TASTE OF MYANMAR 8D

Today explore the ancient royal capitals  near Mandalay. Drive 15km to Ava (Inwa), the ancient capital of the Shan and Burmese Kingdoms for over four centuries. We cross over the Myint Nge River by ferry and explore the small roads of Ava by horse cart. We visit the Bagaya Teak Monastery, over three hundred years old yet well preserved and still in use by local monks; the Nanmyin Watch Tower, the last standing structure of the Ava dynasty palace compound also known as the “Leaning Tower of Ava”; and the Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery building with its graceful curves and archways. We continue to the Ancient Kingdom Of Sagaing, located across the mighty Ayeryarwaddy River. From the Sagaing Hills, we enjoy magnificent views overlooking the river and hill side covered with countless pagodas. Sagaing being one of the most important Buddhist centers in Myanmar we take the opportunity to visit a monastery or nunnery and learn about daily life to the devotees.  We continue to another 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.

Continue with drive to Mt. Popa, the Burmese spiritual epicenter for those who worship the pantheon of Nat Spirits and martyrs. After paying respect to Nat Spirit shrine at the foot of Mt. Popa we climb with those are up for the challenge nearly 800 steps to the pagoda perched at the top of the mountain to admire the beautiful views of the surrounding plains and farmlands. Further 1.5hrs drive brings us to ancient Bagan archeological treasure of Myanmar where great kingdoms flourished over 5 centuries and left behind legacy of over 4000 pagodas and temples ruins.
Enjoy a dinner with cultural show at local restaurant.

Over the five centuries of Bagan empire more than 4000 brick temples, pagodas and monasteries were constructed on dry plateau by the Irrawaddy River. Despite wars and earthquakes much of this wonder and world heritage has survived to modern day and is now open for visits. Get ready for an inspiring experience with this Bagan full day tour. Explore the best of Bagan’s history, culture and landscapes with experienced local guide. We start with panoramic view of Bagan’s archaeological wonders from an elevated vantage point and continue with exploring some of the most iconic and amazing temples of Bagan;  Ananda, Swezigon, Thatbinnyu, Dhammayangyi and Shwesandaw to name a few.  You guide will be happy to share his/her favourites and bring you to more off the beaten trails temples with less visitors. Complete the day with a private sunset cruise on the Ayeryarwaddy River where views of the temple silhouettes and bustling shore can be accompanied by cocktails on board.

Enjoy breakfast and then transfer to the airport for the flight to Heho, a quiet transit town with one of the few airport links in the beautiful hills of Shan State. Visit the bustling main Heho market, the meeting point for different ethnic minority groups of the surrounding areas to trade handmade goods and locally grown produce (on market days only). En-route to Inle Lake, we stop at a local family’s hut to see how Shan umbrellas and paper are made by traditional methods using the fibres of the mulberry tree. 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 archaeological 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.

Transfer to Heho airport and flight to Yangon. Formerly known as Rangoon, or the garden city of the east, Yangon is the thriving economic heart of the nation and an epicentre of transformation in Myanmar. Yangon’s city centre is blessed with many fine colonial-era buildings and is an exotic mix of spiritual heritage and colourful street life that makes it one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in Asia.  Starting from Mahabandoola Park and Sule pagoda we explore the quaint old quarter of Yangon and its colonial buildings and heritage. Your guide will share interesting insights into key events and architecture of the city’s landmarks. In the local fashion, we make a tea stop in a popular tearoom to try typical Burmese tea and snacks. We stroll by the iconic Strand Hotel, old time classic and sister property of the Raffles in Singapore, a great spot to try their signature cocktail Strand Sour or one of the more recent creations (drinks at Strand are not included in tour). By the Yangon pier, hop on a trishaw (bicycle taxi) for a short ride along the lively riverfront. Walk through the sprawling Chinatown and Indian quarter to Bogyoke Market main bazaar area and a maze of hundreds of shops selling all kinds of things from longyis to gemstones. We complete the day with a visit to one of the world’s most spectacular monuments, the Shwedagon Pagoda, a gold-covered bell dome structure that dominates the city’s skyline. The Shwedagon is an iconic symbol of the country, a sight not to be missed.

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