Myanmar Highlights Tours - 8 Days / 7 Nights

Welcome to Yangon! Upon arrival, your local tour guide will be there to greet you and assist with transferring your luggage to the hotel. If you arrived by mid-day flight, we can kick off with a delicious lunch.

After satisfying our taste buds, we'll take a leisurely stroll through "downtown" Yangon, where you'll be captivated by the delightful blend of faded colonial architecture the British era and modern high-rises. Don't miss the iconic Sule Pagoda, a magnificent structure dating back to the early 3rd century, located in the heart of the city.

As the day progresses, prepare to be awestruck by the renowned Shwedagon Pagoda, known for its grandeur and sacredness. This massive bell-shaped stupa, adorned in gold and decorated with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and topaz, becomes a sight to behold as the sun gently sets—a truly mesmerizing start to our journey in this "Golden Land."

Rest easy and unwind at the hotel, ensuring a comfortable night's stay.

Meals: N/A.
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon.

This morning, we'll head to the airport for an early morning flight to Bagan, where an exciting day of exploration awaits us in the Bagan Archaeological Zone World Heritage Area.

Our comprehensive tour will take us to Nyaung Oo market, where we can immerse ourselves in the local culture. We'll then visit the magnificent Shwezigon Pagoda, which serves as the prototype for later stupas in Myanmar. Next, we'll marvel at the Kyansittha Umin and the exquisite mural paintings of the 13th century in the Wet-kyi-inn Gubyaukgyi Temple. Our journey continues to the Htilominlo Temple.

In the afternoon, we'll have the opportunity to visit lacquer ware workshops and explore the fascinating craftsmanship behind this traditional art form. We'll then continue to the Manuha Temple, constructed by the exile King Manuha, and the Nanphaya, which is believed to have been the residence of King Manuha. The highlight of the day is a visit to the architectural masterpiece, the Ananda Temple, and the vibrant Oak-Kyaung monastery adorned with captivating multi-color mural paintings.

To end the day on a magical note, we'll witness the breathtaking sunset one of the temples in Bagan. Overnight, we'll be staying at the hotel in Bagan, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan.

In the morning, we'll start our day with an optional activity of watching the sunrise over Bagan. Afterward, we'll head back to the hotel to enjoy a delicious breakfast. Our next destination is Mt. Popa, located about 48 km southeast of Bagan. Known as the abode of Nats (spirits), Mt. Popa is a fascinating place steeped in mystical legends. At the nat museum, which houses incredible life-size nat statues crafted teak wood, we'll learn more about these 37 magical spirits that are both feared and honored by some Myanmar people.

Next, get ready to climb 777 steps to reach the summit of Mt. Popa, where breathtaking views await us. Afterwards, we'll drive for about an hour to reach Popa Mountain Resort for a delightful lunch. This resort offers a stunning view of the Popa summit, which stands majestically above the central plain.

After our meal, we'll make our way back to Bagan, but not without making a stop at a village cottage industry along the way. Here, we'll have the opportunity to learn about the regional products and witness the collection of palm tree juice and its transformation brown sugar.

Once we arrive back in Bagan, we'll conclude our day and settle our hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will transfer you to Nyaun U airport for your flight to the beautiful city of Mandalay. Upon arrival, our first stop will be the ancient capital of Amarapura, also known as the city of Immortality.

In Amarapura, we will visit the famous Bagaya Monastery, which houses a remarkable collection of Buddha images. We will also explore the weaving industries and marvel at the breathtaking two-century-old U-Bein teak bridge, gracefully stretching over the tranquil Taungtaman Lake. Keep an eye out for the fascinating lunchtime procession of thousands of silent monks, as they enjoy their last meal of the day at 10:00 am.

Next, we will head to Mandalay and check in at our hotel. Take some time to refresh yourself before we embark on an exciting sightseeing tour of this enchanting city. Our first stop will be the remarkable Mahanumi, a lifelike Buddha image that is sure to leave you in awe.

Mandalay, being the last capital of Myanmar, is renowned for its rich heritage and traditional arts and crafts. We will have the opportunity to witness the intricate process of gold leaf making, as it is done by hand in a traditional manner. Afterward, we will explore the Old Palace grounds, visit the remarkable Kuthodaw Pagoda known as the world's largest book, and admire the exquisite wood carvings at the Golden Palace Monastery. We will conclude our tour by enjoying the panoramic view of Mandalay city atop Mandalay Hill.

After an eventful day, we will return to our hotel to relax and unwind.

Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on an adventure across the Ayeywarwaddy River to visit Mingun. Discover the remarkable dedications of King Bodawpaya, including the awe-inspiring Pathodawgyi Pagoda – a brick counterpart of the Egyptian pyramids – and the renowned Mingun Bell, the second largest bell in the world. Be captivated by the Myatheintan Pagoda, an exquisite representation of the Universe that will rejuvenate your senses.

After a satisfying lunch, venture south of Mandalay to Ava, once referred to as the Kingdom of Ava. Hop on a ferry and cross a tributary before exploring Ava on a charming pony-cart. Witness the magnificent Nanmyint leaning tower, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Ayeyarwaddy River. Visit the historic Bagaya wooden monastery and the enchanting Aungmyaybonza Monastery, constructed with brick and stucco. Although the Royal Palace has vanished, the pagodas, temples, and monasteries endure as reminders of the past.

As you return to Mandalay, make a stop at a silversmith workshop, where skilled artisans showcase their craft. Finally, retire for the night at your hotel in Mandalay, filled with cherished memories of the day.

Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay.

After having a delicious breakfast, we'll leave the hotel and catch a flight to Heho, located on the charming Shan plateau. there, we'll be transferred by road to the magnificent Inle Lake. Get ready for a unique experience as we reach our hotel by gliding across the lake on a traditional long-tail boat.

Once we arrive, we'll eagerly check-in at our hotel and prepare for an exciting afternoon. Our plan is to immerse ourselves in the vibrant local culture by visiting captivating villages and exploring a fascinating variety of traditional handicrafts. You'll witness the mesmerizing rowing technique of the locals, encounter skillful fishermen with their unique fishing style, and marvel at the ingenious floating farms and gardens.

We'll also have the chance to visit a remarkable handloom weaving cottage, where you'll not only witness the intricate process of creating beautiful textiles but also have the opportunity to admire and purchase their exquisite creations.

During our exploration, we'll make a stop at the renowned Phaungdawoo Pagoda, home to the five most revered Buddha Images in the southern Shan State. It's a sight that you won't want to miss!

After an unforgettable day, we'll retreat to our hotel on Inle Lake for a well-deserved overnight stay. Get ready for an incredible adventure surrounded by nature's beauty and cultural treasures.

Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake.

Today, we embark on our journey back to the airport at Heho in the countryside. Our return route will take us through the enchanting escarpment, leading us to the vibrant local market of Nyaung-Shwe. After checking in at the airport, we'll board a flight to Yangon, where we'll settle in at our hotel. In the afternoon, an exciting car ride awaits as we make our way to Karaweik, a magnificent royal barge. Here, we'll capture breathtaking photos along the "pilgrims" causeway, with the awe-inspiring Schwedagon Pagoda as our backdrop. We'll also make a stop at the renowned Bogyoke Aung San Market (Scott Market) for some delightful souvenir shopping.

Get a good night's rest as we will be staying at a comfortable hotel in Yangon.

Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, we'll arrange for your smooth transfer to Yangon International Airport, ensuring a hassle-free journey for your return international departure flight. This marks the end of your incredible 8-day Myanmar Highlights Tour.

Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: N/A.