Going on a bike ride in Myanmar is one of the best experiences you can have! The country is filled with quiet side roads and scenic trails ideal for cycling and being on a bike means you travel a bit slower, allowing you more time to soak up the sights and sounds. There is a wonderful freedom that comes with traveling by bike- you can stop whenever you want, putting on the brakes to chat to bystanders, snap a photo or take a closer look at the scenery. On a bike, you can avoid the noise of cars or tour buses and enjoy the sounds of nature. You can avoid the crowds and enjoy the views without being jostled by another tourist. And you will attract the attention of friendly locals who will often call out ‘Mingalarbar’ as you ride by!
Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or have not pedaled a bike since childhood, the Odyssey team has a bicycle journey that fits your adventure level! From half day bike tours or exploring by electric-bike to multi-day, overland journeys, read on to learn about our favorite Myanmar biking holidays!
BAGAN BY E-BIKE
Bagan is a ‘must see’ on your Myanmar holiday! With more than 2000 pagodas dating back to the 9th century, this UNESCO-Heritage site takes a couple of days to explore. To make the most of your Bagan holiday, the Odyssey team suggests setting aside one day to explore by e-bike. These battery-powered scooters are not only fun to ride but they also give you the ability to explore the network of narrow paths that criss-cross the temple plains. With the e-bikes, your guide will led you to hidden temples, through farmland and small villages all the while avoiding the big tour buses and crowds. If you don’t feel comfortable driving your own e-bike, we can arrange a driver or you can follow by regular bicycle!
AMARAPURA & INWA BY BIKE (MANDALAY)
Amarapura and Inwa are two historic towns on the outskirts of Mandalay. Filled with historic vestiges, every Mandalay tour should include a tour of this region. But rather than following the usual horse and cart trail, join Odyssey on a Mandalay cycling day trip that shows you a different side of Amarapura and Inwa. Pedaling on flat paths, you’ll discover the highlights as well as lesser known sites. Being on the bikes means more freedom to stop when you want and our guides know some great photo stops, interesting cottage industry shops and other wonderful places for a break along the way.
HEHO TO PINDAYA or KALAW TO INLE LAKE BY BIKE (SHAN STATE)
For cyclists with a bit more stamina, the Shan State area offers wonderful cycling options. Two of our favorite Myanmar day trips by bicycle are Heho to Pindaya and Kalaw to Inle Lake. These routes take you through some of the most scenic landscapes in Myanmar, with lush fields and farmlands at every turn. The air is also fresh and crisp for most of the year, ideal for outdoor adventure! Although this area is quite hilly, Odyssey’s Shan State cycling day trips are designed to be mostly downhill with only a few gentle climbs. And if you do get tired, there is always a support vehicle on hand so that you can take a rest!
MULTIDAY CYCLING JOURNEYS
If you are a keen cyclist, our team can design a multi-day Myanmar bicycle trip to match your fitness level. We know all the best backroads and have high-quality bikes and expert cycling guides to ensure your Myanmar cycling holiday is a memorable one!
Start designing your Myanmar tour today! Contact the Odyssey Travels team with your ideas and we’ll create your perfect Myanmar holiday! Send an email (info@odysseymyanmar.com) or give us a call on 09 269869090.
