Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar has quickly established itself as one of Southeast Asia’s essential destinations, despite only opening up to tourism in recent years. Yet, it doesn’t come as a surprise. Myanmar is a dream destination, with golden stupas, ancient ruins, lush jungles and intriguing hill tribes. From the majestic Inle Lake to the magnificent temples of Bagan and alluring capital of Yangon, each city in Myanmar has something unique to offer to travellers which can accommodate in Best Luxury Hotels in Myanmar.

Myanmar is also home to some of the most stunning hotels in Southeast Asia, whether it’s a luxury five star resort or chic boutique retreat. Finding upscale accommodation in the region, however, may be confusing – so we’re here to help you with your search. Here’s a curated round-up of the best luxury hotels in Myanmar to check into.

 1. Yangon Excelsior @ Best Luxury Hotels in Myanmar

Photo source: Yangon Excelsior Website

Experience the former capital’s colonial past in the vibrant beating heart of Myanmar at Yangon Excelsior. The 74-room hotel is housed in a façade that was originally the general headquarters of the legendary Steel Brothers Company. The interiors ooze the charm and magnificence of British colonial style while still boasting modern amenities and top-notch hospitality. For the best base to explore Yangon from, Yangon Excelsior makes the perfect choice – especially since it’s within proximity to the best of Yangon, such as the two thousand-year-old Sule pagoda, and the Maha Bandula park.

Recommended room: The hotel’s four Junior Suites boast lofty ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light to stream into the space. Luxuriate in the bathtub after a long day of exploring the city, or enjoy the rain shower.

2. Heritage Bagan Hotel @ Best Luxury Hotels in Myanmar

Bagan Heritage Hotel

Heritage Bagan Hotel is spread across 12 buildings styled after ancient Buddhist temples that are around the ancient Bagan city, with each building symbolising the Dynasties of Myanmar. The hotel is a three-minute drive from Nyaung Oo airport, so getting here after a tiring flight is a breeze. The rustic hotel is also a convenient base to explore Bagan from, with it being just a five-minute walk to the Bagan archaeological zone ­– and within easy reach of the new Bagan town and road to Mount Popa and it’s ideally located for morning pick ups for the balloons over Bagan ride.

Recommended room: The eight beautifully-designed Heritage Suite Rooms overlook the lake, treating guests to picturesque views of the surroundings. Each Heritage Suite Room is designed as a charming Duplex outfitted in elegant and sophisticated interiors.

3. Sofitel Inle Lake Myat Min @ Best Luxury Hotels in Myanmar

Best Hotels in Myanmar

Nestled between 20 acres of rice fields and floating gardens which can be seen from above during a balloon ride over Inle Lake on the Eastern banks of the tranquil Inle Lake, Sofitel Inle Lake is one of the last new hotels to be built directly on the lake. The hotel serves as the gateway to exploring Myanmar’s Shan State, especially with its prestigious location at the edge of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Its 101 contemporary designed rooms awash in soft tropical hues are a sight to behold, too.

Recommended room: Stay in one of the Lake Villas, designed to evoke the traditional villages that surround the lake. This is evident in the local accents such as rattan, bamboo and silk that are used throughout the villas. However, as much as you’d want to stay inside, grab your swimsuit and take a refreshing dip in the gorgeous lakeside infinity pool.

4. Wyndham Grand Hotel Yangon 

Best Hotels in Myanmar

Emerging from the shores of Kandawgyi Lake is Wyndham Yangon, a stylish 20-storey hotel boasting 291 rooms. The hotel overlooks the tranquil Royal Lake and the Shwedagon Pagoda, yet is conveniently situated among the world-class, multi-functional commercial complex known as Kantharyar Center (a city inside the city). During your stay, take advantage of the amenities, which include an expansive outdoor pool on the fourth floor, a relaxing afternoon at the spa and well-equipped wellness center.

Recommended room: Stay in one of the Club King suites, located on the last three floors of the hotel, boasting city, pool or lake views. After a long day of exploring the city, soak in the in-room bathtub or cosy up under the sheets of the King Size bed.

5. Yoma Cherry Lodge Ngapali

Best Hotels in Myanmar

Hidden in a village on a small bay at Ngapali Beach is the 15-key Yoma Cherry Lodge. The small boutique hotel evokes architectural charm, a well-tended garden and a beach terrace just 15 minutes away from Thandwe Airport and Ngapali Golf Course. Kick back and have some fun in the sun at the intimate beachfront resort and it’s considered one of the best hotels in Myanmar and Ngapali.

Recommended room: Treat yourself to a Sea View Room at the Beach Pavilion, a single storey building with five rooms that look out to the cobalt blue sea.

6. Inle Princess Resort

Best Hotels in Myanmar

Opened in 1998 and built as part of Inle Lake’s serene beauty, Inle Princess Resort is one of Myanmar’s most stunning hotels. The gateway to the serene lake is sheltered in an inlet on the eastern shore right beneath the Blue Mountains. The resort prides itself in engaging closely with the local community, great conservation practices, waste management and a focus on energy saving.

Recommended room: The resort’s Lake Houses look out the lotus flower filled inlet, outdoor shower underneath the majestic Blue Mountains. Each Lake House was individually built by local artisans and finely decorated with Shan paper lanterns, artwork and Inthar weaving.

7. Villa Inle Boutique Resort

Photo Villa Inle Boutique Resort Website

With 27 lakeside wooden villas that blend seamlessly into the natural environment, Villa Inle Boutique Resort is the perfect place to admire the beauty of Inle Lake. Relax on your own private balcony while watching native birds glide by, water buffalos splash about in the lake, and fishermen haul their catch of the day. Start your mornings with a hearty buffet breakfast at the resort’s restaurant, which boasts a backdrop of the breathtaking Shan Hills and the lake. Alternatively, pamper yourself at the Oasis Spa and unwind under the healing powers of the Pure Royal Shan massage.

Recommended room: The Garden View Villa is a spacious space for two or three adults, with all amenities for the modern traveler including a plush king size bed, a separate sitting area, his- and her- sinks, a freestanding bathtub, an LCD television, and free Wifi throughout the property.

8. Amata Garden Resort Ngapali

Best Hotels in Myanmar

An underrated destination in Myanmar for tourists, the pristine Ngapali Beach has been lauded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia. Stretching along its shoreline and covering more than five acres of tropical wonderland is Amata Garden Resort Ngapali, a unique and tranquil resort located within proximity to Mya Pyin Village. Accommodation here comes in the form of eighty seven teak, bamboo, cane and rattan cabanas and bungalows, makes it one of the best luxury hotels in Myanmar.

Recommended room: The Cabana Cottage is the perfect hideaway. Each two-storey beach bungalow is equipped with a unique, spacious bedroom upstairs, a separate living room and fully equipped bathroom on the ground level.

9. Pullman Mandalay Mingalar

Best Hotels in Myanmar

Suitable for both leisure and business travellers alike, Pullman Mandalay Mingalar is a comforting sanctuary in a faraway land. The international hotel opened late last year, offering 358 swanky rooms and suites in the culturally-rich Mandalay – providing easy access to the city’s iconic hubs and attractions.

Recommended room: The Superior Executive Room on the hotel’s highest floors comes with complimentary lounge access, with panoramic views of the city to match.

10. Awei Metta Yangon

Photo Awei Metta Website

Set in the tropical landscape of Pun Hlaing Estate, this newly-opened luxury urban golf resort is part of the Awei Collections portfolio. The 46-key resort features all the best facilities for gentlemen, from a cigar lounge to a sophisticated restaurant with a private dining area and outdoor terrace and of course, priority access to the 18-hole Gary Player designed golf course.

Recommended room: The stunning Garden View Suite looks out to scenic views of the golf course from its expansive balcony. It’s befitted with amenities for the modern business traveller such as a flat-screen TV, working desk, free high-speed internet and an electronic safe.