Burma
Burma has long been off-limits to visitors but now the country’s golden pagodas, exotic temples, picturesque lakes and rivers are open to guests. Burma is wonderfully diverse and rich in history and tradition. Uncover a fascinating culture and welcoming, friendly people in a country that has been shrouded in mystery for decades.
Rangoon
Rangoon (Yangon) is Burma’s principal city. Colonial buildings are evidence of former British rule and sit alongside colourful local markets. The city is dominated by the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda, the most revered Buddhist temple in Burma and an interesting place to observe locals in prayer. Exploring the waterfront, Chinatown and lively Indian district will also provide an insight into the modern Burmese way of life.
HIGHLIGHTS: City tours, waterfront walks.
Bagan
Bagan is one of the world’s archaeological wonders and the old capital of the Burmese empire. The vast plain is studded with thousands of ancient temples and stupas built between the 11th and 13th centuries; from cave-style shrines to the Ananda Pagoda, one of the finest, largest and best preserved in Old Bagan.
HIGHLIGHTS: Temples, cycling, boat cruises.
Inle Lake
Inle Lake enjoys an elevated and picturesque setting on the Shan Plateau. Dotted with floating villages and gardens, it’s scenically and culturally fascinating. The typical image is of local fishermen, who practise a distinctive rowing style which involves standing on one leg and wrapping the other leg around the oar. Enjoy a boat trip on the lake, watching this unique activity; it’s also a great opportunity to take interesting photographs.
HIGHLIGHTS: Villages, floating markets, boat trip.
Ngapali Beach
Ngapali is three km of pristine, palm- studded beach, overlooking the Bay of Bengal. The area’s white sands and turquoise waters are complemented by Buddhist pagodas and markets; retaining a local way-of-life. This mix of tradition and paradise, as well as excellent cuisine, makes it a great place to unwind.
HIGHLIGHTS: Swimming, snorkelling.
Ancient and Royal Capitals
Burma has a diverse history and rich culture, which is reflected in the former ancient cities and royal capitals. Amarapura was the penultimate royal capital between 1783 and 1863 and Inwa served the country for some 400 years between the 15th and 19th centuries. Explore the towns’ monasteries and visit cotton and silk weaving industries. You can also take excursions across the U Bein Bridge, made of 1000 teak wood posts, and to the Leaning Tower of Inwa.
HIGHLIGHTS: Local craft and cottage industry visits, city sightseeing.
Mandalay
Mandalay is Burma’s cultural capital. Made famous by Rudyard Kipling’s poem of the same name, it is now Burma’s second largest city but still retains a historic charm. The main sight is the amazing Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to the world’s largest book, which contains the entire Buddhist scripture on 729 marble slabs. There are many markets, temples and streets to explore in Mandalay.
HIGHLIGHTS: Shopping, riverside walks, temples.
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