Extraordinary Myanmar with Hpa An & Mawlamyaing 17 Days

Tour Code: XMX337IRU9G4

4.9 (114 Reviews)

Rangoon, Kyaikhtiyo, Hpa An, Mawlamyine, Bago, Mandalay, Bagan, Heho, Pindaya, Inle Lake

From: $1,029 4-star hotels

4.9

(114 reviews)

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Duration

17 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

About this tour

Embark on an unforgettable 17-day journey through Myanmar, where you’ll explore the vibrant city of Rangoon, witness the iconic Kyaikhtiyo Pagoda, and delve into the stunning landscapes of Hpa An and Mawlamyine. Discover the cultural heritage of Bago before heading to Mandalay, the heart of Myanmar’s tradition. Marvel at the ancient temples of Bagan, then travel to Heho and Pindaya, where you can visit the famous caves filled with thousands of Buddha images. Finally, relax on the serene waters of Inle Lake, experiencing the unique culture of the local communities. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Indochina Royal Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

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Itinerary

Arrive at Yangon International Airport and transfer to your hotel for check-in and some time to refresh. In the afternoon, explore the lively downtown area to experience the bustling life of Yangon and admire its colonial architecture. Next, visit the impressive Reclining Buddha at Chaukhtetgyi, followed by a trip to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, often regarded as Yangon’s masterpiece. Enjoy the stunning sunset reflections as the colors illuminate the pagoda.

Overnight in Yangon.

In the morning, set off by road to Kyaikhtiyo, located 190 km south of Yangon, a journey of about 4 hours. This site is one of Myanmar’s most intriguing locations and serves as the country's largest pilgrimage destination. Here, you'll find a remarkable rock precariously balanced on a cliff. After reaching Kyaikhto (Kimpun Camp), take a 45-minute truck ride to ascend to the summit. Once you arrive, check in at your hotel and explore the site.

After breakfast, begin your descent from Golden Rock, taking the truck back to your vehicle for the journey to Hpa-An, located approximately 120 km from Kyaikhto, which takes around 2.5 hours along a scenic route heading south.

In the afternoon, explore Kawtkun Cave, renowned for its stunning beauty, where thousands of miniature clay and stone-carved Buddhas, adorned in gold and bronze, adorn the cave walls.

<span> Day 4</span> Hpa-An (hiking and cave adventure)

In the morning, ascend Mt. Zwegabin, which stands at 722 meters. From the summit, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with thousands of Buddha images scattered at the base. Next, head towards Sadan Cave, just a few kilometers from Hpa-An. This natural cave can be traversed via a 15-20 minute walk through a long, dark tunnel (with electricity) that leads to a breathtaking natural paradise. After exiting, enjoy a small canoe ride beneath the stone cave and through endless rice paddies set against a picturesque backdrop. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Karen village.

In the afternoon, explore Bat Cave, where you can witness the spectacular sight of hundreds of thousands of bats emerging at sunset. Although the cave itself is not accessible, it’s a remarkable experience to watch the bats fly off to Mawlamyine for their nightly feeding, returning every morning.

<span> Day 5</span> Hpa-An- Mawlamyaing (by car or by boat)

This morning, you will be transferred to the jetty for a private boat ride to Mawlamyine, which takes approximately four hours, with an expected arrival around 5 PM. Along the way, stop at U Nar Aut Village to see its beautifully decorated pagoda and visit Gaung Say Island before continuing your journey to Mawlamyine.

Note: During the rainy season, the trip from Hpa-An to Mawlamyine will be by car.

In the afternoon, visit the teak wood monastery presented by Queen Sein Done of Mandalay, followed by a trip to Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, which provides panoramic views of the city, the surrounding rivers, and the port. Conclude your day by watching the sunset from this scenic spot.

<span> Day 6</span> Mudon- Kyaikkhame- Setse- Mawlamyaing

Travel for 30 minutes to Mudon, where you'll find Win Sein Tawya, home to the largest reclining Buddha, measuring 100 meters in length. Inside, you can explore this site that resembles a Buddhist museum. After a 45-minute drive, arrive at Than Phyu Zayat to visit the War Cemetery, which holds the graves of Allied soldiers who perished while constructing the railway. Next, continue your journey overland to Kyaikkhame to see Yelai Phaya, a Buddha shrine with a metal roof overlooking the sea. Following another half-hour drive, you’ll reach Setse Beach, known for its expansive brown-sand shoreline. Finally, return to Mawlamyine.

<span> Day 7</span> Mawlamyaing – Yangon

After breakfast, embark on a six-hour drive back to Yangon. Along the way, make a stop in Bago to explore the reconstructed Kambawzathadi Palace, which reflects the architecture of King Bayinnaung's 16th-century residence. Also visit the Shwethalyaung Pagoda and the Kyaik-Pun Pagoda, known for its impressive four colossal Buddha images. Arrive in Yangon by evening.

Overnight in Yangon.

<span> Day 8</span> Yangon– Mandalay (by Flight)

This morning, head to the airport for your flight to Mandalay. Once you arrive, explore Mandalay, the last royal capital and a hub for Myanmar's culture, traditions, and arts. Start by visiting the Mahamuni Buddha Image and a gold-leaf workshop, where you can see traditional sculptures and wood carvings being created, along with puppet-making demonstrations. In the evening, tour the famous Golden Palace Monastery, the last remnant of the Royal Palace, and Kuthodaw Pagoda, known as the world's largest book. Conclude your day with a sunset view from Mandalay Hill, which rises 200 meters above the city.

<span> Day 9</span> Mingun–Ava–Amarapura

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the jetty to board a local private boat bound for Mingun, located 7 miles north of Mandalay. As you cross the Irrawaddy River, enjoy the views of fishermen and bamboo barges along the way. Once in Mingun, stroll through the village to visit the Pahtotawgyi Temple, the world's unfinished pagoda, along with its massive bell and the Mya Thein Dan Pagoda.

Next, you'll explore the ancient capitals of Ava, which served several Burmese kingdoms for five centuries. Take a local ferry across the river to reach Ava, where you can discover the site by horse cart, including a visit to the teakwood Bagaya Kyaung monastery and the Mai Nu Oakkyaung.

Your journey continues to Amarapura, the former capital before Mandalay, where you'll gain insights into monastic life at the Maha Gandayon Monastery. Take a walk on the U Bein Wooden Bridge or opt for a canoe ride on Taungthaman Lake to enjoy the sunset and the picturesque surroundings.

Overnight in Mandalay.

<span> Day 10</span> Mandalay- Bagan (by car or Alliance Myanamar)

During the low season (April to September), travel by road from Mandalay to Bagan takes approximately 3.5 hours. After breakfast, embark on the journey with an optional stop at a village en route. Upon arrival in Bagan, check into your hotel and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The evening is free for leisure.

For the high season (October to March), experience the Alliance Myanmar River Cruise from Mandalay to Bagan, which spans 8 hours. Begin your day with breakfast before transferring to the jetty to board the Alliance River Cruise or RV Panorama. This full-day cruise along the Irrawaddy River provides insights into the local way of life, from its origins in the Himalayas to its journey southward towards the Indian Ocean. Along the way with RV Panorama, you'll visit a village to observe rural life. Arrive in Bagan by evening and transfer to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Bagan.

Explore Myinkabar Village, home to the renowned Myingabar Gubyaukgyi Temple adorned with intricate mural paintings, as well as Manuha and Nan Phaya temples. Later in the afternoon, discover architectural marvels such as the revered Ananda Temple, Shwe Gu Gyi, Maha Bodhi, among others. Don't miss the breathtaking sunset from Sulamani Sunset Viewing Hill, offering an unforgettable vista.

Stay overnight in Bagan.

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Nyaung U Market followed by the historic Shwezigone Pagoda, Gubyaukgyi Temple renowned for its ancient mural paintings, and Htilominlo Temple. Explore various temples near Min Nan Thu village and then visit West Phwar-Saw village to experience the daily lives of villagers. In the late afternoon, continue your exploration with a horse cart ride to the impressive Dhammayangyi and Sulamani Temples, passing through a jungle of ancient temples.

Stay overnight in Bagan.

<span> Day 13</span> Bagan– Heho/ Pindaya/ Inle (by flight)

Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight to Heho. From there, embark on a scenic car journey to Pindaya, passing through picturesque landscapes of verdant paddy fields. Arriving in the evening, explore the Pindaya Cave, a natural cavern housing over eight thousand Buddha images. Witness the traditional craftsmanship of Shan paper and umbrella production, followed by a visit to Pindaya Lake for an opportunity to engage with local residents.

Next, proceed to Nyaung Shwe, the gateway to Inle Lake, renowned for its natural beauty and traditional leg-rowers and fishing techniques. Transfer to your lakeside resort in Inle Lake by boat, approximately 30 minutes, for check-in and relaxation.

Overnight stay at Inle Lake.

Today, embark on a full-day boat excursion across the picturesque lake, nestled between towering hills on either side. Explore the vibrant 5-day market, a bustling gathering where hill tribes converge to trade goods every five days. Discover the floating villages dotting the lake, witness traditional fishing methods, and admire local arts and crafts. Visit the silk and lotus weaving workshops in Inbawkhone village, observe cheroot making, and explore Ngephechaung Monastery renowned for its Buddha image collection.

Overnight stay at Inle Lake.

Following breakfast, begin your exploration of the enchanting sights of Inle Lake aboard a boat. Discover the floating villages and floating gardens, witness traditional fishing techniques, and admire local arts and crafts. Visit a village market to observe and engage with local products. Next, journey to Indein village for a leisurely stroll through the Indein Pagoda complex, which features over one thousand stupas nestled along the hillside, accessed via the scenic Indein canal. Conclude your day with a visit to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the most revered pagoda in Shan State.

Overnight stay at Inle Lake.

<span> Day 16</span> Inle/Nyaung Shwe/Heho-Yangon (by flight)

Depart for the airport to catch your flight back to Yangon. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, explore downtown Yangon, a layout designed by the British in a classic colonial grid pattern, offering shaded streets perfect for leisurely strolls. Visit the renowned Bogyoke Aung San Market, also known as Scott Market.

Overnight stay in Yangon.

<span> Day 17</span> International Departure

Proceed to the airport for your international departure, depending on your flight schedule.

Durations

Over 17 days

Regional Tours

Myanmar

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Tour's Location

Rangoon, Kyaikhtiyo, Hpa An, Mawlamyine, Bago, Mandalay, Bagan, Heho, Pindaya, Inle Lake

Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit - Exploring Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit When you travel through Hanoi, you’ll notice that the city’s history isn’t just preserved in its temples and French villas — it also lives on in its museums. One of the most fascinating places to experience this is at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, home to what was once the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. Today, it forms part of the National Museum of History, focusing on Vietnam’s revolutionary journey — from the earliest anti-colonial movements in the 19th century to the nation’s dramatic transformation after reunification in 1975. This museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, patriotism, and hope, told through rare documents, photographs, and stories of the people who shaped modern Vietnam. 🏛️ A Museum with Revolutionary Roots Originally established as the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, the site was dedicated to chronicling the struggles of the Vietnamese people against colonial powers and foreign domination. In recent years, the collection was integrated into the larger National Museum of History, giving visitors a complete picture of the nation’s past in one cohesive institution. Walking through its halls in 2025, you’ll find that the displays are thoughtfully curated to guide you through the country’s turning points — from underground resistance newspapers to iconic photographs of revolutionary leaders. 📜 The Story Told Through Documents and Words Unlike other museums that rely heavily on artifacts, this one leans on the power of documents and writing to bring history to life. Clandestine Newspapers 📰 – The earliest whispers of resistance often came through underground publications, secretly printed and distributed despite colonial surveillance. These fragile papers now rest in glass cases, a reminder of the courage it took to spread ideas of freedom. Revolutionary Tracts ✍️ – Many of these were penned by Ho Chi Minh, whose words inspired generations to resist oppression and fight for independence. His essays, pamphlets, and letters remain a central feature of the museum’s collection. Rare Photographs 📸 – The museum proudly displays portraits of Vietnam’s revolutionary heroes. Some of these images cannot be found elsewhere, making the exhibit especially valuable for history enthusiasts. ⚔️ War and Resistance: Key Exhibitions The museum also shines a spotlight on some of the defining battles and wars of Vietnam’s modern history. 🌄 Dien Bien Phu – The Decisive Victory No exhibit about Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle would be complete without a tribute to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This historic victory against French forces marked the end of colonial rule in Indochina and paved the way for the Geneva Accords. The museum presents documents, maps, and photographs that capture the determination of the Vietnamese fighters. 🇻🇳 The War of Independence The displays offer an in-depth look at Vietnam’s long fight for sovereignty, from grassroots resistance groups to organized national movements. Visitors can see how everyday people became part of a collective force determined to reclaim their homeland. 🪖 The American War (Vietnam War) Though the Military History Museum provides more extensive coverage of the Vietnam War, this site still offers a compelling collection. Visitors can explore carefully presented exhibits about the conflict, highlighting both the struggles and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. From propaganda posters to personal items of soldiers, these stories personalize a war that changed the world. 🌟 Why Visit 216 Tran Quang Khai in 2025? Authenticity: Many of the documents and photos are one-of-a-kind, offering perspectives not found in other museums. Emotional Impact: The focus on writings, faces, and personal stories creates a human connection with history. Contextual Learning: When combined with the main History Museum at Trang Tien and the Military History Museum, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Vietnam’s journey. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entrance fee required; combined tickets with the National Museum of History are available for convenience.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn🚶 Getting There: Just a short walk from the Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your Hanoi itinerary. 💡 Travel Tips for Visitors Pair Your Visit: Plan to see both 216 Tran Quang Khai and the main History Museum at 1 Trang Tien on the same day. Together, they tell the full story of Vietnam. Allow Enough Time: While smaller than the main site, the depth of the documents and exhibits deserves at least 1–2 hours. Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; check current rules upon entry. Guides & Audio Tours: Hiring a guide or using an audio tour app can provide richer insights, especially if you’re not familiar with Vietnam’s revolutionary figures. Respect the Space: For many locals, these exhibits are not just history but part of their family’s lived experiences. 🌏 Connecting Past and Present Visiting 216 Tran Quang Khai is not simply about studying old documents. It’s about standing in the presence of a nation’s collective memory — of battles fought, sacrifices made, and dreams of independence realized. For travelers in 2025, when Vietnam is thriving as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and cultural destinations, the museum is a poignant reminder of how far the country has come. From clandestine newspapers to post-war reconstruction, the exhibits encapsulate the resilience and determination that continue to define Vietnam today. ✨ Final Thoughts If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to go beyond the surface, make time for 216 Tran Quang Khai. It’s not as flashy as the Old Quarter or as glamorous as the Opera House, but it holds something deeper — the soul of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter not just names and dates but real voices from the past, still echoing with a call for freedom and unity. And that makes this museum one of Hanoi’s most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences.Hanoi’s National Museum of History - 🏛️ Hanoi’s National Museum of History: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you want to truly understand Vietnam — its struggles, triumphs, and cultural depth — there’s no better place to start than the National Museum of History in Hanoi. Nestled just one block east of the Hanoi Opera House, this museum is not only a treasure trove of artifacts but also a masterpiece of architecture, blending French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese motifs. In 2025, the museum continues to be one of Hanoi’s must-visit cultural landmarks, offering travelers a chance to step back thousands of years into Vietnam’s past. From prehistoric tools to imperial treasures and wartime relics, every corner tells a story of resilience and creativity. 🏯 Architecture: A Blend of French Elegance and Vietnamese Tradition Before even stepping inside, the building itself demands admiration. Designed in the 1930s by the École Française d’Extrême-Orient, the structure combines the grandeur of a French villa with the curves and rooflines of Vietnamese palatial design — a style often referred to as Neo-Vietnamese architecture. With its ochre-yellow walls, graceful balconies, and tiled roofs, the museum feels like a harmonious fusion of East and West. Even today, photographers and architecture enthusiasts are drawn here, not just for the exhibits but also for the artistry of the building itself. ⏳ A Walk Through Time: The Museum’s Layout The National Museum of History is divided into two main sections: The main building at 1 Trang Tien Street — covering Vietnam’s history up to 1945. The annex across the street at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street — focusing on the post-1945 era, including Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification. This division allows visitors to follow Vietnam’s journey step by step, from prehistoric times to the modern nation it has become. 🥁 Ground Floor Highlights: The Bronze Age and Beyond Stepping into the ground floor is like traveling back over 2,000 years to the era of the Dong Son culture (1200–200 BC). This sophisticated Bronze Age civilization thrived in the Red River Delta and left behind remarkable artifacts that continue to astonish historians. 🌟 Must-See Exhibits on the Ground Floor The Ngoc Lu Drum 🥁 – Considered the crown jewel of the collection, this ceremonial bronze drum is adorned with delicate carvings of deer, birds, and musicians. Its craftsmanship demonstrates advanced casting techniques far ahead of its time. Bronze Tools and Utensils ⚒️ – From arrowheads to cooking implements, these everyday objects reveal the ingenuity of early Vietnamese societies. Artifacts from Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel 🏯 – Excavations in recent decades have uncovered treasures from Hanoi’s historic citadel, shedding light on its role as a political and cultural center. 11th-Century Amitabha Buddha 🧘 – A graceful wooden statue reflecting the influence of Buddhism in Vietnam’s medieval era. Celadon Ceramics 🍵 – Exquisite pale-green pottery from the Ly dynasty, admired for its elegance and durability. Bach Dang River Stakes ⚓ – Wooden stakes used in the legendary 13th-century battle, when Vietnamese forces under General Tran Hung Dao defeated Mongol invaders by luring their fleet into a deadly trap. Standing before these relics, you don’t just see artifacts — you feel the spirit of Vietnam’s ancestors who shaped the nation’s identity. 📜 Second Floor Treasures: Dynasties, Art, and Colonial Influences Moving upstairs, the second floor offers a vivid journey through Vietnam’s dynastic golden ages and its encounters with foreign powers. 🌟 Highlights of the Second Floor Le Loi Stele (3 meters tall) 🗿 – This monumental stone slab recounts the life of Le Loi, the national hero who led the resistance against Ming Chinese rule and established the Later Le dynasty (1428–1788). Ceramics Collection 🍶 – An extensive display of intricately painted ceramics, showcasing how Vietnamese artisans perfected techniques over centuries. Nguyen Dynasty Exhibits 👑 – Furniture inlaid with ivory, embroidered silk garments, and ceremonial items once used by emperors inside Hue’s Imperial Citadel. 19th-Century Ink Wash Paintings 🎨 – Evocative depictions of Hue’s imperial court life in the 1890s, capturing the elegance and rituals of Vietnam’s last dynasty. French Colonial Era Relics 🏛️ – Artifacts reflecting Vietnam’s transition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French rule, offering insight into cultural exchanges and struggles for identity. This section bridges the past with the dawn of modern Vietnam, revealing how the country endured centuries of outside influence while preserving its cultural soul. 📍 The Annex: Vietnam After 1945 Across the street, the second museum building covers the modern chapter of Vietnam’s history. Here, visitors encounter exhibits from the August Revolution, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War). You’ll see military uniforms, personal belongings of revolutionary leaders, propaganda posters, and photographs documenting the nation’s struggle for independence and reunification. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, particularly for visitors seeking to understand Vietnam’s resilience in the 20th century. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entry fee applies (with additional small fee if bringing a camera). Tickets can now be purchased online via the museum’s official website to skip queues.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn 💡 Travel Tips for Visiting in 2025 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid tour groups. Combine With Nearby Attractions: The Opera House, Trang Tien Plaza, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within walking distance. Bring a Guidebook or Audio Guide: While many exhibits now have English and French explanations, a guidebook or hired guide adds context to the vast collection. Photography: A small fee is required for cameras, but the photos are worth it, especially for the architectural details. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for at least 2–3 hours exploring the two buildings. 📸 Why the Museum is a Must-See in Hanoi Unlike many museums that feel static, the National Museum of History in Hanoi is alive...