Cuisines that you must try when in Myanmar:

1.   Samosa Thoke

Thoke means salad. And Burmese salad called Samosa Thoke. The samosa thoke looks similar to the Indian Samosa Chaat, however not entirely. Burmese samosas are called samusas and are smaller than the Indian samosas as well. They are filled with potatoes and chickpea powder. The deep-fried pastries are then dunked in plain Burmese curry and garnished with mint leaves, sliced onions, tomatoes, cabbage, and brown chickpeas. The base dish is not spicy at all

Where to find it?

Samosa Thoke is the most popular type of chaat in the streets of Myanmar. Do try these on the streets of Yangon

2.   Deep fried Burmese Tofu

Another most popular food of Myanmar is deep fried Burmese tofu. It is made out of chickpea flour which makes it all the more unique. This is a deep fried tofu stuffed with fried garlic and garnished with cabbage, cilantro, and lemon juice and fish sauce

Where to find it?

You can try this dish anywhere in Myanmar. However, do try this if you visit Yangon

3.   Laphet Thoke  

Another type of salad is Laphet Thoke which is really popular amongst the locals. Laphet means pickled tea leaves in Burmese and laphet thoke is actually a salad made of pickled/ fermented tea leaves. The fermented tea leaves may not look great to discerning eyes but they taste wonderful once they are converted into amazing salad

Where to find it?

 It is available widely across the country and we had it in Yangon, Ngapali, Mrauk-U, and Bagan. You can find it in restaurants as well as street side stalls

4.   Mohinga  

Mohinga is often synonymous with Myanmar traditional food and is considered to be the Burmese National Dish by many. It’s a rice noodle and fish soup that can have many other ingredients like garlic, onion, ginger, fish paste, eggs, fritters, or cilantro. It is usually eaten for breakfast however can be relished any time of the day

Where Can I find it?

In Myanmar, you can find Mohinga anywhere and everywhere. Downtown Yangon is especially famous with a number of stalls specializing in Mohinga variants

5.   Fried Shrimps

Fried shrimps are another tasty street side snack. We found them quite abundantly on the streets and in front of temples in Bagan. There are other huge plates on which fried shrimps, fried shrimps in batter and fried fish were stacked high, one beside the other

Where Can I find it?

You will find fried shrimps on the streets of Myanmar

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The 7 Wonders of Bagan, Myanmar

The main tourist destination in Myanmar is Bagan. It is the capital of the first Myanmar Empire. And is also one of the richest archaeological sites in South-east Asia. The magic of Bagan has inspired visitors to Myanmar for nearly 1000 years. Bagan covers an area of 42 sq.km containing over 2000 well-preserved pagodas and temples of the 11^th -13^th century.

1.   Ananda Temple

The yellow sandstone hues of the restored portions of Ananda Contrast with the sooty looking, crumbling stone of the old. It’s one of the sights to explore when in Myanmar

2.   Sulamani Guphaya Temple

Navigating the steep, narrow stairwell to emerge onto the sun lead rooftop of Sulamani Guphaya reminds you that these temples were not intended for Giants. Legs dangling over the side, basking in the sun and solitude, it is possible to take in panoramic views of endless stupas stretching off to the horizon

3.   Dhammayangyi Temple  

One of the bigger complexes with an array of stalls surrounding the foundations, only its outer corridor is accessible. It’s cool and refreshing, an ideal hangout place

4.   Shwezigon Pagoda

It is one of the glitzier temples, and is one of the hidden treasures of Myanmar. Another most important fact of this pagoda is that it is coated with gold. Also note that before entering this temple, you will have to remove your shoes and wander the cool concrete soaking up the magnificence of the glistening, golden stupa, shimmering in the sunlight

5.   Any temple at Sunset

Many of the smaller temples prove a draw at Sunset when even the least impressive become a photographer’s delight. Claw your way upto the steep stairs and squeeze yourself into prime viewing position to watch one of the most dramatic sunsets you will ever witness

6.   Horse Carts  

In a world which has become increasingly homogenized, Myanmar stands out like a black sheep. Here you will feel that time stood still with the main traffic being herds of horse and cart, carrying tourist back to their hotels

7.   Facial Decoration   

People here put Thanaka (the most pure form of sunscreen) on their skin. They grind the bark of Thanaka tree and make it into a fine paste and apply it on skin.

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

Everything You Need to Know About Mount Popa

1.   Is it worth to pay a visit to Mount Popa?

Mount Popa is the Taung Kalat monastery (meaning pedestal hill) which is a Buddhist temple and the most beautiful one.

Buddhism in Mount Popa is strikingly different as compared to Buddhism in other parts of Asia.

The first and foremost thing to learn is that Burmese Buddhism believes in spirits called Nats. In their traditions, Nats are able to influence terrestrial lives and are worth of worship, so they can bring luck and prosperity if treated right.

Nats are actually malicious ghosts, taking forms such as demons and goblins which evolved from male and females who died from unusually painful deaths, sometimes caused by alcoholism.

Hence, we can say that the center of the Nat worshiping in Myanmar is Mount Popa and if you dare to risk a trip to the place, you may see some pilgrims bringing offerings (such as flowers, money or alcohol) that supposedly appease the evil creatures.

2.   How difficult is it to climb Mount Popa?

It isn’t that difficult to climb Mount Popa. If you’re reasonably fit to climb, you can do it with no major obstacle. However, make sure carry socks to avoid dirt from the stairs.

As per a report by National Geographic, there is a population of nearly 2,000 rhesus macaques living around the monastery, which is also taken care of.

Note: [They can turn aggressive when they see food, so please refrain from eating or carrying any food with you while you climb the stairs]

3.   What to expect there?

For the first timers, things can be a little amusing. There will be vendors’ selling clothes and souvenirs in the stairs (a big bazaar), cleaners taking care of the monkeys mess, people asking for donations, and even people watching soccer in the alter (rare in a culture).    

4.   How to get there?

You can get there very easily. You can hire a driver in Bagan which will be very inexpensive way to travel in Myanmar.

Mount Popa is roughly 50 kilometers from Bagan, and because of the roads not being well conserved, you may want to calculate more time than usual. One day trip with a stop somewhere to eat is ideal.

5.   How to prepare yourself?

Put on your most comfortable clothes which can cover your neckline and shoulders, cotton skirts (or pants) are ideal, same as in Bagan.

Entrance Fees: around 5US $ per person

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.

5 Things to Do In and Around Mandalay

Mandalay is one of the forgotten cities of Myanmar. It is located on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River which provides a wonderful setting for many Instagram-worthy pictures. Keep at least 3-4 days exploring Mandalay and its surrounding area if you can include it in your Myanmar itinerary.

Things to See and Do In and Around Mandalay

Here is a list of following things to do when in Mandalay:

1.   Take a Ferry to Mingun

Mingun is a small village which is situated on the western bank of the Irrawaddy River. You will have to get there by taking small boat and will have to cross long planks to get on and off the boat.

The ferry to Mingun leaves every morning from Mandalay at about 9 o’clock. It only runs once a day so you better make sure to be on time. After about 10 km up river we made it to Mingun, a town that is home to a few very interesting attractions. First there is a huge Mingun Pahtodawgyi Pagoda. The unfinished pagoda would have been the largest in the world if the king of that time would have not decided to stop building. An astrologer told him that he would die once the stupa is finished. With its big cracks from an earthquake, the construction is still so massive and most impressive.

2.   Visit Mandalay Hill

When in Mandalay, it’s a must do to climb Mandalay Hill; 240 meters high hill which gives you an incredible view of the whole area because Mandalay is flat. Getting up there is easier than you would expect, they build an elevator and escalator on the foot of the highest of the temple. Also don’t forget to cover yourself and take off your shoes.

3.   U Bein Bridge

U Bein Bridge is another record breaker and popular tourist destination. The oldest and largest teak wood bridge in the world is a must see and once you make your way back you can browse through the touristy markets.

What to Pack for a Myanmar Trip

On a vacation to a foreign land, our biggest dilemma is what to pack for a Myanmar trip. To travel to Myanmar, we’ve listed out some of the essentials one needs for visiting Myanmar.

1.   Insect Spray

In Myanmar, the bugs are in plentiful. And the travelers often seem to complain about the bugs especially in the evening time with the sunsets in Inle Lake and at the U-Bein Bridge, together with post sunset Bagan, being particularly bad for mosquitoes.

2.   A Torch or Headlamp     

Keep a small torch or headlamp handy in your luggage. You would need them for various reasons. Firstly, street lamps are sparse in cities such as Yangon and Mandalay and the sidewalks are an unpredictable mix of paving stones and deep holes which invite you to fall in at best and twist or break something if your luck is out.

3.   Sunscreen and a Hat       

The weather of Myanmar is extreme hot and dangerous UV levels. Sunscreens are a must at all times. A hat is a perfect for the long and sunny Bagan days when you’re out exploring the temples.

4.   Flip Flops

Myanmar is full of pagodas and temples hence one needs to remove footwear when entering pagodas and temples. It’s not optional and there is nothing worse than trying and untying   laces in the sweltering heat every time you enter a tourist sight.

5.   US (United States) Dollars

For some Myanmar activities, US dollars are required. In Bagan, you will require to pay in US dollars for some of the activities.

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.

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.