Sacred Sites & Local Insights: A 14-Day Cultural Journey of Myanmar

Highlights of the Trip

Experience the heart and soul of Myanmar on our captivating 14-day cultural tour, tailored for those eager to immerse themselves in local life and witness the country’s iconic landmarks and Buddhist sites. Commencing in Yangon, you will embark on a journey that traverses the rich mosaic of Myanmar’s culture and heritage.

Your exploration begins in Yangon, where you will gasp at the Chauk Htat Gyi Reclining Buddha and bask in the golden aura of the Grand Shwedagon Pagoda, a testament to the nation’s devout Buddhist tradition. You will also venture to Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, the famous Golden Rock. Discover Shwemawdaw Pagoda, Kanbawzathadi Palace, Shwetharlyaung, and the four-facing Buddha images, enriching our understanding of Myanmar’s history. In Mandalay, embrace an enchanting tour of Innwa, witness the mesmerising sunset at U Bein Bridge, and explore Mingun by boat. During this tour, you will also explore Bagan, a treasure trove of ancient temples. Delve into local life at markets and explore landmarks like Shwezigon Pagoda and Htilominlo Temple. Discover charming rural villages to admire local life and traditional customs.

During your adventure, you will also explore an elephant sanctuary near Inle Lake, followed by a forest exploration and a visit to the Sprouting Seed Café and Bakery. Witness the beauty of the country by exploring Nyaung Shweon bike, where you will visit the bustling Nyaung Shwe Market and meditate at the serene Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery. You will also discover Yangon via an engaging city tour on foot, delving into the heart of downtown Yangon and experiencing the vibrant cultures of Little China and Little India Town.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit 

Yangon

• Chauk Htat Gyi Reclining Buddha: Famous for its large reclining Buddha image. The statue measures approximately 65 meters (213 feet) in length, making it one of the largest reclining Buddha images in Myanmar.
• Grand Shwedagon Pagoda: One of the most iconic and revered religious sites in Myanmar.
• Kyaiktiyo Pagoda: The principal attraction of Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is the massive granite boulder covered in gold leaf, which appears to balance precariously on the edge of a cliff.
• Shwemawdaw Pagoda: Famous for being the tallest pagoda in Myanmar. Its main stupa stands at a height of about 114 meters (374 feet).
• Kanbawzathadi Palace: The palace of King Bayinnaung, who ruled the Taungoo Dynasty in the 16th century.
• Shwetharlyaung and the Four Facing Buddha Images: The statue is an important cultural and historical symbol, reflecting Myanmar’s rich Buddhist heritage and artistic traditions.
• Yangon City Hall: This building is an excellent example of colonial architecture. It was designed by Burmese architect U Tin in the traditional Burmese architectural style but with significant colonial influences.

Mandalay

• Ava (Innwa): Over the centuries, Ava was the capital of various Burmese dynasties, including the Ava Kingdom, the Toungoo Dynasty, and the Konbaung Dynasty.
• Mae Nu Stucco Monastery: Renowned for its intricate stucco art and historical and spiritual significance.
• Bagaya Monastery: A hidden gem that holds a rich history and striking architecture. This is one of the most well-preserved wooden monasteries in the country.
• Pon Daw Phaya: A five-metre-high miniature stupa thought to represent the intended design of the Mingun Pahtodawgyi.
• Set Taw Ya Phaya: The vaulted shrine with a footprint of Buddha.
• Mingun Bell: One of the most iconic objects in Myanmar, this bronze bell stands 12 feet and weighs 90,718 pounds!
• Ku Tho Daw Pagoda: An exquisite and impressive pagoda sitting atop a hill, offering striking panoramic views over Myanmar. Here, you will also see the ‘world’s biggest book’!

Bagan

• Shwezigon Pagoda: This pagoda was built during the reign of King Anawrahta in the 11th century. It was completed by King Kyansittha, Anawrahta’s successor, in 1102 AD.
• Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi Temple: This temple exemplifies the traditional Burmese architectural style of the Bagan period.
• Lay Myat Hnar Monastery: A testament to the rich cultural and historical heritage and spiritual significance of Myanmar.
• Mt. Popa: A prominent volcano and pilgrimage site. Mount Popa is associated with nats, which are believed to be powerful spirits or deities in Burmese folk religion.

Kalaw

• Kalaw’s Hnee Pagoda: Dating back to the 19th century, this pagoda was built by the Shan Prince, Sao Maung Maung, as a tribute to Budda.
• Christ the King Church: A beautiful and historic church built in the early 1930’s.

Inle Lake

• Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda: Highly revered by locals and is a major religious site in the region. It is considered one of the holiest sites in Myanmar.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Sunset Views at U Bein Bridge: This bridge provides a picturesque setting, especially during sunset, as the sun casts a warm glow on the teakwood structure and reflects off the waters of the lake. Many visitors walk along the bridge to enjoy the panoramic views. The western side of the bridge is particularly popular for sunset watching. Experiencing the sunset at U Bein Bridge is not only about the visual spectacle but also about appreciating the cultural and historical significance of this iconic structure. It’s a tranquil and mesmerizing moment that captures the essence of Myanmar’s beauty.

Local Markets: Myanmar is known for its vibrant and diverse markets, where you can experience the local culture, sample traditional foods, and shop for unique products. When visiting these markets, it’s essential to be respectful of local customs, bargain politely, and explore the unique products and flavours each market has to offer.

Black Bean Curd Workshop: This unique experience allows visitors to not only indulge in the local cuisine but also learn about the traditional process of making black bean curd, a staple food in Myanmar. The workshop takes place in a small village near Bagan, where a group of local women have been making black bean curd for generations. As soon as you enter the workshop, you are greeted by the earthy aroma of the beans, immediately putting your taste buds on high alert. The women, with their graceful movements and expert hands, take you through the process of making this traditional food.

Minnanthu: This village is known for its peaceful and less crowded atmosphere compared to some other areas in Bagan. The landscape is dotted with temples and offers scenic views, making it a popular area for exploration by both tourists and archaeology enthusiasts. Minnanthu allows visitors to experience a more intimate and authentic interaction with the local community. Some temples may have caretakers or local villagers who can share stories about the temples and their history.

Myinkabar Village: A small, picturesque village located in the heart of Myanmar. Surrounded by lush green paddy fields and rolling hills, this village is known for its serene atmosphere and traditional way of life. The villagers here are mostly farmers and live a simple yet content life, far away from the hustle and bustle of city living. The village is named after the ancient ruins of an old palace, which can be found on the outskirts of the village. It is believed that this palace once belonged to a powerful king who ruled the land hundreds of years ago.

Toddy Field: Toddy palm jaggery, commonly known as “htan ye” in Myanmar, is a traditional sweetener made from the sap of toddy palms. The toddy palm (Borassus flabellifer) is a type of palm tree found in various parts of Southeast Asia, including Myanmar. The sap extracted from the inflorescence of toddy palms is used to make toddy palm jaggery, a sweet and natural product. Toddy palm jaggery holds cultural significance in Myanmar, where it has been used for generations as a natural sweetener.

Elephant Camp (Elephant Sanctuary): At Elephant Camp, visitors have the opportunity to observe the daily activities of the elephants and their mahouts (traditional elephant trainers), from bathing and feeding to training and trekking through the stunning landscapes of Inle Lake. The camp is home to over 30 elephants, all of whom have either been rescued from logging or domestic work or born at the camp. This creates a safe and natural environment for the elephants to live in and helps to prevent them from being taken out of the wild for tourism purposes.

Bike around Nyaung Shwe: Enjoying Nyaung Shwe by bike offers unique cultural insights. Ride through local neighbourhoods, greet friendly residents, visit bustling markets and sample street food. Discover traditional workshops like silversmiths and blacksmiths and witness the town’s daily life, all while enjoying the scenic landscapes and cultural interactions.

Little China and Little India: Both Little China and Little India are located relatively close to each other, and you can easily explore them on foot. Taking a stroll through these neighbourhoods allows you to experience the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Yangon over the years. It’s a journey into the city’s multicultural past and present. Whether you’re interested in trying diverse cuisines, shopping for unique items, or exploring religious and cultural landmarks, Little China and Little India in Yangon offer immersive experiences for visitors seeking cultural diversity within the city.

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including ‘mohinga,‘ a popular breakfast noodle soup. This dish consists of rice noodles in a fish-based broth, usually made with catfish, flavoured with lemongrass, ginger, and other spices. It is then topped with crunchy fried fritters, boiled eggs, and coriander. Another dish that is a staple in Myanmar cuisine is ‘lahpet thoke’ or tea leaf salad. This dish is made with fermented tea leaves, mixed together with fried garlic, peanuts, sesame seeds, and crispy fried beans.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Sightseeing Trip to Mingun by Boat.

Slow Boat Cruise down the Irrawaddy River to watch the Sunset.

Inle Lake Boat Tour: Visit typical floating gardens and enjoy local methods of fishing.

Accommodation of this Tour

Yangon: Park Royal Hotel(Superior) 4*.

Mandalay: Eastern Palace Hotel (Deluxe) 4*.

Bagan: Amata Garden Resort (Amata Deluxe) 4*.

Kalaw: Pine Hill Hotel (Deluxe) 4*.

Inle Lake: Novotel Inle Lake (Junior Suite) 4*.

Itinerary

Day 1: Yangon Arrival & City Tour

Arrive at the airport in Yangon. Your guide and driver will greet you at the airport. Transfer to hotel in Yangon for check in. En route to hotel visit Chauk Htat Gyi Reclining Buddha. Evening visit to Grand Shwedagon Pagoda. Transfer back to hotel for an overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast

Day 2: Kyaiktiyo Pagoda & Golden Rock Tours

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Drive to Golden Rock. On the way stop for lunch. Continue to Kinpun base camp. Take an open truck to the mountain top pagoda. on to Kyaiktiyo Pagoda. On arrival at the top, visit the Golden Rock and (optional) stay overnight to watch the sunset and sunrise.

Visiting Kyaiktiyo Pagoda and the Golden Rock is a cultural experience because it allows you to immerse yourself in Myanmar’s rich Buddhist heritage. You witness local rituals, interact with devotees, and appreciate the spiritual significance of this unique site.

✓ Breakfast

Day 3: Bago Tour

Take the truck down to the base camp and drive back to Yangon. On the way visit the Shwemawdaw pagoda (the soul of Bago) and Kanbawzathadi Palace. Visit to Shwetharlyaung and the Four Facing Buddha Images. Drive back to Yangon for overnight stay.

At Shwemawdaw Pagoda, witness daily rituals, interact with local pilgrims, and absorb the panoramic views. At Kanbawzathadi Palace, delve into Burmese history through guided tours and appreciate the intricacies of architecture. Shwetharlyaung offers insight into Buddhism, with opportunities for meditation and temple visits and a visit to the four facing Buddha images is great opportunity for spiritual contemplation.

✓ Breakfast

Day 4: Mandalay Flight, Tour of Innwa & U Bien Bridge

Fly to Mandalay. On arrival, your driver will greet you and drive you to Ava (Innwa). Today you can enjoy a tour of Innwa and visit  the 27-metre-high Masonry Watchtower, Nan Myint (The “Leaning Tower of Innwa”), and Bagaya Monastery which is built with 276 teak pillars. You will also visit the Mae Nu stucco monastery, built in 1822AD. Round off your day with sunset views at U Bein Bridge in Amarapura. The bridge is made of teak logs and plants over 200 years old.

Observe monks’ daily lives, participate in Buddhist rituals, explore local markets for traditional crafts and marvel at intricate stucco work. Join guided tours, partake in meditation, and learn about Buddhism. Interact with locals when opportunities arise.

✓ Breakfast

Day 5: Mingun Sightseeing & Ku Tho Daw Pagoda

Kick off today with a sightseeing trip to Mingun by boat! Highlights include a visit to the Pon Daw Phaya, a five-metre-high miniature stupa thought to represent the intended design of the Mingun Pahtodawgyi, a visit to Set Taw Ya Phaya, the vaulted shrine with a footprint of Buddha, and Mingun Pa Hto Taw Phaya, one of the world’s largest chides built by Bodaw Phaya. You’ll also see the Mingun Bell, weighing 90 tons and the world’s second-largest ringing bell and the Hsin Byu Me Phaya, a representation of the Sula Mani Phaya. Back in Mandalay see Ku Tho Daw Pagoda and the world’s biggest book and culminate your day with a panoramic sunset view from Mandalay Hill.

Learn about the history and significance of many of the buildings you visit today, discover the Mingun Bell’s role in local traditions, engage with friendly locals and even participate in traditional activities or purchase handmade crafts.

✓ Breakfast

Day 6: Began Flight & Temples Tour

Be greeted by your driver. Transfer to the airport to fly to Bagan. On arrival, visit an exciting local market. Visit the golden stupa of Shwezigon Pagoda, Wetkyi-In Gubyaukgyi Temple, and Htilominlo Temple. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant. Transfer to hotel to check in and refresh. Visit to a black bean curd workshop. Visit to Ananda Temple. Watch the sunset over the Nyaung La Phet Hill. Return to hotel in Bagan for overnight stay. Chat to locals at a vibrant local market today and learn about the process of making black bean curd during your visit to a local workshop.

✓ Breakfast

Day 7: Bagan Temple Day & Rural Villages

Visit the rural village of Minnanthu. Here you can observe the magnificent cotton weaving. Explore famous Bagan temples, including Lay Myat Hnar Monastery Complex, Phaya Thon Su, and Nanda Man Nya. Have lunch at a local restaurant. Return to hotel for a few hours of leisure. Later in the afternoon visit Myinkabar Village. Here you can see more of local life and interact with friendly locals to learn more about their culture and traditions. Then visit Mahua Temple. In the evening, take a slow boat cruise down the Irrawaddy River to watch the sunset.

✓ Breakfast

Day 8: Mount Popa Tour & Trekking

Drive to Mt. Popa. Visit the Mahagiri Shrine. This shrine is dedicated to the “Nats” (spirits). Dress respectfully, in clothes covering your shoulders and knees, and climb the 777 steps barefoot to the top to enjoy the panoramic views. Return to Bagan, en route visit Toddy Field to observe how to make Jaggery. Enjoy lunch and dinner at a local restaurant. Return to your hotel for overnight stay.

Chat to the local guides to learn more about the history, rituals, and cultural importance of the Mahagiri Shrine and Mount Popa. Respectfully observe any ongoing rituals, ceremonies or prayers taking place at the shrine. Later, learn about the process and traditions of making jaggery.

✓ Breakfast

Day 9: Kalaw Transfer & Tour

Drive to Kalaw. En route explore small local villages, mountains, and hills. Check into hotel in Kalaw and take time for refreshments. Evening visit to Kalaw’s Hnee Pagoda and Christ the King Church. Visit to Thein Taung Pagoda little monastery. Watch sunset over Thein Taung.

On the drive to Kalaw today, enjoy scenic landscapes and encounters with local villagers, offering insight into rural life. In Kalaw, explore vibrant markets, visit monasteries, and engage with the diverse hill-tribe cultures through treks and even homestays (arranged separately).

✓ Breakfast

Day 10: Elephant Camp Day & Inle Transfer

Your driver and guide will pick you up from your hotel. Drive to Elephant Camp. Here they look after disabled and elderly elephants, often recused from the logging industry. Witness the daily care programs of these gentle, majestic creatures. Lunch served at the man camp. Free time to explore the forest area. In the afternoon visit the Sprouting Seed Café and Bakery. The café has delicious healthy food with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, a nice lazy hangout area and yoga shala. Drive to the hotel in Inle for overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast

Day 11: Inle lake Tour

Explore Inle Lake by boat and visit small nearby villages. Visit typical floating gardens and enjoy local methods of fishing. See Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda. Proceed to weaving village of Inpaw Khon and to a local market in the Inle Lake region. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Explore the southern part of the lake by boat to reach Indein village and see the stupas. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

Engage with the Intha people, observe their traditional fishing methods, and see the unique leg-rowers. Witness daily life in the local villages and experience local cottage industries such as silk weaving and cheroot rolling.

✓ Breakfast

Day 12: Cycling Tour of Monasteries & Local Life

Get ready for a day of exploring by bike! Venture to Nyaung Shwe and bike around the villages, visiting the Nyaung Shwe Market and Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery. Later, explore more villages and enjoy wine at a local winery.

Enjoying Nyaung Shwe by bike offers unique cultural insights. Ride through local neighbourhoods, greet friendly residents, visit bustling markets, and sample street food. Discover traditional workshops like silversmiths and blacksmiths and witness the town’s daily life, all while enjoying the scenic landscapes and cultural interactions.

✓ Breakfast

Day 13: Yangon Transfer & City Tour

Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Yangon. On arrival, check in to your hotel in Yangon. Sightseeing (on foot) in downtown Yangon to see colonial buildings. Visit Yangon City Hall and other landmarks such as MahaBandula Park. Visit Little China and Little India Town in the evening. Transfer back to your hotel.

Exploring downtown Yangon and the vibrant neighbourhoods of Little China and Little India by foot offers rich cultural experiences. Wander through the bustling markets, savour diverse cuisines, visit temples, and interact with locals to immerse in the city’s multicultural heritage and vibrant street life.

✓ Breakfast

Day 14: Free Morning in Yangon & Departure Flight

Enjoy breakfast. Your driver will pick you up and transfer you to Yangon International Airport for your departure flight.

Price

£2,067

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive in Yangon and transfer to your hotel. Visit Chauk Htat Gyi Reclining Buddha and later, explore the Grand Shwedagon Pagoda.

Day 2: Travel to Golden Rock, visiting Kinpun base camp. Reach Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, an iconic site of Buddhist heritage. Opt for a sunset and sunrise stay.

Day 3: Return to Yangon, stopping at Shwemawdaw Pagoda and Kanbawzathadi Palace. Visit Shwetharlyaung and Four Facing Buddha Images in Bago.

Day 4: Fly to Mandalay and explore Ava (Innwa). Visit historical sites like Nan Myint and Bagaya Monastery. Enjoy sunset at U Bein Bridge.

Day 5: Take a boat to Mingun, visiting notable landmarks. Return to Mandalay to see Ku Tho Daw Pagoda and sunset at Mandalay Hill.

Day 6: Fly to Bagan, explore local markets, and visit iconic temples like Shwezigon Pagoda and Ananda Temple. Watch sunset over Nyaung La Phet Hill.

Day 7: Visit Minnanthu village, explore Bagan temples, and enjoy a sunset boat cruise on the Irrawaddy River.

Day 8: Climb Mount Popa, visit Mahagiri Shrine, and observe jaggery making. Return to Bagan for leisure.

Day 9: Drive to Kalaw, visiting local villages and cultural sites like Hnee Pagoda and Thein Taung Pagoda.

Day 10: Visit an elephant camp, enjoy lunch, and drive to Inle Lake. Relax at Sprouting Seed Café and Bakery.

Day 11: Discover floating gardens, Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, and weaving village. Explore Indein village and its stupas.

Day 12: Cycle around Nyaung Shwe, visit monasteries, and enjoy wine tasting at a local winery.

Day 13: Return to Yangon, explore downtown landmarks, and visit Little China and Little India Town.

Day 14: Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to Yangon International Airport for departure.

FAQs

1. What are the highlights of the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda excursion?
   • The excursion includes a visit to Golden Rock, Kinpun base camp, and the iconic Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, offering a profound experience of Buddhist heritage and optional sunset and sunrise views.
2. What cultural insights can we expect during the Bago exploration?
   • In Bago, you’ll visit significant sites like Shwemawdaw Pagoda and Kanbawzathadi Palace, immersing yourself in Burmese history and observing daily rituals at local temples.
3. What unique experiences await during the Mandalay tour?
   • The Mandalay tour includes visits to historical landmarks in Innwa, sunset views at U Bein Bridge, and exploration of Mingun’s iconic sites, offering cultural immersion and scenic beauty.
4. What activities are included in the Bagan temples discovery?
   • Explore local markets, visit renowned temples like Shwezigon Pagoda and Ananda Temple, and enjoy a sunset view over Nyaung La Phet Hill, offering a comprehensive exploration of Bagan’s cultural heritage.
5. What cultural encounters can we expect during the Mount Popa trek?
   • The Mount Popa tour includes visits to Mahagiri Shrine and observations of jaggery making, providing insights into local customs and traditions.
6. What experiences await during the Elephant Camp visit?
   • Visit an elephant camp, enjoy interactions with these majestic creatures, and relax at Sprouting Seed Café and Bakery, offering a blend of wildlife encounters and culinary delights.
7. What cultural immersion opportunities are available during the Inle Lake exploration?
   • Explore floating gardens, traditional weaving villages, and historic stupas at Indein village, providing insights into local livelihoods and ancient customs.