Transport and Driving in Myanmar

This guide was written prior to the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021 and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Myanmar is currently not advisable due to ongoing civil unrest, armed conflict, and severe restrictions on communications and transportation.

Despite its large geographical size, getting around in Myanmar has traditionally been fairly easy. The country has an extensive public transport network, and you can choose to drive a private vehicle, although this may be a brave choice. Road conditions in Myanmar are poor, and the locals’ driving habits are infamous for being unsafe.

Public transport in Myanmar

Buses

Buses are the most affordable and fast way to travel in Myanmar, but they are not recommended for expats as the bus signs are not in English. Buses are also often overcrowded, and it’s common to see passengers sitting on the roof. While local buses may be in poor condition and rarely on schedule, Myanmar has been introducing luxury express buses to cater for the tourist and expat market. However, intercity bus services are currently affected by security restrictions and curfew regulations.

Trains

Adventurists who are looking to take the scenic route should look no further than Myanmar’s rail system. Trains are much slower and less reliable than buses, and they face a fair few issues, including mechanical problems and flooded tracks. Railway infrastructure has been subject to attacks and damage during the current conflict.

If you’re looking to take a train ride, purchase a ticket from a station at least a day in advance. Myanmar Railways offers three main seat classes – ordinary class, first class and upper class, with sleeper options available on some routes. That said, upper-class seats can be just as uncomfortable as ordinary-class seats. Still, travelling by rail is an excellent way to interact with the locals and take in the country’s majestic natural beauty, although current security conditions may affect service reliability.

Shared taxis and vans in Myanmar

Shared taxis and vans are less common in Myanmar than they are in other parts of Southeast Asia. They are pricier than buses and trains though, as each seat is charged separately. If you’re looking for an affordable and hassle-free way to travel, you should consider this mode of transport because it drops you off directly at your stop. Shared taxis and vans only leave once they are full, and some service offerings have been tailored specifically for expats.

Taxis in Myanmar

Taxis are widely available in Myanmar at a reasonable cost. Local taxis have no meters, so you must bargain and agree on the price with the driver before beginning the journey. There are also private cars with drivers that you can hire for the day. Most expats prefer this since it’s the most comfortable and reliable way to get around Myanmar.

Grab, the ride-hailing service, is also accessible in Myanmar’s major cities, although service availability may be affected by current conditions. Ride-hailing services may be more convenient if you cannot speak Burmese, as they remove the element of the language barrier.

Driving in Myanmar

Driving in Myanmar is no easy feat for expats and locals alike, and the number of road accidents has been steadily on the rise. The country switched to driving on the right side of the road in 1970, but most vehicles are right-hand drive imports, creating challenging driving conditions. You may be safer and more comfortable hiring a driver before braving the roads yourself.

If you choose to drive, you will need to apply for a Myanmar driver’s licence at the Department for Road Transport and Administration. Those who hold an international driving permit or a licence from their home country can exchange it for a local licence without taking a written or practical test. You will simply need to fill in an application form, present two passport photos and pay the processing fee.

Domestic flights in Myanmar

Most people prefer flying between Myanmar’s cities, as it is a low-cost and fast alternative. The country offers a few private and state-owned airlines, the latter of which should be avoided due to their low safety record. Major international airports include Yangon Airport, Mandalay International Airport and Nay Pyi Taw International Airport. However, airport operations have been disrupted by security incidents and natural disasters, with some temporary closures affecting services.