Naypyidaw Travel Guide

Naypyidaw (or Naypyitaw) is officially designated as the capital city of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) in 2005, replacing Yangon (formerly Rangoon). It is located in the center of Myanmar, and developed as a planned city on a grand scale, with wide roads and government buildings.

General Information

Despite being a new city, Naypyidaw still attracts tourists with its monumental structures and large public spaces, with many government buildings and monuments located throughout the city including the Parliament House, the Presidential Palace, the Supreme Court, and the Uppatasanti Pagoda. With many special things, Naypyidaw becomes one of the most attractive destinations to tourists when they decide to visit Myanmar.

Climate and Best Time to Visit Naypyidaw

Naypyidaw has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

The wet season (from May to October): During these months, it usually has heavy rain and occasional flooding. The temperatures range from around 25 to 32 degrees Celsius (77 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit), with high levels of humidity.

The dry season (from November to April): During these months, it will have lower humidity and cooler temperatures. The temperatures can be slightly cooler, ranging from around 18 to 29 degrees Celsius (64 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit).

It is perfect to visit Naypyidaw between November and February. It’s during the dry season, when the weather is cooler and less humid, with clear skies and plenty of sunshine and this period is also the peak tourist time. This makes it a good time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Getting to Naypyidaw

Naypyidaw is located in the center of Myanmar, so you can get there easily by various modes of transportation.

By plane

This is the most convenient transport to get to Naypyidaw. The Naypyidaw International Airport (NYT) serves domestic and international flights traveling between the major cities in Myanmar and neighboring countries. This airport is about 16 km southeast of Naypyidaw, and it takes about 40 minutes by car to reach Naypyidaw City. Several airlines operate regular flights to Naypyidaw, including Myanmar National Airlines, Air KBZ, and Golden Myanmar Airlines.

By bus

Naypyidaw is well-connected by bus to other major cities in Myanmar, including Yangon and Mandalay. Several bus companies operate daily services to Naypyidaw from various locations in Myanmar.

By train

For adventure seekers, you can also choose trains for a journey to Naypyidaw. Myanmar Railways operates a train service that connects Naypyidaw to other cities in Myanmar, including Yangon and Mandalay. Trains are a popular mode of transportation in Myanmar, but the journey times can be long.

By car

It is also possible to reach Naypyidaw by renting a rental car. The city is located on the main highway between Yangon and Mandalay, and the journey takes approximately 4 or 5 hours from either city. Besides, you can use this transfer service from the airport to the hotel and vice versa. Contact us for more details.

Getting around Naypyidaw

There are several inexpensive means of transport available for getting around the capital.

By taxi

Taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Naypyidaw, and can be found at taxi stands throughout the city. Taxis are generally affordable, however, the price depends on the distance traveled. It is recommended to use taxis that have a meter or to agree on a fare before starting your journey.

By bus

Local buses are available in Naypyidaw and are generally inexpensive. It can take passengers from the airport to the hotel or get around the city. However, the bus routes can be confusing for tourists, and the buses can be crowded and uncomfortable.

By motorbike

Motorbikes can be rented from several shops in Naypyidaw. This is a good option for those comfortable riding motorbikes who want to explore the city independently. However, it is important to note that traffic in Naypyidaw can be chaotic, and safety gear should be worn at all times.

By bicycle

Bicycle rentals are also available in Naypyidaw. This is a good option for those who want to explore the city at a slower pace and enjoy the scenery. However, it is important to note that cycling in Naypyidaw can be challenging due to the city’s large size and traffic.

Accommodation in Naypyidaw

Naypyidaw City offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to guesthouses. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, particularly during the peak tourist season from November to February. Prices for accommodation in Naypyidaw can be higher than other cities in Myanmar due to its status as the capital. Here are several hotels to reference:

• Kempinski Hotel Nay Pyi Taw
• Hilton Nay Pyi Taw
• Royal Naypyitaw Hotel
• Amara Nay Pyi Taw
• Yoma Cherry Lodge
• Aye Yar River View Resort
• V2 Boutique Hotel

Best Places to Visit Naypyidaw

Naypyidaw is known for its wide boulevards, vast parks, and impressive government buildings. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Uppatasanti Pagoda

This pagoda is a replica of the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon and is one of the most significant religious sites in Naypyidaw. Built in 2006, this massive structure is famous for its unique architecture. The pillar base of the pagoda is so huge that it can be compared with a hill and is completely man-made. Within the temple grounds, there are paintings of Maha Hsutaungpyae Buddha in the Maha Pasadabhumi Gandhakuti hall, four paintings of jade Buddhas in the temple’s hollow caves, a 33 m high flagpole, a 108 bod hi tree garden, a museum, a hotel, and many other buildings, etc.

National Landmarks Garden

The National Park is an amusement park, the symbol of Naypyitaw City. This destination is not only distinguished by its large area but is also famous for having a model of the convention center in Nay Pyi Taw, which emulates all of Nay Pyi Taw’s impressive sites, including pagodas, hotels and government buildings, and a train station.

Water Fountain Garden

Located in the center of Naypyidaw, the Water Fountain garden has many ponds, swinging bridges, gardens, fountains, sculptures, playgrounds, and a giant water slide. Colorful fountains are often turned on at dusk to add to the garden’s charm.

Naypyidaw Zoological and Safari

Naypyidaw Zoological is the largest zoo in Southeast Asia. Located on the Yangon-Mandalay highway about 250 miles north of Yangon, the 612-acre zoo opened on Myanmar Armed Forces Day 2008 with over 1000 animals brought in from Yangon Zoo, including elephants, tigers, and crocodiles.

Naypyidaw International Conversation Center

This impressive convention center is one of the largest in Asia and has hosted several high-profile events, including the ASEAN summit.

What to Eat in Naypyidaw

Naypyidaw’s cuisine is also influenced by Burmese cuisine and also has its unique flavors. Besides popular dishes like Monhiga, Kyay Oh, and Shan Noodles, there are some delicious dishes of Kyaiktiyo to try:

Tea Leaf Salad

Tea-leaf salad, or “Lahpet Thoke,” is a popular dish in Myanmar that is made with fermented tea leaves, tomatoes, peanuts, and sesame seeds. The mixture is typically dressed with oil, lime juice, and fish sauce, creating a flavorful and unique salad that is enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal in Myanmar.

Mandalay Mee Shay

Mee Shay is a dish of noodles in a thick broth made from meat, usually pork, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is a popular breakfast food in Mandalay, but you can also find it in Naypyidaw.

Burmese Curry

Burmese curry is made with a blend of spices, including turmeric, cumin, and coriander, and is commonly served with rice. There are many variations of Burmese curry, including chicken, pork, and fish.

Shan-style tofu noodles

Tofu noodles are made with soybean curd and are a popular vegetarian option in Myanmar. The Shan-style version is topped with a spicy tomato-based sauce and is a must-try for vegetarians.

Naypyidaw is one of the excellent choices for a depth discovery of Myanmar. We hope that this Naypyidaw travel guide will help you get more useful information about climate, accommodation, the best places to visit, activities to do, etc. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.