Naypyidaw Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Naypyidaw.
Healthcare System
Naypyidaw has government hospitals and some private clinics, primarily serving government officials and employees. Healthcare facilities are more modern than in many Myanmar cities but still lag behind international standards.
Hospitals
Naypyidaw General Hospital (1000-bed) is the main facility. Some private clinics exist but options are far more limited than Yangon or Mandalay. For serious medical emergencies, medical evacuation to Thailand is often recommended.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are available in the main commercial zones, but selection is limited compared to larger cities. Bring prescription medications with you, along with copies of prescriptions. Generic medications are available but brand-name drugs may be scarce.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended and essential for travel to Myanmar. Ensure your policy covers emergency evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete supply of any prescription medications as specific brands may be unavailable
- Carry a basic medical kit with common over-the-counter medications
- Keep copies of prescriptions and medical records in English
- Identify your embassy's recommended medical facilities before arrival
- Ensure your travel insurance includes air ambulance evacuation coverage
- Water quality varies; drink only bottled or purified water
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are relatively rare in Naypyidaw compared to other Myanmar cities due to low population density and government presence
Despite wide roads, traffic rules are inconsistently followed, and the city's layout leads to high speeds on empty boulevards. Pedestrian infrastructure is limited.
Myanmar's political situation since 2021 has created an unpredictable environment. While Naypyidaw sees less visible unrest than other cities, the situation can change rapidly.
Taxi overcharging is the most common issue; other scams are less prevalent than in tourist-heavy cities
Naypyidaw experiences extreme heat, especially March-May, with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). The city's vast spaces mean long exposures.
The city's sparse layout means limited access to services, restaurants, and assistance in many areas
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Drivers quote inflated prices to foreigners, especially from the airport or hotels, taking advantage of the lack of metered taxis and visitors' unfamiliarity with distances
Individuals approach tourists at attractions offering guide services, then demand high fees or take visitors to shops where they receive commissions
Sellers offer 'authentic' gems at seemingly good prices, claiming special deals or investment opportunities; items are often fake or grossly overvalued
Informal money changers may use sleight of hand, miscounting, or offer rates that seem good but involve hidden fees
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Register with your embassy upon arrival given Myanmar's political situation
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance) in multiple locations
- Share your itinerary with family or friends back home
- Maintain awareness of current political developments through reliable news sources
- Avoid all political discussions and demonstrations
- Respect photography restrictions, especially near government and military buildings
- Learn a few basic Myanmar phrases for emergencies
Transportation
- The city is extremely spread out; budget for significant taxi costs or arrange a driver
- Public transportation is very limited; taxis are the primary option
- Always carry your hotel's business card in Myanmar script
- GPS can be unreliable; download offline maps before arrival
- Avoid walking long distances; the city is not pedestrian-friendly
- If renting a car, ensure you have proper international permits and insurance
Money and Valuables
- Carry sufficient cash; ATMs exist but can be unreliable, and card acceptance is limited
- Bring clean, undamaged US dollars for exchange (post-2006 bills preferred)
- Use hotel safes for passports and excess cash
- Keep small denominations for taxis and small purchases
- Mobile payment systems are developing but not widely available for tourists
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communication
- Internet access can be slow and occasionally restricted
- VPN services may be necessary for accessing some websites
- Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone
- Hotel staff are your best resource for current local information
Cultural Respect
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites (covered shoulders and knees)
- Remove shoes when entering temples, pagodas, and many homes
- Do not touch people's heads or point feet at Buddha images
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially monks
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Be respectful of Buddhist practices and sacred objects
Food and Water
- Drink only bottled water; check seals are intact
- Eat at established restaurants rather than street food when possible
- Ensure food is thoroughly cooked and served hot
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
- Be cautious with ice, raw vegetables, and unpeeled fruit
- Consider bringing anti-diarrheal medication and rehydration salts
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers generally report feeling safe in Naypyidaw, with harassment being less common than in many Asian cities. The low population density, government presence, and conservative culture contribute to relatively safe conditions. However, standard precautions for solo female travelers should still be observed.
- Dress modestly to respect local culture and avoid unwanted attention (covered shoulders, knees, and chest)
- Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in isolated areas
- Use hotel-arranged transportation rather than flagging random taxis
- Keep your phone charged and share your location with trusted contacts
- Be aware that some hotels may question solo female travelers; book reputable accommodations in advance
- Join group tours for major excursions when possible
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Learn basic Myanmar phrases for 'no' and 'go away'
- Be cautious about accepting invitations from strangers
- Consider staying in hotels in the main hotel zone rather than isolated locations
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is technically illegal in Myanmar under colonial-era laws, though prosecutions are rare. Same-sex marriage is not recognized, and there are no anti-discrimination protections.
- Exercise discretion regarding sexual orientation and gender identity
- Avoid public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Be cautious about discussing LGBTQ+ topics openly
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations before booking
- Connect with LGBTQ+ travel communities online for current advice
- Be aware that legal protections are minimal if issues arise
- Consider the conservative nature of Naypyidaw when planning your visit
- Some international hotels may be more understanding than local establishments
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Naypyidaw and Myanmar. Given the limited medical facilities, political instability, potential for sudden travel disruptions, and the need for possible medical evacuation to Thailand or Singapore, comprehensive coverage is critical. Medical care requiring evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars without insurance.