MYANMAR

The glowing, golden centerpiece of Yangon, the 2,500-year-old Shwedagon Pagoda is as beautiful as it is iconic. Most Burmese people aspire to visit it at least once in their lives—you should too.

Immediately identifiable by its huge, precarious, gold leaf-covered boulder balancing on the edge of a cliff, this remote pagoda is worth the arduous drive.

This pagoda houses the venerable Mahamuni Buddha, a statue completely covered in gold leaf. Also don’t miss the extraordinary Khmer bronzes on display.

Climb the hundreds of steps (or drive) to the top for amazing views over the city, river and seemingly endless plains beyond.

One of the country’s most important religious centers, Sagaing features over 600 pagodas and monasteries set on a ridge overlooking the mighty Irrawaddy River.

Notable for its high-quality weaving and handicrafts and for the fabulous U Bein Bridge—a mile-long structure made of teak— Amarapura is the perfect place to end a day of touring and watch the sunset.

A traditional horse cart or bicycle provides an ideal way to navigate the highlights of Bagan’s 2,000 plus temples. The graceful Ananda, golden Shwezigon, enormous Dhammayangyi and the murals of Gubyaukgyi and stone carvings of Nanpaya are of particular interest.

If you’re looking for miles of unspoiled sandy beaches fringed with swaying coconut palms, this is the place for you. Explore by rented bicycle, play a few rounds of golf or learn to snorkel. A wide variety of beachfront accommodations are available, from simple bungalows to luxurious resorts.