Hello everyone! We’re the Giraud couple, and we recently returned from an amazing
10-day trip to Myanmar. It’s a country full of surprises - ancient temples, peaceful lakes, and vibrant local markets. Every day brought something new and unforgettable, from the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon to the serene beauty of Inle Lake and the endless temples of Bagan. We booked our trip through Autour Asia, a
travel agency in Myanmar and thanks to their expert planning and fantastic guides, everything went smoothly. If you’re thinking about creating your own
Myanmar itinerary 10 days, we hope our experience gives you a glimpse of the incredible places you can explore. Here’s what made our journey so special!
I. Overview of 10 days in Myanmar
1. Weather in Myanmar in 10 days
During our 10-day trip to Myanmar, we experienced ideal conditions for sightseeing, as January is part of the dry season. The weather in Myanmar 10 days was mostly clear and comfortable, though it varied depending on the region.
In Yangon, temperatures were around 30°C with high humidity, though evenings were pleasantly cooler. At Inle Lake, located at a higher altitude, the weather was mild, ranging between 18°C and 25°C. However, mornings and nights were quite chilly, making a light jacket necessary. In Bagan and Mandalay, the weather was dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures between 28°C and 35°C. Although warm, the heat was manageable with proper hydration and sunscreen.
If you plan your Myanmar itinerary 10 days during the rainy season (June to September), be prepared for frequent rains that may affect travel schedules, although they bring lush green landscapes and a quieter tourist atmosphere.
2. Our Myanmar travel itinerary in 10 days
Our
Myanmar itinerary in 10 days, designed by Autour Asia, struck a perfect balance between cultural immersion, relaxation, and adventure. The destinations, timing, and experiences were carefully planned to allow us to explore without feeling rushed. From the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon to the peaceful floating gardens of Inle Lake and the stunning sunsets over Bagan’s ancient temples, these are truly the
best things to see in Myanmar in 10 days.
Day 1: Arrival in Yangon
Day 2: Full-day Yangon city tour
Day 3: Flight to Heho, transfer to Inle Lake
Day 4: Full-day Inle Lake excursion
Day 5: Flight to Bagan, half-day city tour
Day 6: Embark on the RV Paukan cruise
Day 7: River cruise to Mandalay
Day 8: Full-day Mandalay city tour
Day 9: Visit Amarapura and Sagaing
Day 10: Departure from Mandalay
The trip’s structure allowed us to see Myanmar's most iconic destinations while leaving moments to reflect on our experiences.
II. What to do and what to see in Myanmar in 10 days?
Here’s a detailed guide to the things to see in Myanmar in 10 days based on our personal experiences.
1. Day 1: Arrival in Yangon
The start of our Myanmar travel itinerary 10 days began with a warm welcome at Yangon International Airport. Autour Asia handled all the arrangements perfectly, and we were quickly transferred to our hotel in a spacious, air-conditioned car.
In the afternoon, we explored Yangon on our own. The city's vibrant mix of colonial-era buildings, bustling streets, and golden pagodas captivated us right away. We visited Mahabandoola Park and admired Yangon City Hall and the iconic Sule Pagoda. For dinner, we followed our guide's suggestion and tried Mohinga, a local fish noodle soup. This leisurely first day was the perfect way to ease into our 10 days in Myanmar.
2. Day 2: Full-Day Yangon City Tour
The second day of our Myanmar itinerary 10 days was all about exploring the vibrant city of Yangon. Our expert guide from Autour Asia led us on a carefully planned tour, packed with both cultural and historical highlights.
We began at the National Museum, where artifacts such as the royal throne provided a fascinating glimpse into Myanmar’s history. Next, we visited Sule Pagoda, a serene temple surrounded by the bustling city. Kandawgyi Lake offered a peaceful escape, with its beautiful views of Karaweik Hall.
The highlight of the day was Shwedagon Pagoda, an iconic landmark with a massive golden dome. Watching the sunset here was a spiritual and visually stunning experience. After lunch, we explored Bogyoke Market, where we found handcrafted souvenirs. This full day in Yangon was the perfect balance of history, culture, and relaxation.
3. Day 3: Yangon – Heho – Inle Lake
The next step in our 10-day trip to Myanmar took us to Heho via a short domestic flight. Our guide greeted us with a warm smile, and soon we were en route to Inle Lake. The journey was smooth, and once we arrived at the lakeside, the tranquility of the area immediately captivated us.
We took a short boat ride, marveling at the floating gardens and fishermen using their signature leg-rowing technique. Inle Lake is an essential stop on any Myanmar travel itinerary, offering both natural beauty and cultural depth. We spent the evening relaxing at our lakeside hotel, preparing for the full day of exploration ahead.
4. Day 4: Full-Day Inle Lake Excursion
Day four was dedicated to discovering the wonders of Inle Lake. This was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our Myanmar itinerary 10 days. We traveled across the lake by boat, visiting several remarkable sites.
Our first stop was Phaungdaw Oo Pagoda, one of the most revered religious sites in the area. Next, we visited Inpawkhon Village, where we watched local artisans create beautiful silk and lotus textiles. We also explored the historic Jumping Cat Monastery, a charming temple with impressive wooden architecture.
The scenic beauty of the lake and the floating gardens amazed us at every turn. This day fully captured the serene magic of Inle Lake, making it a standout experience in our 10 days in Myanmar.
5. Day 5: Inle Lake – Bagan, Half-Day City Tour
Our journey continued with an early morning flight to Bagan. Arriving in this ancient city felt like stepping into a dream. The plain of over 2,000 temples stretched as far as the eye could see, making Bagan a must-see on any Myanmar travel itinerary 10 days.
We started at Nyaung Oo Market, where we immersed ourselves in local life, browsing stalls filled with fresh produce and crafts. Shwezigon Pagoda was next on our list, with its striking golden stupa. The elegance of Ananda Temple, one of Bagan’s most famous temples, left us speechless.
In the evening, we climbed a temple terrace to witness a breathtaking sunset over Bagan. This magical moment, framed by the silhouettes of ancient pagodas, was one of the most unforgettable experiences of our 10 days in Myanmar.
6. Day 6: Embark on the Cruise Boat RV Paukan
After a leisurely morning, we boarded the RV Paukan at Aye Yar Jetty. This relaxing cruise along the Irrawaddy River was a perfect way to slow down during our Myanmar travel itinerary 10 days.
The boat’s crew welcomed us with cocktails, and we enjoyed a delicious lunch on deck as we sailed past rural villages and serene river landscapes. Spending the night on the river was a peaceful interlude in our adventure.
7. Day 7: Cruising to Mandalay
Our cruise continued as we visited Yandabo Village, renowned for its pottery-making tradition. We observed artisans shaping clay pots and learned about the village’s historical significance. This day was a relaxing and insightful part of our Myanmar itinerary 10 days, giving us a chance to appreciate both nature and local craftsmanship.
8. Day 8: Full-Day Mandalay City Tour
Mandalay welcomed us with a rich blend of cultural and historical attractions. We visited Mahamuni Buddha Temple, where locals honored the revered Buddha statue with gold leaf.
A tour of a gold paper workshop gave us fascinating insights into traditional crafts. Later, we explored Shwenandaw Monastery, famous for its intricate wooden carvings, and ended the day with a panoramic view from Mandalay Hill at sunset. Mandalay is a must-visit for anyone planning 10 days in Myanmar.
9. Day 9: Amarapura & Sagaing Tour
The ninth day of our journey featured Amarapura and Sagaing, two culturally significant regions. We visited Sagaing Hill, dotted with meditation centers and small pagodas, and explored Maha Ganayon Kyaung, a monastery where hundreds of monks gather for their daily meal.
In the afternoon, we strolled across U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest teakwood bridge. Watching the sunset here was a truly magical experience, making this one of the highlights of our Myanmar travel itinerary 10 days.
10. Day 10: Departure from Mandalay
After breakfast, we were transferred to the airport for our flight home. The team from Autour Asia ensured a smooth and hassle-free departure, bringing our unforgettable 10 days in Myanmar to a close.
Our 10-day trip to Myanmar was truly a journey to remember. From the golden brilliance of Shwedagon Pagoda to the calm waters of Inle Lake and the ancient splendor of Bagan’s temples, every destination offered something unique and awe-inspiring. The warmth of the people, the rich cultural heritage, and the stunning landscapes left a lasting impression on us.
Thanks to Autour Asia, we experienced the best of Myanmar with seamless logistics and knowledgeable guides who brought the country’s history and traditions to life. If you’re planning a Myanmar itinerary 10 days, we wholeheartedly recommend visiting these incredible places. Myanmar has so much to offer, and we can’t wait to return one day to explore even more!
How many days are enough for Myanmar?
A 10-day trip to Myanmar is ideal for exploring the country's major highlights, including Yangon, Inle Lake, Bagan, Mandalay, and Sagaing, giving you ample time to experience temple tours, boat rides on Inle Lake, and breathtaking sunsets over Bagan’s ancient pagodas. If you’re short on time, a 5 to 7-day itinerary can cover key sites by focusing on Yangon, Bagan, and Inle Lake. For a more immersive experience that includes off-the-beaten-path destinations like Hpa-An, Kalaw, or Ngapali Beach, a two-week trip is recommended. However, for most travelers, 10 days in Myanmar offers the perfect balance between sightseeing and relaxation.
When is the best time to visit Myanmar?
The best time to visit Myanmar is during the dry season from November to February, when the weather is pleasant with clear skies and mild temperatures, ideal for exploring landmarks like Shwedagon Pagoda, Inle Lake, and Bagan. This period sees warm days (20°C to 30°C) and cooler evenings, making outdoor activities more comfortable. From March to May, the hot season brings temperatures up to 40°C, particularly in Bagan and Mandalay, requiring early or late-day sightseeing to avoid the intense heat. The rainy season (June to September) brings frequent showers and lush landscapes but may cause travel disruptions, particularly in rural areas. For fewer crowds and good weather, October and early March are also great times to visit.