What to expect when visiting Yangon
Yangon is Myanmar’s largest city, a vibrant mix of the old and the new. This rapidly growing city features a modern design in the north and some of the most well-preserved colonial architecture in the south.
As Burma’s commercial and cultural hub, Yangon bustles with activity day in and day out. Its main attraction is the Shwedagon Pagoda, the country’s most sacred Buddhist structure. Completely covered with gold, the 99-metre pagoda stands atop a hill overlooking Yangon.
2 ways to get from Inle Lake to Yangon
There are two ways to travel the distance of 590 km (367 miles) from Inle Lake to Yangon: by bus (9-11 hours) and flight (1hr 10m). The journey takes between 1h10m - 11h and the quickest way is by flight. The lowest priced tickets start from €11.50 ($14) for the bus.Where to stay in Yangon?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Yangon at the bottom of this page.
Inle Lake to Yangon by Bus
The cheapest option to get from Inle Lake to Yangon is by bus and the journey will take about 9 hours. Check schedules below:
Bus schedules from Inle Lake to Yangon
Ticket prices from Inle Lake to Yangon vary slightly depending on the bus company you choose. A standard bus will cost $14, while VIP buses with more comfortable seats will cost $21.
Lumbini
JJ Express (VIP Bus)
The Aung Mingalar Bus Station is the main bus station in Yangon. From here, you can take a taxi for $7 or Local Bus Line 36 for $0.10 per passenger, to reach the city centre.
Inle Lake to Yangon by Flight
If you want to travel from Inle Lake to Yangon the fastest possible way, you can take a flight in just 1 hour and 10 minutes from the Heho Airport (HEH) to Yangon International Airport (RGN).
Heho Airport is a 1-hour drive from Nyaungshwe, the main town in Inle Lake. To get to the airport, you can take a taxi for $20.
There are several flights from Yangon to Heho daily with the earliest departing at 09:25 and the latest flight leaving at 17:30. Ticket prices start at $93 for the one-way journey.
When you land at Yangon Airport, there are several YBS airport shuttle buses that can take you to downtown Yangon. These air-conditioned buses operate 24/7 and stop at 16 designated stops within the city, the fare is just $0.30 per passenger. Alternatively, you can take a private taxi for $10.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Our favourite places to stay in Yangon
The Rangoon Hotel - Budget Friendly
Situated in Downtown Yangon, The Rangoon Hotel is great value for money considering how nice it is. The rooms are actually nicer than some of the more expensive hotels in Yangon. They’re modern, clean and offer stunning views of the city.
You have to make time to visit the rooftop terrace and bar during your stay. It’s beautifully designed and boasts great city views. Grab a cocktail here and watch the sunset!
- Modern and clean rooms
- Amazing rooftop bar
- Great staff
- Delicious free breakfast included
Private rooms start from $22 per night.
Summit Parkview Yangon - Mid Range
Summit Parkview Yangon is set in the perfect location for visiting Downtown Yangon and also its most popular sites. The 4-star hotel offers a comfortable stay with spacious rooms, comfortable beds and even views of nearby famous landmarks.
Onsite you’ll find a gym, spa, nice gardens to relax in and a restaurant. The staff re great and will make you feel instantly welcome.
- Great views
- Perfect location
- Amazing staff
- Onsite gym and restaurant
Private rooms start from $48 per night.
Park Royal Yangon - Treating Yourself
If you feel like treating yourself, Park Royal Hotel is the place to do that! They have an outdoor swimming pool, a modern gym and a spa for a bit of pampering. There are 3 restaurants to choose from offering a variety of cuisines and dishes.
Staying here puts you in a great location. You’re close to the bus station in Downtown Yangon. The rooms are top quality and luxurious, just like the decor in the rest of the hotel.
- 3 restaurants
- Gym, spa and swimming pool
- Great location
- Comfortable and clean rooms
Private rooms start from $64 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Inle Lake to Yangon
What is the distance from Inle Lake to Yangon?
The distance from Inle Lake to Yangon is 590 km (367 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Inle Lake to Yangon?
The fastest way to get from Inle Lake to Yangon is by flight and takes 1hr 10m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Inle Lake to Yangon?
The cheapest way to get from Inle Lake to Yangon is by bus with ticket costs starting from €11.50 ($14).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Inle Lake to Yangon. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Routes from Yangon
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
