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Experience the most famous sights of Myanmar on this guided journey. Your trip starts from British administration constructed capital city, Yangon (Rangoon); where we visit the magnificent gold plate and gemstone decorated Shwedagon pagoda; take a stroll through quaint old quarter of Yangon enjoying sights and sounds of this bustling city. Our journey continues northbound to Ancient Kingdom of Bagan, the greatest archeological treasure of Myanmar with over 3000 pagodas and temples ruins located on the plains Bagan by Ayeyarwaddy River (Irrawaddy). Bagan was during its heyday one the greatest kingdoms in the World and is truly a magical destination to visit. From Bagan we continue to Mandalay second largest city of the country and cultural cradle of the country with old royal capitals situated nearby where we make day excursions. Our next destination is rural Shan State and beautiful Inle Lake region inhabited by minority peoples. By Inle we visit markets, floating gardens and villages on stilts and enjoy the sights of local fishermen skillfully balancing on their canoes.
Highlight
Tour Itinerary
DAY 1 :ARRIVAL TO YANGON
On arrival to Yangon airport, you will be welcomed by Travelloops guide with a sign board and your name on it. Transfer to your hotel for check-in. After freshening up we will visit some of Yangon’s highlights; Chauk That Gyi pagoda to view its magnificent reclining Buddha, home museum dedicated of national hero Aung San. We take a short “trishaw” bicycle taxi rides through a local neighborhood off the beaten trails. At the root Singuttara hill we take a walk through lively streets filled with local fresh produce, and small shops making and selling all kinds of merchandise for Buddhist pilgrims. We complete the day with a visit to one of the world’s most spectacular monuments, the Shwedagon Pagoda, a gold covered bell dome structure that dominates the city’s skyline. Legends state that the sacred hairs of the Buddha are enshrined here. The Shwedagon is an iconic symbol of the country, a sight not to be missed.
Overnight in Yangon
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 2: YANGON WALKING TOUR & FLIGHT TO BAGAN
After breakfast at hotel we embark on a journey to explore Yangon highlights. Starting from colonial-style city center and one of the landmarks SulePaya stupa – built over 2,000 years ago and being the focal point of numerous historical events in the city. We continue on foot to the quaint Yangon Old Quarter, built during the British Burma. Many charming historical buildings are still located here. During our walk through bustling market streets full of merchants and food stalls, we visit a local pharmacy and learn about Myanmar traditional medicine, and stop for a tea and snack at the Rangoon Tea House in the fashion of locals, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Yangon.
We continue to one of Asia’s architectural landmarks, the elegant Strand Hotel built by the Sarkies brothers. Inside, you can visit the River Art Gallery should you wish, where the works of some of the most famous and skilled Burmese artists are on display fitting of the grand surroundings. We continue to bustling Bogyoke (Scotts) Market, where hundreds of gemstone, handicrafts, art, clothes and food stores are tucked in a maze of color. (Please note that the market is closed on Mondays and on public holidays)
After lunch break transfer to Yangon airport for flight (1hr) to Nyaung U/ Bagan. Upon arrival to Bagan airport transfer to hotel in Bagan. Time permitting you can enjoy sunset at one of the temples.
Overnight in Yangon
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 3: BAGAN TEMPLES & HIGHLIGHTS
After breakfast at hotel we begin our journey into the Ancient Kingdoms of Bagan. The DhamayazekaZedi is our first visit, providing panoramic views of the temple studded plains of Bagan. We continue to the Archeological Museum and the gold gilded Swezigon Stupa, purported to contain a holy tooth relic of the Buddha. Not far from the stupa, the Myingaba Gu Byaukgyi Temple is a sight to behold, housing Bagan’s best preserved mural paintings of the Buddha’s Jataka re-incarnations. Next, we learn how Bagan’s famous lacquerware crafts are produced in Myingaba Village, and then visit Htilominlo Temple to learn how Burmese sand paintings are created. The day’s temple tour ends with a visit to the beautifully symmetric and majestic Ananda Temple with its four standing Buddha images that seem to gaze at the viewer with fixed serenity wherever the viewer stands. For sunset, a bullock or horse cart ride around the temples offers unparalleled photo opportunities of one of the richest archeological treasures in Southeast Asia as the sun dips behind the temple ruins (weather permitting).
Overnight in Bagan
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 4: BAGAN, MT POPA & PRIVATE SUNSET CRUISE
After breakfast, a morning visit to the Manuha Temple, built by the Mon king to represent his time in captivity under the Bagan king. Continue to the Nyaung U market, the largest market in the Bagan region, nearby we can see how Burmese cigars “cheroots” are rolled by hand. Next, a 1,5hrs drive takes us to Mount Popa, the Burmese spiritual epicenter for those who worship the pantheon of nat spirits and martyrs. After paying respects to the Nat Shrine at the foot of Mount Popa, we climb nearly 800 steps to the pagoda perched at the top of the mountain to admire the views of the surrounding plains and farm lands. In the afternoon, we drive back to Bagan and stop en-route at a local hut to observe the process of making the rich and caramel-like toddy candies from the sap of the toddy palms. In the late afternoon, we transfer to the Ayeyarwaddy River for a private sunset cruise where local cocktails can be enjoyed on board along with views of the temple silhouettes and bustling shore.
Overnight in Bagan
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 5: MANDALAY CITY IMPRESSIONS
After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to Bagan airport for a 30min flight to Mandalay. Transfer 40km/1hr to Mandalay City where enjoy a morning stroll through the lively Zegyo in the heart of the city and making stops at Burmese snacks and “thanaka” (make up) stalls. We continue to the artisan quarters, where some of the oldest craftsmanship is showcased dating back to last kingdom of Myanmar. Observe the process of pounding gold leaf, detailing teakwood carvings and embroidering Myanmar tapestry. We also see how bronze and marble Buddha statues are carved, cast and molded. Next, we proceed to the highlights of Mandalay: the sacred Mahamuni Pagoda, housing one of the most significant Buddha images in the country, covered in several tons of gold leaf and the crown prize in long past wars between competing Myanmar kingdoms; the Golden Palace Monastery, the only surviving Royal Palace building in Mandalay, offering a glimpse of the original style and architecture of the Myanmar royals; and lastly, the Kuthodaw Pagoda, a compound housing Buddha’s teachings carved in the sacred Pali script on stone slabs and regarded as the world’s largest book in terms of surface area. We end our day with sunset panoramic views over city skyline on Mandalay Hill, the highest point of the city.
Overnight in Mandalay
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 6: AVA (INWA) – SAGAING – AMARAPURA – UBEIN BRIDGE
After breakfast at the hotel, we discover the ancient kingdoms of Myanmar near Mandalay. Firstly, we drive 15km to Ava (Inwa), the ancient capital of the Shan and Burmese Kingdoms for over four centuries. We cross over the MyintNge River by ferry and explore the small roads of Ava by horse cart. We visit the Bagaya Teak Monastery, over three hundred years old yet well preserved and still in use by local monks; the Nanmyin Watch Tower, the last standing structure of the Ava dynasty palace compound also known as the “Leaning Tower of Ava”; and the MahaAungmyeBonzan Monastery building with its graceful curves and archways. We continue to the Ancient Kingdom OfSagaing, located across the mighty Ayeyarwaddy River. From the Sagaing Hills, we enjoy magnificent views overlooking the river and hill side covered with countless pagodas. Sagaing being one of the most important Buddhist centres in Myanmar we take the opportunity to visit a monastery or nunnery and learn about daily life to the devotees. We continue to another beautiful ancient capital city, Amarapura, famous for its weaving traditions and Ubein Bridge, a simple yet strong teak structure that spans 1,2km over Taungtaman Lake. The bridge silhouetted by the setting sun is one of the most magical experiences in Myanmar and a photographer’s dream.
Overnight in Mandalay
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 7: INLE LAKE, FLOATING ISLANDS & LEG ROWERS
Enjoy breakfast and then transfer to the Mandalay airport for the 30min flight to Heho, a quiet transit town with one of the few airport links in the beautiful hills of Shan State. On the way to Inle Lake, we stop at a local family’s house to see Shan umbrellas and paper making using traditional methods and fibres of the mulberry tree. Next, we take a 1-hour drive to Inle Lake that descends through the valley with views of the Shan mountains and rice paddy fields. After checking into the hotel, we embark on afternoon explorations of Inle Lake, populated with floating islands and gardens made from the naturally tangled roots of water hyacinth plants and reeds. Delight in the picturesque sights of fishermen who balance and row with one leg, a technique indigenous to the Inn Thar minority group who do this only on Inle Lake. Visit the century’s old Nga PheKyaung monastery with beautiful Buddhas inside.
Overnight at Inle Lake 9Hotel built on stilts over the lake or on the shore)
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 8: BOAT EXCURSIONS ON INLE LAKE
After breakfast we journey out by boat, following the currents of a small river to reach the Inn Thein, a site that makes us feel as if we’ve stepped through a forgotten portal in time. To access the Inn Thein archeological site we walk through verdant bamboo groves that open up to a field covered with the ancient pagodas constructed over 1,000 years ago.
Continue by foot or by boat along tree shaded creek to Sae Ma village for a visit to local school. Meet the teachers and students, for a hello before taking a boat back to Inle Lake.
Rest of the day is for lake explorations, learn how the floating islands and cultivations are shaped and tended, marvel at lotus thread and garments making in Inn PhawKhone village, visit the Ywama village known for its silver smith traditions. Time permitting, we can visit the Burmese Cats at Inn Thar Heritage House and end the day with scenic canoe ride propelled by leg rowers.
Overnight at Inle Lake 9Hotel built on stilts over the lake or on the shore)
Meals: Breakfast included
Inle Lake markets
The colorful and bustling morning market is one of the highlights of Inle Lake. Local ethnic minority groups come near and far to trade their goods, and this presents an opportunity to observe people in traditional costumes in an authentic market atmosphere. The market rotates five days a week, each day making its base in a different village (though closed on national holidays). Market visits can be included in any tour program if the market location falls within proximity of our travel itinerary.
DAY 9: BOAT JOURNEY FROM INLE TO THE SOUTHERN LAKE
After breakfast we will embark on a boat journey to the rarely visited village of Sagar, an undiscovered gem located in the southern section of the majestic lake.
The three-hour boat trip is a scenic treat in itself, passing through unspoiled nature through the magnificent mountain range. You’ll drift by fishermen going about their daily duties and village-lined riverbanks with children from Pa-O hill tribes keen to demonstrate their diving abilities to any boat that goes by. Along the way you’ll also be able to catch a glimpse of many of the indigenous birds that call the lake home.
Despite the scenic trip, relatively few travelers make the journey to Sagar, which may surprise you given the beauty you’ll experience in the small Shan State region. Once you arrive in the Sagar you’ll begin your exploration with a series of stops at fascinating sites, such as over 100 half-submerged stupas from the 16-17th century, as well as a small local village to unearth the unique culture of the Pa-O people, and pay visit to striking monastery.
In the afternoon continue the boat journey down to Mobye Lake until we arrive at the town of Phekon. Here we say farewell to our guide and take 45 minutes’ car transfer to Loikaw, the sleepy capital of Kayah State, that has only recently opened for the foreign visitors, and a base of our explorations for the next two days. Time permitting, you can walk about 20 minutes or take a tuk-tuk (thounbeinsaike) to the major sight of Loikaw, TaungKwe Pagoda, and climb to the top of the karst outcrop for sunset. The view over the surrounding flatlands with distant mountain ranges in every direction is simply amazing.
Overnight in Kayah
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 10: TRAILS OF ANCESTORS IN REMOTE KAYAN VILLAGE
You will be picked up by your guide shortly after breakfast and set off on an hour car trip from Loikaw to Pan Pet group of villages that is home to remote communities of Kayan people. Some elder women here still adhere to the ancient custom of wearing brass coils around their necks. Once we arrive in Pemsong village, the community leaders will welcome us in a local home wher you will enjoy a hot drink with asimple local snack. Next, we begin a moderately challenging trek through lush, shady forest. After quite a steep climb for about 40~60 minutes (depending on your temp), you will enjoy over 3 hours of contunual great views. Along the route the community guides will show various edible plants and herbal medicines used by community members.
A highlight of the trip is arriving at the original settlement of Pan Pet, perched on a mountain top, where evidence of past habitation is visible. This is considered one of the first Kayan settlements of Kayah State. Next, you will enjoy pack lunch or jungle picnic. The trek ends in Rang Ku hamlet, where we meet the famous long neck women, who are a symbol of Kayah State. Enjoy learning a few words of Kayan language and interacting with these fun-loving and artistic people.
On our return trip to Loikaw, time permitting we could make a stop at the 7 tier lake area and visit the animistic ritual ground with sacred poles near Htanilaleh village.
Overnight in Kayah
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 11: KAYAH EXPLORATIONS & FLIGHT TO YANGON
After breakfast early in the morning the guide will take you to Demoso market that is located in about 30 minutes to the south of Loikaw. The market is open three days’ week, including Saturday, which is today. The best time to visit is between 06:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. The market is famous for traditional millet/rice wine. The vendors are from th surrounding area, allowing you to taste a large variety of local dishes. For example, Kayah sausage, meat balls made with aspecial recipe. And unique Kayah pepper.
Time permitting, visit the mysterious Kyet Cave located about 15 km deep in the hills to the east of Loikaw. It is an impressive natural cave made of limestone and dolomite. Ancient wooden coffins can be found inside the cave. These coffins are from 1 to 5 meters long. According to local legends, these coffins used to contain skeletons, however, these can no longer be seen in the cave.
In the afternoon transfer to the airport for your flight to Yangon. Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our Yangon station guide who will take you to the city. The car will be at your disposal until evening. Time permitting, we make a stop at Yangon’s best antiques shop, Augustine’s, displaying a big variety of good quality old and genuine objects. It is a family run gallery that throughout it’s almost 40 years of business gained considerable expertise in Burmese antiques. Alternatively, leisure at the hotel by the swimming pool or have an evening stroll around Kandawgyi Lake.
These are for 3 consecutive days, starting on Inle and completing in Yangon
Overnight in Yangon
Meals: Breakfast included
DAY 12: DEPART YANGON
In the morning enjoy to have the breakfast at your hotel and free time until transfer to Yangon airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast included
Price: USD 1,595 Per Person
COST INCLUDED:
COST EXCLUDED:
This tour is private and can be tailor-made to suit your travel needs. As a result, the price is quoted in US dollars and shown on a per-person basis. The 'Price From' quoted above is for parties of 2, 4 and 6 people and for options of accommodation are Superior (3 star), Deluxe (4 star), Luxury (5 star) hotels.
The tour prices is privately quoted, based on the number in your party, your preferred time of travel, grade of hotel and any additional services requested. Please click on the BOOK TRIP or CUSTOMIZE TRIP or GET a QUOTE buttons and fill in the form, after which one of our travel consultants will assist and offer the best value holiday for you.
REMARKS:
We are aware that a good tour must have good hotels. In Southeast Asia particularly, hotel price makes up most of the cost of your holiday.
All of our prices are calculated on a twin/double-shared basis. As a guide, Travel Loops defines hotel grades as follows:
>>Superior Level (3-star hotels in good locations): > 35 USD/room/night
>>Deluxe Level (4-star hotels): > 60 USD/room/night
>>Luxury Level (5-star hotels): > 150 USD/room/night
Additional info
SUBJECT TO PRICE CHANGES WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.
Voucher info
Our confirmation letter (electronic letter) is equivalent to the voucher. You can present this letter/electronic voucher for this activity.
Starting point:
Yangon
Departure time:
Upon request the Travel Loops would suggest to depart for your tour at 08:00 am.
Duration:
12 days
Myanmar Classic and Meet the tribes 12 Days
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