CLASSIC MYANMAR & MEET THE TRIBES

On arrival to Yangon airport, you will be welcomed by Discovery DMC 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 including one of the world’s most spectacular monuments, the Shwedagon Pagoda, a gold covered bell dome structure that dominates the city’s skyline.

After breakfast at hotel we embark on a walking tour to explore the highlights of downtown Yangon. Our tour will take in sights such as the iconic Sule Pagoda and Bogoyke Market.

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.

After breakfast at hotel we begin our journey into the Ancient Kingdoms of Bagan. Todays tour will take in all of major temples and monuments of the city, including the Dhamayazeka Zedi and the Ananda Temple. 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).

After breakfast, we set off for a 1,5hrs drive to Mount Popa, the Burmese spiritual epicenter for those who worship the pantheon of nat spirits and martyrs. In the late afternoon, we return to Bagan and 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.

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. Next, we proceed to the highlights of Mandalay including 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. We end our day with sunset panoramic views over city skyline on Mandalay Hill, the highest point of the city.

After breakfast at the hotel, we discover the ancient kingdoms of Myanmar near Mandalay. First we drive 15km to Ava (Inwa), the ancient capital of the Shan and Burmese Kingdoms for over four centuries. We continue to the Ancient Kingdom Of Sagaing, located across the mighty Ayeyarwaddy River. From the Sagaing Hills, we enjoy magnificent views overlooking the river and hill side covered with countless pagodas. We end the day at the 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.

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. 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.

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.

Rest of the day is for lake explorations, learn how the floating islands and cultivation are shaped and tended, marvel at lotus thread and garments making in Inn Phaw Khone village, visit the Ywama village known for its silver smith traditions. We end the day with scenic canoe ride propelled by leg rowers.

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. After visiting Sagar, we continue to the southern end of the lake from where we take 45 minutes car transfer to Loikaw, the sleepy capital of Kayah State. The town has only recently opened for the foreign visitors, and is the base of our explorations for the next two days.

You will be picked up by your guide shortly after breakfast and set off on a 1 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. The day will include a moderate hike through the tribal hillside.

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 vendors are from the surrounding area, allowing you to taste a large variety of local dishes.

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.

Breakfast at your hotel and free time until transfer to Yangon airport for your onward flight.