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About Nancy B
Expertise
One of my all-time favorites. I`ve been there more than 10 times (for at least a month each time), done the tourist loop five times and travelled to several permit-only areas. Aside from the Yangon, Bago, Inle, Kalaw, Mandalay, Pagan, Pyay route, I`ve travelled twice to Sittwe, Mrauk-U and the Chin areas and then down to Ramree Island, Ngapali and Pathein. Been on the wonderful boat from Bhamo to Mandalay and sojourned in the south a bit past Moulmein. Most recently I trekked in the northern Kachin state, camped and stayed with the Rawang tribe, for 2 weeks on the way to Phonekan Razi to see the Himalayas from the east. I`ve taken nearly every mode of transport--trains, planes, buses, boats, bikes, oxcarts, trekking on foot. I can answer logistical questions about airfare, hotels, restaurants, trekking, trains, restricted/open areas and, especially, cultural/religious sites and their significance.

Experience
The world is a fascinating place and nothing reveals this more thoroughly than exploring faraway lands. I've got a penchant for the exotic, a friendly face and a true curiousity about the people, art and life.

You are here: Experts > Cultures > Southeast Asia for Visitors > Myanmar (Burma) > Trekking from Burma to Thailand

Myanmar (Burma) - Trekking from Burma to Thailand

Expert: Nancy B - 10/18/2009

Question
Hello Nancy
I am planning a 3-4 months trip in 2010, starting from Rangoon to Thailand on my own. My question; 1. is it legal to walk alone (no guide) towards the thai border and 2.can I legally pass the border to Thailand?
Your opinion is highly appreciated. Thank you.
Kd Regards Beat

Answer
Hi, Beat,
In short, no and no. Anything near the border is restricted, permit only if you're lucky. And border territories have tons of checkpoints since they're also smuggling/rebel group territories. 3 Pagodas Pass and the Myawaddy/Mae Sot area being one of the worst (and closest to Yangon). You may have a chance south of Taichilek up by Mae Sai, Thailand since there's a lot of local boat traffic just south of town, but honestly, I wouldn't recommend it. If the Burmese government catches you, you can easily wind up in the lovely Insein Prison!
Good luck!
Nancy B

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