Htilo Minlo – Bagan

Early morning transfer to the airport for the domestic flight to Bagan, the ancient capital Arimaddanapura of the Pagan Kingdom between the 9th and 13th centuries.

Bagan was for many decades the centre of religious studies since the time of the Khmer Kingdom. Of the estimated 10,000 temples constructed, the remains of about 2,200 temples have survived over 700 years of history.

We visit the colourful and crowded local market: a unique opportunity to see the local folklore and to learn about the Burmese daily lifestyle. We carry on with the visit to the Shwezigon Pagoda, a prototype of the stupas later built in Myanmar, to get an insight into the rich historical heritage of Bagan’s archaeological complex.

Afterwards we visit the Wetkyi-In Gu-Byauk-Gyi temple, known for its wall paintings telling the story of the Jataka (previous births of Buddha), then on to the two-storey temple Htilo-Minlo, known for its plaster sculptures.

After lunch we continue to the Ananda temple, one of the greatest architectural masterpieces of Bagan, built in the early Mon-Myanmar style. 

Next, we go to the That-Byin-Nyu temple built in the 12th century and the tallest in Bagan, then to the Dhamma Yangy temple known for its unique brick construction and to the Gawdawpalin temple. 

We end the day with a romantic sunset from Nyaung The het Hill.

Included : Hotel, breakfast, tour guide, domestic flight, tickets and private transportation 

Mount Popa

Morning car transfer to the notorious Mount Popa, approximately 50 km from Bagan (1 h drive), located in the heart of an extinct volcano that was active approximately 2500 years ago. 

It is known for the popular animist belief that recognises Mount Popa as the home of the Nats: 37 god-like spirits feared and venerated by most of the Burmese people. The mountain rises to 1520 meters and to reach the top it takes around 45 minutes. 

Visit the Mahagiri Sanctuary, Mahagiri Shrine, dedicated to the Nats. A spectacular view of the valley awaits us at the summit. 

Afterwards, return to the hotel in Bagan.

Included : Hotel, breakfast, tour guide, tickets and private transportation 

One leg rower – Inle Lake

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the domestic flight to Heho.

Upon arrival, car transfer to Nyaung Shwe pier to board on a private boat and we explore Inle Lake where we find ethnic and handicraft villages: a thrilling experience to see up close the iconic ‘one-legged paddling’ fishermen, farms, floating gardens and the islets in the lake.

Visit the Inthar Heritage House, a facility decorated in the Inthar style.

In the afternoon we continue to Nampan village, known for the production of cigars. 

We continue to Phaung Daw Oo-Phaya Pagoda, the most sacred in the state Shan, then to the Inpawkhon weaving workshop and to one of the markets on Inle Lake (they change according to the day of the week).

Included : Hotel, breakfast, tour guide, domestic flight, boat, tickets and private transportation 

Indein Pagoda Complex

In the morning we continue the visit to the southern part of Inle Lake.

We delve into the narrow canals of the lake, surrounded by a stunning natural environment and we head to a small village inhabited by the Pa O tribe.

From the village we continue along an old path that leads to a 13th century monastery and to the impressive ruins of the Indein Pagoda Complex, the astounding archaeological site housing hundreds of Buddhist Pagodas hidden under vegetation and dating back to the 14th-18th centuries. The main stupa, located on the top of the hill, offers a breath-taking view of the surrounding mountains.

Included : Hotel, breakfast, tour guide, boat, tickets and private transportation 

Karaweik Barge

Morning visit to Nyaung Shwe market before leaving for the airport for the domestic flight to Yangon. 

Upon arrival, we visit Kandawgyi Park where we enjoy the beautiful view of the Karaweik barge, the sumptuous palace built in the 70s on a royal barge. 

We end the journey with a visit to the Bogyoke Aung San Market, or “Scott Market” one of the largest bazaars in Yangon, where over 2000 traders sell souvenirs, clothing, precious stones and traditional handicrafts. 

Included : Hotel, breakfast, tour guide, tickets, domestic flight and private transportation 

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. 

Included : Breakfast and private transfer to the airport