Day 1: Yangon
On arrival you will be welcomed by Myanmar Shalom staff at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Day at leisure.

Day 2: Yangon – Bagan
Transfer to Yangon airport for flight to Bagan. Upon arrival to Bagan – pick up by the driver and transfer to your hotel. Day at leisure.

Day 3: Bagan
Day at leisure. Enjoy touring around the ancient city by bike or horse cart.

Day 4: Bagan – Mandalay
Transfer to airport for flight to Mandalay.Upon arrival to Mandalay – pick up by the driver and transfer to your hotel. Day at leisure.

Day 5: Mandalay
Day at leisure.

Day 6: Mandalay – Heho – Inle Lake
Transfer to airport for flight to Inle Lake.Upon arrival to Heho – pick up by the driver and transfer to your hotel. Day at leisure.

Day 7: Inle Lake
Day at leisure – enjoy touring around floating market & villages by boat.

Day 8: Inle Lake – Yangon
Continue sightseeing in Inle Lake and driver will pick up at the airport in the late afternoon for flight to Yangon. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel.

Day 9: Yangon
Day at leisure until transfer to airport for international flight departure.

If you’re looking for luxury holiday, then look no further and embark on this wonderful tour. This luxury tour combines the highlights of Myanmar with several days on the Ayeyarwady River – the legendary Road to Mandalay. You will stay the finest hotels, enjoy the best restaurants and experience a level of service you could only dream about. The warmth of the Burmese and their amazing hospitality rewards all travelers with a VIP feel.

•    Staying in Deluxe hotels
•    Enjoy a dinner at a pagoda ruin
•    Amazing three-night cruise on the Ayeyarwady with Road to Mandalay
•    Explore impressive colonial and spiritual heritage of Yangon
•    Travel by traditional horse cart through scenic countryside  
•    Visit ancient capitals – and palace of legendary Mandalay
•    Cruise the tranquil waters of Inle Lake to see extraordinary floating gardens and floating villages

Day 1: Yangon
On arrival you will be welcomed by Myanmar Shalom tour guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Drive through downtown to explore the city centre and its fabulous mix of architecture and sites. The streets are filled with historical buildings many of which have a faded colonial charm not seen elsewhere in Asia. You’ll start at the post office – a lovely historic building- and to Sule Paya in the middle of downtown, passing by Strand Hotel, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way. Then visit Little India and Chinatown – stop to greet the vendors and let them introduce you to their wares – some familiar, some exotic. Photo stop at the Karaweik Hall royal floating barge.Nothing will prepare you for Shwedagon Pagoda, with its glittering gold stupa. At the pagoda observe local pilgrims and monks offering their devotions and enjoy the amazing sunset view at Shwedagon pagoda.

 Road to Mandalay Cruise from Mandalay – Bagan depart – every Wendnesday.

Day 2 – Road to Mandalay Cruise – Depart every Wednesday
Morning domestic flight from Yangon to Mandalay. Transfer to the Road To Mandalay berthed on the Ayeyarwady River at Shwe Kyet Yet. After lunch, enjoy a guided tour of the key sights of Mandalay regarded as the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning. Return to Road To Mandalay for dinner and local entertainment in the evening.

Day 3 – Road to Mandalay Cruise – Thursday (Sagaing)
After an early breakfast visit Sagaing, the living centre of the Buddhist faith in Burma and famous for its silversmiths who still work in much the same way as their ancestors did. The ship gets underway mid-morning, and begins its journey south. The rest of the day is spent relaxing on board observing the local river life from the top deck. An on-board guide lectures on local places and customs. A casual cocktail party is followed by dinner on board.

Day 4 – Road to Mandalay Cruise – Friday (Bagan)
The ship arrives at Bagan where over 2,000 temples and pagodas are scattered on an awe-inspiring plain beside the river. A guided orientation tour introduces you to the most important temples. After lunch you have the opportunity to rejoin the guide and visit the inside of some of the more significant pagodas. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle or horse-drawn cart and explore this fascinating area on your own. Late afternoon your guide takes you to watch the breathtaking vista of the sun setting over the plain. Dinner and local entertainment on board.

Day 5 – Bagan Disembarkation & Visit in Bagan – Saturday
After an early breakfast, pick up from Road To Mandalay Cruise and start your full day Bagan sightseeing. – Begin our exploration of Bagan by visiting a busy local market and gain an insight into the bustling market atmosphere in Bagan and continuing sightseeing and visit some local villages. 

Day 6: Mandalay – Heho – Inle Lake
After breakfast, fly to Heho, gateway to Inle Lake. Known as the most beautiful lake in Myanmar, Inle Lake’s calm waters are surrounded by high hills and dotted with floating gardens and stilted villages. Then drive to NyaungSh- pick up boat & transfer to your hotel for check in. Enjoy the full day tour by boat in Inle lake. The five Buddha images of Phaung Daw U Pagoda are the holiest in Inle Lake.  Next, visit a unique Monastery on the Lake Nga Phe Kyaung, near Ywama village where the local Monks have trained the cats to jump through hoops, it is now affectionately known as the jumping cat Monastery. Proceed to Nampan village and see local cigar [cheroot] making and canoe carving.

Day 7: Inle Lake – Indein
Continue sightseeing in Inle Lake, maneuvering by boat though long, scenic channnels where you can watch the farmers cultivate their produce in “floating gardens”.  You will visit the fascinating village of Indein, with it’s complex of ancient shrines and stupas and walk though exotic colonnades of stairways and shop stalls.  You’ll visit the “long neck” tribal women, and weaving and craft villages perched on stilts. See the lake’s unique “leg rowers” – the Intha people row standing up with one leg wrapped around an oar. It is a feast for the senses and a photographer’s dream.

 
Day 8: Inle Lake – Yangon
Morning flight to Yangon. Then enjoy a visit to Scott Market, the sprawling 75-year-old Market. At the market you will find a whole variety of interesting Burmese souvenirs, from lacquer ware to gems & jewelry – bargain at the stores to fully experience the Burmese market atmosphere! Visit the over 100 year old beautiful Rangoon Synagogue. In there you will have the opportunity to meet with Trustee of the Synagogue to learn  the Jewish Life in the Pagoda Land.  Drive through the city and observe the influences of other cultures in the region. Visit the Jade Buddha temple with marble statue weighs 500 tons and the largest in the world.

Day 9: Yangon – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to airport for International departure flight.

Day 1: Yangon
On arrival you will be welcomed by Myanmar Shalom tour guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Drive through downtown to explore the city centre and its fabulous mix of architecture and sites. The streets are filled with historical buildings many of which have a faded colonial charm not seen elsewhere in Asia. You’ll start at the post office – a lovely historic building- and to Sule Paya in the middle of downtown, passing by Strand Hotel, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way. Then visit Little India and Chinatown – stop to greet the vendors and let them introduce you to their wares – some familiar, some exotic.

Photo stop at the Karaweik Hall royal floating barge. Nothing will prepare you for Shwedagon Pagoda, with its glittering gold stupa. At the pagoda, observe local pilgrims and monks offering their devotions and enjoy the amazing sunset view at Shwedagon pagoda.

Day 2: Yangon – Heho – Inle Lake
After breakfast, fly to Heho, our gateway to Inle Lake. Known as the most beautiful lake in Myanmar, Inle Lake’s calm waters are surrounded by high hills and dotted with floating gardens and stilted villages. Then drive to NyaungSh – pick up the boat & transfer to your hotel for check in. Enjoy the full day tour by boat in Inle lake. The five Buddha images of Phaung Daw U Pagoda are the holiest in Inle Lake.  Next, visit a unique Monastery on the Lake Nga Phe Kyaung, near Ywama village where the local Monks have trained the cats to jump through hoops, it is now affectionately known as the jumping cat Monastery. Proceed to Nampan village and see local cigar [cheroot] making and canoe carving.

 Day 3: Inle Lake – Indein – Mandalay
Continue our sightseeing in Inle Lake, maneuvering by boat though long, scenic channnels where you can watch the farmers cultivate their produce in “floating gardens”.  You will visit the fascinating village of Indein, with it’s complex of ancient shrines and stupas and walk though exotic colonnades of stairways and shop stalls.  You’ll visit the “long neck” tribal women, and weaving and craft villages perched on stilts. See the lake’s unique “leg rowers” – the Intha people row standing up with one leg wrapped around an oar. It is a feast for the senses and a photographer’s dream. Take late afternoon flight to Mandalay. 

Day 4:  Mandalay – Amarapura
After breakfast explore legendary Mandalay, a city of great cultural importance. Visit the second most sacred image in Myanmar next to the Shwedagon Pagoda is the Mahamuni Pagoda. Next visit Golden palace Monastery famous for its intricate woodcarvings. Continue to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, which is known as the world largest book due to the Buddhist scripture carved on 729 marble slabs. Before sunset visit a 200-year-old teak bridge, the most photographic site in Myanmar.

Day 5: Mandalay – Bagan
Early morning flight to Bagan. Begin our exploration of Bagan by visiting a busy local market and gain an insight into the bustling market atmosphere in Bagan. You will spend the day exploring the architectural masterpieces of this amazing town by visit to a diverse selection of the most important pagodas and temples. Also visit a local lacquerware workshop and watch men and women ply their craft using traditional methods.  In the late afternoon climbing to the top of the Temple for sunset views. Sit back relax and be amazed by the beauty of Bagan as you watch the sun slowly set behind the ancient Pagodas.

Day 6: Bagan – Mt. Popa – Yangon
In the morning drive (45 km drive) to Mount Popa, an extinct volcano with spectacular views, 4981 feet above sea level. 777 steps lead up to the Buddhist shrine place on the top of the Popa peak. On the top of mountain there are monasteries, pagoda and shrines indifferent styles. In the afternoon back to Bagan transfer to airport for flight to Yangon.

 Day 7: Yangon – Departure
After breakfast, day at leisure until transfer to airport for International departure flight.

Day 1: Yangon
On arrival you will be welcomed by Myanmar Shalom tour guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Drive through downtown to explore the city centre and its fabulous mix of architecture and sites. The streets are filled with historical buildings many of which have a faded colonial charm not seen elsewhere in Asia. You’ll start at the post office – a lovely historic building- and to Sule Paya in the middle of downtown, passing by Strand Hotel, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way. Then visit Little India and Chinatown – stop to greet the vendors and let them introduce you to their wares – some familiar, some exotic.

Photo stop at the Karaweik Hall royal floating barge.Nothing will prepare you for Shwedagon Pagoda, with its glittering gold stupa. At the pagoda we observe local pilgrims and monks offering their devotions and enjoy the amazing sunset view at Shwedagon pagoda.

Day 2: Yangon – Mandalay – Amarapura
Transfer to the airport for your flight to legendary Mandalay, a city of great cultural importance. It was the last Burmese capital before the British took over and moved the capital to Yangon. This afternoon visit the second most sacred image in Myanmar next to the Shwedagon Pagoda is the Mahamuni Pagoda. Next visit Golden palace Monastery famous for its intricate woodcarvings. Continue to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, which is known as the world largest book due to the Buddhist scripture carved on 729 marble slabs. Before sunset  visit a 200-year-old teak bridge, the most photographic site in Myanmar.

Day 3: Mandalay – The Irrawaddy – Mingun & Ancient Cities
After breakfast you’ll board a private local boat for a trip up the Irrawaddy to Mingun. Visit the Mingun Bell, weighing 87 tons and being the world’s largest intact bronze bell, the unfinished Mingun Paya (built with the intention of being the world’s biggest pagoda). In the afternoon you will visit the former capitals of Ava and Sagaing.

Day 4: Mandalay – Bagan
Morning flight to Bagan. Begin our exploration of Bagan by visiting a busy local market and gain an insight into the bustling market atmosphere in Bagan. You will spend the day exploring the architectural masterpieces of this amazing town by visit to a diverse selection of the most important pagodas and temples. Also visit a local lacquerware workshop, where we watch men and women ply their craft using traditional methods. We end our tour for the day by climbing to the top of the Temple for sunset views. Sit back relax and be amazed by the beauty of Bagan as you watch the sun slowly set behind the ancient Pagodas.

Day 5: Bagan & Villages – Yangon
Today see the real way of life for most Myanmar people by visiting Phwar Saw Village. This village is a perfect example of how locals live, but most importantly you will be able to see the intimacy of the villagers toward one another, and any foreign guests. In the afternoon, you will explore Bagan from a different perspective as you explore the area by Pony cart. The cart can explore areas that cars are unable to enter giving a different feel of Bagan.

Day 6: Yangon
Morning flight back to Yangon – if time permit before your international flight departure continue sightseeing in Yangon.

Day 1: Yangon – Kengtung

Flight from Yangon to Kengtung. Upon your arrival in Kengtung, you will be transferred to New Kengtung. The city is known for its trekking program to villages of many colorful ethnic tribes which for decades have been untouched by tourism.  In the afternoon, you tour of Kengtung, a pleasant city nestled in the mountain valley of Shan state which has retain most of its traditional Shan architectural grandeur. Visit Wan Pauk, a village of the red clothed Palaung tribe, famous for their silver and lacquered waistbands. A visit to the striking Maha Myat Muni Pagoda and hot spring is a must. Overnight at Hotel in Kyaing Tong.

Day 2 – Kengtung & Villages

In the morning, stroll through the bustling local market and observe the peddling of wares by the minority hill tribes in their colorful traditional costumes. We will then bring you on a trek to Hwe Lon, an Akha minority village where you can interact with the villagers to learn their customs and habits. After lunch, discover the Ann minority tribe known for its black dress and teeth stained black from chewing betel nuts. A stop at Lone Tree Hill will offer you a panoramic view of Kengtung. Overnight in Kengtung.

Day 3 – Kengtung – Trekking

Today, we will take you on a further exploration of the hill tribes as we scale the rugged terrain on local pock-ups to four neighboring Akha villages, one of which combining three religions. In the afternoon, trips to Loi, Li Shaw and Khun villages in the Mong Kwan region will deepen your insight of these distinctive and rich hill tribe customs and traditions. Overnight in Kengtung.

Day 4 – Kengtung – Yangon

Enjoy the day at your own leisure. If possible, we will bring you to witness Shan lacquer ware production and the trading of buffaloes at the water buffalo market held twice weekly. Transfer to the Kengtung Airport for your departure flight to Yangon.

Day 1: Yangon – Sittwe
Transfer to the airport in Yangon for your domestic flight to Sittwe. On arrival in Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine State, visit the colorful fish market and the Cultural Museum. Overnight in Sittwe.

Day 2 – Sittwe-Mrauk U
Following breakfast, cruise upstream along Kaladan River on boat trip to Mrauk U (appx: 5 hours), a major archaeological site in Myanmar. Mrauk U was once an important trading post with links to Portugal, Holland, Arabia, Persia and India. Almost forgotten, you’ll have the chance to rediscover this town and see this multi-national influence on the city. Arriving in Mrauk U at midday, you will witness the former grandiose of this ancient town, famed as Myanmar’s second eminent temple site after Bagan. Overnight in Mrauk U.

Day 3 – Mrauk U
Enjoy sunrise from the top of the hill. After breakfast continue sightseeing in Mrauk U with a visit to the market, the ruins of the Royal Palace and the Archaeological Museum. After lunch, visit Shitthaung Temple, Mrauk U’s most important monument, built in 1535 by 1,000 architects and containing a remarkable collection of Arakanese Buddha images and reliefs. Continue to the multi-spire Andawthein Ordination Hall, with its unique stone carvings, the circular Ratanabon Pagoda, Dukkhanthein, a huge fortress-like temple with vaulted passages containing interesting stone sculptures and Laymyetnha, the first pagoda erected in Mrauk U in 1430.

Day 4 – Mrauk U-Yangon
After breakfast depart with the daily speedboat from Mrauk U to Sittwe. On arrival in Sittwe transfer flight to Yangon.

Excursion to Tattooed Chin Tribe villages can be arrange for extra one day in Mrauk U
After breakfast transfer to Sayoh jetty (approx: 30 min). Then, take a boat along the Lamyro River to the remote Chin tribal village. The women in this village are decorated with tattoo on their faces. Stroll around the village or trek to another village before returning to Mrauk Oo by boat. Stay overnight in Mrauk Oo.

Day 1: Yangon
On arrival you will be welcomed by Myanmar Shalom tour guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Drive through downtown to explore the city centre and its fabulous mix of architecture and sites. The streets are filled with historical buildings many of which have a faded colonial charm not seen elsewhere in Asia. You’ll start at the post office – a lovely historic building- and to Sule Paya in the middle of downtown, passing by Strand Hotel, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way. Then visit Little India and Chinatown – stop to greet the vendors and let them introduce you to their wares – some familiar, some exotic. Photo stop at the Karaweik Hall royal floating barge.Nothing will prepare you for Shwedagon Pagoda, with its glittering gold stupa. At the pagoda we observe local pilgrims and monks offering their devotions and enjoy the amazing sunset view at Shwedagon pagoda.
 
Day 2: Yangon – Golden Rock
Leaving Yangon in the morning, enjoy a scenic journey by road to Golden Rock (Drive via Bago: 194 km – 5 hours). Late morning, arrive at Golden Rock base camp and transfer to transit junction with one of the small open trucks in a one hour ride. The ‘upper area’ must be traveled by foot, at present, and the walk is approximately 4 km (1 hour). Once at the pagoda, you can enjoy a spectacular view, which is particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset. The whole site has a magical feeling. Overnight in Goldenrock.
 
Day 3: Golden Rock – Bago – Yangon
Early sunrise time, strolling around the hill sites & return to hotel & breakfast there. Then back to base camp by the truck. Arrive base camp, continuous drive to Bago, an ancient Mon capital city. On arrival in Bago, visit to local market. Continue visit to over a thousand years old, Shwemawdaw Pagoda. Proceed to Shwe Tha Lyaung Pagoda, reclining Buddha, which is among one of the country’s most impressive image statue, is 180 feet long and 52 feet high. Then proceed to Yangon on the way sightseeing at Allied War Memorial Cemetery.
 
Day 4: Bagan
Early morning flight to Bagan. Begin  exploration of Bagan by visiting a busy local market and gain an insight into the bustling market atmosphere in Bagan. You will spend the day exploring the architectural masterpieces of this amazing town by visit to a diverse selection of the most important pagodas and temples. Also visit a local lacquerware workshop and watch men and women ply their craft using traditional methods. We end our tour for the day by climbing to the top of the Temple for sunset views. Sit back relax and be amazed by the beauty of Bagan as you watch the sun slowly set behind the ancient Pagodas.
 
Day 5: Bagan – Mt. Popa – Bagan
In the morning drive (45 km drive) to Mount Popa, an extinct volcano with spectacular views, 4981 feet above sea level. 777 steps lead up to the Buddhist shrine place on the top of the Popa peak. On the top of mountain there are monasteries, pagoda and shrines indifferent styles. In the late afternoon back to Bagan. Then transfer to jetty where a private wooden river boat is waiting. Sitting under the shade or on the open-deck you’ll be treated to fabulous views as you cruise down the Irrawaddy River to Shwezigon Pagoda. You’ll pass by small villages on the river banks, fishermen, local boats and of course many riverside temples. The views of Bagan are spectacular and a different perspective from the usual sightseeing. On board a cocktail will be served, so relax and enjoy the scenery. As the sun begins to dip low in the sky, return to dry land and transfer back to your hotel.
 
Day 6: Bagan – Mandalay – Amarapura
Transfer to the airport for your flight to legendary Mandalay, a city of great cultural importance. This afternoon visit the second most sacred image in Myanmar next to the Shwedagon Pagoda is the Mahamuni Pagoda. Next visit Golden palace Monastery famous for its intricate woodcarvings. Continue to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, which is known as the world largest book due to the Buddhist scripture carved on 729 marble slabs. Before sunset  visit a 200-year-old teak bridge, the most photographic site in Myanmar.
 
Day 7: Mandalay – The Irrawaddy – Mingun
After breakfast you’ll board a private local boat for a trip up the Irrawaddy to Mingun. Visit the Mingun Bell, weighing 87 tons and being the world’s largest intact bronze bell, the unfinished Mingun Paya (built with the intention of being the world’s biggest pagoda). After returning to Mandalay in the afternoon continue sightseeing and visit workshop where colorful silks are woven, and the ruined remains of the Royal Palace.
 
Day 8: Mandalay – Heho – Inle Lake
After breakfast, fly to Heho, gateway to Inle Lake. Known as the most beautiful lake in Myanmar, Inle Lake’s calm waters are surrounded by high hills and dotted with floating gardens and stilted villages. Then drive to NyaungSh- pick up boat & transfer to your hotel for check in. Enjoy the full day tour by boat in Inle lake. The five Buddha images of Phaung Daw U Pagoda are the holiest in Inle Lake.  Next, visit a unique Monastery on the Lake Nga Phe Kyaung, near Ywama village where the local Monks have trained the cats to jump through hoops, it is now affectionately known as the jumping cat Monastery. Proceed to Nampan village and see local cigar [cheroot] making and canoe carving.
 
Day 9: Inle Lake – Indein
We continue our sightseeing in Inle Lake, maneuvering by boat though long, scenic channnels where we can watch the farmers cultivate their produce in “floating gardens”.  We will visit the fascinating village of Indein, with it’s complex of ancient shrines and stupas and walk though exotic colonnades of stairways and shop stalls.  We’ll visit the “long neck” tribal women, and weaving and craft villages perched on stilts. See the lake’s unique “leg rowers” – the Intha people row standing up with one leg wrapped around an oar. It is a feast for the senses and a photographer’s dream.

Day 10: Inle – Ngapali
In the morning, return to Nyaung Shwe and continue to Heho for the flight to Ngapali. Transfer from Thandwe Airport to Ngapali Beach 20 minutes away. Here, in the Bay of Bengal is the beautiful beach of Ngapali with its charming fishing village and coconut trees. Relax on the beach or for the more active, enjoy various sports such as snorkeling, surfing or cycling.

Day 11– 12: Ngapali Beach
Day leisure on the beach for sun bathing, swimming and strolling along the white sand beach. And visit near by fishing villages by bicycle or boat.

Day 13: Ngapali Beach – Yangon
Flight back to Yangon.  Then enjoy a visit to Scott Market, the sprawling 75-year-old Market. At the market you will find a whole variety of interesting Burmese souvenirs, from lacquer ware to gems & jewelry – bargain at the stores to fully experience the Burmese market atmosphere! Visit the over 100 year old beautiful Rangoon Synagogue. In there you will have the opportunity to meet with Trustee of the Synagogue to learn  the Jewish Life in the Pagoda Land.  Drive through the city and observe the influences of other cultures in the region. Visit the Jade Buddha temple with marble statue weighs 500 tons and the largest in the world.

Day 14: Yangon –Departure  
After breakfast, continue sightseeing in Yangon until transfer to airport for International departure flight.

Day 1: Yangon
On arrival you will be welcomed by Myanmar Shalom tour guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Drive through downtown to explore the city centre and its fabulous mix of architecture and sites. The streets are filled with historical buildings many of which have a faded colonial charm not seen elsewhere in Asia. You’ll start at the post office – a lovely historic building- and to Sule Paya in the middle of downtown, passing by Strand Hotel, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way. Then visit Little India and Chinatown – stop to greet the vendors and let them introduce you to their wares – some familiar, some exotic. Photo stop at the Karaweik Hall royal floating barge.Nothing will prepare you for Shwedagon Pagoda, with its glittering gold stupa. At the pagoda observe local pilgrims and monks offering their devotions and enjoy the amazing sunset view at Shwedagon pagoda.

Day 2: Yangon – Bagan
Early morning flight to Bagan. Begin  exploration of Bagan by visiting a busy local market and gain an insight into the bustling market atmosphere in Bagan. You will spend the day exploring the architectural masterpieces of this amazing town by visit to a diverse selection of the most important pagodas and temples. Also visit a local lacquerware workshop and watch men and women ply their craft using traditional methods. A visit  to lacquer craftsmen and  workshops in nearby Myinkaba village includes meeting with Aung Mying, a laquerware artist world-renown for producing pieces of exceptional quality- and written about in the book:  Burmese Laquerware. Sightseeing continues with visits to Manuha Temple, Nanbaya Temple, and Myingaba Gu Byaukgyi Temple. Watch sunset atop one of Bagan’s ancient monuments.

Day 3: Bagan -   (Optional:  Balloons Over Bagan)- (R.V. Paukan) www.paukan.com
Today you will have a unique opportunity to see the ancient city of Bagan from a different perspective. From a hot air balloon, you will get a magnificent aerial view of thousand-year old pagodas and temples and rural villages nestled along the Irrawaddy River as you glide aloft for about an hour.  A champagne celebration concludes our adventure. Return to the hotel for breakfast.  

After breakfast this morning continue sightseeing in Bagan and then transfer to Gaewin Jetty to embark on a charming cruising boutique hotel, the elegant Paukan, 2007 ship with its fine service and facilities. Cruising along the river and in the late afternoon stop in a typical river village. After dinner onboard our ship, enjoy a Dance and Drama performance by the Mandalay Arts School on the sundeck.

Day 4: Bagan – Mandalay (R.V. Paukan) www.paukan.com
Cruise all day with stop enroute in the morning to visit Yandabo, a typical river village specialize in Pot-Making, where the peace treaty of the First Anglo-Burmese war was signed on Feb. 24, 1826. Moor overnight nearby a village (Ywar Thit Gyi or Pauk Myaing Pauk Taw) few miles away from Ava Bridge.

Day 5: Mandalay
Enjoy the sunrise. After an early breakfast, the passengers will disembark at Sagaing Jetty (Thursday only) or Gawein jetty (Sunday Only) at around 09.30/10.00 hrs. This afternoon visit the second most sacred image in Myanmar next to the Shwedagon Pagoda is the Mahamuni Pagoda. Next visit Golden palace Monastery famous for its intricate woodcarvings. Continue to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, which is known as the world largest book due to the Buddhist scripture carved on 729 marble slabs. Before sunset visit a 200-year-old teak bridge, the most photographic site in Myanmar.  

Day 6: Maymyo
After breakfast drive (80 km – 2 hours) on a scenic route to Pyin Oo Lwin (Maymyo), principal hill station and summer retreat during the British colonial period, with its lovely lake, waterfalls, botanical garden and colonial era-buildings. Sightseeing in Pyin Oo Lwin starts with a visit to downtown colonial-era buildings and the central market. Unique, brightly painted miniature stagecoaches, drawn by lively teams of horses, are waiting to carry travelers to the National Kandawgyi Gardens, the beautiful botanical gardens of Maymyo. The cooler weather allows many flowers and fruits, commonly found in temperate climates, to thrive here. After lunch proceed to Peik Chin Myaung Cave, since ancient times a Buddhist shrine. Stop at a winemaking workshop before returning by road to Mandalay.

Day 7: Mandalay-Heho – Pindaya
Transfer to Airport for afternoon flight to Heho, gateway to Inle Lake and the Shan State. Known as the most beautiful lake in Myanmar, Inle Lake’s calm waters are surrounded by high hills and dotted with floating gardens and stilted villages. Upon arrival proceed to by road to Pindaya and visit Pinday Caves, a unique site housing thousand of Buddha images places there by pilgrims and devotes over the centuries. A scenic drive takes us to Nyaung Shwe, a small jetty where you pick up the private boat for a 30-minute ride to the hotel, located on the shores of the lake.  

Day 8: Inle Lake- Indein
This morning will be spent exploring beautiful Inle Lake. Continue sightseeing in Inle Lake, maneuvering by boat though long, scenic channnels where you can watch the farmers cultivate their produce in “floating gardens”.  You will visit the fascinating village of Indein, with it’s complex of ancient shrines and stupas and walk though exotic colonnades of stairways and shop stalls.  You’ll visit the “long neck” tribal women, and weaving and craft villages perched on stilts. See the lake’s unique “leg rowers” – the Intha people row standing up with one leg wrapped around an oar. Dinner at the hotel or fine traditional Shan restaurant.

Day 9: Inle – Yangon
Morning flight to Yangon. Then enjoy a visit to Scott Market, the sprawling 75-year-old Market. At the market you will find a whole variety of interesting Burmese souvenirs, from lacquer ware to gems & jewelry – bargain at the stores to fully experience the Burmese market atmosphere! Visit the over 100 year old beautiful Rangoon Synagogue. In there you will have the opportunity to meet with Trustee of the Synagogue to learn  the Jewish Life in the Pagoda Land.  Drive through the city and observe the influences of other cultures in the region. Visit the Jade Buddha temple with marble statue weighs 500 tons and the largest in the world.

Day 10: Yangon – Departure
After breakfast, day at leisure until transfer to airport for International departure flight.

Day 1: Yangon
On arrival you will be welcomed by Myanmar Shalom tour guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Drive through downtown to explore the city centre and its fabulous mix of architecture and sites. The streets are filled with historical buildings many of which have a faded colonial charm not seen elsewhere in Asia. You’ll start at the post office – a lovely historic building- and to Sule Paya in the middle of downtown, passing by Strand Hotel, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way. Then visit Little India and Chinatown – stop to greet the vendors and let them introduce you to their wares – some familiar, some exotic.
Photo stop at the Karaweik Hall royal floating barge.Nothing will prepare you for Shwedagon Pagoda, with its glittering gold stupa. At the pagoda, observe local pilgrims and monks offering their devotions and enjoy the amazing sunset view at Shwedagon pagoda.

Day 2: Yangon – Bagan
Early morning flight to Bagan. Begin exploration of Bagan by visiting a busy local market and gain an insight into the bustling market atmosphere in Bagan. You will spend the day exploring the architectural masterpieces of this amazing town by visit to a diverse selection of the most important pagodas and temples. Also visit a local lacquerware workshop and watch men and women ply their craft using traditional methods.  In the late afternoon climbing to the top of the Temple for sunset views. Sit back relax and be amazed by the beauty of Bagan as you watch the sun slowly set behind the ancient Pagodas.

Day 3: Bagan – Mt. Popa  – Villages
You may continue sightseeing Temples & Pagodas and villages in the morning or take excursion trip to Mount Popa (45 km drive), an extinct volcano with spectacular views, 4981 feet above sea level. 777 steps lead up to the Buddhist shrine place on the top of the Popa peak. On the top of mountain there are monasteries, pagoda and shrines indifferent styles. In the mid afternoon back to Bagan  and you will explore Bagan from a different perspective as you explore the area by Pony cart. The cart can explore areas that cars are unable to enter giving a different feel of Bagan.

Day 4: Bagan – Pakokku – Monywa
Breakfast at hotel. Pick up from hotel. Leave Bagan in the morning and take a private local boat across the Ayeyarwaddy River to Pakkoku (approx. 3 hrs by boat), an un-spoiled small town famous as a tobacco trading centre and for its weaving shops. This river journey is interesting because you see all types of local boats along the river as well as the local river life. Arrive Pakokku and visit the local market and see genuine indigenous regional open-air market. Then continue drive (approx. 4 hrs) to Monywa. Arrival Monywa and transfer to hotel. The rest of the day at leisure.

Day 5: Monywa – Mandalay
Rise early to take the ferry to the other side of the Chindwin River where you board a pick-up to see the seldom visited 15th Pho Win Daung temple complex where more than 450,000 sandstone Buddha’s were carved in the hillsides in caves, alcoves, or tiny niches. The cave murals are still intact with indigo blues and soft pastels. Visit Shwe Ba Daung, which features unique pavilions cut from the surrounding sandstone and filled with Bubddha images. Drive back to Monywa. and visit Thanboddhay Pagoda. Inside you will see thousands of Buddha images (reportedly over 500,000) decorating every wall, archway and niche. The buildings in the compound have interesting jataka reliefs. Proceed drive to Mandalay (140 km – 4 hours). Arrival Mandalay and transfer to hotel.

Day 6: Mandalay – Amarapura
Full day sightseeing in Mandalay -  visit the second most sacred image in Myanmar next to the Shwedagon Pagoda is the Mahamuni Pagoda. Next visit Golden palace Monastery famous for its intricate woodcarvings. Continue to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, which is known as the world largest book due to the Buddhist scripture carved on 729 marble slabs. Before sunset  visit a 200-year-old teak bridge, the most photographic site in Myanmar.

Day 7: Mandalay – Mingun – Saging
Morning- breakfast at the hotel.  Following, you embark on a scenic boat cruise on the magical Irrawaddy River, watching river commerce and villages as they were centuries ago.  Mingun is about 11 km (one hour each way) upriver from Mandalay and home to the impressive Mingun Bell, the world’s largest intact bronze bell, the unfinished Mingun Paya, and lanes filled with art galleries and bullock taxis. Visit Ava and then the cross the Ayeyawaddy River over Ava Bridge and visit the Sagging Hill where there are about six hundred Monasteries. Stop at Silverware cottage industry, clay pot making and Nunnery to learn the daily life of Buddhist nuns. Watch the sunset from the top of Sagaing Hill.

Day 8: Mandalay – Heho – Kalaw
Morning flight to Heho in the Shan state. Upon arrival drive to Kalaw (appr. 1 hour), a former British colonial town. Kalaw, another hill station as well as peaceful summer resort nestled in pine-clad mountains, is 1,400 meters above sea-level. It is located 70 km west of Taunggyi. In the neighborhood lie villages of Palaung and other hill tribes who come to Kalaw market held every five days in their colorful costumes, adding to the quiet attraction of Kalaw. Overnight in Kalaw.

Day 9: Kalaw– Inle Lake
After breakfast scenic drive across the Shan Plateau to NyaungShwe pick up boat & transfer to your hotel for check in. Enjoy the full day tour by boat in Inle lake. . The five Buddha images of Phaung Daw U Pagoda are the holiest in Inle Lake.  Next, visit a unique Monastery on the Lake Nga Phe Kyaung, near Ywama village where the local Monks have trained the cats to jump through hoops, it is now affectionately known as the jumping cat Monastery. Proceed to Nampan village and see local cigar [cheroot] making and canoe carving.

Day 10: Inle Lake – Indein
Continue our sightseeing in Inle Lake, maneuvering by boat though long, scenic channnels where you can watch the farmers cultivate their produce in “floating gardens”.  You will visit the fascinating village of Indein, with it’s complex of ancient shrines and stupas and walk though exotic colonnades of stairways and shop stalls.  You’ll visit the “long neck” tribal women, and weaving and craft villages perched on stilts. See the lake’s unique “leg rowers” – the Intha people row standing up with one leg wrapped around an oar. It is a feast for the senses and a photographer’s dream.

Day 11: Inle – Yangon
Morning flight to Yangon. Then enjoy a visit to Scott Market, the sprawling 75-year-old Market. At the market you will find a whole variety of interesting Burmese souvenirs, from lacquer ware to gems & jewelry – bargain at the stores to fully experience the Burmese market atmosphere! Visit the over 100 year old beautiful Rangoon Synagogue. In there you will have the opportunity to meet with Trustee of the Synagogue to learn  the Jewish Life in the Pagoda Land.  Drive through the city and observe  neighborhoods that reflect Yangon’s Burmese, British, Indian, Bangladeshi and indigenous influences. Visit the Jade Buddha temple with marble statue weighs 500 tons and the largest in the world.

Day 12: Yangon – Departure
After breakfast, day at leisure until transfer to airport for International departure flight.