Discover the Hidden Gems of Myanmar

Enjoy private tour and drive through downtown to explore the city center 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, passing by Strand Hotel, Mahabandoola Garden and Independence Monument along the way. Then visit famous Chauk Htat Kyi, home to a 70-meter long reclining Buddha. The feet of the statue carved with traditional symbols and often many locals gathering to pay homage and pray. 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.

Morning flight to Bagan, one of the most important archaeological sites in Asia.  Begin our exploration 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. Lunch at local restaurant.  In the late afternoon visit to the Sunset Hill and sit back relax and be amazed by the beauty of Bagan as you watch the sun slowly set behind the ancient Pagodas.

More than just temples, our tour introduces you to provide a great overview of Bagan's history, culture and local lifestyles. Today see the real way of life for most Myanmar people by visiting villages near Bagan to view the local lifestyle.  In the late afternoon 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. A private boat tour on the river during sunset time will hopefully show you a spectacular sunset. 

After breakfast, drive the scenic route to Inle lake (about 5-6 hours) with private bus. On the way stop at some local villages and sightseeing.  Upon arrival to Inle Lake – transfer to your hotel. 

Enjoy the full day tour by private boat in Inle lake. Visit the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the most holy religious site in southern Shan State.  Be amazed by the local handicrafts, silk weaving, wooden handlooms and traditional blacksmith methods along the way. Visiting Inle Lake is not just about being on the water but also about discovering the Shan and Intha villages on the banks of the river. Pass the endless floating gardens, houses, monasteries built on stilts on the lake. Proceed to Nampan village and see local cheroot factory (where the Burmese cigars are made) and canoe carving. 

Begin your day with a visit to the market, which rotates locations every five days and where hill tribe people dressed in colorful, traditional outfits. We continue our sightseeing in Inle Lake, maneuvering by boat though long, scenic channels.  We will visit the fascinating village of Indein, with its 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.

Morning flight back to Yangon.  Then enjoy a visit to Scott Market, the sprawling 80-year-old Market. At the market you will find a whole variety of interesting Burmese souvenirs, from lacquer ware to gems & jewelry –fully experience the Burmese market atmosphere! Drive through the city and observe the influences of other cultures in the region. Intersperse in the tour are various religious sites such as the St Mary's Cathedral, built in 1899, and the Buddhist landmarks of Sule Paya and 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.  Then visit Little India and Chinatown – stop to greet the vendors and let them introduce you to their wares – some familiar, some exotic.  Farewell dinner at local Restaurant. 

After breakfast, day at leisure until transfer to airport for International departure flight.