Mandalay, resting on the banks of the Irrawaddy River, is a metropolitan mosaic that is home to scores of pagodas, markets, monasteries, and artisan workshops for silk-weaving and gold leaf. But just steps outside the hustle and bustle of Mandalay, you’ll uncover less-touristed temples, rich greenery, and rural scenery in Amarapura, Sagaing, and Inwa (Ava) .

The temple town of Bagan was once a powerful, ancient capital city. Today, Bagan is a major pilgrimage site, and thousands of Buddhist pagodas & temples stretch across the region’s vast plains. Inle Lake and the surrounding region is a completely different world from other parts of Myanmar. Intha fishermen, in their stilt houses and floating gardens, have rested for generations atop the pristine water. The area is also home to myriad tribes and colorful local markets.

Yangon is a collage of beautiful scenery, diverse cultures, arts and business, and highly revered Buddhist temples. From Yangon, drive east to Mt. Kyaiktiyo to witness Golden Rock Pagoda, one of the most iconic stupas in the world. And there are many more places; simply must-visit destinations throughout Myanmar that give you heart pounding experiences.