Meet Me in Myanmar – 8 days

Today, we will explore the highlights of Yangon and its renowned religious sites. Our day starts in the downtown area with a photo opportunity in front of Yangon City Hall, followed by a visit to Sule Pagoda, a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. This pagoda is located near Maha Bandoola Park, surrounded by a variety of colonial-era buildings and historical landmarks, such as the Independence Monument and the High Court.

Next, we’ll explore the golden Botahtaung Pagoda, which has a rich history dating back over 2500 years. For lunch, we’ll dine at the Yangon Tea House, reminiscent of the grand tea houses from the colonial era, where you can savor a delightful cup of traditional tea.

Afterward, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Bogyoke (Scott) Market, known for its diverse offerings, including gemstones, handicrafts, and clothing. Our journey continues with a visit to the impressive Chaukhtagyi Pagoda, home to a colossal 70-meter-long reclining Buddha adorned with a crown decorated with diamonds and other precious gems.

Later in the evening, we’ll visit the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, the most sacred Buddhist site in Myanmar. Here, locals gather to offer prayers and make offerings. The 90-meter-tall central stupa, covered in gold leaf, towers over the city skyline, glowing in brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red as the sun sets.

As we say goodbye to Yangon, we board a morning flight to Mandalay, known as Myanmar's last royal capital before the onset of colonial rule. Upon our arrival, we head to the Mahagandayon Monastery, situated south of Mandalay in the historic city of Amarapura. This monastery is the largest teaching facility in the nation, where hundreds of monks line up to collect their daily alms from the community.

Continuing our journey into the city, we explore the Royal Palace and admire the intricate teak carvings of the historic Shwenandaw Monastery. We will also have a chance to visit a local handicraft workshop, where you can witness the art of bronze sculpting, gold leaf application, and wood carving. Afterward, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

In the evening, we will visit the Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to the world’s largest book, before concluding our day at Mandalay Hill. Here, we can take in breathtaking views of the city, hoping to witness a stunning sunset.

This morning, we embark on a cruise along the majestic Irrawaddy River, heading towards Mingun. Here, we explore the remnants of what was intended to be the world’s largest pagoda. Originally designed to reach an impressive height of 152 meters, construction ceased following the death of King Bodawpaya in 1819. The pagoda was further damaged by an earthquake in 1838 but still remains a striking sight. We will also visit the impressive Mingun Bell.

Next, we travel to Sagaing Hill, where we can enjoy breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding hills adorned with numerous pagodas and stupas. At the top of the hill, we visit the ancient Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin pagoda, along with the remarkable Thirty Caves Pagoda and the Kaungmhudaw Pagoda.

In the afternoon, we drive to Amarapura, famous for its textile industry. At a local workshop, we will witness the traditional weaving of fabrics before heading to the renowned U Bein Bridge, which spans the beautiful Taungthaman Lake. Here, we have the chance to admire the bridge at sunset, where the silhouettes of monks crossing the longest teak bridge in the world create a truly iconic scene. In the evening, we return to Mandalay.

This morning, we will head to the jetty to board the MGRG express riverboat, which travels the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay to Bagan. The journey lasts approximately nine hours, during which you'll enjoy stunning views, occasionally interrupted by the sight of local life as fishing boats glide by and children wave from the riverbanks. Once we arrive in Bagan, the rest of the evening is yours to relax.

Please be aware that from April 1 to July 31 each year, the river's water level drops significantly, which halts cruise operations. These dates may vary depending on rainfall and the river's water flow. If you are traveling with us during this period, a flight will replace the cruise between Mandalay and Bagan. On Day 5, the itinerary will involve a leisurely morning in Mandalay before transferring to Mandalay Airport for a 30-minute flight to Nyaung Oo Airport. Upon arrival, we will then head to Bagan for an overnight stay. 

This morning, you have the chance to experience the breathtaking views of Bagan from a hot air balloon by opting for our Ballooning Over Bagan Add-on. The stunning panorama of countless stupas spread across the arid plains of Bagan is truly awe-inspiring. With over 2,000 temples and pagodas that date back approximately 800 years, this area showcases one of the most remarkable skylines in the world.

Today, we will delve into the enchanting and serene Buddhist temple town. Our journey begins in the vibrant river town of Nyaung-U, where we’ll witness the lively local market and visit the magnificent Shwezigon Pagoda. We'll also explore the humble Kyansittha Cave Temple and the Manuha Temple, which is home to colossal Buddhas. Nearby, you'll find the Nanpaya Temple, constructed by the captive King Makuta of the Thaton Kingdom, as well as the stunning Ananda Temple, a prime example of Mon architecture featuring four gold-leaf Buddhas.

The towering Thatbyinnyu Temple offers excellent photo opportunities before we proceed to the Dhammayangyi Temple, a massive structure from the 12th century that can be seen from afar. This temple is the best-preserved in Bagan and conceals mysterious inner passageways along with a dramatic history marked by death and intrigue. Our day concludes at the magnificent Mingalazedi Pagoda, a pinnacle of Myanmar’s pagoda architecture with its bell-shaped dome and intricate Jataka tiled terraces, exemplifying Bagan's architectural prowess. On our return to the hotel, we will also stop by a local lacquer workshop to observe how skilled artisans craft Bagan’s most renowned handicrafts.

Spend the morning at your own pace before we head to the airport for our flight to Yangon. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and taken to your hotel, where you can enjoy the rest of the day as you please—whether you choose to relax at the hotel or explore the vibrant city.

Today marks the conclusion of our journey in Myanmar. After checking out of your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure. If you'd like to continue your exploration of this charming city, consider arranging additional accommodations after the tour.