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.