Burma (Myanmar)
Beyond the Tourist Trail
Probably the best kept secret in South East Asia, Burma is a striking country with a huge amount to offer. The stunning temples at Bagan, spread out over an enormous dusty plain, are one of Asia’s premier historical sites, with superb opportunities to explore remote stupas and watch a glorious sunset over the temple roofs. Yangon's colonial architecture takes you back to the days of British rule, sitting alongside ancient Buddhist monuments that continue to be used today. Explore old monasteries and visit local villages on Inle Lake, and delve into the country’s past at the royal city of Mandalay. We also get away from the now well- trodden tourist path visiting areas that have rarely come across western tourists. Burma offers an adventure that is very difficult to find in other South East Asian countries.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Yangon Arrive in Yangon and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore.
Day 2 - Yangon This morning we visit the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda. You will learn about the history of the pagoda, the daily life of the people living in the immediate surroundings of the pagoda and gain a deeper insight into the Buddhist religion.
Day 3 - Yangon to Lashio and Hsipaw Transfer to Yangon airport for a flight to Lashio and travel by road to Hsipaw. Set off on a guided walk through panoramic scenery of paddy fields and seasonal crops, small creeks, Shan villages, local schools ,the grave of the first prince of Hsipaw, a local nunnery, and a wooden monastery. Learn about Shan life and witness firsthand the traditional industries.
Day 4 - Dokthawaddy River trip Travel by boat along the Dokthawaddy River through beautiful mountain scenery. Witness traditional village life from the water in this fascinating part of Myanmar. After the boat ride we take a short walk to visit a 150 year old Shan monastery in the forest.
Day 5 - Kyaukme and Trekking Catch the early morning bus. Stopping at local villages the bus journey is a great opportunity to interact with the locals. After a couple of hours we arrive in Kyaukme and start the day’s walk (approximately 4 -5 hours) in the mountains surrounding Kyaukme. During the trek , you will get a good insight into the life of the Palaung people living in the area.
Day 6 - Kyaukme trekking We spend the day walking amongst the hill tribe villages around Kyaukme. A simple lunch will be served at a local house in the village. Late afternoon we will head back to the hotel in Kyaukme.
Day 7 - Kyaukme to Pyin Oo Lwin and Mandalay This morning you have some free time to explore the town with its colonial buildings and the busy and colourful market. Later we take a spectacular train journey crossing the mighty Gokteik Viaduct, once the second highest railway bridge in the world. We should arrive in Pyin Oo Lwin (Maymyo) – the former summer capital for the British colonial administration- around 4pm and continue by private car to Mandalay.
Day 8 – Mandalay explored on bike This morning we explore Mandalay by bike. The ride starts in the back lanes of town, passing markets and lively neighbourhoods, heading for the north east of the city. After a short ride we find ourselves in the true countryside where farmers tend to their fields and villagers go about the daily rituals often stopping to wave as we pass by.
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