On March 28, 2025, Myanmar’s tourism industry faces a critical situation following a devastating earthquake that struck the country just days ago. The earthquake, measuring 7.7 in magnitude, was centered near the central city of Sagaing but had far-reaching effects, with tremors felt in surrounding areas, including parts of neighboring Thailand. While the full scale of the destruction is still emerging, early reports indicate that the impact on Myanmar, including its infrastructure and popular tourist sites, has been severe.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that nearly 800,000 people were within the zone where violent shaking from the earthquake would have been felt. This includes both urban and rural areas, amplifying concerns about the immediate and long-term effects of the quake on communities and the economy. Video footage circulating on social media has shown significant destruction across Myanmar’s major cities, with buildings, hotels, and structures in areas frequented by tourists reportedly suffering extensive damage.
The quake strikes at a particularly challenging moment for Myanmar’s tourism sector. After years of political instability, the country had only just started to see signs of recovery, with more than a million international visitors arriving in 2024. However, the sector had already been under pressure, with reduced tourism due to the ongoing political crisis. This natural disaster now adds to the strains faced by an industry that was slowly rebuilding itself.
In addition to the devastation within Myanmar, neighboring Thailand has also been affected, with minor damages reported in areas along the border. Thai authorities have begun assessing the extent of the damage, although initial reports suggest that it was not as severe as in Myanmar. Nonetheless, the ripple effects of the quake are still unfolding, and both countries are expected to work closely to assess the full impact.
In Myanmar, the destruction of infrastructure is a key concern. Major roads, airports, and bridges may be impassable for days or even weeks, further complicating efforts to provide aid and assist those in need. Many tourist areas, including some of the most famous landmarks in cities like Mandalay, Bagan, and Yangon, have suffered significant damage. For many tourists who had planned to visit Myanmar, this earthquake has not only disrupted their travel plans but also raised serious concerns about safety and the country’s ability to recover quickly.
Humanitarian aid has already begun flowing into affected areas, with various international organizations and governments offering support. In particular, there has been a focus on providing medical aid and temporary shelter for those displaced by the quake. Many local organizations are coordinating efforts to provide food, water, and other essential supplies to survivors.
The full scope of the earthquake’s impact on Myanmar’s tourism sector will likely take several weeks to understand fully, as local authorities, emergency responders, and international organizations continue to assess the damage. However, the disaster is a harsh setback for the country, which has already faced significant challenges in terms of tourism recovery. As recovery efforts unfold, it is expected that the tourism industry will face prolonged uncertainty, with potential repercussions on both the local economy and the broader region.
For now, those traveling to or from Myanmar are advised to follow emergency travel advice, which includes avoiding non-essential trips to the affected regions and staying informed through local authorities and international embassies. This situation is expected to evolve over the coming days, and more updates will be shared as further information becomes available.
