After breakfast, transfer to the domestic airport for your scheduled flight to Bagan, Nyaung-U (approximately 75 minutes). Bagan is a renowned archaeological site and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019. It holds immense historical and religious significance, as it was the place where Theravada Buddhism was first introduced to the Kingdom.

Upon arrival in Bagan, start your exploration with a visit to a charming temple complex, including Payathonzu, Lemyentha, and Nandamannya Temples. From here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding plains, giving you a glimpse of the grandeur and vastness of Bagan’s architecture. As you wander through this temple complex, seize the opportunity to capture some stunning photographs.

Continuing on, visit several of the most notable temples in the area. First, the Shwezigon Pagoda, a magnificent structure adorned with four small pagodas at its corners. The arched entrances and staircases of the pagoda showcase an innovative design, representing a true architectural marvel. Afterward, make our way to the Ananda Temple, a masterpiece of Mon Architecture, characterized by its white-washed exterior and four standing Buddhas. Inside, you’ll find exquisitely preserved 18^th-century murals, offering a glimpse into the past. Built in 1901 by Kyanzittha, the temple symbolizes the infinite wisdom of the Buddha.

After a satisfying lunch, check into your hotel, allowing you some time to relax and rejuvenate. As the late afternoon approaches, head to the Htilominlo Temple, a striking two-story temple built in the 13^th century. Known for its ornate stucco decoration, especially the intricate patterns on the interior arches’ ceilings, this temple is a true marvel of craftsmanship.

In the early evening, get ready for a unique and enchanting experience as you explore the ancient wonders of Bagan by horse cart or E-bike within the Archaeological zone. Traverse the temple-filled landscape and witness the captivating beauty of Bagan’s majestic temples. As the sun sets, find yourself at one of the hillocks overlooking the Bagan plains, where you can admire the mystical play of light on the pagodas, transporting you to a bygone era of antiquity and wonder.

After this awe-inspiring experience, transfer back to your hotel and spend the night in Bagan.

Breakfast included

After enjoying breakfast, kick-start your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the morning market in Nyaung-U. Join the locals as they engage in the lively hustle and bustle, surrounded by a myriad of colorful fruits, vegetables, rice, and handmade goods. It’s an opportunity to witness the authentic daily life of the locals and get a taste of the vibrant local culture.

Next, continue your journey to a typical Bagan village, where you can embark on a walking tour and delve into the essence of rural life. Explore the charming streets, interact with friendly villagers, and gain a deeper understanding of their customs and traditions.

Continuing the journey, visit a local family business that specializes in the production of toddy or palm sugar. You’ll have the chance to observe the fascinating process of collecting palm sap from small pots hung high in the trees and witness the transformation as it is heated in large pots, resulting in a smoky and delectably sweet palm sugar.

Return to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time at your own pace. In the evening, head to the riverside pier and embark on a serene boat cruise along the Ayeyarwady River. While navigating the waters, take the opportunity to observe the daily life of the local fishermen and riverside villagers, allowing you to gain a distinctive perspective on Bagan’s temples and the surrounding environment.

After the cruise, return to your hotel. Spend the night in Bagan, relishing the enchanting memories of the day.

Breakfast included

Distance from Mandalay International Airport to Kyaukse: 40 km (approximately 1 hour drive)

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. Then, transfer to Bagan Airport for a short flight to Mandalay (approximately 30 minutes). Mandalay, Myanmar’s last royal capital, holds a significant place in the country’s history and is considered the cultural heartland.

Upon arrival in Mandalay, venture beyond the city to the picturesque town of Kyaukse, known for its hidden attractions and renowned for hosting the annual Elephant Dance festival. This festival, held at the foot of Shwethalyaung Mountain, has become one of the most famous celebrations in Myanmar, with a rich history dating back to the Bagan Era.

Your exploration of Kyaukse begins with a visit to the Shwethalyaung Pagoda, built by King Anawrahta, who introduced Buddhism to ancient Myanmar. Perched on Shwethalyaung Hill, this pagoda marks the origin of Kyaukse, as King Anawrahta initiated the construction of agricultural infrastructure, making Kyaukse a major rice production center for upper Myanmar.

Next, you’ll visit Ta Mote Shwe Gu Gyi Pagoda, which holds the remnants of the Pyu Kingdom. This ancient pagoda serves as a testament to the introduction of Buddhism into Southeast Asia almost two thousand years ago. Although it fell into ruins due to lack of renovation and natural disasters, it has been completely restored, showcasing the architectural wonders and artwork of the Bagan era.

The program then continues with a visit to Shinpin Shwe Set Thwar Pagoda, also known as Ngar-htat-gyi (5 layers) pagoda. This remarkable pagoda was constructed layer by layer by different kings and hermits from five dynasties. Inside the compound, you’ll find Buddha statues enclosed in the same manner. It is believed that those who participated in building the pagoda and drank the water offered there would alleviate their suffering.

Afterward, transfer back to Mandalay (approximately 1 hour drive) and assist you with checking into your hotel. You have the evening entirely at your disposal to enjoy as you please.

Spend the night in Mandalay, cherishing the captivating experiences of the day.

Breakfast included

After breakfast at the hotel, start your day by heading to Mandalay Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city and the picturesque countryside that surrounds it. Take in the breathtaking vista and capture memorable photos.

Next, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Kuthodaw Pagoda. Constructed in the mid-1850s, around the same time as the Royal Palace, this temple complex is renowned for housing the world’s largest book. Marvel at the collection of over 700 marble slabs inscribed with sacred Buddhist teachings. The sight of numerous gleaming white stupas, standing side by side, is truly awe-inspiring.

Continuing your exploration, visit the Shwe Kyaung Monastery, also known as the Shwenandaw Monastery. This architectural marvel boasts intricate wood carvings and serves as a delicate reminder of Mandalay’s rich history.

Delve into Mandalay’s renowned marble carving and handicraft workshops, where skilled artisans create exquisite works of art. Then, proceed to Mahamuni Pagoda, named after the holy image “Maha Muni” enshrined within. Admire the stunning gold leaf-covered statues, including the iconic three-headed elephant, Erawan.

In the afternoon, head to the jetty and board a private local boat for a scenic cruise to Mingun, enjoying the picturesque river scenery and observing the daily lives of local communities along the way. Upon arrival, visit the mighty Mingun Bell, an impressive structure weighing over 87 tons and standing at a height of more than 3.7 meters. This remarkable bell holds the distinction of being the world’s largest uncracked bell.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the enchanting Hsinbyume (Ma Thein Tan) Pagoda, an exquisite white-washed temple designed to resemble the mythical Mount Meru. Also, behold the grandeur of the unfinished Mingun Pagoda, originally intended to be the world’s largest pagoda. Conclude the day’s adventures with a relaxing cruise back to Mandalay, witnessing the captivating sunset over the scenic Ayeyarwady River.

Return to your hotel in Mandalay, where you’ll spend the night, reminiscing about the incredible experiences of the day.

Breakfast included

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, energizing yourself for another day of exploration. Begin by visiting the renowned U Bein Bridge, an impressive teak bridge stretching 1.2 kilometers and often hailed as the world’s longest teak bridge. Take a leisurely stroll along the bridge, marveling at the stunning views of the surrounding farms and tranquil streams.

Next, venture to Inwa, an ancient capital brimming with centuries-old religious monuments. Cross the Myint Nge River on a small ferry and explore the historic city by horse cart. Visit notable landmarks such as the Bagaya Teak Monastery, the Nanmyin WatchTower, and the Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, which boasts a rich history spanning over 300 years.

In the late afternoon, journey to Sagaing, crossing the Ayeyarwady Bridge to reach the bottom of Sagaing Hill. Ascend to the hill’s summit, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views. One of the notable pagodas atop the hill is Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda, originally built in 1312, emanating a sense of timeless spirituality.

Continue your exploration with a visit to Umin Thonze Pagoda, also known as the 30 Caves Pagoda. Adorned with 45 magnificent gilded Buddha images of varying sizes, housed within a stunning mosaic hall, this site presents a mesmerizing sight. The thirty caves offer wonderful opportunities for capturing remarkable photographs.

Finally, immerse yourself in the captivating sunset views from Sagaing Hill, where the surrounding countryside, Ayeyarwady River, and the glistening white stupas create a picturesque panorama. Conclude your day’s journey with a drive back to Mandalay, where you’ll spend the night, cherishing the memories of your remarkable experiences.

Breakfast included

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Mandalay, you’ll be transferred to Mandalay Airport for a short flight to Heho, which takes approximately 30 minutes. From Heho, embark on a leisurely drive to Pindaya, where you’ll witness a diverse range of agricultural landscapes, charming villages, and panoramic views of the Shan Plateau. Pindaya is a delightful town inhabited by the Pa Oh, Danu, and Shan ethnic groups, renowned for its limestone caves and the traditional Shan paper umbrellas produced here.

Begin your exploration with a visit to the Pindaya Caves, a unique site housing 6,000 bronze and marble Buddha statues of various sizes. These statues have been adorned with gold leaf by pilgrims and devotees over the centuries, creating a captivating sight. Continue your journey to Hsin Khaung Taung Kyaung, a magnificent temple adorned with intricately carved teak panels dating back to the 19^th century.

Next, visit a local family-run workshop where you can observe the traditional process of paper making used for crafting the renowned Shan parasols. Before leaving Pindaya, make a stop at the Banyan tree complex, where centuries-old trees within a cave complex offer an enchanting backdrop for excellent photographs.

Continue your journey along a narrow, winding, and occasionally bumpy road through the scenic Shan Hills. By the late afternoon, you will reach Kalaw, a delightful and rejuvenating hill station situated on the edge of the Shan Plateau. Kalaw serves as a bustling market center for ethnic minorities from the surrounding regions. After checking in at your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and explore at your leisure. Overnight in Kalaw.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, take the opportunity to explore the beautiful town of Kalaw, including its local market where you can find an array of fresh vegetables, fruits, and local products. Drive to a viewpoint at the top of a hill, where you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Kalaw and the surrounding hills.

Afterward, depart for Nyaung Shwe, a town located on the edge of Inle Lake. Nyaung Shwe is famous for its unique leg rowers, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Along the way, make a stop at the picturesque “Shwe Yan Pyay” teak building, known for its beautiful red paint and dating back to the 19^th century.

Once you reach Nyaung Shwe, embark on a local boat trip on Inle Lake, a haven for photographers due to its natural beauty. The calm waters of the lake are adorned with floating vegetation, fishing canoes, and scenic hills that provide a stunning backdrop.

Observe the unique technique of the lake’s “leg rowers,” Intha fishermen who skillfully stand on one leg while using the other to maneuver a conical fishing net, leaving their hands free. Be amazed by the profound spiritual importance of Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, which stands as the most sacred religious destination in the southern Shan State.

Next, visit a traditional boat building workshop, where you can witness the craftsmanship involved in constructing the longboats used to traverse Inle Lake. These boats, made from local teak, take approximately four weeks to build. You’ll also have the opportunity to see traditional silk weaving on wooden handlooms and learn about fabrics made from the fibers of the lotus flower.

As you navigate the lake, you’ll pass by endless floating gardens where Intha lake dwellers cultivate a variety of fruits and vegetables. After a day filled with exploration, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Inle for an overnight stay.

Breakfast included
Overnight

After breakfast at your hotel in Inle Lake, embark on a long-tailed boat to Indein, located at the western end of the lake. This boat journey offers one of the most scenic experiences on the lake. Disembark at the jetty and take a short walk through Indein village to reach the pagoda ruins of Nyaung Oak, dating back to the 14^th to 18^th centuries. A sheltered walkway, adorned with souvenir stalls, guides you to Shwe Inn Thein Paya, a cluster of weather-worn zedi (Burmese stupas) dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, with a few of them having undergone recent reconstruction.

Continue your exploration with a visit to a cheroot maker’s workshop, where you can observe the traditional handcrafting of Burmese cigars. You’ll also pass by a traditional blacksmith’s forge, gaining insights into the local craftsmanship.

Enjoy some leisure time to experience a unique canoe boat ride with the Inle Canoe Lady. These local women, who also work at the cigar workshop, offer short canoe trips to supplement their families’ income. As you navigate through the channels, you’ll pass by houses built on stilts and witness the captivating floating gardens cultivated by the Intha people, who call the lake their home.

Return to your hotel and spend the rest of the evening at your leisure. Overnight in Inle Lake.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Start your day with breakfast, and then transfer to the airport for your return flight to Yangon, which takes approximately 75 minutes.

Upon arrival in Yangon, begin your city tour with a visit to Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda, home to a colossal reclining Buddha statue that measures 217 feet in length, making it one of the largest in Myanmar. Afterward, check in at your hotel.

In the afternoon, explore the bustling Bogyoke Market, also known as Scott Market. This market is famous for its wide variety of food, clothing, crafts, and precious stones. Take the opportunity to browse and shop for souvenirs or local products.

Complete your visit to Yangon with a trip to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. This ancient pagoda, over 2,600 years old, boasts a towering spire reaching a height of 326 feet. The golden plates that adorn the structure shimmer in the sunlight, and its dome is adorned with more than 6,500 diamonds, rubies, and other precious stones. The Shwedagon Pagoda is a significant pilgrimage site and attracts visitors from around the world. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunset with the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda as the backdrop before returning to your hotel for overnight accommodation.

Please note that the Bogyoke Market (Scott Market) is closed every Monday and on public holidays.

Breakfast included
Overnight

After breakfast at your hotel in Yangon, embark on a road trip to the Golden Rock, also known as Kyaikhtiyo. This famous pilgrimage site features a massive boulder covered in gold leaf, seemingly defying gravity as it balances on the edge of a cliff.

En route, make a stop at Htauk Kyant War Cemetery, an Allied War Memorial cemetery in Myanmar. This solemn place commemorates the soldiers who lost their lives during World War I and World War II.

Continue your drive to Golden Rock, reaching the Kin Pun base camp after approximately 3 hours. From there, continue the journey to Kyaikhtiyo, one of Myanmar’s iconic landmarks. Hop on an open truck for a bumpy but exciting 45-minute ride to Ye the Hill Camp. Then, embark on a hike for about 30 minutes to reach the Golden Rock. Alternatively, sedan chairs carried by four men can be arranged for older individuals (at an additional cost).

Marvel at the golden rock and enjoy the mesmerizing sunset as it casts a magical glow on the surroundings, creating a surreal atmosphere. Overnight in Golden Rock.

Notes: Please note that the transportation by open truck to Golden Rock can be crowded and cramped. The trucks may be shared with other tourists and local residents. Additionally, the walk from the drop-off point to the pagoda can take up to 60 minutes, depending on the location of your hotel.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Golden Rock to Hpa-An – 115 km (Approximately 2.5 hours driving)

If you’re an early bird, take the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sight of a thick blanket of clouds rolling out towards the horizon above the surrounding landscape. After enjoying this stunning view, savor breakfast at your hotel.

Return to Kin Pun base camp by truck. Bid farewell to Golden Rock and proceed on a drive to Hpa-An, the capital of Kayin State.

Along the way, visit Ya The Pyan Cave, which houses numerous Buddha statues in various positions. Explore the remarkable Buddhist carvings and stucco work from the 17^th century in Kaw Goon Cave.

Before entering the town of Hpa-An, take a photo stop at Mt. Zwegabin and Lumpani Park. The park is home to several hundred neatly aligned seated Buddha images, while Kyauk Kalat is a pagoda built on natural rock formations. Proceed to your hotel, complete the check-in process, and allow yourself some well-deserved time to rest and relax.

In the evening, enjoy a beautiful sunset over the famous Shwe Yin Myaw Pagoda. Overnight in Hpa-An.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Distance: 60 km (Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving)

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Hpa-An, embark on a drive to Mawlamyaing. Along the way, make a stop at Kaw Nhat Village, where you can admire the beautiful U Nar Auk Monastery covered with brass.

Continue the journey to Mawlamyaing and check-in at your hotel.

In the evening, visit the local market and city center of Mawlamyaing. Take a leisurely stroll along the Strand Road to enjoy the sunset. Overnight in Mawlamyaing.

Breakfast included
Overnight

After breakfast, drive to Bilu Kyun (also known as Ogre Island) for approximately 1 hour. This captivating Mon Island consists of 64 villages connected by rutted dirt tracks. The ethnic groups residing in this area have greatly influenced the culture of Myanmar. Explore Bilu Kyun using available transportation such as a local tuk-tuk. The island is renowned for its well-preserved and distinctive Mon culture.

During your visit, explore local handicraft workshops where you can observe the production of rubber bands, Burmese bamboo hats, tobacco pipes, cheroots (cigars), weaving, and old-fashioned slate writing boards.

On your way back to Mawlamyaing, visit the Queen Sein Don Monastery, known for its exquisite wood carvings adorning the walls and other ancient artifacts. Finally, visit the viewpoint at Kyaikthalan Pagoda, a spectacular hillside temple. Ascend to the main platform of the pagoda by taking a lift from the road, where you can savor a breathtaking panoramic view of the town and the river.

Overnight in Mawlamyaing.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Distance: 320 km (Approximately 8 hours driving) 

After breakfast, begin your day by making a short stop to visit the world’s largest reclining Buddha at Win Sein Taw Ya Monastery. Drive past rubber plantations and visit the Death Railway Museum, which features a small locomotive from the bygone days and serves as a memorial for the tragic railway. Also, visit the Allied War Cemetery, a resting place for over 3,500 Allied prisoners of war.

Continue your journey on a narrow, winding, and bumpy road through the Southern plateau. Pass by hills adorned with white and golden pagodas. Upon reaching Ye, visit Ko Yin Lay Monastery and Mon-style temples. Walk a bit further to the giant statue and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

The journey continues on unpaved roads as you cross a stunning mountain range that separates the Mon and Tanintharyi State.

In the late afternoon, arrive in Dawei and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore at your leisure. Overnight in Dawei.

Launch included
Overnight

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Dawei, formerly known as Tavoy, is a city surrounded by beautiful hills, rivers, mangrove forests, and local wildlife. It has a rich history and features picturesque colonial-era buildings, as it was one of the first cities settled by the English after the 1^st Anglo-Burmese War in 1826. Dawei offers a glimpse into local industries and the lives of the local people, taking pride in its craftsmanship.

Begin your day by strolling through the bustling main market of Dawei, where a variety of products are sold. Visit a local family-run clay pottery business to observe the process of producing handmade pottery. You can also visit a family-owned cashew nut business to see how workers peel the nuts (please note that these local businesses may close without prior notice).

Afterward, make a visit to Shwe Taung Sar Pagoda and explore the Paya Gyi Museum, which houses an impressive collection of bronze coins, vases, portraits, and ancient wooden Buddha images.

In the evening, drive to see the Shwe Thar Lyaung reclining Buddha, which measures 74 meters in length and 21 meters in height. It was the largest reclining Buddha in Myanmar until the recently built Win Sein Taw Ya Buddha statue in Mawlamyaing.

Proceed to the viewpoint of Sapar Taung to enjoy impressive panoramic views of the city and the breathtaking surroundings. Overnight in Dawei.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Distance: 260 km (Approximately 7 hours driving)

After breakfast, embark on a journey to Myeik, one of the largest fishing towns in Myanmar. Travel on a narrow, winding, and bumpy road through the Southern plateau, passing by hills adorned with white and golden pagodas.

During the journey, make a stop at a fishing village to observe the local life of the fishermen’s families, which offers a unique perspective on their way of living.

Upon arrival in Myeik, transfer to your hotel. Myeik holds a significant historical importance as one of the first cities settled by the English after the first of the three Anglo-Burmese wars. The city is characterized by its beautiful colonial buildings.

Before sunset, take a stroll along Myeik’s office street through the colonial quarter, where you can witness fine examples of colonial architecture. Enjoy the sunset and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere at Thein Daw Gyi Pagoda, a renowned tourist attraction in Myeik that dates back to the 18^th century. Overnight in Myeik.

Launch included
Overnight

After breakfast at the hotel, you have a free day for optional tours to explore the surrounding areas of Myeik. You can choose from various activities and attractions available in the region. 

Breakfast included

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and have some free time to relax. Later, transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight back to Yangon.

Upon arrival in Yangon, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, allowing you to explore the city or simply relax. Overnight in Yangon.

Breakfast included
Overnight

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, you have the day at your own leisure until it’s time for your departure. Later, transfer to Yangon International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your memorable Myanmar holiday filled with unique experiences.

Breakfast included