Myanmar cultural heritage sites face tourism challenges

Myanmar continues to maintain significant cultural landscapes, including the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon and the temples of Bagan, despite ongoing challenges to the tourism sector. The Sule Pagoda serves as a central urban and religious landmark in Yangon, characterized by its octagonal base and gilded stupa structure.

Tourism numbers reflect a period of recovery and instability. In 2025, Myanmar welcomed 973,263 international visitors, a decrease from 1.06 million in 2024 and significantly lower than the 4.36 million recorded in 2019. While arrivals showed a modest increase in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year, the industry faces hurdles including armed conflict, transportation disruptions, and the aftermath of a major earthquake in March 2025. The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism is currently working on hotel renovations and staff training to bolster the sector.