Inndawgyi Lake, Kachin State
The Inndawgyi Wildlife Sanctuary was Myanmar’s first eco-tourism site. Opened in 2013, this sanctuary is the result of the ministries of hotels and tourism’s efforts in environmental conservation. As of 2016, there are four villages appointed as CBT sites: Lone Tone, Haipu, Nant Mee Laung He and Nyaung Pyinat. Local residents would provide bed-and-breakfast accommodation as part of the CBT programmes. Package tours organised by organisations and travel companies are also available. Tourists can enjoy kayaking, cycling, explore villages and even discover the history of religious sites.
Irrawaddy Dolphins, Sagaing Region
This Community-Based Tourism (CBT) happens to involve six Ayeyarwady villages between Sagaing and Mandalay. This CBT programme has caught the attention of many tourists for its unique activity that showcases a special interaction between local fishermen and the famous Irrawaddy Dolphins. Visitors also gain hands-on experience in fishing and casting nets under the guidance of local fishermen/women involved in the programme. Boat trips along the Ayeyarwady River reward tourists with the splendid view of nature and wildlife. Tourists can also observe village life and learn about architecture, religion, tradition, and even handicraft skills.
Nwe Nyein Village, Shwebo, Sagaing Region
In Sagaing Region’s CBT, tourists get to experience pottery-making and learn the people’s way in local agriculture. This programme also allows tourists to explore the beauty of nature found in this region by observing dolphins discover a rare Pyu City listed as a UNESCO World Heritage.
Banmauk, Katha, Sagaing Region
CBT in Zalon Taung was initiated in 2017 but foreign tourists are not allowed entry as the area is still one of the restricted zones in Myanmar. However, there were 76,854 domestic visitors who participated in CBT programmes from December 2017 to September 2018.
Loikaw, Kayah State
In 2016, the small Kayah State (Loikaw) was offered the CBT initiative in 4 villages: Pan Pet, Hta Nee La Leh, Daw Ta Ma Gyi and Htay Kho. As the state is rich with distinctive tribes packed with diverse culture and traditions, cultural tours in this region give tourists a detailed insight into the authentic lifestyle of the villagers. This tour provides valuable experience in exploring Kayah’s breathtaking surrounding, learning about each tribe’s culture, lifestyle, handicrafts, and silversmithing skills. Locals will also invite tourists to join them in making Kayah sausages to be savoured together with Kayah rice wine on a feast-like occasion.
Sor Long Village, Kan Pet Let, Chin State
Sorlong Village has been chosen as one of Chin State’s CBT sites in 2017. The tours provide visitors with a worthwhile experience in observing the Chin people’s culture and traditions. Locals will also guide tourists to climb the Khaw Nau Sone Mountain, a crucial area for various bird species and witness the scenic beauty of Kawlong Waterfall. Visitors can also spend the night in a nearly untouched village and interact with the locals there. Tourists can also enjoy celebrating like the locals by dancing and drinking traditional Chin wine.
Kyaikthalae Village And Bio Garden, Twantay, Yangon Region
CBT in Kyaikthalae village, Twante Township allows tourists to witness the planting of the Bio-garden in Yangon. Visitors can also see how locals weave baskets, visit monastic schools and talk to the students residing in the area, and at the same time offering them harvest from the bio-garden. Tourists can also learn the interesting process of creating natural fertilizer, cultivating crops and also poultry farming.
