Meal: N/A | Accommodation: hotel in Yangon

Mingalabar - Welcome to Myanmar!

On arrival to Yangon airport, your local guide will welcome you by the arrivals hall exit with your name signboard. Transfer to your hotel (approx. 1hr) for check-in and freshening up.

Formerly known as Rangoon, or the garden city of the east, Yangon is the thriving economic heart of the nation and an epicentre of transformation in Myanmar. Yangon’s city centre is blessed with many fine colonial-era buildings and is an exotic mix of spiritual heritage and colourful street life that makes it one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in Asia.

Starting from Mahabandoola Park and Sule pagoda we explore the quaint old quarter of Yangon and its colonial buildings and heritage. Your guide will share interesting insights into key events and architecture of the city’s landmarks. In the local fashion, we make a tea stop in a popular tearoom to try typical Burmese tea and snacks. We stroll by the iconic Strand Hotel, old time classic and sister property of the Raffles in Singapore, a great spot to try their signature cocktail Strand Sour or one of the more recent creations (drinks not included in tour). Next we hop on trishaws (bicycle taxis) for a short ride along the lively riverfront and small street market. Walk through the sprawling Chinatown and Indian quarter market streets to Bogyoke Market Bazaar, area and maze of hundreds of shops selling all kinds of things from longyis to gemstones.

We complete the day with a visit to one of the world’s most spectacular monuments, the Shwedagon Pagoda, a gold-covered bell dome structure that dominates the city’s skyline. The Shwedagon is an iconic symbol of the country, a sight not to be missed.

Meals: breakfast, dinner | Accommodation: hotel in Bagan

Early breakfast and transfer to Yangon airport for a morning (1hr) flight to Bagan.

Over the five centuries of Bagan empire more than 4000 brick temples, pagodas and monasteries were constructed on dry plateau by the Irrawaddy River. Despite wars and earthquakes much of this wonder and world heritage has survived to modern day and is now open for visits. (Climbing up to temples terraces is no more permitted to prevent erosion)

Get ready for an inspiring experience with this Bagan full day tour. Join with a local guide to explore the best of Bagan’s history, culture and landscapes. We start with exploration of thousand years old Swezigon Stupa purported to contain a holy tooth relic of Buddha and a "Nat" spirit shrine. Next we continue to Myingaba Gu Byaukgyi Temple to marvel at the best preserved mural paintings in Bagan and visit the largest market of Bagan in Nyaung Oo.

In old Bagan we visit the most beautiful temple of all - Ananda, with symmetric four standing Buddha images inside. We cap the day with a horse or bullock carriage ride to witness a magical sunset (weather permitting) behind the temples stopping by one of the most impressive temples of Bagan, the Dhammayangyi known for its fine brick work and legend of evil king.

This evening enjoy Bagan style dinner in local restaurant with cultural performance.

Meals: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: hotel in Bagan

Another exciting day exploring Bagan. Today we venture off the beaten trails on backroads to explore the lesser known and hidden temples and villages of Bagan, tucked away from the crowds and tour busses. Experience typical village life of central Myanmar and meet the locals. Bagan’s temple groups and villages are connected by a network of small unpaved trails and paths perfect for cycling and e-biking explorations. On a school day we can stop by a monastic school where underprivileged children get free education and are always keen to practice English skills with visitors. Enjoy a home cooked lunch as a guest of a local family and continue a ride to monastery where we can meet Buddhist monk(s) and learn about the devotees daily routine and monastic life. This is perfect place to have a short meditation practice if you wish.

After a little rest break at hotel we take a closer look at traditional arts and crafts of Bagan and lacquerware making, a tradition that still thrives after 1000 years. The remarkable skill of the artisans is sure to impress. Then we are off to Ayeryarwaddy River for a private sunset cruise where views of the temple silhouettes and bustling shore can be accompanied by cocktails on board.

Meals: breakfast | Accommodation: hotel in Mandalay

Drive to Mandalay (3.5hrs) and visit the ancient royal capitals Ava and Amarapura. Ava (Inwa) was the ancient capital of Shan and Burmese Kingdoms for over four centuries. Crossing the Myint Nge River by ferry, the small roads of Ava are explored by horse cart. We visit the Bagaya Teak Monastery over three hundred years old yet well preserved and still in use by local monks; the Nanmyin Watch Tower, the last standing structure of the Ava dynasty palace compound also known as the “Leaning Tower of Ava”; and Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, a three hundred years old architectural wonder with graceful archways.

We continue to another beautiful ancient capital Amarapura famous for its textile industries. There, we visit a cottage industry workshop to learn how Myanmar longyis and traditional fabrics are woven. Continuing to the Ubein bridge, a simple yet remarkable teak structure that spans 1,2km over Taungtaman Lake, we have the option to be rowed onto the calm waters. Ubein Bridge, silhouetted by the setting sun, is a magical experience and a photographer’s dream.

Meals: breakfast | Accommodation: hotel in Mandalay

Today explore Mandalay on half day cycling tour, passing through fresh markets, lively neighbourhoods and head northeast of the city. In just a short pedal you'll find yourself in the true countryside, where farmers tend to their fields and villagers go about the daily rituals that have remained unchanged for decades, if not longer. Water buffalo lazily roll in the mud, goats nibble at the foliage, and friendly locals wave from all directions. Along the way make some interesting stops, first at a fresh market to learn about the different produce on sale, continue on to see bamboo weaving which is used to construct everything from roofs and walls to fans. Stop for a walk through a typical central Myanmar village and learn about their way of life and their different crops. On the way back to town, stop at a tea shop for some tea and snacks. Return to Mandalay for lunch on your own and relax before your afternoon tour.

This afternoon board a boat for a 1-hour cruise across the Ayeyarwaddy River (Irrawaddy) to the rural village of Mingun to view its massive unfinished pagoda dramatically cracked in half by an earthquake in the 1800s; Mingun’s bronze bell, believed to be largest uncracked one in the world and the beautiful Myatheindan pagoda which represents Mt. Meru and the abode of celestial beings. Return back to Mandalay enjoying sunset on board.

Meals: breakfast | Accommodation: hotel in Inle Lake

Enjoy breakfast and then transfer to the Mandalay airport for the 30min flight to Heho, a quiet transit town with one of the few airport links in the beautiful hills of Shan State. Next, we take a 1-hour drive to Inle Lake that descends through the valley with views of the Shan mountains and rice paddy fields. After checking into the hotel, we embark on afternoon explorations of Inle Lake, populated with floating islands and gardens made from the naturally tangled roots of water hyacinth plants and reeds. Delight in the picturesque sights of fishermen who balance and row with one leg, a technique indigenous to the Inn Thar minority group who do this only on Inle Lake.

Meals: breakfast | Accommodation: hotel in Inle Lake

Today Inle Lake exploration will be with a private motorboat (fitted with cushioned wooden chairs, life jackets, umbrellas and blankets). Start the day with a visit to Inle's lively morning market to pick up some fresh ingredients with your guide. Enjoy the ride along canals between floating farms and villages built on stilts over water and views of the lush mountains that surround the broad lake valley.

Admire the graceful rowing and fishing technique of the Inntha fishermen who skilfully balance on one foot at the end of small boat and use second leg for paddling and steering the boat while working nets or fish traps with hands.

Learn how floating farm islands are built and moved around and where most Myanmar's tomatoes, and eggplants come from. Next continue to a local village and join Inntha family for food preparation and learn a few regional favourites like tomato, egg plant and tofu salads and Shan noodles and get a feel of local life in a typical Inntha minority village. Bid farewells to your hosts and continue with some lake highlights if you wish before heading back to your hotel.

Meals: breakfast | Accommodation: hotel in The Golden Rock

Transfer to Heho airport for a flight to Yangon and continue with a drive (approx 4hrs) to Kin Pun base camp from where we travel on an open truck with local pilgrims for the next 12km to summit ridge of the mountain range. The Golden Rock, or Kyaikhtiyo as the Burmese call it, is a fascinating sacred boulder covered in gold leaf and balanced precariously on the edge of a cliff. Crowning the boulder is a small shrine believed to contain Buddha’s hair relics, the source of the gravity defying magic. A continual stream of pilgrims from Myanmar and Asia come to witness the wonder at least once in their life time. Enjoy the tranquil sunset, soak in the unique atmosphere and share in wonder with fellow monk, nun, and lay pilgrims.

Expert tips

If you leave early from Yangon and drive directly to Kinpun basecamp reaching there by noon it is possible to take the pilgrims trail and trek up to the Golden Rock.

Meals: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: hotel in Hpa-An

Wake up early morning to meet beautiful sunrise and a quiet morning stroll. Breakfast at the hotel before descending back to the Kinpun base camp. We drive to the quaint Karen State capital of Hpa-An passing through another mon kingdom site Thaton on the way. Hpa-An has some of the most beautiful topography in Myanmar. Majestic limestone mountains and caves draw both local and international visitors to explore the natural beauty.

Just before reaching Hpa An, we'll stop by at Bayint Nyi and Kawgun Caves to visit natural hot spring and admire wall carvings. After lunch break and checking in we have couple options.

1. The less challenging. Starting from Shwe Yin Myaw Pagoda we embark on a 2-3hr boat ride along (Salween) Thanlwin River to bat cave and observe hundreds of thousands of bats flying out after sunset while enjoying refreshments in the boat.

2. The challenging. Hike and climb to the top of Taung Wine limestone karst mountain for spectacular sunset views. This is strenuous but rewarding 45min-1hr climb up. Coming down will take same time if not longer.

Meals: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: hotel in Hpa-An

Spend the day enjoying and exploring the spectacular landscape and countryside of Hpa-An on a guided private walking or cycling tour. Visit friendly local villages and farming communities in the proximity Zwekabin mountain. Marvel at the intriguing rock formations of Kyauk Kalap and the stalactites and -mites of 800m long Sadan limestone cave that penetrates through the whole limestone range. For lunch savour home cooked Kayin cuisine served at local family's garden.

Continue the ride around Zwekabin range finally reaching a natural water swimming pool a perfect place for a cool drink and dip if you are feeling warmed up. Your guide can arrange a three wheeler to pick up the bikes and transfer back to your hotel.

Alternative programme for those those not cycling: Visit vegetarian Karen community where men wear old style top knot hairdo's and learn about their unique traditions and lifestyle.

Expert tips

Up for the challenge? Taung Wine is great for sunrise and you can reach back to hotel in time for late breakfast. The climb is around 300m vertical meters. Those who like bigger challenge should start early and climb the Zwekabin mountain which has couple different routes to hike up the the 700 vertical meters. The view is simply stunning and the trail is well maintained. Although steep at some parts there is always handrail when needed and some other climbers heading up or down. Let us know in advance if you would like to do this, so we can arrange guide fit for the job.

Meals: breakfast | Accommodation: hotel in Mawlamyine

Drive (1,5hrs) to Mawlamyine, capital of Mon state, and fourth largest city in Myanmar. Mawlamyine was the first trading port and capital of the British Burma. Although river front of the city is modernising quickly many quaint old colonial era buildings remain tucked away more hinterland. Today explore some the town highlights including the Mon Cultural museum show casing local heritage, old colonial era buildings including first Baptist church built by American missionary Judson who penned wrote English Burmese dictionary, old mosque built by Indian slaves and ornate Queen Sein Don's palace monastery with nice carvings and detailing.

The day ends with a sunset from the Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, immortalized in Rudyard Kipling’s poem that begins: “By the old Moulmein Pagoda, lookin’ lazy at the sea/ There's a Burma girl a-settin’, and I know she thinks o' me…”.

Meals: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: hotel in Yagoon

Early departure for the 5-6hrs/300km drive to Yangon. We will stop for lunch at local restaurant near Kyaikhto and to visit ancient Mon Kingdom Bago's marvels; the massive reclining Buddha and the tallest gold gilded stupa of Myanmar. Time permitting we can make a stop at Htauk Kyan’s Allied Troops War Cemetery honouring 6,000 war heroes who lost their lives in battle against the Japanese and by a 'nat spirit' tree where car owners come to bless their vehicles.

Arrive to Yangon late afternoon/ early evening. .

Meals: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

Breakfast at hotel and free at leisure until transfer to Yangon airport for your departure flight.