One of the most iconic images of Myanmar is the traditional dress of the people, the longyi. This is a sheet of cloth sewn into a cylindrical shape, which is wrapped around and tucked in at the waist. When worn, it looks like a skirt but is longer, so it can cover the ankles as well.
Longyi can be worn by both men and women. The men's longyi is called the paso, while the women's is called the htamein.
Longyi as Common Wear
The longyi is still very commonly worn by people in Myanmar right across the country, both in the countryside and in the city. It is suitable for Myanmar's hot climate, as it allows air circulation for keeping cool.
With rapid modernization, you can see an increasing number of people on the streets wearing jeans and shorts, but even the more modernized Burmese will still own several longyi.
Variations
Variations on the longyi can be found across India, Bangladesh, and some Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. In these other regions, the piece of cloth wrapped around the waist is variously known as lungi, longi, kaili, or sarong.
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Excellent planned and executed Myanmar excursion
Asia Highlights and their local Myanmar partner "mAsia" did an excellent job in planning and execution of a one week trip to Myanmar.The various tour guides and drivers had good knowledge and good command over English. More
Gerd, Jan 2018
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Fantastic tour of Angkor Wat and Siem Reap
We had a fantastic time here in Siem Reap with our guide Chhong and our driver Nikol. We had some issues with pouring rain for our sunrise tour and he quickly pivoted to rescheduling the following day and still getting it fit into our three day stay. Super informative and very gracious. Would definitely recommend this tour company for your visit! More
deborah pan, Mar 2025
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2 Days in Siem Reap
Mr. Vimol Chhin is a superb tour guide; his knowledge base regarding Angkor Wat was truly amazing. He made sure that we were in a good spot to view the sunrise! Mr. Vimol is a good communicator, he's fun, he's very punctual, is tuned into what his clients want to see. The added bonus was that he is a spectacular photographer. More
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Longyi for Men and Women
Even though longyi can be worn by both men and women, the wrapping method is slightly different for the different genders. This can be seen from the diagram below.
The men's method of wrapping longyi allows for more leg movement. By comparison, the wrapping method for women doesn't allow for as much leg movement, hence they need to take smaller steps, which is perceived as more appropriate for women.
Function and Versatility
What is unique about longyi is their function and versatility. Unlike in Indonesia where sarongs are not used as formal attire for men, the Burmese longyi can be worn both for everyday wear as well as formal occasions, even by men.
Not only that, longyi can also be used for activities requiring agility, even sports activities. For this, you pull the front side of the longyi backwards between the legs, and tuck it up behind the waist. In this way, the longyi become like shorts. You can learn how to do this from the video here.
In rural areas, men and women can bathe in public areas with their longyi as cover for modesty. Changing can be done simply by stepping into a new longyi and dropping the old one.
Patterns
Though the colors are plain, men's longyi usually have checked or striped patterns. They can be worn upside down or inside out with no difference.
Women's longyi, however, have a right-side up, indicated by a black band called htet sint, which is for the waist. Women's patterns are much more varied and have brighter colors.
There are various styles specifically associated with various ethnicities. For example, Kachin is famous for diamond-shaped patterns, while Bama is famous for zigzag patterns.
For women, flower patterns, also called Zar, are suitable for wedding and graduation ceremonies.
So, having said that longyi can be worn for all kinds of occasions, each longyi is appropriate for a specific purpose, depending on the quality and pattern of the material.
Getting One
You can easily find longyi for purchase in shops and markets. Scott Market in Yangon is a good place for visitors to buy longyi. The prices vary, depending on the material and pattern. Usually, 10USD could get you a common dress.
Longyi are growing in popularity among tourists, who often like to buy them as souvenirs, or for wearing themselves while they are still in Myanmar.
During your visit to Myanmar, find a longyi you like and wear it during your travels there. You will not only find that you blend better into the Burmese scene, but also that the garment is comfortable and suitable for the weather.
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