Joanna James
Wrapped in colonial charm and deep-rooted ties to Buddhism, Myanmar (formerly Burma) is an incredible experience that your kids will truly adore. Listed are 7 of the very best getaways that can be had.
Your gateway to Myanmar’s impressive heritage will be through the former capital of Yangon. Ideally, spend a majority of your time at the Shwedagon Pagoda, found rising from a platform at some 326 feet in the air. In terms of stature, details and fine architecture, none come close to this Buddhist shrine, which is the most sacred site in the country. At the highest point of the stupa are a jaw-dropping 5,488 diamonds, 2,317 rubies, a host of other precious stones, 1,065 bells made of gold and a sole 76-carat diamond that will be hard to miss. This iconic structure, which is the largest of its kind in Myanmar is best accessed after you have booked a decent Yangon hotel. Myanmar offers ease of access to Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon from where a slew of other landmarks can be explored as well.
Found in Shan State, Inle Lake is Myanmar’s 2nd biggest lake and is home to a wonderful collection of insights that your family will learn to appreciate the longer they remain. Set off on a wooden boat and come into contact with how life is lived in these parts. For example, scenes of wooden houses constructed on stilts will soon meet your eye. Also, opportunities to dine with a family and witness local artisans at work await those curious enough. However, you could also opt for a restaurant and tuck into homemade potato chips, a certain sticky rice only found in Shan State and the freshest river fish the area.
Perched on the western edges of Inle Lake is Nga Hpe Kyaung Monastery; a place of worship that permits visitors to cuddle with its resident felines and spend time exploring every feature there is to its series of Buddha images. Notably, the wooden meditation hall is where you and your family ought to be at, as you will have the privilege of viewing statues hewn according to the Inwa, Shan, Bagan and Tibetan schools of thought.
Have a day tour at Green Hill Valley Elephant Camp
Found in Kalaw, the lush Green Hill Valley Elephant Camp will see to it that your children have one amazing time in the company of the largest land mammal on earth – the elephant. Schedule a day trip where you and the kids can pet, feed and even bathe these majestic species for a truly engaging and exciting escape.
A cultural gem of the rarest kind, Bagan’s very own Thanaka Museum presents a once in a lifetime chance to educate yourself on the finer details of Thanaka powder. The powder, which is a white paste applied by women and children on their faces to enhance beauty is very much a part of the local culture. No sooner you enter, you will also witness local artisans showing off their skills and adding value to their heritage.
Showcasing ruins of well over 2,000 temples, Bagan is an area that must be included in your bucket list. In fact, organising a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise will in turn, have you in prime position to feast your eyes on the vast, mist-shrouded plains of Bagan and its seemingly countless temples that dot the landscape.
With a reputation for being the best beach in Myanmar, Ngapali Beach, which is found along the country’s western shoreline is fringed with palm trees, fishing villages and provides ample room to roam freely. You may go in for a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal, enjoy snorkelling, purchase fresh fruit from villagers before beelining for a beach restaurant where giant-sized shrimps and grilled calamari can be polished off.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
