Are there still parts of Burma that are off-limits to tourists?
When I visited Burma (Myanmar) in 2006 large parts of the country were not accessible to foreign tourists or you needed special permits to visit certain regions.
I've heard things have changed in the last two years and many more tourists are now visiting the country.
Are there still parts that are off-limits to tourists? I'm thinking of going back, but I would like to visit the parts I couldn't go to before.
Best Answer
There are many places that are completely off travel in Myanmar (Burma). There are some places you can reach only via specific means of transportation (e.g. by air, or by boat). Then there are some that you can go to if you obtained the adequate permit from the MTT (Myanmar Travels and Tours, government agency) or if you are part of an organized tour with a travel agency.
The website of the MTT lists the specific places that are accessible within the restricted states/divisions : http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/tourist-information.htm
I don't know if one can assume it to be completely up-to-date. In any case, the situation can change faster than the local immigration officers knowledge, so print this sheet out and show it to zealous local immigration officers that would like to turn you off.
This does not take into account recommendations from foreign governments (see Mark Mayo's answer). Government advice against going to certain places may lead to your insurance company to refuse reimbursement should you land in trouble there.
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More answers regarding are there still parts of Burma that are off-limits to tourists?
Answer 2
There are some. Kayak State, Kachine state and most of the far northern area which has international borders.
However, it is possible to visit if you have the support of a local agency to get the visiting permit sometimes.
Answer 3
Kayah State is now more opening especially for visiting Loikaw. Rakhine is still restricted area near the border site.
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