After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a delightful drive through the captivating Magway Division, with a delightful stop in the charming city of Gangaw. Positioned in the western part of Myanmar, Gangaw is nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes and rolling hills of the Chin Hills, providing visitors with breathtaking views. Continue the journey onward to the enchanting destination of Bagan, renowned for its magnificent assemblage of more than 2,500 pagodas and temples that date back to the 11th century. Upon reaching Bagan, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remaining part of the day at your leisure. Overnight accommodation will be provided in Bagan, ensuring a restful evening.

After breakfast at the hotel, take a tour of Bagan’s highlights, beginning with the vibrant morning market in Nyaung-U. There, you can join the locals in pursuing an array of colorful fruits, vegetables, rice, handmade furnishings, and clothing.

Next, visit the magnificent Shwezigon Pagoda, built by King Anawrahta in the 11th century. The bell-shaped, gilded structure served as the prototype for virtually all later pagodas in Myanmar and remains an important shrine and center of pilgrimage in Bagan. Take note of the peaceful stability and golden mass it exudes.

Following your visit to Shwezigon Pagoda, head to the Ananda Temple, a masterpiece of early architectural style and one of the finest, largest, and best-preserved temples in Bagan. Built in 1091 by Kyansittha, it is said to represent the endless wisdom of the Buddha. After exploring the temple, stop for a photo op of the stunning panorama of the Bagan temple site.

After a delicious lunch, you will have a relaxing afternoon break at the hotel. Bagan is renowned for its handicrafts, particularly lacquerware, so you will visit the local village of Myinkaba to witness the intricate process involved. Explore old Bagan and see majestic temples by horse cart or E-bike in the Archaeological Zone before arriving at the sunset hill lock. End the day with a spectacular sunset at the majestic view of ancient temples and pagodas.

Afterward, you will return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Bagan.

After breakfast, begin an enchanting morning journey to Mt. Popa, an ancient dormant volcano that houses a temple devoted to animist spirits. The temple, perched atop a volcanic crag known as Taung Kalat, awaits you after climbing 777 stairs. Along the ascent, you’ll encounter numerous shrines, playful monkeys, and local pilgrims, while immersing yourself in the world of nats and nat worship. The scenic route to Mt. Popa provides glimpses of local plantations and villages, offering insights into the region’s rural life. Prior to reaching Mt. Popa, you’ll make a stop at the sacred Kalat Monastery, where you can briefly delve into its spiritual significance.

Take a domestic flight to Mandalay, the second largest city in Myanmar and a place of immense historical and cultural importance, as it once served as the final capital of the Burmese monarchy. Upon arrival in Mandalay, seize the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring sunset at U Bein Bridge. This remarkable 200-year-old wooden bridge stretches over 1.2 kilometers across Taungthaman Lake, making it the world’s longest wooden bridge. Photographers from all over the globe are drawn to this iconic structure, capturing the breathtaking views and the reflection of the setting sun on the water.

Afterward, check into your Mandalay hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, allowing you to rest and rejuvenate for the adventures that lie ahead.

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Then, begin your full day excursion with a visit to Mahamuni, one of Myanmar’s revered Buddhist sites. Marvel at the ancient Buddha Image, meticulously adorned with over 15 tons of gold leaf lovingly applied by devoted pilgrims. Nearby, immerse yourself in the fascinating process of gold leaf production at a local workshop, observing the art of pounding gold into delicate sheets.

Continuing the journey, take a leisurely stroll to the remarkable Shwe Nandaw Kyaung, the sole surviving wooden structure from the historic Mandalay Royal Palace. Once the residence of the King, it now serves as a revered monastery. Delight in the intricate wood carvings that adorn its walls and delve into the captivating history it holds.

Before noon, make a stop at the revered Kuthodaw Pagoda, a distinguished World Heritage site unique to Mandalay. Often referred to as “the world’s largest book,” this extraordinary pagoda boasts 729 marble slabs meticulously inscribed with sacred Buddhist teachings.

In the afternoon, venture into Zay Cho, the largest market in northern Myanmar, and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere. Explore the vast array of offerings, including Mandalay silk longyi, cotton clothing, mouthwatering hto moat (sticky cakes and traditional sweets), flavorful laphet (pickled tea leaves), elegant kadipar slippers (velvet slippers), exquisite silverware, intricate lacquerware, stunning jewelry, and precious gems.

Next, uncover the grandeur of the Royal Palace, the final bastion of Myanmar’s monarchy. Originally built by King Mindon in 1857 and subsequently relocated from Amarapura, this majestic palace stands as a symbol of sovereignty and Burmese identity, providing invaluable insights into the nation’s rich history.

As the day progresses, journey to Mandalay Hill, where a captivating sunset awaits. Ascend to its summit and be enthralled by the panoramic view that unfolds before you—the splendid cityscape merging with the meandering Irrawaddy River. Witness the sun’s radiant descent, casting an enchanting glow upon the surroundings.

Conclude the day by returning to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind, cherishing the memories of your Mandalay adventure. Overnight in Mandalay.

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, 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 19th 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. Marvel at the splendor of Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the holiest religious site in 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.

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 covered walkway lined with souvenir stalls leads up to Shwe Inn Thein Paya, a complex of weather-beaten zedi (stupas) from the 17^th to 18^th centuries, some of which have been recently reconstructed.

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. Navigate through the channels, passing houses built on stilts and the floating gardens of the Intha people who reside on the lake.

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

Following a delightful breakfast at your hotel, take a scenic drive to Taungoo, covering a distance of approximately 319 kilometers. The journey is expected to take around 4 hours and 30 minutes. Taungoo holds distinction as one of Myanmar’s renowned elephant camping sites, offering an opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Additionally, the town proudly showcases remnants of the Taungoo Dynasty, a prosperous period spanning the 16th to 18th centuries.

Depending on your arrival time in Taungoo, we can arrange a visit to either Hlawga National Park or Poe Kyar Elephant Camp, both promising immersive experiences. Hlawga National Park offers a chance to explore the lush landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna, while Poe Kyar Elephant Camp provides a unique opportunity to interact with these gentle giants.

Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Taungoo, where you can unwind and prepare for further adventures that await.

After breakfast at the hotel, check out from your hotel and take a drive to Kyaikhtiyo (approximately 4 hours). Kyaikhtiyo is also known as the Golden Rock, a sacred Buddhist site nestled in Myanmar’s Mon State. Perched atop Mount Kyaiktiyo, you’ll discover the mesmerizing Golden Rock, a massive boulder delicately balanced on the cliff’s edge and adorned entirely with shimmering gold leaf. To reach the Golden Rock gateway compound, enjoy an adventurous 30 – 45 minute open-air truck ride along a winding and bumpy road. From there, a short walk will lead you to the magnificent Golden Rock itself, topped by a glistening stupa that houses a sacred Buddha hair relic. This remarkable site holds great significance as a pilgrimage destination and reflects the deep-rooted traditions and devotion of the local  people.

As the sun begins to set, prepare to witness a breathtaking spectacle at Golden Rock, where the golden hues mingle with the natural beauty, creating an otherworldly ambiance. Let the rock’s shimmering splendor captivate your senses as you bid farewell to the day. Spend a restful night at a hotel in the enchanting surroundings of Golden Rock, knowing that more extraordinary experiences await you on your journey.

Optional cable car: There is also an optional cable car ride available, which is Myanmar’s first cable car, and it shuttles up to eight people in each of the 44 cable cars from Yathetaung camp to the Golden Rock compound, taking around 8-15 minutes. From here, you can walk a few minutes to reach Golden Rock.

Note: The transportation by open truck to Golden Rock tends to be crowded and cramped. The trucks may also be shared with other tourists and Burmese locals. Also, the walk from the open truck drop-off point to the pagoda can be up to 20 minutes or 45 minutes, depending on the hotel’s location

Embark on the final day of this extraordinary Myanmar Overland Journey as we venture into the lesser-explored region of Karen State. Along our route, we will pause in the captivating town of Hpa An, a picturesque gem nestled in the Kayin State of Myanmar. Serving as the capital of the Kayin State, Hpa An is renowned for its breathtaking natural splendor and rich cultural landmarks. Here, you will have the remarkable opportunity to ascend Mt. Zwegabin, a majestic limestone mountain situated in close proximity to Hpa An. Standing tall at an impressive height of approximately 725 meters (2,380 feet), this revered mountain beckons nature enthusiasts and avid trekkers alike. Known for its sacred significance and religious allure, Mt. Zwegabin offers an unforgettable experience.

Continuing our journey, we will make our way to the Myawaddy border gate, marking the culmination of this remarkable expedition through Myanmar. At the border, it will be time to bid farewell as you cross over to Thailand, carrying with you cherished memories from this captivating exploration.