Myanmar
Journey through the Golden Land

Begin the Myanmar journey when you arive in Bangkok and transfer to the hotel accommodation. The rest of the day is free to relax. Overnight at Galleria 10 hotel or similar.

Today sees an early morning start, driving to the Thai/Myanmar border at Baan Phu Nam Ron. After immigration formalities meet your Myanmar guide at the border town of Htee Khee, and from here commence the journey to Dawei. It’s about three to four hours across the southern plateau, traversing jungle and mountain terrain on a winding and sometimes rough road. On arrival in Dawei we check-in to hotel accommodation, then if time permits, visit Shwe Taung Sar Pagoda and local museum for its collections of bronze coins, vases, portraits and large, wooden Buddha statues. In the evening we sample  Dawei cuisine at a local restaurant. Overnight at Shwe Maung Than Hotel or similar (BD)

After breakfast we explore Dawei and its surroundings. We learn about the history of the town and its old buildings, many with balconies and intricate facades. Next we hike through forested hills for an hour-and-a-half, stopping for some green tea en-route, to San Lan village. The picturesque bay is characterised by the village’s bamboo beach huts. We stroll through the village, observing fishermen going about their daily tasks and, if possible, visit local people in their homes. After a simple lunch we head back to Dawei for dinner with local hosts. Overnight at Shwe Maung Than Hotel or similar. (BLD)

(Approximate driving time: eight-hours)

Early risers are invited to visit the riverside’s busy central food market. After breakfast there’s time to relax or explore the town further. Later in the afternoon we board an air-conditioned public bus for the journey north through the southern plateau to Mawlamyine. On arrival we check-in to hotel accommodation. Overnight Shwe Myint Moh Tun Hotel or similar. (B)

After breakfast we visit the Seindon Mibaya Monastery renowned for its magnificent wood carvings. We continue to Ni Paya for fine views over the city and later walk among some of the colonial architecture dating from the time renowned writers such as George Orwell and Rudyard Kipling lived in the city. Later we visit the Mon Museum for interesting displays on the rich Mon culture. Lunch is taken at a local home and features Mon specialities. The afternoon is free for relaxation or independent exploration. Overnight at Shwe Myint Moh Tun Hotel or similar. (BL)

This morning we drive to Kyaikhtiyo and visit the important pilgrimage site of the Golden Rock temple. The visit involves a one-and-a-half-hour walk, with plenty of time to explore the pagoda and its surroundings. Overnight at Golden Sunrise Hotel or similar. (B)

(Approximate driving time: five-hours)

Today we drive to Nay Pyi Daw, and subject to arriving on schedule, check-in to hotel accommodation before exploring the town’s market, Safari Garden and the Water Fountain. Alternatively, the remainder of the day is free to relax. Overnight Thingaha Hotel or similar. (B)

(Approximate driving time: five-hours)

After breakfast we drive to Bagan and on arrival check-in to hotel accommodation. There should be time to visit some of Bagan’s impressive temples. Overnight Zfreeti Hotel or similar. (B)

Today we learn to love cycling, in the surrounds of Bagan. Our first stop is the Z-Craft Jetty in Old Bagan. Here, we visit a busy market where local people bring merchandise from across the river to sell. We take our bikes on a short boat ride to SeLan village on the other shore of the Ayeyarwaddy River and spend some time cycling through vegetable plantations and rural landscapes, observing local life. At Myitchay village we visit bamboo workshops where all manner of products are created from this versatile natural material. After lunch we cycle south around 10kms to Kyaung Chaung Jetty where our boat will be waiting to bring us back to Old Bagan. The rest of the day is free to independently explore some of the town’s many sights. Overnight Zfreeti Hotel or similar. (B) 

Please note: Suitable clothing is required for cycling. Closed shoes are recommended.

Please note: Alternative arrangements are available for those not wishing to cycle.

This morning we board a short domestic flight to Heho, and on arrival drive to Nyaung Shwe on the shores of Inle Lake. We visit the Buddha museum housed in the former “Haw” (palace) of the last Shan prince of Nyaung Shwe. After lunch at a local restaurant there’s time for a stroll around the local market before visiting the ancient teak Shwe Yan Pyay monastery. Later, we take to the water and explore small canals and floating gardens, getting a feel for local Inthar life. The day ends after visiting one of Burma’s few vineyards for a wine tasting. Dinner is at a local restaurant. Overnight at Blue Vander Hotel or similar. (BD)

Please note: It’s possible to instead take a boat trip on Inle Lake itself. Please advise at the time of booking.

Today the real adventure starts as we travel through Eastern Shan state by 4WD, traversing an area only recently opened to tourism in 2014. Here, infrastructure is very basic and local people have had little contact with Westerners. On the way we pass through forested areas that have remained largely untouched, arguable some of the most beautiful scenery in Myanmar. The road follows an infamous route for opium couriers who use mules to smuggle goods through the Golden Triangle. By late afternoon (or early evening…) we arrive at Kunhing in time for a simple dinner at a village house. Overnight in the house of a village elder or a local guesthouse (Basic facilities and shared bathroom). (BLD)

Today starts with another opportunity for early risers is to visit the local market. After a simple breakfast we continue through the mountains, making stops to take in magnificent views and visit Shan villages where we’ll meet hill tribe people. In the afternoon we arrive at Mong Ping, a pleasant town situated on the road to Keng Tung. Tonight’s dinner is taken at a simple local restaurant. Overnight at lSein Yadanar Htaik Guesthouse with shared bathroom. (BLD)

Please note: Facilities in local guesthouses are basic. Mosquito nets and blankets are provided, and bathroom facilities are either at a communal village well or in the river. Unless otherwise stated food will be rice and noodle dishes prepared by your guide.

After breakfast we visit Mong Ping market and then continue the drive through a landscape of forests, deep valleys, and emerald rice paddies all the way to the capital of Eastern Shan State – Keng Tung. On arrival in Keng Tung we explore the town, including the standing Buddha, and One Tree Hill where a magnificent 250-year-old Indonesian gurjun tree stands in splendid isolation. As the sun sinks, we return to the lakeside for dinner. Overnight Keng Tung Princess Hotel or similar. (BL)

In the morning we drive to Pin Tauk, where among beautiful countryside we’ll visit villages of the Pan Lac (Ann), Won Lar (Akha) and Nam Lin Mai (Ann) tribes to meet and learn about the area’s minority ethnic groups. This is a rare opportunity as villages in this isolated part of Myanmar have little contact with tourists. A simple picnic lunch will be served during the walk. Later in the afternoon we return to Keng Tung. The evening is free to explore independently or just relax. Overnight at Keng Tung Princess Hotel or similar. (BL)

Early this morning we visit the local market in Keng Tung and try a local Shan breakfast. Later we drive to Tachileik and cross the border back into Thailand at Mae Sai, continuing to Chiang Rai airport for late afternoon flights to Bangkok. Overnight Airport Hotel, mid-range. (B)

The Myanmar journey officially ends today. Those preferring to finish in Northern Thailand should advise us accordingly upon booking. We’re happy to arrange extensions tours in Northern Thailand.