Myanmar Tour of Ancient Kingdoms from Yangon to Mandalay, Bagan 6 Days

This morning, you'll transfer to the airport for your flight to Mandalay. Upon arrival, kick off your sightseeing adventure with a visit to Mahamuni Pagoda, which houses one of Myanmar's most esteemed Buddha images. Over time, this statue has been adorned with layers of gold leaf, resulting in a unique 'lumpy' appearance.

Mandalay is renowned for its talented artisans, and during your visit to traditional workshops, you'll gain insight into the city's cottage industries. Witness the craftsmanship involved in wood carvings, kalaga tapestries, and gold leaf production, using techniques that have remained unchanged for centuries, originally intended for the Royal Court.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a stop at Kuthodaw Pagoda, famous for its 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist scriptures, earning it the distinction of the ‘World’s Biggest Book.’

Next, visit Shwenandaw Monastery, the last surviving structure from the 19th-century Royal Palace, celebrated for its stunning woodcarvings. As the sun sets, ascend Mandalay Hill to take in breathtaking views of the city and the Irrawaddy River.

You will spend the night in Mandalay.

Set out for an excursion around Mandalay to discover the former capitals of Amarapura, Ava, and Sagaing. Your journey begins in Amarapura, where you'll witness a special ceremony. Observe the alms collection at Mahagandayon Monastery, where over a thousand monks gather each day to receive their meals from local Buddhists.

After this inspiring sight, continue to U Bein Bridge for a stroll along this historic 200-year-old teak structure. Stretching over 2 kilometers, the bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding farms and waterways. Before departing Amarapura, make a stop at a silk weaving workshop known for its beautiful handmade products.

Next, head to Ava, the capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, and explore the area via horse-drawn carriage. You'll visit the ancient Bagaya Monastery, constructed from wood, as well as the remnants of the Royal Palace and Fort.

In the afternoon, cross a bridge over the Irrawaddy River to Sagaing. Renowned for its 600 white-painted pagodas and monasteries, Sagaing Hill is considered the spiritual center of Myanmar. Home to 3,000 monks and 100 meditation centers, you will visit several pagodas, including Swan Oo Pon Nya Shin, U Min Thone Sae, and Shin Pin Nan Gyaing. After your explorations, return to Mandalay and transfer to the airport for a late afternoon flight to Bagan.

You will spend the night in Bagan.

OPTION: Begin your day with a hot-air balloon ride over the scenic plains of Bagan. Take in the breathtaking views as the sun rises over the stupas and the Irrawaddy River. This experience is truly unique and unforgettable! (Note: available from October to March) USD 315 per person.

After breakfast, explore the vibrant Nyaung Oo Market, where locals gather daily to buy and sell fresh produce and other goods. Next, head to the golden Shwezigon Pagoda for an insight into Bagan’s fascinating history. Continue to Ananda Temple, renowned for its stunning architecture and considered one of the most beautiful temples in Bagan.

Constructed in the early Mon style, Ananda houses two distinctive Buddha images whose expressions appear to change based on the viewer's distance. Following this, enjoy a horse cart tour, passing by Thatbyinnyu, the tallest temple in Bagan, the impressive Dhammayangyi Temple famous for its extraordinary brickwork, and Sulamani Temple. Conclude your day by witnessing a breathtaking sunset over the plains from the upper terrace of one of the temples.

You will spend the night in Bagan.

After breakfast this morning, we set off northward, departing from the main road to follow a vehicle-free trail, cycling through picturesque rural landscapes filled with farmland and charming villages. This initial segment presents a challenge, as it involves most of the day's climbing, but the views are absolutely breathtaking. Once we rejoin the main road, we continue cycling through a gently rolling countryside of rice paddies and vegetable gardens, sharing the path with ox carts laden with cabbages and open-top vehicles transporting goods to market, operated by the Pao and Danu communities.

Following lunch, we face one final ascent as we near Pindaya, a quaint lakeside town nestled beneath limestone hills adorned with cave shrines and stupas. Before settling into our hotel, we aim to explore the renowned Pindaya Caves, a significant pilgrimage site boasting around 8,000 Buddha images. The caves extend into the limestone hills above the town, with their chambers filled with an impressive variety of iconography that dates back to the mid-18th century. Today's total cycling distance is approximately 39 kilometers, with an accumulated ascent of 510 meters and a descent of 550 meters.

Depending on your flight schedule, you might have the opportunity to take a morning ride on Yangon’s Circle Train. Today, we will transfer to Yangon Railway Station for a unique experience on the city’s circular train that travels through the outskirts for about 45 minutes. This leisurely train journey offers a special chance to observe the vibrant and colorful daily lives of the local residents.

You will get off at Insein Market, where you can explore the various stalls and engage with the friendly vendors before heading back to Yangon. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Bogyoke Market, previously known as Scott’s Market, where you can browse a wide array of Myanmar handicrafts and other items. Afterward, we will transfer to Yangon International Airport for your onward flight. (Please note: the market is closed on Mondays and public holidays.)