MYANMAR DISCOVERY – 10 DAYS

TOTAL:
10 days
DEPARTURE DATES:
Dates are flexible and customizable for private departures.
       
COUNTRIES VISITED:
Myanmar
PLACES VISITED:
Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and Inle lake
10 days package tour to discover all the beauties of Myanmar is a good choice for you and your partners to explore the culture and tradition as well as famous attractive destinations in this country. With 10 days, you will have chance to visit Yangon, Bagan, Inle lake and many other places. Let book a tour with The First Travel to feel the best of this nation.
Help Me Plan My Trip Most tours are customized for private travel.

Customizable Itinerary

Day1: Yangon Arrival City Tour
Mingalabar and welcome to Myanmar! The former capital Yangon, also known as Rangoon, remains Myanmar’s largest city and continues to be the country's most important commercial hub and gateway for the majority of its international visitors. Its colonial background and religious legacy make it one of the most mesmerizing and genuine places in all of Southeast Asia. Upon arrival at the airport you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check in. (Note: Official check-in time is 2pm – early check-in depends on availability).
We’ll start our photographic journey with a visit to the Kyaukhatgyi Pagoda. Here you’ll have the first opportunity to take fascinating pictures – for instance, of the 70-meter long reclining Buddha statue around the size of a blue whale. Make a quick stop by the Royal Lake located in Kandawgyi Park which is very popular with local residents, offering great photo opportunities especially in the early morning and around sunset. Take a snapshot of Karaweik Hall, a reproduction of a royal barge and while there, enjoy a spectacular view of the golden Shwedagon Pagoda.
If time allows, explore the downtown area on foot and have your camera ready not to miss any of the colorful activities happening all around you. Let yourself get inspired by this crazy atmosphere which will offer you amazing photo opportunities. Your tour starts on Mahanbandola Road where the Immanuel Baptist Church, originally built in 1830, is located. Continue east passing a couple of alleyways crammed with food stalls and markets. Turn right onto Pansodan Street with its many stalls selling second-hand and photocopied books. You’ll pass the High Court Building, the grand Inland Water Transport offices and the even grander Myanmar Port Authority building until you reach Strand Road. Take the opportunity to eternalize these impressive buildings in your pictures. Your next stop will be the majestic Strand Hotel, from where you’ll have a great view of the Pansodan Jetty and the chance to observe the daily activities taking place on Yangon River. Don’t forget to capture an amazing shot of this historical hotel. Next, walk along Strand Road until you see the Customs House and the Law Court, an impressive-looking colonnaded building. Turn north onto boisterous Bank Street and up onto Sule Pagoda Road, where you can consult one of the many fortune tellers who hang out under the trees. Be sure to make a photo stop at Sule Pagoda, the symbol of downtown Yangon located amidst the picturesque Mahabandoola Gardens. As the sun starts to set, make use of the beautiful light to take amazing pictures of the Sule Pagoda alongside the area’s colonial buildings and their intricate architectonic details.
Afterwards, make your way through Kon Zay Dan Street and explore the narrow side streets until you reach China Town, where the dragons and the burning incense of the colorful Khen Hock Keong Chinese temple offer wonderful motifs. Discover the area’s pulsating streets where merchants sell all kinds of fruits, vegetables and other goods or simply take a stroll through Yangon’s “little China” while absorbing its atmosphere.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay in Yangon.
DAY 02 YANGON – HEHO – INLE LAKE (B)
The best time to photograph the Shwedagon Pagoda is during sunrise when the morning sun’s rays shine upon the golden stupa, giving it a magical glow. No Myanmar expedition can be considered truly amazing if it’s lacking a visit to this legendary temple. Witness the colors change on the 100-meter chedi which is literally enclosed in over 40 tons of gold leaf. The Shwedagon is largely considered to be the most important religious site for the Burmese and most visitors report that the trip is extremely memorable and still etched into their minds. Make use of the great morning light to pay a visit to a monastery and capture the daily life of the monks. Afterwards, register on film other typical Burmese scenarios by visiting, for instance, a tea house, a colorful street market or by observing colonial buildings.
Transfer late morning to the airport and fly to Heho.
From Heho you will experience a picturesque one-hour drive (32km – 1 hour) on your way to Nyaung Shwe, gateway village to the stunning Inle Lake. During the drive, innumerous sceneries offer great opportunities to make a quick stop to take pictures. Upon reaching the shore of the lake you will board a private motorboat and begin heading out onto Inle Lake where your hotel is located. You will pass several villages that are built on stilts over the lake and are inhabited by the local Intha people. Observe the daily activities of the local leg-rowing fishermen and see their ‘floating gardens’, which are built up from strips of water hyacinth, earth and anchored to the bottom of the lake with bamboo poles.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay on Inle Lake.
DAY 03 INLE LAKE – INDEIN (B)
After breakfast you’ll pay a visit to the village of Khaung Daing and learn about the local way of life. Take a walk through the small alleyways and observe the morning activities. Khaung Daing is famous for its production of tofu, made from yellow split peas, rice crackers and fried beans. Afterwards, visit the morning market on the lake (open daily, except for new moon and full moon days). The market’s position changes every 5 days to a different village and visitors include the lake’s residents and people from surrounding villages. This stop is the perfect opportunity for amazing shots of the vibrant market.
In the afternoon, a one-hour boat ride down a small canal brings you to the Pa-Oh village of Indein, located on the lake’s west shore. Take a leisurely stroll around the village before ascending to the top of a hill. Once you’ve arrived at the summit you will be greeted by an iconic Buddha image which sits enshrined among hundreds of stupa ruins and overgrown shrubbery: a scenery that allows for incredible pictures. Here, from the peak, you will also be rewarded with mesmerizing views of the placid surroundings. Hop back on the boat and return to your hotel.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay on Inle Lake.
DAY 04 INLE LAKE (B)
Wake up early today and take a boat ride on Inle Lake under the sun’s first rays. In a picturesque spot, the boat’s engine will be shut off. At this time of the day there are barely any tourists on the lake and you’ll mainly see local fishermen and merchants. On your way back, make a stop at a village and capture stunning images of the lake’s friendly people carrying out tasks in preparation for the day.
Next, visit the Nga Hpe Chaung Monastery which houses many early Shan Buddha images. In the past this temple was known for its ‘jumping cats’, but these days there are only a few felines roaming around and none are jumping anymore. Proceed to the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the lake’s main haven containing five sacred images of Buddha decorated in gold leaf. Eternalize these traditional temples in your pictures and allow yourself to be enchanted by the wonderful impressions left by these buildings. There are also many traditional craft shops on Inle Lake and, should you wish, we can stop for a visit to one making incredible woven items from lotus silk, boat builders (depending on the time of year), a cigar making workshop, blacksmiths or even silver smiths.
Shortly before sunset you’ll have the unique chance of observing a leg-rower up close on the lake. Document with your camera the art of rowing with one leg and take fantastic pictures under the light of the setting sun. This day comes to an end with a boat trip returning to your hotel while you absorb the lake’s idyllic atmosphere.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay on Inle Lake.
DAY 05 INLE LAKE – NYAUNG SHWE – MANDALAY (B)
You’ll start your day with a visit to Nyaung Shwe. On the way, take the opportunity to capture amazing shots of the picturesque scenery. Although bordering Inle Lake, only few tourists find their way to this charming Shan city. The city is most active in the early morning hours and during this trip you’ll acquire a true glimpse into the local lifestyle. Capture scenes such as school children wearing traditional uniforms on their way to class. Thereafter, make your way to Nyaung Shwe’s morning market where residents of the lake and surrounding villages buy and sell their fresh goods every morning. You’ll then hop on a trishaw and make your way alongside a busy canal. The canal is bustling in the morning with boats coming in from the lake carrying tomatoes and other vegetables that will then be sold all over the country. Observe once more how the baskets are unloaded from the boats and afterwards transported by trucks or motorcycles elsewhere. This colorful scenery offers a chance to take amazing pictures. Afterwards you’ll have the opportunity to visit workshops in villages that specialize in traditional Shan paper and unique handcrafted umbrellas. Also, be sure to stop in at the teak monastery of Shweyanpyay to witness the intricate wood carving artwork and craftsmanship of the monks there.
In the afternoon you’ll be transferred to Heho Airport for your flight to Mandalay.
Mandalay is the second largest city of Myanmar and is often described in literature as the country’s most traditional, timeless and alluring. However, those who go meet a booming and vibrant city located on the banks of the Irrawaddy River and, despite its pulsating energy and thriving business, it's here where the cultural heart of Myanmar lies and the traditions of music, dance and drama are as alive as ever. Upon arrival in you’ll be transferred (1 hour) to your hotel.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay in Mandalay.
DAY 06 MANDALAY (SAGAING – AVA – AMARAPURA ) (B)
On your exploration of Mandalay you will next visit the Kuthodaw Pagoda, frequently dubbed as “The World’s Biggest Book” for its collection of 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist teachings. This is a unique chance to capture shots that reflect the Buddhist doctrine.
Moreover, this day includes an expedition to investigate the previous capitals of Amarapura, Ava and Sagaing. Cross the bridge over the Irrawaddy River to Sagaing. With 600 ivory colored pagodas and monasteries, Sagaing Hill is generally seen as the spiritual hub of Myanmar and claims residence to around 3,000 monks and nearly 100 meditation shrines. You’ll visit pagodas such as Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin, U Min Thone Sae and Shin Pin Nan Gyaing. Continue to Sagaing’s local market, a less visited tourist site. We’ll head over to a small pottery village recognized for manufacturing ubiquitous water pots, and after arriving, observe local tradesmen applying their traditional methods in the production of their goods. Next it’s on to Ava, the standing capital from the 14th through the 18th centuries. Cross the small river by ferry and travel in a traditional horse and carriage to the wooden Bagaya Monastery, renowned for its extraordinarily elaborate woodcarvings. Be sure to check out the Nanmyint Watch Tower - also called “the leaning tower of Ava“ - which is what’s left from the ancient palace and Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery. Enjoy these marvelous impressions and don’t forget to capture them with your camera.
This afternoon’s activities will kick off with a visit to Amarapura, Myanmar’s penultimate royal capital. Amarapura means “City of Immortality”, though its period as capital was relatively brief. First you’ll stop at a silk weaving workshop known for their exquisite merchandise. Continue to Mahagandayon monastery, home to more than a thousand young monks and renowned as a centre for monastic study and strict religious discipline. Once the sun starts to set you’ll want to stroll along the legendary U Bein Bridge, which was built in 1782 when Amarapura was the Royal center of attention. It spans 1.2 km across the shallow Taungthaman Lake and is said to be the longest teakwood bridge worldwide. Enjoy this very special atmosphere as the late afternoon sun casts long shadows and illuminates the local people heading home. Here you can take amazing pictures and eternalize this breathtaking atmosphere. As a stunning day comes to an end, head back to Mandalay for the night.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay in Mandalay.
DAY 07 MANDALAY- BAGAN (B)
Get up very early this morning (4 am) and transfer to the Mahamuni Pagoda to witness the ritualistic washing of the Buddha's face. This ritual commences every morning at 4 or 4:30 am when monks wash the face and brush the teeth of the Buddha image. It’s performed for over an hour by a senior monk dressed in monastic attire, assisted by several lay helpers dressed in white and wearing formal headdresses. Take this unique opportunity to capture these fantastic moments on film.
Morning flight to Bagan and transfer to hotel upon arrival.
In the afternoon you’ll see the marvelous temples of Bagan and acquire a unique glimpse of Burmese culture by paying a visit to traditional craftsmen. You’ll start your exploration with a visit to the marvelous Ananda Temple. Built in an early “Mon” style, this temple houses two distinctive Buddha images of which the expressions appear to transform, according to the spot from which the statue is seen. From here you will journey on for an excursion that passes Thatbyinnyu, the tallest temple in Bagan, the gigantic Dhammayangyi Temple noted for its remarkable brickwork, and of course, Sulamani Temple. As the day comes to an end, take further amazing shots of Bagan’s breathtaking scenery while you enjoy an extraordinary sunset from the upper terrace of one of the surrounding temples.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay in Bagan.
DAY 08 BAGAN (B)
OPTION: HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE OVER BAGAN – US$ 285/pax
The morning will start off with an exciting hot-air balloon ride above the Bagan countryside. You will observe one-of-a-kind views when the sun begins to rise over the Irrawaddy River and various stupas in the region. You’re simply not going to find many other opportunities like this on earth.
Note:
•             Only available from mid-October till mid-May
•             UK-certified pilots. Balloons have international security standards
•             Launch time and flight time depends on wind conditions
•             Flight can be cancelled on short notice due to bad weather conditions. In this case the full amount will be reimbursed
•             Please book in advance due to limited seat availability
•             Please indicate the weight (in kg) of passengers at the time of booking
With the camera in hand you are now off to the lively Nyaung Oo Market where locals come to trade fresh produce and other goods daily. From here you will have a look around Old Bagan starting with a visit of the renowned Shwezigon Pagoda, constructed by King Anawrahta in the early 11th century as a religious memorial. Travel over dusty lanes and tree shaded roads going past temples and monasteries to a small village. Explore the village on foot, getting a glimpse of the local lifestyle of Bagan’s residents. This is the perfect opportunity to capture the village life of Bagan on film. This afternoon, you will have the opportunity to take beautiful pictures of the numerous temples and to immortalize scenes from rural life. The temples in the background and the oxcarts leaving clouds of dust behind create the perfect shot for unforgettable memories.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay in Bagan.
DAY 09 BAGAN- YANGON (B)
OPTION: SUNRISE FROM THE TOP OF A HILL
Get up early this morning and hop on a horse cart in the pre-dawn light out to Bagan’s savannah. Reaching a small hill after a short ride, you will be welcomed by a warm cup of tea or coffee in an intimate outdoor breakfast setting, local style. Immerse in silence and gradually changing shades of sky over Bagan’s panorama while breakfast is being served by friendly locals. After enjoying breakfast and the sunrise view, it is time to leave the little hill behind and take advantage of a quiet morning to explore the legendary temples of Bagan with the horse cart. At this time of day you will be privileged to have the attraction sites free of tourists, with opportunity to peacefully observe the temples’ architectural details or ancient paintings on the walls. If time permits, continue to Shwe San Taw temple and climb up to the top for a grand view of Bagan. Then it’s time return to your hotel for full breakfast.
Flight to Yangon in the morning.
On your last afternoon in Myanmar you’ll once again get to experience Yangon. A sight you shouldn’t miss is the hustle and bustle of the large Bogyoke (or Scott) Market. Here you can browse through typical Myanmar goods and handcrafts or capture the colorful atmosphere with your camera. Next you’ll embark on the local “Circular Train” at Yangon Central Station on a short trip to the beautiful Kyee Myin Daine Station. This train travels at a deliberately slow pace, which provides you with time to really enjoy your surroundings and get a clear overview of the city. Furthermore, you’ll have the opportunity to take wonderful pictures of Burmese families meeting in traditional tea shops for dinner. As you enjoy your last hours in Myanmar, capture a last few memorable moments and relax as the day comes to an end.
OPTION: DINNER AT LE PLANTEUR
Grant yourself some relaxation to take a deep breath and reflect on the impressions you have gathered during your journey. Enjoy fantastic ambiance in a blend of colonial design with charming Myanmar influences combined with great food.
Lunch and dinner on own account. Overnight stay in Yangon.
DAY 10 DEPARTURE YANGON (B)
Unfortunately, once again the time has come to say goodbye to one of the most enchanting countries of the world. You’ll be transferred to Yangon International Airport according to the time of your flight. The guide and private vehicle are available until departure.
Lunch on own account.
Amarapura - Myanmar’s penultimate royal capital
Yankin Hill - a high hill surrounded by temples and pagodas so you can have a view over them
U Bein bridge - the longest wooden bridge
Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda - big pagoda with 70 meter long reclining Buddha statue
The Golden Shwedagon Pagoda - the pagoda made from gold and diamond
Hot air balloon trip above Bagan
Nyaung Oo Market - local market to experience the daily life of Myanmar people
Temples in Bagan
Inle lake - one of the biggest fresh water lake in Myanmar
Indein vilage - a beautiful tranquil village

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Price


$9999 per person (excluding international flights)

This trip is customizable for your private travel.

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What's Included
  • Accommodation with daily breakfast at selected hotels
  • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: breakfast; L: lunch; D: dinner)
  • Private tours and all services as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Private transportation with air-conditioning
  • Domestic flights: Yangon - Bagan, Bagan - Mandalay, Mandalay - Inle Lake, Inle Lake - Yangon
  • Local English speaking guides
  • Entrance fees for all mentioned sights visited


What's Excluded
  • International flights
  • Other meals which do not mention in the itinerary
  • Early check-in and late check-out at hotels
  • Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc.)
  • Tipping for guides and drivers
  • Compulsory personal travel insurance
  • Myanmar Visa fees 
T and N Travel
He tour was amazing such great scenario one of the best tours I’ve been on so far in my South East Asian adventure. The tour guide was great very informative and spoke perfect english very recommended! So glad I was able to have a great guide

REVIEWED BY Tuan Anh

TIN TỨC
Amazing trip out of Hanoi which takes 2hr and gives your breathtaking views from mua cave. Challenging 500 steps... Soaking wet but worth it! After 2 more caves with explanation of its history from Chris (our guide) who was always with us to make sure we don't do something stupid :)))) Small group of 10 ensures we don't feel too crowded. A good advise.... Don't be lazy and skip the cycling tour.... Its amazing! And easy for everyone.

REVIEWED BY Hau Nguyen

DU LỊCH NƯỚC NGOÀI
We really enjoy with the trip, with a beautiful views after climbing some steps, just 500, little trip by bike and relaxing boat trip to finish. Diep, our guide, was so nice and worry of we spend an amazing time. I would repeat for another daily tour

REVIEWED BY Thang Nguyen

Travel Review: Luxury Trip to Spain, Madrid, Bacelone, Girona ...
"Overall our trip was a tremendous experience - all thank to your travel company and Zacasso."

REVIEWED BY TAMARA M.

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