How to Get to Nay Pyi Taw. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Nay Pyi Taw

Airport & Connections

Nay Pyi Taw International Airport (NYT) serves the city. Its IATA code is NYT. This modern airport facilitates both domestic and restricted international flights (currently suspended).

Flight Information

Domestic routes: Myanmar National Airlines (MNA) and Air KBZ connect to Yangon (RGN) and Mandalay (MDL).
International routes: Limited or non-existent at the start OF 2024. Connect using Yangon or Mandalay.
Seasonal flight availability and prices fluctuate, especially during public holidays.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

NYT is an up-to-date, quiet airport with basic facilities, handling fewer passengers than larger hubs.

Services & Getting to City

Facilities: Immigration, customs, baggage claim, currency exchange, a few shops, cafes.
Taxis: Readily available. Haggle over prices beforehand.
Hotel transfers: Many hotels arrange pick-up at a fixed rate.

Flight Deals

Dollar Flight Club can help track flight deals to Myanmar's major airports.

Flight Search

Skyscanner for comparing flight options to Yangon or Mandalay.

Flight Compensation

AirHelp for delayed or canceled flights compensation.

Flight Planning Advice

Connecting Flights

Most travelers fly into Yangon (RGN) or Mandalay (MDL) first.
Book a separate domestic leg to NYT.
Leave enough time for transportation between international and domestic flights.
Domestic flight availability is generally consistent, but prices can fluctuate.

Airport Experience

Fewer passengers compared to Yangon or Mandalay.
Cafes for refreshments in the departure lounge.
Baggage claim and customs services are efficient.
Currency exchange counters available.

Land Travel Options

Train Services

Nay Pyi Taw has a train terminal. Services are slower and less comfortable as opposed to buses or flights, with connections to Yangon and Mandalay.

Long-Distance Buses

Modern, air-conditioned express buses connect Nay Pyi Taw with Yangon (5-6 hours) and Mandalay (4-5 hours). A cost-effective travel method.

Self-Driving Not Advised

Generally not recommended due to challenging street conditions and unfamiliar traffic laws. Most tourists opt for a hired car with a local driver.

Road Travel & Safety

Road Conditions

Main Highways

The main highway connecting Nay Pyi Taw to Yangon and Mandalay is generally well-maintained.
Expect a smooth journey on these routes.
Secondary roads can be in poorer condition.

Safety Concerns for Road Travel

Important Note: Road travel outside major city centers carries increased risks.

Risks to Consider

Potential for checkpoints, localized conflict, or arbitrary detention.
Night travel on roads is generally discouraged.
Consult the latest travel advice from your government before planning road journeys.

Rental Cars & Drivers

Self-driving is not typically recommended for tourists in Myanmar.

Recommended Option

Hiring a car with a local driver is the most common and recommended option.
It offers convenience, local knowledge, and overcomes self-driving challenges.
Hotels or local tour operators can arrange this assistance.

Alternative Land Options

Beyond buses and trains, other options are less practical or unavailable.

What to Expect

Motorcycle or scooter rentals are not common or recommended for tourists.
Some hotels may offer bicycle rentals for specific, contained areas like gardens.
No tuk-tuks, jeepneys, or something like it special-purpose vehicles typical of other Southeast Asian cities.

Border Crossings Not Applicable

Information on crossing the border is not applicable for direct travel to Nay Pyi Taw.
Land border crossings into Myanmar from neighboring countries often restrict specific nationalities or are closed.
Do not plan to enter Nay Pyi Taw directly via a land border crossing.

Sea/River Arrivals are not relevant for direct travel to Nay Pyi Taw on account of its inland location.
No ferry services or cruise ports serve the capital.
No significant options for travel on the river connect directly to Nay Pyi Taw for passenger transport.

Departure Information

Departure Fees & Procedures

Plan for a smooth exit from Nay Pyi Taw.

Information

Exit Fees: International departure taxes are typically included in air ticket prices.
Domestic Flights: Arrive at NYT International Airport at least 2 hours prior.
Bus/Departures Of trains: Arrive at the station 30-60 minutes before departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Know what to expect at your departure point.

Departure Points

NYT International Airport: Check-in, security, few shops, cafes in departure lounge.
By bus And train Stations: Basic waiting areas, local food stalls. Expect a more rustic environment.
Domestic terminals are simpler.

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flight, bus, or train bookings 24-48 hours before departure.

Documents Ready

Have your passport, tickets, and any onward travel documents easily accessible.

Local Currency

Spend remaining Kyat or convert to your next currency at the airport.

Local Transport within Nay Pyi Taw

Public Transportation Limited

Nay Pyi Taw has a very limited public transportation system, especially for tourists.

What to Know

No metro, tram, or extensive public bus network designed for general tourist use.
The city's spread-out nature makes traditional public transport impractical.
Do not plan to rely on public buses or walking for inter-zone travel.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing are the main and most practical types of transport for visitors.

Getting Around

Taxis are plentiful, often white or silver sedans. Arrange through hotels or hail outside attractions.
Always negotiate fares beforehand in Kyat; meters are rare or unused.
Oway Ride and Hello Cabs are local ride-sharing apps, offering transparent pricing.

Rental Options & Walking/Cycling

Car with Driver

Most common and highly recommended. Make a booking through hotels or tour operators. No IDP needed for travelers.

Bicycle Rentals

Some hotels offer bicycles. Feasible for localized exploration around parks or pagoda complex.

Walking

Not for general travel due to vast distances. Suitable for Water Fountain Garden or Uppatasanti Pagoda grounds.

Navigating the City

The most efficient means of navigation Nay Pyi Taw is by private vehicle, either a taxi ride or a hired car with a driver. This strategy helps cover multiple attractions efficiently.

How to Get to Nay Pyi Taw