After enjoying breakfast, you will be transferred to the domestic airport for your scheduled flight to Bagan’s Nyaung-U Airport, which takes approximately 75 minutes. Upon arrival, 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.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a flight to Heho, the gateway to Inle Lake. Upon arrival, take a one-hour drive to NyaungShwe valley on the edge of the lake. On the way, stop at a family-run workshop to witness the production of traditional Shan parasols made from paper.

Visit the red-painted teak building of Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery, which dates back to the 19th century. Unlike many other famous monasteries and pagodas in Myanmar, it does not feature royal architecture.

Next, head to the edge of the hill to explore Red Mountain Winery. Established by French wine experts and Shan natives in 2003, the vineyard produces 120,000 bottles of various red and white wines each year, including its notable Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy a snack and wine tasting while admiring the views of the terraced vines and distant pagodas.

Next, we’ll make our way to the jetty for an unforgettable local boat ride, where we’ll witness the distinct ‘leg rowers’ of Intha fishermen. These skilled fisherman row their boats standing up with one leg wrapped around a single oar, leaving their hands free to deftly handle the conical fishing nets. Visit the holy religious site of PhaungDawOo Pagoda, and witness traditional handicrafts like silk weaving on wooden handlooms and fabrics made from the fibers of the lotus flower. Pass by the endless floating gardens where Intha lake dwellers grow fruits and vegetables on the way back to the hotel.

Finally, return to the hotel and spend the night in Inle after a day of exploration.

Breakfast included

Begin the day with a delectable breakfast, then head back onto the lake to visit one of the local markets, which rotates every five days (depending on the schedule). This market provides a glimpse into the daily lives of the Pa-O, Danu, and Intha people who come to buy and sell goods.

Next, cruise down a narrow channel to reach the village of Indein. The Shwe Indein Pagoda complex boasts a spectacular collection of half-ruined stupas covered in lush vegetation. Stroll through the undergrowth, past large banyan trees, to catch a glimpse of the treasures inside the stupas.

Optional activity: Enjoy a unique floating lunch experience on the lake

Indulge in a one-of-a-kind dining experience by having lunch at a private floating restaurant on Inle Lake. This exclusive restaurant is created from a local rice carrier boat, offering a unique atmosphere and setting. Your personal onboard chef will prepare traditional Shan cuisine while you enjoy the breathtaking views of the clear waters, local fishermen, and surrounding mountains. This unforgettable experience will be one of the highlights of your stay in Inle Lake, leaving you with fond memories that will last a lifetime.

Next on the itinerary, proceed to the cheroot-maker’s workshop to witness the art of crafting typical Burmese cigars by hand. Along the way, pass by a traditional blacksmith’s forge.

Following this, you will have free time to indulge in the unique experience of a canoe boat ride with the Inle Canoe Lady. This short excursion will take you through the channels, passing by houses built on stilts and the floating gardens of the Intha people who reside in the lake. The canoe ride will be operated by local women who work at the cigar workshop, and this opportunity allows them to supplement their family income.

After the canoe ride, return to the hotel where you can spend the rest of the evening at your leisure. This is the perfect time to marvel at the stunning sunset over the picturesque lake views.

Overnight in Inle Lake.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Kick off the day with a scrumptious breakfast before heading to the airport for our return flight to Yangon, which is approximately 75 minutes.

Once you’re back in Yangon, visit the impressive Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda, home to one of the largest reclining Buddhas in Myanmar, measuring a whopping 217 feet long.

Next up, explore the renowned Bogyoke Market (also known as Scott Market), which boasts hundreds of shops selling everything from delectable food to exquisite clothing, crafts, and precious stones.

After that, head to downtown Yangon for an immersive walking tour experience. This city is home to the largest number of colonial period buildings in Southeast Asia, so a stroll around the area will present plenty of opportunities to capture some beautiful photographs. You’ll also have the chance to witness locals enjoying a cup of tea at the quaint local tea shops and view some of the historical buildings in the region, such as the impressive British-Colonial City Hall, which is a stunning example of syncretism Burmese architecture.

Conclude the day with a transfer back to the hotel in Yangon, where we’ll spend the night.

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

Breakfast included

Start the day on with breakfast at the hotel. Following that, proceed to the Yangon International Airport to embark on our next adventure.

Breakfast included