🚌 Myawaddy – Mae Sot

Terrestrial · Burma

Myawaddy faces the Thai town of Mae Sot across the Moei River, connected by the Friendship Bridge. Historically it was Myanmar's most active western land crossing — the gateway to Hpa-An and Yangon for overland travellers, and a major commercial artery for Thai-Myanmar trade. Mae Sot on the Thai side is a fascinating, diverse town with a large Karen and Burmese community, excellent Burmese restaurants, and a well-known gem and jade market. CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: since Myanmar's military coup in February 2021 the situation in Kayin State has deteriorated dramatically. The Karen National Union (KNU) and allied People's Defence Forces (PDF) have been fighting the military across the entire region, including in and around Myawaddy. The crossing has been closed and reopened multiple times due to active combat. Reports in 2024 and 2025 indicate that Myawaddy itself has seen heavy fighting as the KNU has advanced on the town. The crossing is currently not safe for foreign visitors. Do not cross here without checking the very latest security reports and your government's travel advisory — most Western governments advise against all travel to Myanmar.