Myanmar prohibits foreigners’ visit to Rakhine, Shan states

Photo shows an ancient pagoda in Mrauk-U

Myanmar’s Ministry of Hotels & Tourism released announcement that foreigners are prohibited for the time being to visit Sittwe, Mrauk-U, Waytharli and Mahamuni in Rakhine State and Mongla in Shan State due to prevailing circumstances there, it was learnt.

The official announcement dated March 30, 2012 released by the ministry revealed that foreigners are prohibited for the time being to visit these areas in Rakhine State and Shan State and any further changes will be announced in due course.

“This announcement remains effective until further changes are made,” said U Tin Tun Aung, Secretary of Myanmar Tour Operators’ Association.

Rakhine State is enveloped with unrest since June 2012 and therefore, the tourists are prohibited to tour Sittwe, Mrauk-U, Waytharli and Mahamuni.

Rakhine has many popular tourist attractions for foreigners and that Ngapali beach in Thandwe, Mrauk-U areas, ancient city Waytharli five miles north of Mrauk-U town, Mahamuni pagoda in Kyauktaw are the most visited venues.

Mongla is a border town in Shan State (East) and visitors from Thailand and China are permitted to step into the town with entry permits and return the same way.

Mongla is now pulled into the temporary prohibited areas due to some untoward situations there.

“All these areas are expected to re-open to foreigners in the coming tourist season.” said U Tin Tun Aung.

Myanmar Tour Operators’ Association has intimated the announcement of the Ministry of Hotels & Tourism to associate member companies.

Myanmar has areas that are permitted to foreigners to visit and some restricted areas that needs travel permits.

The restricted areas that needs permission are located in Kachin State, Shan State (North), Shan State (South) , Kayah State, Rakhine State, Kayin State, Chin State, Taninthari Region and Sagaing Region.

Source