Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Western Myanmar
Why Go?
Even as more of the country's remote areas become 'open' and tourist numbers increase,
Myanmar's westernmost states remain staunchly untouristed.
The handful of tourists who make it to Rakhine State tend to confine themselves to the
relaxing resorts of Ngapali Beach, and understandably so: the pristine sand and the tur-
quoise waters of the Bay of Bengal are some of the country's best. Yet those with more
adventurous aspirations can head to the state's scrappy, atmospheric capital Sittwe and the
old Rakhine capital of Mrauk U, an amazing archaeological site, studded with hundreds of
temples.
And for the even more daring, looming to the north is elusive, underdeveloped Chin
State, where if you're willing to deal with the red tape and lack of infrastructure, a richly
traditional area of mountains, forests and culture awaits.
When to Go
Nov-Mar
Many Ngapali Beach hotels are closed outside the high season.
Mid-May- mid-Sep
During the monsoons Sittwe and Mrauk U receive more rain than
elsewhere.
