Getting around Myanmar requires patience. Roads are poor, schedules are unreliable, and some areas require permits or are simply off-limits.
Domestic flights
The quickest way to cover ground. Myanmar National Airlines and Yangon Airways operate the main routes. Yangon–Bagan, Yangon–Mandalay, Yangon–Heho (for Inle Lake) are the most-used tourist routes. Prices are typically $80–150 one-way. Book ahead — flights fill up, and not every route runs daily.
Train
Slow, cheap, and often spectacular. The Yangon–Mandalay overnight train is the classic long-distance route; it takes 12–16 hours but passes through good countryside. The Yangon–Bago run is short and useful. Trains have ordinary class (hard wooden benches) and upper class (reclining seats). For the main tourist routes, upper-class tickets are set at elevated "foreigner" prices. Arrive early — stations are chaotic.
Bus
For most inter-city travel, buses are faster than trains and often more comfortable. Several companies run air-conditioned coaches on the Yangon–Mandalay, Yangon–Bagan, and Mandalay–Inle Lake routes. Book through your guesthouse or at the bus station a day ahead. Journey times: Yangon–Mandalay 8–10 hours; Mandalay–Inle Lake (Shwenyaung junction) 7–9 hours.
Boat
The Mandalay–Bagan boat is a classic journey — a full day travelling down the Ayeyarwady River. A fast ferry takes about 9–10 hours; slower government ferries take longer. Departs early morning. The river scenery is excellent. This route is still operating, though check current schedules.
Within cities
In Yangon, taxis are plentiful and cheap — always agree on the fare before getting in. In Bagan, bikes and e-bikes are the standard way to explore the temple plain; rent one from your guesthouse. In Mandalay, taxis and motorcycle taxis cover the distances. Rickshaws (trishaw cycles) are found everywhere and good for shorter trips — set the price first.
Permits
The main tourist circuit — Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake, Ngapali, Mrauk U — requires no special permits. For travel outside these areas, you may need a permit obtainable through a licensed travel agency. Many areas in Shan, Kachin, Kayah, and Chin States are currently inaccessible due to conflict regardless of permit status.