MYANMAR - The Golden Land

Classic Tours

ANCIENT KINGDOMS - 6 days/5 nights

Day 1 : ARRIVE YANGON
Arrive in Yangon and transfer to hotel. Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is still a relatively quiet and charming city. Its impressive colonial and spiritual heritage makes Yangon one of the most fascinating and authentic capitals of South East Asia.
In the afternoon, a first look at the city takes you to the National Museum and Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda's 70m long reclining Buddha.
At the end of the afternoon, we reach Myanmar's holiest monument, the Shwedagon Pagoda with its golden stupa covered with 60 tons of pure gold leaf.
Overnight in Yangon. 
Day 2 : YANGON - MANDALAY  
Early morning transfer to Yangon's Mingaladon Airport for a flight to Mandalay.
On arrival, visits start with the Mahamuni Pagoda, famous for its venerable statue of Buddha covered with gold leaf. Mandalay has also long been known as a center of skilled craftsmanship and in former times supplied the Royal courts. A tour of traditional workshops includes crafts such as woodcarving, marble masonry, Kalaga tapestry and gold leaf making.
In the afternoon visit the Kuthodaw Pagoda with its 729 marble stone slabs of Buddhist scriptures (the world's biggest "book") and Shwenandaw Monastery, noted for its exquisite woodcarving.
End the day with a view of the sunset from Mandalay Hill.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 3 : MANDALAY - AMARAPURA - AVA - SAGAING
After breakfast at the hotel depart for an excursion to the former capitals of Amarapura, Ava and Sagaing.
We attend the daily meal of over thousand monks at the country's largest monastery; Mahagandayon in Amarapura before visiting a silk weaving workshop.
We continue to Ava, the capital from 14th to 18th centuries and visit by horse and carriage the old wooden Bagaya Monastery and the remains of the Royal Palace and fort.
In the afternoon, we cross the bridge over the Irrawaddy River and continue to Sagaing. Covered with 600 white-painted pagodas and monasteries, Sagaing Hill is widely regarded as the religious center of Myanmar and is home to 3,000 monks and 100 meditation centers.
Finish the day with a walk at sunset over the 200 year-old U Bein Bridge, constructed entirely from teak.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 4 : MANDALAY - BAGAN by boat
After an early breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the jetty for a boat trip to Bagan on the local public ferry.
As it sails southwards, the riverboat passes many villages offering a glimpse into the way of life along the Irrawaddy River. Arrive in Bagan late in the afternoon.
On the dry plain of central Myanmar by the banks of the Irrawaddy River stands Bagan, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Asia. The 230 years, from 11th to 13th century, in Bagan thousands of stupas and temples many of which are still standing today.
If time allows we go to view the sunset at Shwesandaw temple
Overnight in Bagan.
    NOTE: the long boat journey (8-12 hours) can be replaced by a road trip (6 hours) or a short flight (30 minutes + additional program in Mandalay or Bagan). Please request details.
Day 5 : BAGAN
OPTION: From October to March, early morning hot-air balloon flights over the plain of Bagan and its 3000 sites. An unforgettable and unique experience!
After breakfast, we head to the colorful Nyaung Oo Market before getting an introduction to Bagan's history at the Shwezigon Pagoda and its magnificent golden stupa.
Visit to nearby Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi, a cave temple with exquisite jatakas murals paintings and the elegant Htilominlo Temple noted for its fine plaster carvings and glazed sandstone decorations.
In the afternoon, we go for a walk through Myinkaba village and have the opportunity to observe the village's sites as well as the production process of traditional lacquer ware, one of the best-known Myanmar handicrafts in one of the local workshops.
Visit Ananda Temple, an architectural masterpiece of the early-style temple with two original standing Buddha images showing changing facial expressions depending on the distance the statue is viewed from.
End the day with a horse carriage tour among the temples starting at Ananda and passing Thatbyinnyu, the highest temple in Bagan, the massive Dhammayangyi Temple noted for its remarkable brickwork and Sulamani.
Sunset over the site from one of the open upper terraces in Bagan.
Overnight in Bagan.
Day 6 : BAGAN - YANGON DEPARTURE
Transfer to Nyaung Oo Airport for the flight back to Yangon.
Transfer to town and stop at the Bogyoke Aung San Museum, located in the independence hero's former house (closed on Monday).
Go for a walk through downtown streets filled with faded colonial atmosphere and busy dealings in India town and Chinatown.
Free time at the Bogyoke Market, formerly Scott Market (closed on full moon days and public holidays).
Late afternoon transfer to Mingaladon Airport for your onward flight.
    Including
  • 5 nights Accommodations on half-twin room basis with daily breakfast
  • English-speaking guide throughout the trip (from Yangon to Yangon) except for 1 pax (station guides - different guide at each place)
  • 2 domestic flights RGN-MDL//NYU-RGN on Air Mandalay, Yangon Airways or Air Bagan including insurance surcharge
  • All transfers and excursions with private air-conditioned vehicles with drivers
  • Local public ferry boat from Mandalay to Bagan
  • Horse cart tour in Bagan & Ava
  • Porter fees at airports
  • Entrance fees for the visits
    - Yangon: Shwedagon Pagoda, National Museum, Bogyoke
    - Aung San Museum
    - Mandalay: Zone Fee
    - Ava: Zone fee Da
    - Bagan: Zone Fee
Excluding
  • International ticket to/from Yangon
  • Meals not mentioned
  • Visa arrangements for Myanmar
  • Visits not mentioned in the program
    - Yangon: Botahtaung + 2 USD/pax, Gem Museum + 5 USD
    - Bagan: Archaeological Museum + 3 USD, Bagan Viewing Tower + 10 USD
    - Drinks and personal expenses
    - Tips and porters at the hotels
    - International departure Airport Tax Yangon (USD 10/pax at present)
    - Any other items not mentioned


BURMESE DAYS - 5 days/4 nights

Day 1 : ARRIVE YANGON
Arrive in Yangon and transfer to hotel. Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is still a relatively quiet and charming city. Its impressive colonial and spiritual heritage makes Yangon one of the most fascinating and authentic capitals of South East Asia. In the afternoon, a first look at the city takes you to the National Museum and Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda's 70m long reclining Buddha. Late afternoon, we visit Myanmar's holiest monument, the Shwedagon Pagoda with its golden stupa covered with 60 tons of pure gold leaf. Overnight in Yangon.
Day 2 : YANGON - NYAUNG U - BAGAN  
After an early breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Yangon's Mingaladon Airport for the flight to Bagan (Nyaung Oo).
Thousands of ancient stupas and temples in this area make Bagan, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Asia. From the 11th till 13th century, when Bagan was the capital of Myanmar, the rulers of constructed huge stupas and temples, many of which are still standing today on the banks of the Irrawaddy River.
On arrival, we head to Tayokye Pyay for a first overview over the plain of Bagan.
Continue to the colorful Nyaung Oo Market before getting an introduction to Bagan's history at the Shwezigon Pagoda and its magnificent golden stupa.
Visit to nearby Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi, a cave temple with exquisite jatakas murals paintings and the elegant Htilominlo Temple noted for its fine plaster carvings and glazed sandstone decorations.
In the afternoon, we go for a walk through Myinkaba village and have the opportunity to observe the village's sites as well as the production process of traditional lacquer ware, one of the best-known Myanmar handicrafts in one of the local workshops.
Visit Ananda Temple, an architectural masterpiece of the early-style temple with two original standing Buddha images showing changing facial expressions depending on the distance the statue is viewed from.
End the day with a horse carriage tour among the temples starting at Ananda and passing Thatbyinnyu, the highest temple in Bagan, the massive Dhammayangyi Temple noted for its remarkable brickwork and Sulamani.
Sunset over the site from one of the open upper terraces in Bagan.
Overnight in Bagan.
Day 3 : BAGAN - HEHO - INLE LAKE
In the morning transfer to Nyaung Oo Airport for a flight to Heho.
From Heho a 1-hour scenic drive leads to Nyaung Shwe, the gateway village to Inle Lake. Stop at the wooden Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery on the way.
Board a private local motorboat to head out onto Inle Lake, one of Myanmar's most spectacular sights. We pass villages built on stilts over the lake, which are mostly inhabited by Intha people, the leg-rowing fishermen of the lake and see the floating gardens built up from strips of water hyacinth and mud and anchored to the bottom with bamboo poles.
Stops for visits at the Nga Hpe Chaung (jumping cats) Monastery and its Shan Buddhas and Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the lake's main sanctuary.
Other visits include the weaving village of Inpawkhone, a cheroot factory where the typical Burmese cigars are made by hand.
If time allows we go for an improvised walk through one of the villages.
Overnight on Inle Lake.
Day 4 : INLE LAKE - HEHO - YANGON 
After breakfast, we head to the morning market on the lake. Rotating around villages on and near the lake in a 5 day rhythm, a colorful market visited by lake inhabitants and surrounding hill tribes is held daily (except on new and full moon days).
From the middle of the lake, continue down a small canal leading to the Paoh village of In Dein. After a walk around the village, passing a local school, take the covered stairway to the beautiful Alaung Sitthou area where ancient stupas are partly covered by vegetation. From here there is a magnificent view over the lake.
Return to the lake and in the afternoon, transfer to Heho Airport for the flight back to Yangon. On arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Yangon.
Day 5 : DEPART YANGON
After breakfast, interesting visit to Bogyoke Aung San Museum, located in the independence hero's former house (closed on Monday), before exploring downtown Yangon with a walk through streets filled with faded colonial atmosphere and busy everyday life.
In the afternoon, free time at the Bogyoke Market, formerly Scott Market (closed on full moon days and public holidays) before transferring to Mingaladon Airport for your onward flight.
    Including
  • 4 nights Accommodations on half-twin room basis with daily breakfast
  • English-speaking guide throughout the trip (from Yangon to Yangon) except for 1 pax (station guides - different guide at each place)
  • 3 domestic flights RGN-NYU-HEH-RGN on Air Mandalay, Yangon Airways or Air Bagan including insurance surcharge
  • Porter fees at the airport
  • All transfers and excursions with private air-conditioned vehicles with drivers
  • Horse cart tour in Bagan
  • Private motorized boat in Inle Lake excursions + transfers
  • Entrance fees for the visits
    - Yangon: National Museum, Shwedagon Pagoda, Bogyoke Aung San Museum
    - Bagan: Zone Fee (except Bagan Viewing Tower & Museum)
    - Inle Lake: Zone Fee
Excluding
  • International ticket to/from Yangon
  • Meals not mentioned
  • Visa arrangements for Myanmar
  • Visits not mentioned in the program
  • Yangon: Botahtaung + 2 USD/pax, Gem Museum + 5 USD
  • Bagan: Archaeological Museum + 3 USD, Bagan Viewing Tower + 10 USD
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips and porters at the hotels
  • Any other items not mentioned
  • International departure Airport Tax Yangon (USD 10/pax at present)

CHINDWIN CRUISE - 3 days/2 nights

Day 1 : MANDALAY - MONYWA - CHINDWIN RIVER
Leave Mandalay for a 3-hour drive to Monywa, a typical Burmese town on the banks of the Chindwin River. We cross the Chindwin River by ferry, and proceed to Po Win Taung by local open jeep. This extraordinary complex consists of 947 sandstone caves dug out of the hills and contains what is considered by archaeologists to be the richest collection of mural paintings and Buddhist statues in South East Asia. Po Win Taung with its unique, precious frescoes, some dating from the early 17th century, is a must to see for anyone with an interest in Buddhist Arts.
Embark on Malikha Beauty, a simple but comfortable Double-deck cruise vessel with 7 air-conditioned twin-bedded standard cabins, a panoramic deck with dining area and relaxing chairs (2 common showers and toilets).
Lunch at a local restaurant, dinner on board
Overnight on board.
Day 2 : CHINDWIN RIVER CRUISE
The Chindwin is the most scenic of Burma's rivers with richly forested riverbanks tumbling into the fast muddy waters. Depending on the season (and luck) you can see either congregations of gold-searching boats which frenetically pump and filter the river waters, or the elusive Irrawaddy dolphin, which is purported to help some local fishermen with their daily fishing.
Lunch and dinner on board.
Overnight on board.
Continue the cruise on the Chindwin up to Kanee before heading downstream in direction of Bagan.
Overnight on board.
Day 3 : CHINDWIN CRUISE - BAGAN
We meet the Ayeyarwaddy River just before Pakokku. Stop to visit the town by local trishaw. This lively, typical Burmese city has a strong craftwork tradition producing colorful woven blankets, papier-mâché toys and the traditional sandals.
    Including
  • Full board meals as mentioned
  • Transfers with private (not always air-conditioned) vehicles with driver
  • Monywa: Po Win Taung
 Excluding
  • Visits not mentioned in the program
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips and porters
  • Any other items not mentioned

DELTA QUEEN CRUISE - 2 days/1 night

Day 1 : YANGON - CRUISE IN THE DELTA
Check in on board RV Bha Nyar Latt ("Delta Queen") for departure at 15:00H from Yangon. Traveling with the Delta Queen is a very pleasant and leisurely way to travel into the Delta region, a fertile area producing most of Myanmar's rice.
Dinner on board.
Overnight on board.
Day 2 : ARRIVE PATHEIN - NGWE SAUNG
Breakfast on board while navigating the Delta. Arrive at Pathein jetty around 09h00 and check out. Transfer by coach to Ngwe Saung Beach in the Golf of Bengal. (1h drive).
Day 3 : CHINDWIN CRUISE - BAGAN
We meet the Ayeyarwaddy River just before Pakokku. Stop to visit the town by local trishaw. This lively, typical Burmese city has a strong craftwork tradition producing colorful woven blankets, papier-mâché toys and the traditional sandals.
    Including
  • 1 night Accommodations on half-twin room basis on Delta Queen (shared bathroom facilities)
  • Meals as mentioned
  • Transfer from Pathein to Ngwe Saung beach
 Excluding
  • Visits not mentioned in the program
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Transfer to/from jetty in Yangon
  • Tips and porters
  • Any other items not mentioned

ESSENTIAL MYANMAR - 8 days/7 nights

Day 1 : ARRIVE YANGON
Arrive in Yangon and transfer to hotel.
Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is still a relatively quiet and charming city. Its impressive colonial and spiritual heritage makes Yangon one of the most fascinating and authentic capitals of South East Asia.
In the afternoon, a first look at the city takes you to the National Museum and Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda's 70m long reclining Buddha.
At the end of the day, we reach Myanmar's holiest monument, the Shwedagon Pagoda with its golden stupa covered with 60 tons of pure gold leaf.
Overnight in Yangon.
Day 2 : YANGON - BAGAN
After breakfast at the hotel transfer to Yangon's Mingaladon Airport for the flight to Bagan (Nyaung Oo).
Thousands of ancient stupas and temples in this area make Bagan, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Asia. From the 11th till 13th century, when Bagan was the capital of Myanmar, the rulers constructed huge stupas and temples, many of which are still standing today on the banks of the Irrawaddy River.
On arrival, we head to Tayokye Pyay for a first overview over the plain of Bagan.
We continue with the Shwezigon Pagoda and its magnificent golden stupa, followed by Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi, a cave temple with exquisite jatakas murals paintings and the elegant Htilominlo Temple noted for its fine plaster carvings and glazed sandstone decorations.
In the afternoon, visit Ananda, an architectural masterpiece of the early-style temple and Ananda Okkyaung is one of the few surviving brick monasteries from the early Bagan period.
End the day with a horse carriage tour among the temples starting at Ananda and passing Thatbyinnyu, the highest temple in Bagan, the massive Dhammayangyi Temple noted for its remarkable brickwork and Sulamani.
Sunset over the site from one of the open upper terraces in Bagan.
Overnight in Bagan.
Day 3 : BAGAN
OPTION: from October to March, early morning hot-air balloon flights over the plain of Bagan and its 3000 sites. An unforgettable and unique experience!
After breakfast at the hotel, visit the colorful Nyaung Oo Market before proceeding to Myinkaba village. We go for a walk through the village and have the opportunity to visit the local sites (Gubyaukgi, with some of the oldest mural paintings, Manuha and Nanpaya) as well as look into the production process of lacquer ware, one of the best-known Myanmar handicrafts in one of the local family workshops.
In the afternoon, visit to the countryside village of Minnanthu, the least visited area in Bagan with temples such as Payathonzu, with its unusual architecture and Tantric Buddhism influence, Lemyethna and Nandamannya, before heading to the riverside near Nyaung U Village where we board a local boat for a slow cruise down the Ayeyarwaddy before sunset.
Overnight in Bagan.
Day 4 : BAGAN - MANDALAY
After breakfast at the hotel transfer to Nyaung Oo Airport for the flight to Mandalay.
Onarrival, visits start with the Mahamuni Pagoda, famous for its venerable statue of Buddha covered with gold leaf. Mandalay has long been known as a center of skilled craftsmanship and in former times supplied the Royal Court. A tour of traditional workshops includes crafts such as woodcarving, marble masonry, Kalaga tapestry and gold leaf makoing.
Inthe afternoon visit the Kuthodaw Pagoda with its 729 marble stone slabs of Buddhist scriptures (the world's biggest "book") and Shwenandaw Monastery, noted for its exquisite woodcarving.
End theday with a view of the sunset from Mandalay Hill.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 5 : MANDALAY - AMARAPURA - AVA - SAGAING - MANDALAY
After breakfast at the hotel depart for an excursion to the former capitals of Amarapura, Ava and Sagaing.
We attend the daily meal of over thousand monks at the country's largest monastery; Mahagandayon in Amarapura before visiting a silk weaving workshop.
We continue to Ava, the capital from 14th to 18th centuries and visit by horse and carriage the old wooden Bagaya Monastery and the remains of the Royal Palace and fort.
In the afternoon, we cross the bridge over the Irrawaddy River and continue to Sagaing. Covered with 600 white-painted pagodas and monasteries, Sagaing Hill is widely regarded as the religious center of Myanmar and is home to 3,000 monks and 100 meditation centers.
Finish the day with a walk at sunset over the 200 year-old U Bein Bridge, constructed entirely from teak.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 6 : MANDALAY - HEHO - INLE LAKE
In the morning transfer to Mandalay Airport for the flight to Heho.
From Heho a 1-hour scenic drive leads to Nyaung Shwe, the gateway village to Inle Lake. Stop at the wooden Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery on the way.
Board a private motorboat to head out onto Inle Lake, one of Myanmar's most spectacular sights. We pass villages built on stilts over the lake, which are mostly inhabited by Intha people, the leg-rowing fishermen of the lake and see the floating gardens built up from strips of water hyacinth and mud and anchored to the bottom with bamboo poles.
Stops for visits at the Nga Hpe Chaung (jumping cats) Monastery and its Shan Buddhas and Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the lake's main sanctuary.
Other visits include the weaving village of Inpawkhone, a cheroot factory where the typical Burmese cigars are made by hand.
If time allows we go for an improvised walk through one of the villages.
Overnight on Inle Lake.
Day 7 : INDEIN - INLE LAKE - HEHO - YANGON
After breakfast, we head to the morning market on the lake. Rotating around villages on and near the lake in a 5 day rhythm, a colorful market visited by lake inhabitants and surrounding hill tribes is held daily (except on new and full moon days).
From the middle of the lake, continue down a small canal leading to the Paoh village of In Dein. After a walk around the village, passing a local school, take the covered stairway to the beautiful Alaung Sitthou area where ancient stupas are partly covered by vegetation. From here there is a magnificent view over the lake.
Return to the lake and in the afternoon, transfer to Heho Airport for the flight back to Yangon. On arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Yangon.
Day 8 : DEPART YANGON
After breakfast, interesting visit to Bogyoke Aung San Museum, located in the independence hero's former house (closed on Monday), before exploring downtown Yangon with a walk through streets filled with faded colonial atmosphere and busy everyday life.
In the afternoon, free time at the Bogyoke Market, formerly Scott Market (closed on full moon days and public holidays) before transferring to Mingaladon Airport for your onward flight.
    Including
  • 7 nights Accommodations on half-twin room basis with daily breakfast
  • English-speaking guide throughout the trip (from Yangon to Yangon) except for 1 pax (station guides - different guide at each place)
  • 4 domestic flights RGN-BGN-MDL-HEH-RGN on Air Mandalay, Yangon Airways or Air Bagan including insurance surcharges
  • Horse cart tours in Bagan & Ava
  • Porter fees at airports
  • Private motorized boat in Inle Lake excursions + transfers
  • All transfers and excursions with private air-conditioned vehicles
  • Entrance fees for the visits
    - Yangon: National Museum, Shwedagon Pagoda, Bogyoke Aung San Museum
    - Bagan: Zone Fee
    - Mandalay: Zone Fee
    - Ava: Zone Fee Sagaing: Sagaing Hill
    - Inle Lake: Zone Fee
Excluding
  • International ticket to/from Yangon
  • Meals other than mentioned
  • Visa arrangements for Myanmar 
  • Visits not mentioned in the program
    - Yangon: Botahtaung + 2 USD/pax, Gem Museum + 5 USD
    - Bagan: Archaeological Museum + 3 USD, Bagan Viewing Tower + 10 USD
    - Drinks and personal expenses
    - Tips and porters at the hotels
    - International departure Airport Tax Yangon (USD 10/pax at present)
    - Any other items not mentioned

 

 

HIGHLIGHTS OF YANGON AND SURROUNDINGS - 4 days/3 nights

Day 1 : ARRIVAL YANGON
Arrive in Yangon and transfer to hotel.
In the afternoon visit Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda's 70m long reclining Buddha and the famous golden Shwedagon Pagoda, a breathtaking and colorful sight visited by Buddhists from all over Myanmar.
Overnight in Yangon.
Day 2 : YANGON
By car and partly on foot today you explore Yangon and take a close look at the local life of this historical city. For an introduction first stop at the National Museum, then to the Sule pagoda in the center of the city and for a walk around the Mahabandoola Park to see the colonial courthouse and the city hall.
From here we start a rickshaw tour around the colonial area with various historical buildings, breaking at a local teashop to enjoy Burmese tea and the typical atmosphere. Continue by rickshaw along the famous Strand Road to the riverside Botahtaung Pagoda.
In the afternoon, make a stop at the Bogyoke Aung San Museum, located in the independence hero's former house (closed on Monday).
Visit the Nagar glassware factory in Insein and stop at the huge Bogyoke Market formerly Scott's market offering a wide selection of Myanmar handicrafts and other goods (closed on full moon days and public holidays).
Finish the day with a walk in colorful Chinatown and visit one of Yangon's Chinese temples.
Overnight in Yangon.
Day 3 : YANGON - BAGO - YANGON
After breakfast at the hotel, leave Yangon and enjoy a scenic journey by road to Bago, 80km to the north west of Yangon. Bago is an ancient capital of a former Mon kingdom dating back to the 6th century. Sightseeing in Bago includes the beautiful 55-meter long reclining Buddha, Shwethalyaung, and the Mon style Shwemawdaw Pagoda, one of the most venerated in Myanmar. Its spire stands 114m high and is taller even than the Shwedagon Pagoda. Also visit the well-restored former palace Kambozathadi. End the tour of Bago with a walk around the colorful Bago Market.
On the way back to Yangon, visit the Allied War Cemetery near Htaukkyan, the final resting place for over 27,000 allied soldiers.
Overnight in Yangon.
Day 4 : YANGON departure
After breakfast, free at leisure with car and guide at disposal until your transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
    Including
  • 3 nights Accommodations on half-twin room basis with daily breakfast
  • English-speaking guide
  • All transfers with private air-conditioned vehicles with driver
  • 1 lunch at local restaurant on day 3
  • Entrance fees for the visits
    - Yangon: National Museum, Shwedagon Pagoda, Botahtaung Pagoda, Bogyoke Aung San Museum
    - Bago: Zone Fee
Excluding
  • International ticket to/from Yangon
  • Meals others than mentioned
  • Visa arrangements for Myanmar
  • Entrance fees for visits not mentioned in the program
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips and porters at the hotels
  • International airport departure tax Yangon (USD 10/pax at present)
  • Any other items not mentioned

KENGTUNG ADVENTURE - 4 days/3 nights

Day 1 : KENGTUNG - Arrival
Upon arrival by flight to Kengtung, transfer from the airport to your hotel.
Lunch in a local restaurant.
In the afternoon take an orientation tour of Kengtung, a pleasant city nestled in a valley which has kept most of its traditional architecture like wooden house with balcony typical for Shan architecture. Visit to the Maha Myat Muni pagoda, the most important in the city.
Dinner in a local restaurant.
Overnight in Kengtung.
Day 2 : KENGTUNG
Breakfast at your hotel.
Morning visit of the local market where all the villagers from the surrounding area come to sell their products and you can still see many minority villagers in their traditional dresses.
Depart by road to Pin Tauk village. Trek 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Hwe Lon, a Akha minority village. Spend some time in the village and with the villagers to discover their customs and habits.
Picnic lunch in the countryside.
After lunch, walk for approx 30 minutes to arrive at an Ann village, perched on a steep hillside. The Ann minority is known for its black dress and its blackened teeth.
Return to Kengtung in the afternoon with a stop at Lone Tree Hill for a panoramic view of the city.
Dinner in a local restaurant.
Overnight in Kengtung.
Day 3 : KENGTUNG TREK
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive in the direction of Tachileik for approx. 45 minutes before continuing on the back of local pick up trucks (approx. 30 minutes) up the hills to visit 4 neighboring Akha villages, one of them combining 3 religions.
Picnic lunch.
In the afternoon, continue to the Mong Kwan region where we will see a village from the Loi minority, as well as discover the traditions of the Li Shaw and Khun communities.
Return to Kengtung in the late afternoon.
Dinner in a local restaurant.
Overnight in Kengtung.
Day 4 : KENGTUNG - departure
Breakfast at your hotel.
Morning free at leisure with the possibility to visit a shan lacquer ware production and the water buffalo market, held twice a week in Kengtung.
Lunch in a local restaurant.
Transfer to the airport of Kengtung for your departure flight.
    Including
  • 3 nights Accommodations on half twin room basis with daily breakfast
  • English-speaking local guide from Kengtung
    Meals as mentioned
  • All transfers and excursions with private (not always air-conditioned) vehicles with driver
    Porters when needed on trekking sections
  • Water during trekking sections
  • Entrance fees for visits
 Excluding
  • International ticket to/from Yangon
  • Domestic flights
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips and porters at the hotels
  • Any other items not mentioned

MOGOK, THE RUBY LAND - 3 days/2 nights

Day 1 : MANDALAY - MOGOK
Meet your local guide early morning at your hotel in Mandalay.
Leave Mandalay for a 7-hrs drive to Mogok passing through a region of farmlands.
Stop for lunch in a local restaurant near the village of Lat Pan before taking the twisting roads leading up to Mogok.
Mogok, located 200 km North East of Mandalay, lies at 1170m above sea level and is built around a beautiful lake reflecting the hilly surroundings. Mogok is famous all around the world for its rubies. Locally the area is known as the Ruby land and most of Mogok's 200. 000 inhabitants are working in the gems business either in the mines, at cutting and polishing workshops or at trading places.
On arrival in Mogok, enjoy a scenic panorama of the town, lake and surrounding hills from Kyeenitaung viewpoint.
Dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Mogok.
Day 2 : MOGOK
Breakfast at hotel. After a morning visit to the colorful Aung Chantha local Market, start an exploration of the different mines. Alluvial limestone gravels are the source and deposits are exploited using different techniques (pit digging, tunneling or panning) all of them performed by hand.
After lunch, visit a lapidary workshop, a gold smith and a gem souvenir shops.
Excursion to Bamon village to visit a tea plantation and see the village life of the Palaung tribe. Enjoy sunset over Mogok from Chanthagyi Pagoda.
Dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Mogok.
Day 3 : MOGOK - MANDALAY
Breakfast at hotel.
Return to Mandalay with stops at Chang Gyi and Mataya villages on the way.
Lunch at local restaurant near Lat Pan.
Arrive back in Mandalay in the afternoon.
    Including
  • 2 nights Accommodations on half twin room basis with daily breakfast
  • English-speaking guide
  • All transfers and excursions with private air-conditioned vehicles with drivers
  • Full board meals as mentioned
  • Permit
 Excluding
  • Visits not mentioned in the program
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips and porters at the hotels
  • Any other items not mentioned

MONYWA & PO WIN TAUNG - 2 days/1 night

Day 1 : MANDALAY - MONYWA
Leave Mandalay for a 3 -hour drive to Monywa, a typical Burmese town on the Chindwin River.
On the way, visit Thanboddhay Pagoda, were more than 500,000 Buddha images cover every wall and archway of this huge Buddhist temple. Also visit Boditahtaung Pagoda and the largest reclining Buddha image in Myanmar, 100m long and 27m high.
In the afternoon, take an excursion from Monywa to Kyaukka lacquer ware village and stop at Shweguni Pagoda, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Upper Myanmar.
Overnight in Monywa.
Day 2 : MONYWA - PO WIN TAUNG - MANDALAY
Breakfast at the hotel.
After crossing the Chindwin River by boat, proceed by local open jeep to Po Win Taung. This extraordinary complex consists of 947 sandstone caves dug out of the hills and contains what is considered by archaeologists to be the richest collection of mural paintings and Buddhist statues in South East Asia. Recently opened to overseas visitors, Po Win Taung with its unique Buddha images and precious frescoes some dating from the early 17th century is a must to see for anyone with an interest in Buddhist arts. A few hundred meters from the caves is Shwe Ba Taung, another very interesting site where monasteries and temples are carved out of rocky narrow cliffs.
Return to Mandalay in the afternoon.
    Including
  • 1 night Accommodations on half-twin room basis with breakfast
  • English-speaking guide
  • Local ferry boat to cross the Chindwin River
  • All transfers and excursions with private air-conditioned vehicles with drivers except in Po Win Taung (transfer by open non-air-conditioned jeep)
  • Entrance fees for the visits
  • Monywa: Thanboddhay, Po Win Taung, Shwe Ba Hill
 Excluding
  • Meals other than mentioned
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips and porters at the hotels
  • Any other items not mentioned

 

MYITKYINA & THE KACHIN STATE - 5 days/4 nights

Day 1 : MYITKYINA ARRIVAL
Arrive in Myitkyina, the capital city of Kachin state in the Northern part of Myanmar.
The Kachins are one of the largest minority groups in Myanmar. Most have converted to Christianity although animism is still practiced.
Orientation tour of Myitkyina, set in a flat and very fertile valley where slash and burn agriculture is widely practiced.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, excursion to Myit-Sone, 45 km north of the city to observe the confluence of the Mekha and Melikha rivers, the origin point of Myanmar's longest river, the Ayeyarwaddy (Irrawaddy). Drive back to Myitkyina.
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight in Myitkyina.
Day 2 : MYITKYINA - INDAWGYI - HPAKANT
Early morning drive to Indawgyi Lake, the largest in Myanmar located 150 km south west of Myitkyina (4-5hr drive). Breakfast on the way at Moe Kaung village.
On arrival, boat cruise on Indawgyi Lake including a visit to Shwe Myitzu Pagoda built in the center of the lake.
Lunch at local restaurant.
In the afternoon, continue to Hpakant, 64 km west of Indawgyi (3h drive). Arrive in Hpakant in the late afternoon.
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight in Hpakant.
Day 3 : HPAKANT JADE MINE
Breakfast at hotel.
Visit Hpakant, the site of the largest jade mine in Myanmar. As many as 100 000 people, many from different tribes, live from the jade industry in Hpakant. Study the different type of jade mines such as mountain cut type, river close type and man- made type. A short boat trip along the U Ru River will also allow us to see riverside gold panning.
Lunch at local restaurant.
In the evening enjoy sunset from Kyauk Thway Taung Pagoda.
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight in Hpakant.
Day 4 : HPAKAN - MYITKYINA
After breakfast, 6-hrs drive back to Myitkyina with stops on the way in local Kachin villages.
Lunch at local restaurant.
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight in Myitkyina.
Day 5 : MYITKYINA - MANDALAY
After breakfast, free at leisure before a transfer to the airport.		  
    Including
  • 4 nights Accommodations on half twin room basis with daily breakfast
  • English-speaking guide
  • All transfers and excursions with private (not always air-conditioned) vehicles with driver
  • Porter fees at the airport
  • Local ferry boat for excursion Indawgyi Lake
  • Local ferry boat to cross U Ru river
  • Full board meals as mentioned
 Excluding
  • Domestic flights (possible from RGN or MDL)
  • Visits not mentioned in the program
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips and porters at the hotels
  • Any other items not mentioned

MYSTICAL MYANMAR - 10 days/9 nights

Day 1 : ARRIVE YANGON
Arrive in Yangon. Meet your guide at the airport and transfer to hotel.
Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is still a relatively quiet and charming city. Its impressive colonial and spiritual heritage makes Yangon one of the most fascinating and authentic capitals of South East Asia.
In the afternoon, a city tour includes the National Museum, Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda's 70m long reclining Buddha and at the end of the day Myanmar's holiest monument, the Shwedagon Pagoda with its golden stupa covered with 60 tons of pure gold leaf.
Overnight in Yangon.
Day 2 : YANGON - NYAUNG U - BAGAN
After breakfast at the hotel transfer to Yangon's Mingaladon Airport for the flight to Bagan (Nyaung Oo).
Thousands of ancient stupas and temples in this area make Bagan, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Asia. From the 11th till 13th century, when Bagan was the capital of Myanmar, the rulers constructed huge stupas and temples, many of which are still standing today on the banks of the Irrawaddy River.
On arrival, we head to Tayokye Pyay for a first overview over the plain of Bagan.
We continue to the Shwezigon Pagoda and its magnificent golden stupa, followed by Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi, a cave temple with exquisite jatakas murals paintings and the elegant Htilominlo Temple noted for its fine plaster carvings and glazed sandstone decorations.
In the afternoon, visit Ananda, an architectural masterpiece of the early-style temple and Ananda Okkyaung is one of the few surviving brick monasteries from the early Bagan period.
End the day with a horse carriage tour among the temples starting at Ananda and passing Thatbyinnyu, the highest temple in Bagan, the massive Dhammayangyi Temple noted for its remarkable brickwork and Sulamani.
Sunset over the site from one of the open upper terraces in Bagan.
Overnight in Bagan.
Day 3 : BAGAN
OPTION: from October to March, early morning hot-air balloon flights over the plain of Bagan and its 3000 sites. An unforgettable and unique experience!
After breakfast at the hotel, visit the colorful Nyaung Oo Market before proceeding to Myinkaba village. We go for a walk through the village and have the opportunity to visit the local sites (Gubyaukgi, with some of the oldest mural paintings, Manuha and Nanpaya) as well as look into the production process of lacquer ware, one of the best-known Myanmar handicrafts in one of the local family workshops.
In the afternoon, visit to the countryside village of Minnanthu, the least visited area in Bagan with temples such as Payathonzu, with its unusual architecture and Tantric Buddhism influence, Lemyethna and Nandamannya, before heading to the riverside near Nyaung U Village where we board a local boat for a slow cruise down the Ayeyarwaddy before sunset.
Overnight in Bagan.
Day 4 : BAGAN - POPA - MANDALAY
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Mount Popa, an extinct volcano over 1,500m high, about 48km south east of Bagan (1 hr). Mount Popa plays an important role in Myanmar culture, religion and history since the earliest times. Its shrine is dedicated to the worship of the 37 Nats, the Burmese ancient animist spirits.
Continue by road and head across the central plain to Mandalay, the former capital of Myanmar (5 hrs).
Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 5 : MANDALAY
A sightseeing tour of Mandalay, Myanmar's cultural capital starts with the Mahamuni Pagoda, famous for its venerable statue of Buddha covered with gold leaf.
Mandalay also has long been known as a center of skilled craftsmanship and in former times supplied the Royal Court. A tour of traditional workshops includes crafts such as woodcarving, marble masonry, Kalaga tapestry and gold-leaf making.
In the afternoon, visit the Kuthodaw Pagoda with its 729 marble stone slabs of Buddhist scriptures (known as the world's biggest book), Shwenandaw Monastery, noted for its exquisite woodcarving and the impressive Kyauktawgyi Pagoda with its huge sitting Buddha.
Finish the day with a sunset view over town from Mandalay Hill.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 6   MANDALAY - MINGUN - AMARAPURA - AVA - SAGAING
After breakfast, transfer to the jetty and board a private local boat for a 1-hr cruise on the Irrawaddy River towards the site of Mingun.
Mingun, famous for its huge unfinished pagoda, is also home to the Mingun Bell, considered as the world's largest uncracked ringing bell. Also visit the beautiful white Hsinbyume Pagoda.
Head downriver by boat to Sagaing, two hours away, passing Sagaing Hill dotted with hundreds of white stupas.
Continue to Ava, the capital from 14th to 18th centuries, and visit by horse and carriage the old wooden Bagaya Monastery and the remains of the Royal Palace and fort.
At the end of the day transfer to Amarapura, the 18th century capital and visit the 200-year old U-Bein Bridge during sunset when the villagers are crossing the bridge to return back home.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 7   MANDALAY - HEHO - PINDAYA - INLE LAKE
Transfer to the airport for domestic flight to Heho in Shan State.
Scenic drive to Pindaya through the picturesque hills of Shan State (1hr30).
Visit Pindaya's limestone caves with its maze of chambers displaying more than 8,000 Buddha statues and local handicraft workshops producing Shan Paper made from mulberry bark and traditional umbrellas.
We return towards Heho and continue towards Nyaung Shwe, the gateway to Inle Lake, one of Myanmar's best-known sights.
On arrival in Nyaung Shwe Village, check in at hotel or for hotel with lake location, transfer by boat to your hotel.
Overnight Inle Lake.
Day 8   INLE LAKE
After breakfast, head out onto the lake on local motorboats (4 persons/boat).
The Intha people, a tribe of Mon descent, inhabit the lakeshores and floating villages. See the leg-rowing fishermen and their floating gardens, built up from strips of water hyacinth and mud and anchored to the bottom with bamboo poles.
Visit the floating villages and the daily market (daily except on new and full moon days) rotating around the villages on the lake in 5-day rhythm.
The tour also includes a visit to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the weaving village of Inpawkhon and the jumping cats monastery, with beautiful antique Buddha statues.
If time allows we go for an improvised walk through one of the villages.
Overnight Inle Lake.
Day 9   INLE LAKE - IN DEIN - HEHO - YANGON
After breakfast, we head to the morning market on the lake. Rotating around villages on and near the lake in a 5 day rhythm, a colorful market visited by lake inhabitants and surrounding hill tribes is held daily (except on new and full moon days).
From the middle of the lake, continue down a small canal leading to the Paoh village of In Dein. After a walk around the village, passing a local school, take the covered stairway to the beautiful Alaung Sitthou area where ancient stupas are partly covered by vegetation. From here there is a magnificent view over the lake.
Return to the lake and in the afternoon, transfer to Heho Airport for a flight back to Yangon.
On arrival transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Yangon.
Day 10   DEPART YANGON
After breakfast, interesting visit to Bogyoke Aung San Museum, located in the independence hero's former house (closed on Monday), before exploring downtown Yangon with a walk through streets filled with faded colonial atmosphere and busy everyday life.
In the afternoon, free time at the Bogyoke Market, formerly Scott Market (closed on full moon days and public holidays) before transferring to Mingaladon Airport for your onward flight.
    Including
  • 9 nights Accommodations on half-twin room basis with daily breakfast
  • English-speaking guide throughout the trip (from Yangon to Yangon) except for 1 pax (station guides - different guide at each place)
  • 3 domestic flights RGN-BGN & MDL-HEH-RGN on Air Mandalay, Yangon Airways or Air Bagan including insurance surcharge
  • All transfers and excursions with private air-conditioned vehicles with drivers
  • Horse cart tour in Bagan & Ava
  • Private motorized boat to Mingun excursions
  • Private motorized boat in Inle Lake excursions + transfers
  • Porter fees at airports
  • Entrance fees for the visits
    - Yangon: Shwedagon Pagoda, National Museum, Bogyoke Aung San Museum
    - Bago: Zone Fee
      Mandalay: Zone Fee
      Ava: Zone Fee, Sagaing: Sagaing Hill, Mingun: Zone Fee
      Pindaya: Caves
      Inle Lake: Zone Fee
Excluding
  • International ticket to/from Yangon
  • Meals others than mentioned
  • Visa arrangements for Myanmar
  • Visits not mentioned in the program
  • Any other items not mentioned
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips and porters at the hotels
  • International departure Airport Tax Yangon (USD 10/pax at present)
  • Any other items not mentioned
       
     

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Sub Links
- Ancient Kingdom
- Burmese Days
- Chindwin Cruise
- Delta Queen Cruise
- Essential Myanmar
- Highlights of Yagon
- Kengtung Adventure
- Mogok - The Ruby Land
- Moniwa and Po Win Daung
- Myitkyina & Kachin State
- Mystical Myanmar
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