Myanmar’s remarkable natural and cultural assets give it clear potential to become a major tourism destination in Southeast Asia but political upheaval, underdeveloped infrastructure, and uneven economic benefits have kept that potential from being fully realized.

A Land Waiting to Be Seen

Myanmar is a country defined by striking contrasts. On the plains of Bagan, more than 2,200 ancient pagodas rise through morning mist. On Inle Lake, fishermen balance on narrow boats, rowing with one leg, a skill passed down for generations. Yangon’s Shwedagon Pagoda, gleaming with an estimated 60 tons of gold leaf (Dapice 2), remains a focal point for locals and visitors alike.

When Myanmar began easing restrictions in 2011 after decades of isolation, the world responded with curiosity. International tourist arrivals jumped from about 816,000 in 2011 to more than 4.68 million by 2015 (Myanmar Tourism Statistics). The World Travel & Tourism Council reported that by 2019, travel and tourism contributed 6.6% of Myanmar’s GDP and supported over 1.5 million jobs (“Travel & Tourism Economic Impact 2019: Myanmar”).

“International tourist arrivals jumped from about 816,000 in 2011 to more than 4.68 million by 2015”

— Myanmar Tourism Statistics

Faltering

However, these early gains proved fragile. The 2017 Rohingya crisis brought international criticism and fresh travel advisories. By 2018, arrivals had dropped by nearly 38% from peak levels (Myanmar Times).

Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, compounded by the 2021 military coup. According to the Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, international arrivals in 2021 fell by more than 90% compared to pre-pandemic figures (Htwe). The Myanmar Tourism Federation estimated that in 2022, only about 200,000 foreign tourists visited the country which was far below the millions once projected (Kyaw).

“In 2022, only about 200,000 foreign tourists visited the country which was far below the millions once projected”

—-Myanmar Tourism Statistics (Kyaw)

Deeper Challenges

Even before these crises, the gap between Myanmar’s promise and its practical realities was already clear. Only about one-third of roads nationwide are paved, complicating travel to many regions (Asian Development Bank). Internet connectivity and reliable power remain uneven, especially in rural communities that could otherwise draw more visitors.

Profits also flow unevenly. A 2021 report by the Myanmar Responsible Tourism Institute found that large, often foreign-owned hotels and tour operators capture the largest share of spending, while smaller local businesses and rural communities struggle to benefit directly (Htun and Aung 12).

Small Signs of Change

Despite these challenges, there are efforts pointing toward more balanced growth. Community-based tourism (CBT) projects have gained ground in states like Kayah, where villagers lead cultural tours, host homestays, and guide treks that keep up to 80% of spending in the local economy (Tourism Transparency 4).

On Inle Lake, the Inle Heritage Foundation has created programs that train young people in hospitality and conservation, pairing local livelihoods with environmental protection (“Inle Heritage Annual Report 2022”). Small businesses and social enterprises in Yangon and Mandalay have also shown how tourism can be tied to community benefit rather than just large-scale commercial profit.

Looking Forward

Myanmar remains a destination defined by contrasts: rich in heritage and natural beauty, yet marked by fragility and uncertainty. Its tourism future depends on whether the country can close the gap between what the world sees and what people on the ground actually experience.

If that happens, the sunrise over Bagan may once again greet visitors from around the world.

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Elena
Mandalay, Myanmar