Imagine Myanmar

This itinerary takes in some of Myanmar’s most celebrated destinations coupled with some one-of-a-kind activities and excursions, ideally suited for those looking for a more active experience of this enthralling destination. Your days will be filled with cycling past the vibrant markets and leafy alleys of Yangon, exploring Bagan’s iconic temples, witness monks in Mandalay collecting alms then embarking on a two-day trek through Kalaw’s remote villages and rolling hills to finish in Inle Lake.

1. Fly to Yangon

2. Days 1-3: Yangon

   Upon arrival in Yangon, you will be met and driven to your hotel, your first glimpses of the city will be filled with an array of colonial buildings, bustling streets and colourful markets. The following day begins with a cycling tour of Yangon, where you will pedal past humming market streets and the iconic Shwedagon pagoda before arriving at the lush greenery of Kandawgyi Park. In the afternoon, embark on a fascinating walking tour through Yangon’s downtown streets to learn of the diverse religions and cultures within the city, unveiling a side of Yangon rarely seen by tourists.

   Accommodation: The Chatrium Royal Lake Yangon (2 nights)

3. Days 3-5: Bagan

   This morning you will be driven to Yangon’s airport in time to board a one and a half hour flight to Bagan, home to over 2,000 temples that make-up one of Asia’s richest archaeological sites. Explore a selection of these temples that afternoon on mountain bikes before travelling a short distance outside of Bagan the next day to ascend the 777 steps of Mount Popa, home to a sacred monastery that offers breath-taking views over the surrounding plains as the sun descends on this arid landscape. You will be staying at Hotel @ Tharabar Gate which boasts a stunning pool right on the rivers edge, after a long day of exploring relax by the water with a cocktail.

   Accommodation: The Hotel @ Tharabar Gate (2 nights)

4. Days 5-7: Mandalay

   From Bagan, it is a short thirty minute flight to Mandalay, Burma’s cultural and religious heart. Arise early the following morning and journey to the Mahamuni Pagoda to witness the monks conducting morning rituals and collecting offerings from the locals before enjoying breakfast at a local tea shop. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided cycle tour around the outskirts of the city, taking in rural Mandalay, gilded pagodas, ancient monasteries and quaint villages.

   Accommodation: Rupar Mandalar (2 nights)

5. Days 7-8: Kalaw

   This morning you will be driven to Mandalay’s airport in time to board a thirty minute flight to Heho, followed by a two hour drive to Kalaw. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore this former British hill station and soak up the picturesque scenery.

   Accommodation: Dream Mountain Resort (1 night)

6. Days 8-9: Kalaw

   Arise early the next day to begin your two day trek to Inle Lake. After visiting Kalaw’s local morning market, you will be driven approximately an hour to begin the walk. Trek through a number of small remote communities, passing farms and fields with famers tending to crops until you reach the village of Htee Thein. After arriving in the village, enjoy a freshly prepared local dinner before retreating to your local accommodation for the night. One of Myanmar’s greatest treasures is its charming people and throughout your trip you will meet countless locals with fascinating stories and warm smiles.

   Accommodation: Kalaw to Inle Lake Trekking Accommodation (1 night)

7. Days 9-11: Inle Lake

   On day nine, you will continue the walk to Inle Lake, with the first glimpse of its calm blue waters visible around midday. After arriving at the lake, a boat will be waiting to take you to your hotel, where your bags will be waiting for you. Head out onto the lake the following day for a morning of kayaking and exploring the shoreline treasures in the afternoon, including the gold Buddha images at Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the Pa-oh village of Indein and the small weaving village of Inpawkhone. The locals have adapted to the rising water levels by creating vast areas of floating farmland, you will weave through the rows of vegetables while learning about their innovative way of farming.

   Accommodation: Sanctum Inle Resort (2 nights)

8. Days 11-12: Yangon

   Your Myanmar adventure draws to a close on day 11 as you are driven to Heho Airport in time to catch a one hour flight back to Yangon. Take a ride on the Yangon Circle Train that afternoon, a local train that travels in a ring around the city, offering both a one-of-a-kind insight into local life and a great way to spend your last full day. Enjoy one final night in this magical country before you are transferred back to Yangon Airport the following day for your flight home.

   Accommodation: The Chatrium Royal Lake Yangon (1 night)

9. Fly home from Yangon

• Mandalay Hill and Environs

  The last royal capital of Myanmar comes to life with this half-day guided tour of the main heritage sites of Mandalay. Visit the Golden Palace Monastery, Kuthodaw Pagoda and Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda and climb Mandalay Hill for views over the countryside.

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• Mandalay's Royal Capitals

  This is a full-day tour exploring Burma’s iconic and glorious royal capitals, including Sagaing, a spiritual centre, explore the former capital of Ava by horse cart and stop in Amarapura for a walk along the iconic U Bein Bridge.

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• Sunken Stupas of Sagar and More

  A full-day tour taking in the incredible ‘sunken’ stupas of Sagar, a journey to Inle Lake’s remote southern waters and witnessing villages untouched by the modern world.

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• Yangon Cooking Class

  Enjoy a unique cultural experience with the chance to learn to cook a selection of traditional and delicious Myanmar dishes under the guidance of Ms Nyo Nyo San, head chef at the award-winning Monsoon Restaurant in Yangon.

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Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay, Kalaw, Inle Lake