It’s rare to find a place that is truly under-developed and under-explored, but Ngapali Beach, Myanmar is close.
Much of the country fits that description, though probably not for long with the recent U.S. sanctions lifted. Tourists are headed to Bagan, Yangon, Inle Lake and Mandalay in high numbers while the small coastal town of Ngapali, in western Myanmar remains relatively off the radar.
One of the reasons behind the limited number of visitors is that getting there isn’t easy. Busses from Yangon take anywhere from 15-20 hours and are far from luxurious (read: old, bumpy and overcrowded). Flights can be expensive and unreliable.
But the payoff – if you make the journey – is worth it. What awaits is friendly locals, stunning views and stretches of untouched beach with tourists few and far between.
Fishing is the main industry in Ngapali Beach so make sure to check out one of the small fish restaurants set up on the beach serving fresh catches of the day.
Accommodations in these parts are limited. Try booking at the Lin Thar Oo Lodge where simple seaside rooms (sans AC) can start as low as $20. The town is sleepy but the lodge offers bike rentals so you can explore the fishing villages, and Ngapali Water Sport Center offers ocean excursions.
(Main image: DerFussi)
