Immersion in Myanmar - 16 days tour
 

Immersion in Myanmar

per person

Here we offer you a splendid 16-day itinerary to deeply explore Myanmar.

You won’t miss anything during this journey: Yangon, the former capital and the most vibrant city in the country; Mandalay, the former royal capital; Bagan, an archaeologically captivating site; the timeless Inle Lake; Loikaw and its incredible Taung-gwe Pagoda.

Along the way, numerous surprises and encounters await you between these destinations.

This is a private tour, including the service of one or more English-speaking tour guides for your visits.

Available from October to March.

16 days
  • Departure
    Yangon / Yangon
  • Dress Code
    Comfortable and rainproof clothing, hiking shoes, first aid kit.
1
Arrival in Yangon - visit of the city
Warm welcome from our representative at Yangon airport. Yangon, the country's first city, served as the capital until 2005. You will begin your visit at the grand reclining Buddha of Chauk Htat Gyi, right next to Shwedagon, which is also a highly important place of worship. You will continue your exploration with a tour of downtown Yangon. You can stroll around Pansodan Street with its splendid colonial-era buildings, discover Sule Pagoda, a daily place of worship at the city center, and finally pass by the Secretariat or former Ministers' Palace. The latter represents a cornerstone of Myanmar's history and was the scene of the assassination of General Aung San. Before sunset, you will visit Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the most exquisite pagoda jewels in Asia and the most revered monument in the country. Meals are at your own expense.
  • Included in the day: Airport welcome and transfer to your hotel, car transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, overnight at the hotel.
2
Yangon - Mandalay (B)
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Yangon Airport to catch a flight to Mandalay. Mandalay was the last capital of the Konbaung Dynasty until 1885 when it fell into the hands of the British. Even today, the city remains the largest religious and cultural center of the country, where you can appreciate the authenticity of an older Asia and the deep religious beliefs of Buddhism. Visits to the main points of interest in Mandalay include the revered Mahamuni Pagoda and its Buddha covered in tons of gold, along with other ancient relics of Theravada Buddhism. Mandalay holds a rich Buddhist heritage, including some extraordinary monasteries that are often hidden or closed (unless our guide arranges for the monks to show you). Also, the famous teak wood monastery, Shwenandaw, where you'll find the remarkable Kuthodaw Pagoda, with its hundreds of stupas containing the world's largest open book, carved on marble. Finish the day with a splendid sunset in Amarapura, enjoying a unique view of the majestic Ayeyarwady River. Take in the local scenes without too many tourists around (they usually visit in the morning after the Mahagandayon visit).
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, overnight at the hotel.
3
Mandalay - Bagan (B)
Today, you will be driven by private car to Bagan (approximately 3 hours of travel). This journey will allow you to observe the agricultural landscape that stretches around the Ayeyarwaddy River. Upon arrival in Bagan, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Asia with over 2,200 pagodas scattered across the plains along the legendary Ayeyarwaddy River, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's charms at your leisure.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, overnight at the hotel.
4
Visit of Bagan (B)
For an initial archaeological encounter, you will explore the oldest and most significant temples of Bagan. For example, the Shwezigon, a prototype of Myanmar's earliest stupas, the Htilo Minlo Temple, and later, you can visit the Shwesandaw Pagoda, an idyllic spot for panoramic views, as well as the Wetkyi-in-Gubyaukgyi Temple, a 13th-century temple adorned with delicate murals. In the afternoon, you can visit the Sulamani Temple, built by King Narapatisithu; then the Dhammayangyi Pahto Temple, a temple from the later period with some of the finest masonry in Bagan, followed by the Shwesandaw Pagoda, an idyllic spot for panoramic views. Finally, you will enjoy the famous Bagan sunset from a hill chosen by our guide or private driver to experience the best views.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, overnight at the hotel.
5
Kyun Thiri island (B)
Early in the morning, you will be transferred to the Ayeyar Jetty for a delightful boat excursion to Kyun Thiri village (approximately 1 hour). In fact, Kyun Thiri is an island where you can walk through rice fields and various plantations to reach the village monastery. The island is submerged in water for nearly 6 months, so the soil is rich and agriculture is abundant. The locals take advantage of this time to cultivate seasonal produce. This is the best time to visit and enjoy this authentic little village near Bagan. The main interest, once again, is to observe and interact with the locals, who are always very friendly and much less accustomed to tourists. It's an intimate and unique experience in an area where Bagan's temples are often the only known attraction. After the visit, return to Bagan, and you can explore the surroundings of Bagan on an E-bike for half a day.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, overnight at the hotel.
6
Bagan – Popa – Lei Thar Gone (B)
Today, you will be driven to Lei Thar Gone. Located two hours from Bagan in the Burmese countryside, Lei Thar Gone represents a magnificent support project and a wonderful human experience. Created from scratch by an ambitious Burmese individual a few years ago, the goal was to combine utility with pleasure by building several recreational bungalows alongside a solidarity school about a hundred meters away. It is a bold project that is now bearing fruit. 200 students from underprivileged families or orphans are educated in this establishment, and the supplies, repairs, teacher salaries, and overall operation depend on the Guest House's activities. There are only 14 available rooms with an "in-house" restaurant open only in the evening (the cuisine is particularly good). The setting of Lei Thar Gone is idyllic. Perched on a hill, this small structure offers a spectacular view of the lush plains intertwined with the Irrawaddy River. All bungalows are surrounded by a garden with lush vegetation, providing a true haven of peace. En route, you will have the opportunity to visit Mount Popa, an extinct volcano known as the abode of the Nats (spirit deities). If you climb the 777 steps to the summit, there is a small temple called Taung Kalat from where you will have a panoramic view of the region.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, transportation, Eglish-speaking guide, entrance fees, overnight at the hotel.
7
Lei Thar Gone – free time (B)
Today, you can explore at your leisure the charms of the surroundings of your accommodation. You can also try your hand at activities offered by the locals, including fishing or a short hike. The proceeds generated will directly benefit them. Overnight at Lei Thar Gone.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, overnight at the hotel.
8
Lei Thar Gone - Heho (B, L, D)
Today, you will be transferred to Nyaung U Airport to catch a flight to Heho. Upon arrival, you will head to Htut Ni village, where you will witness the daily life of the Danu people (one of Myanmar's ethnic minorities) who are primarily engaged in tea cultivation. Next, you will explore another village called See Kya Inn, surrounded by a majestic landscape abundant with rice fields and tea plantations. Here, you will have the pleasure of enjoying a typical and magical meal served in a local house. After lunch, you will continue your exploration to Taung Pawgyi and Htin Sue Kone villages, an ideal place to connect with the local residents and learn about their way of life. Overnight in a monastery or a local house. Approximately 4 hours of walking in total.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, English-speaking guide, transportation, overnight stay with locals / at the monastery.
9
Heho and around (B, L, D)
Early in the morning, after a local breakfast, you will head towards the village of Pin Sein Pin. The journey is breathtaking, and the encounters offer a wonderful immersive experience. After a hearty lunch in a remote village, you will proceed to Kan Hla Kone, where you will encounter mountain tribes that frequently gather in these regions. Upon reaching Kan Hla Kone, you will enjoy a pleasant evening and rest for the night.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, English-speaking guide, transportation, overnight stay with locals / at the monastery.
10
Around Pindaya - Lac Inle (B)
After a hearty local breakfast at the monastery / with the host family, you will continue your exploration towards the village of Shwe Pa Hto. The path to reach there is truly magnificent. At the end of this visit, you will return to Pindaya after approximately 3 hours of walking. Upon your return from the trek and after lunch, you can explore the surroundings of Pindaya. Pindaya is famous for its caves with nearly 8000 Buddha images that have been placed there over the centuries. Elaborated from various materials and of different sizes, the statues fill every corner of the numerous cavities. Moreover, people from the region usually attend to pray, making it an important place of worship for the Burmese. In the late afternoon, you will be transferred to Inle by car. Overnight at the hotel.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, English-speaking guide, transportation, overnight stay at the hotel.
11
Inle Lake – Thaleoo (B)
You will start your day of exploration on Inle Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This very abundant lake is situated 900 meters below sea level, stretching 20 km long and 10 km wide. Traveling on the lake is done by navigating through various villages and floating gardens, allowing you to admire the locals' skills with their traditional methods and gain insight into their way of life. Points of interest include the Phaung Daw O Pagoda, with its highly venerated four Buddha images, as well as the Ngaphe Chaung Monastery (surrounded by floating crops) and the village of Nan Pan, where you will witness the creation of traditionally-styled boats (all crafted by hand!). Along the way, your boat will make several stops, bringing you close to the charming floating gardens of Inle. You'll also pass through welcoming and more remote small villages, with the primary goal of avoiding tourist traps, including the souvenir markets of Inle Lake (such as the "five-day markets") and souvenir shops (unless requested). There are interesting and unique artisans, such as in Inpawkhone, where you'll visit traditional silk weaving workshops and observe the processing of lotus flowers into fabrics. However, many shops in this area are dedicated to souvenir sales. To conclude your day, you will take a stroll to Thaleoo, a small agricultural village on the lakeshore where you can observe genuine scenes of local life. Farmers there cultivate various products depending on the season. It's undoubtedly one of the most charming villages on Inle Lake, and the farmers are particularly friendly and welcoming to visitors. Return to the hotel at the end of the day.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, English-speaking guide, transportation, visitation fees (boat), overnight stay at the hotel.
12
Inle lake – Sagar – Phekon -Loikaw (B)
Today, you will journey by boat to the impressive archaeological site of Sagar and Thakong, with its submerged stupas and sculptures (depending on the season); some of the oldest date back to the 16th century. This day will introduce you to a less-visited part of the lake, where the landscape is authentic and spectacular. This remote part of the lake requires a total of approximately 3.5 hours by boat. If you wish, you will have the opportunity to explore a small pottery industry in the village of Kyauktaung, where some Pa O and Shan people live in a very traditional manner. They also produce rice wine in this location. You will continue south (about 1.5 hours from Sagar) to Phekong, the first significant town in this remote and lesser-known part of Myanmar. Our representative will pick you up for the transfer to Loikaw, the capital of Kayah State, which opened to tourism only in 2011. The landscapes you will experience during this day trip are among the most extraordinary and remote in this beautiful region. Depending on the available time, you will have the opportunity to begin exploring Loikaw. Overnight stay at a hotel in Loikaw.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, English-speaking guide, transportation, entrance fees, overnight stay at the hotel.
13
Visit of Loikaw (B)
You will begin the day with visits to the local market and then the Phoperyone Monastery, which was once the palace of the king of Kayah. This monastery still contains photos and objects that belonged to the governor of this isolated region. Afterward, you can visit the small Kayah Culture Museum to learn about their history and the minorities that inhabit this area before visiting the palace. Loikaw is also famous for its traditional Burmese dress fabrics. There are several workshops you can visit, where you can also purchase the highest quality fabrics in Myanmar. Finally, you will head to the incredible Taung-gwe Pagoda, very different from the rest of the country's pagodas, built on top of two distinct rocks. You will witness a very special sunset, with one of the best views in the country, in a region surrounded by river mountains and generally astonishing agricultural abundance.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, English-speaking guide, transportation, entrance fees, overnight stay at the hotel.
14
Trekking in Loikaw (B, L)
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the village of Pain Chit. Upon arrival, you will head to the villages of I-Sant and Sin Phyu, where you will witness the daily life of the Lisu people. Next, you will continue your trek to the village of Pekon Inn. Finally, you will be transferred by car to Loikaw. Overnight stay at the hotel.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, lunch with locals, English-speaking guide, transportation, entrance fees, overnight stay at the hotel.
15
Loikaw - Yangon (B)
Today, you will be transferred to Loikaw Airport to catch a flight back to Yangon. Upon arrival, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to the train station to board the circular train. During this journey, you will have a unique perspective on the daily life of the city and its surrounding areas. It's a one-of-a-kind and enjoyable experience. You will disembark at Kyee Myin Daing. Feel free to interact with the vendors and the local population, who are always happy to engage with visitors. Next, you will head to the Bogyoke Aung San Market (also known as Scott Market, closed on Mondays and public holidays), a vast complex built in 1926 and famous for its wide variety of crafts and other typical items from all corners of Myanmar. It's an excellent opportunity to indulge in some last-minute shopping. Afterwards, you will have the chance to visit Mahabandula Park. Finally, conclude your exploration with the beautiful Kandawgyi Lake and its flower-filled gardens, where you can spot the iconic Karaweik barge and its majestic birds. It's a lovely setting to unwind and observe the daily life of the Yangon residents.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, English-speaking guide, transportation, entrance fees, overnight stay at the hotel.
16
Yangon - end of the tour (B)
After your breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.
  • Included in the day: Breakfast, transfer to the airport

TOUR LOCATION

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  • Here is the list of hotels we are offering for your 16-day trip in Myanmar. Of course, everything is customizable, and if you have other hotel preferences, we can incorporate them into your itinerary.
City 3 stars hotels 4 stars hotels
Yangon Hotel Shwe Yee Rose Garden Hotel
Mandalay Victoria Palace Hotel Eastern Palace Hotel
Bagan Thazin Garden Hotel Amata Garden Resort Bagan
Yaynangyaung Lei Thar Gone Hotel Lei Thar Gone Hotel
Nyaung Shwe Maine Li Hotel Inle Garden Resort
Loikaw Gold Hotel (Loikaw) Keinnara Loikaw
  • Here are the prices per person in dollars.
  • This is a private tour package including private car transfers and the services of a English-speaking guide for each day of the itinerary.
Catégory 2 3 - 4 5 - 6 Single add
3 stars hotels 2800 2350 1990 410
4 stars hotels 2990 2550 2150 605