After breakfast, embark on a scenic 5-hour road trip from Yangon to Golden Rock, also known as Kyaiktiyo, which is one of Myanmar’s most sacred sites and landmarks. Despite the distance, the natural beauty of the Kyaiktiyo mountains makes the drive worthwhile.

On the way, make a stop in Bago, the ancient capital of the Mon Kingdom and a cultural treasure trove. Here, visit the over-a-thousand-year-old Shwemawdaw Pagoda, also known as the Golden God Temple, and the fascinating Kambazathadi Golden Palace, which tells the stories of the Hanthawaddy Mon Kingdom.

Continuing the journey to Golden Rock. Upon arrival at the Kin Pun base camp, take a 30-45 minute open-air truck ride along a bumpy and winding road track to the Golden Rock gateway compound. A short walk from here will lead to Golden Rock, a massive boulder delicately balanced on the edge of a cliff and completely covered in gold leaf. Topped with a glittering stupa that houses a single Buddha hair, the rock is considered a significant pilgrimage site and a testament to Burmese traditions and devotion.

As the day draws to a close, enjoy the stunning sunset at Golden Rock, where the rock glitters in all its splendor, creating the perfect blend of reality and imagination.

Spend the night at a hotel in Golden Rock.

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, we 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.

Breakfast included

Driving from Golden Rock to Yangon takes around 4.5 hours for a distance of 189 km. The best time to witness the stunning views of the Golden Rock is at sunrise or sunset, and it’s highly recommended to take advantage of this opportunity in the morning. You can witness a thick blanket of clouds rolling out towards the horizon above the surrounding area. After enjoying this magnificent view, return to Kin Pun base camp and then drive back to Yangon.

If time permits, stop at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery near Htauk Kyant, which is the last resting place of over 6,300 Allied soldiers during World War II. The cemetery is one of the largest war cemeteries in Myanmar and serves as a reminder of the horrors of war.

From Yangon, transfer to the domestic airport for your flight to Nyaung U Airport in Bagan, which takes approximately 75 minutes. Upon arrival in Bagan, there will be an orientation tour on the way to your hotel. The rest of the evening is free for leisure activities, and you will spend the night in Bagan.

Breakfast included

Start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before heading to the vibrant morning market at Nyaung-U, where you can join the locals in their pursuit of colorful fruits, vegetables, rice, handmade furnishings, and clothing.

Next, visit the majestic Shwezigon Pagoda, built in the 11th century by King Anaweahta. This bell-shaped, gilded structure became the model for virtually all later pagodas in Myanmar. As an important shrine and the main center of pilgrimage in Bagan, take a moment to note its golden mass and peaceful stability.

After Shwezigon Pagoda, visit the early architectural masterpiece, the Ananda Temple. The temple, constructed in 1091 by Kyansittha, is considered to be one of the most exquisite, extensive, and well-maintained temples in Bagan, symbolizing the boundless knowledge of Buddha. Take some time to capture the stunning panorama of the Bagan temple site.

After lunch, take a relaxing break at the hotel before heading to Damayangyi Pagoda, a massive temple built by King Karathu in 1160, similar in layout to the Ananda. Besides its profusion of pagodas, Bagan is famous for its handicrafts, especially lacquerware. Visit the local village of Myinkaba, which has a long-standing tradition, and observe the intricate process involved.

In the evening, head to the riverside pier to board a local boat for a slow cruise down the Ayeyarwady River. While taking in the distinctive views of Bagan’s temples, you can also witness the daily lives of fishermen and villagers living along the riverside. After the tour, return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Bagan.

Breakfast included
Overnight

Begin the day with a scrumptious breakfast before transferring to Nyaung U (Bagan) airport for the return flight to Yangon (approx. 75 minutes). Upon arrival in Yangon, you can either connect to your onward international flight or inquire with a travel consultant about extending your stay in Yangon.

Breakfast included