Nay Pyi Taw — also spelled Naypyidaw — replaced Yangon as Myanmar's capital in 2006. With a name meaning ‘Abode of Kings’, this purpose-built capital in the country’s central basin was intended to create a sense of national cohesion, making it geographically easy for government representatives to meet. As such, it’s an intriguing city, and one well worth exploring if you are travelling north from Yangon to the Taunggyi region’s Inle Lake, or to Bagan and Mandalay. New accommodation options continue to emerge, and our pick of the best places to stay in Nay Pyi Taw is a cool, contemporary lakeside hotel, perfect for visitors of all ages.
Guided tours of the new capital are fascinating, and detail the phases of its building, as well as the demographics of those based in the city — largely civil servants and government representatives. A number of cultural landmarks have been created, including the impressive Uppatasanti Pagoda, only just smaller than iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. The National Museum of Myanmar houses a diverse collection, whilst bustling Myoma Market is brilliant for sampling local produce and picking up souvenirs.
Lakeside strolls and scenic cycle rides also come highly recommended; the city’s roads remain fairly quiet, making two-wheeled journeys great fun. Return to one of the best places to stay in Nay Pyi Taw for rejuvenating massages and to savour delectable Burmese cuisine.
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Nay Pyi Taw
A contemporary hotel in Myanmar's capital city, offering spacious suites with opulent textiles, big sink-into bathtubs & expansive lake views from private terraces. Well-heeled business travellers will appreciate the slick service, generous meeting rooms & atmospheric cigar lounge, too.
