Myanmar (Burma)

Yangon, Bagan & Mandalay

Yangon: Golden Pagodas and Colonial Charm

  • Visit Shwedagon Pagoda, a golden Buddhist shrine; the most sacred Buddhist site in Myanmar.
  • Explore Sule Pagoda, a prominent golden stupa located in the heart of downtown Yangon, surrounded by bustling markets and colonial-era buildings.
  • Wander through the vibrant downtown area, admiring the well-preserved colonial-era architecture.
  • Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Bogyoke Aung San Market (Scott Market).
  • Take a circular train ride around Yangon for a unique perspective on local life and the surrounding landscapes.

Bagan: An Ancient Temple Kingdom

  • Explore the vast plains of Bagan, an awe-inspiring archaeological site dotted with thousands of ancient temples, pagodas, and stupas.
  • Enjoy a sunrise/sunset over the Bagan temple landscape, as the soft light bathes the ancient structures in warm golden hues, creating beautiful panoramic views.
  • Visit key temples such as Ananda Temple, Thatbyinnyu Temple, and Shwesandaw Pagoda.
  • Rent a motorcycle/scooter/e-bike to explore the extensive temple area at your own pace, discovering both major and lesser-known temples.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over Bagan for a breathtaking aerial perspective of the temple-strewn landscape.

Mandalay: Royal Heritage and Ancient Cities

  • Visit Mandalay Palace, a reconstructed royal residence.
  • Explore the Shwenandaw Monastery (Golden Palace Monastery), a beautiful teak monastery adorned with intricate wood carvings.
  • Discover the Kuthodaw Pagoda, famous for housing the "world's largest book".
  • Enjoy the sunset from Mandalay Hill, offering panoramic views of the city, the Irrawaddy River, and the surrounding Shan Hills.
  • Take a day trip to the ancient city of Amarapura, known for the iconic U Bein Bridge, the world's longest teakwood bridge.
  • Explore the ancient city of Inwa (Ava), visit the historical sites like the Maha Aung Myae Bonzan Monastery and the Nanmyint Watchtower.
  • Visit Sagaing Hill, dotted with numerous monasteries and pagodas, offering spiritual insights and scenic views of the Irrawaddy River valley.

Inle Lake & Other

Explore Inle Lake & Other Highlights

  • Discover the unique Inle Lake with its leg-rowing fishermen and floating villages.
  • Take a boat trip to see the Intha fishermen and visit the floating markets.
  • Explore the fascinating floating gardens where locals cultivate produce.
  • Visit Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery (Jumping Cat Monastery).
  • Explore the ancient Shwe Indein pagodas in the Pa-O village of Indein.
  • Consider a day trip to the impressive Kakku Pagodas south of Inle Lake.
  • Visit the hill station of Kalaw for trekking.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

Myanmar (Burma) - 3 Weeks

Days 1-3: Yangon

  • Arrive in Yangon. Explore the city center and visit Sule Pagoda.
  • Visit the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda, especially beautiful at sunset.
  • Explore Bogyoke Aung San Market for local crafts and souvenirs. Consider a circular train ride.

Days 4-7: Bagan

  • Witness a sunrise over the Bagan temples. Explore key temples like Ananda, Thatbyinnyu, and Shwesandaw.
  • Explore the area in a scooter or e-bike, discovering more temples and villages.
  • Visit the Manuha Temple and Myinkaba village known for its lacquerware.
  • Take a boat trip on the Irrawaddy River.

Days 8-13: Mandalay & Surroundings

  • Visit Mandalay Palace and Shwenandaw Monastery.
  • Explore Kuthodaw Pagoda and enjoy sunset views from Mandalay Hill.
  • Take a day trip to Amarapura (U Bein Bridge).
  • Explore the ancient city of Inwa.
  • Visit Sagaing Hill and its numerous monasteries and pagodas.
  • Explore the local markets and craft workshops in Mandalay.

Days 14-18: Inle Lake

  • Arrive in Heho (gateway to Inle Lake). Take an introductory boat trip.
  • Explore Inle Lake by boat: see leg-rowing fishermen, floating gardens, and floating villages. Visit Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery.
  • Visit the Pa-O village of Indein and the Shwe Indein pagodas.
  • Learn about local crafts at Inle Lake workshops (silk weaving, cheroot making). Visit the floating markets.
  • Relax and enjoy the tranquil life on Inle Lake.