"7 Days of Myanmar’s Hidden Wonders: Yangon, Inle Lake, Kalaw, Mandalay & More"
YANGON – HEHO – KALAW – NYAUNG SHWE - INLE LAKE – INDEIN - MANDALAY – YANGON
Itinerary
Embark on a 7-day journey through Myanmar’s most enchanting destinations, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. From the golden splendor of Yangon’s pagodas to the serene waters of Inle Lake and the royal grandeur of Mandalay, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Discover hidden gems, interact with local communities, and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Myanmar.
Day 1: Arrival in Yangon & City Highlights
Morning:
- Arrival in Yangon
Welcome to Myanmar! Upon arrival at Yangon International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and to freshen up. - Shwedagon Pagoda
Your journey begins with a visit to Shwedagon Pagoda, the most iconic religious monument in Myanmar. Marvel at the grandeur of the golden stupa, which stands over 99 meters tall and is the focal point of the country’s spirituality.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a delicious traditional Burmese lunch at Shwe Sa Bwe or Le Planteur, offering both Burmese and international dishes.
Afternoon:
- Visit Sule Pagoda: Explore the historic Sule Pagoda, believed to be over 2,000 years old, and located in the heart of Yangon.
- Colonial Architecture Tour: Stroll through Yangon’s colonial district and visit landmarks like the High Court Building, Yangon City Hall, Maha Bandula Park, Independent Monument and the Strand Hotel while learning about the city’s colonial past.
- Explore the Secretary Office: Visit the historical Secretary Office and discover its significance in Myanmar’s fight for independence.
Evening:
- Dinner at Karaweik Palace Restaurant
Conclude your first day with a traditional Burmese dinner at Karaweik Palace Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal with live cultural performances while overlooking the serene Kandawgyi Lake.
Overnight:
Stay overnight in Yangon.
Day 2: Yangon – Heho – Kalaw (By Flight & Car)
Morning:
- Flight to Heho
After breakfast, take a morning flight from Yangon to Heho, the gateway to the picturesque hill station of Kalaw. - Drive to Kalaw
Upon arrival at Heho Airport, take a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Kalaw, a charming hill town nestled in the Shan Hills. The cool, crisp air and green landscape will set the perfect tone for your day.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a local Shan lunch, featuring delicious dishes like Shan noodles or Shan rice at a restaurant in Kalaw.
Afternoon:
- Explore Kalaw Town and Surroundings
After lunch, take a leisurely walk around Kalaw, known for its picturesque colonial architecture and lush greenery. Visit Thein Taung Pagoda for panoramic views of the valley and mountains, and explore the local market where you can interact with the hill tribes and purchase handmade crafts. - Visit Kalaw Railway Station
Stop by the Kalaw Railway Station, a charming relic of the British colonial era. The station offers a glimpse of Kalaw’s history as a hill station, once favored by colonial officers. You can enjoy the vintage charm of this railway station and its surrounding views. - Kalaw Town Exploration
After lunch, explore Kalaw's quaint town center. Visit Kalaw Market, where you can browse fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts. Take a leisurely walk through the town, admiring the beautiful colonial-era buildings that line the streets. - Pine Forest Walk
In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful walk through the nearby pine forests. The cool atmosphere, fresh air, and natural beauty of the area make this a serene and calming experience. - Hnee Pagoda
Discover the peaceful Hnee Pagoda, a lesser-known gem in Kalaw. This small yet significant pagoda is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and its serene atmosphere provides a great opportunity for reflection and peaceful exploration.
Evening:
- Sunset at Viewpoint
Head to one of Kalaw’s popular sunset viewpoints, such as the Aung Chan Tha Monastery, to witness a breathtaking view over the hills and valleys as the sun sets. This is a great spot for photos and for soaking in the natural beauty of the area. - Dinner at a Local Restaurant in Kalaw
Enjoy a delicious dinner in Kalaw, a town known for its peaceful ambiance and excellent local cuisine. Try traditional Shan rice and Shan tofu for an authentic taste of the region.
Evening:
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Dine at a cozy, local restaurant in Kalaw, where you can savor more of the region's unique flavors.
Overnight:
Stay overnight in Kalaw.
Day 3: Kalaw – Nyaung Shwe – Inle Lake – Indein (By Car & Boat)
Morning:
- Drive to Nyaung Shwe
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Kalaw to Nyaung Shwe, the main town at the northern end of Inle Lake. - Inle Lake Boat Ride
Upon arrival in Nyaung Shwe, board a traditional boat for a scenic ride across Inle Lake. Known for its floating villages, gardens, and serene waters, the lake is a place of unparalleled beauty. Explore the floating market, where local traders sell their goods from boats.
Afternoon:
- Visit Indein Village
After breakfast, take a boat trip to the Indein Village, located on the western shore of Inle Lake. Visit the ancient Indein Pagoda Complex, home to hundreds of crumbling stupas surrounded by thick greenery. This mystical site offers a glimpse into Myanmar’s rich Buddhist history.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a traditional lunch at a lakeside restaurant with views of the water and surrounding mountains.
- Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda
After lunch, visit Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the most important religious site on the lake. It is home to several revered Buddha statues that are covered in gold leaf by local pilgrims. - Inle Lake’s Handicrafts Villages
Explore some of the handicraft’s villages on the lake, where you can see the local artisans at work creating silver jewelry, handwoven textiles, and Lotus silk products.
Evening:
- Dinner by the Lake
End the day with a relaxing dinner at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the quiet serenity and beauty of Inle Lake as the sun sets.
Overnight:
Stay overnight in Inle Lake.
Day 4: Inle Lake – Indein – Mandalay (By Boat & Car)
Morning:
Breakfast at Inle Lake Hotel
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel overlooking the serene Inle Lake. Enjoy fresh local delicacies and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Depart for Mandalay
Set out from the peaceful Inle Lake and head north towards Mandalay. As you drive, the changing landscapes will captivate you, from scenic farmland and green hills to bustling small towns and vibrant local markets. Your comfortable private car will ensure a smooth journey with plenty of opportunities to take in the surrounding beauty.
Afternoon:
Arrival in Mandalay
After a scenic and comfortable journey of approximately 5 to 6 hours (covering 280 to 300 kilometers), you will arrive in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city and cultural hub. Upon arrival, your driver will drop you at your hotel in Mandalay, where you can check in and relax.
Optional Evening Activity in Mandalay:
- Mandalay Hill at Sunset: If you have energy after your drive, head to Mandalay Hill for a stunning panoramic view of the city as the sun sets over the horizon. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your Mandalay experience.
Evening:
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Mandalay, sampling regional delicacies and experiencing the city's lively atmosphere.
Overnight:
Stay overnight in Mandalay.
Day 5: Mandalay – Ava (Inwa), Sagaing, and Mandalay Highlights
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. - Drive to Sagaing Hill
Take a scenic drive to Sagaing Hill, a spiritual hub with over 600 monasteries and pagodas. Enjoy panoramic views of the Irrawaddy River and the surrounding landscapes. - Explore Sagaing Hill
Visit the U Min Thonze Pagoda, famous for its crescent-shaped colonnade and 45 golden Buddha statues. Then, head to the Soon Oo Ponya Shin Pagoda, which offers stunning views of the area. - Visit Kyaungmudaw Pagoda
Stop by the Kyaungmudaw Pagoda, an iconic dome-shaped stupa located just outside Mandalay. Learn about its history and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a Local Mandalay Restaurant
Enjoy a traditional Burmese lunch, including Mandalay noodles or other local specialties. - Drive to Ava (Inwa)
Travel to the ancient city of Ava (Inwa), a former royal capital. Explore its historical ruins by horse cart or on foot. - Explore Ava’s Ancient Ruins
Visit the Bagaya Monastery, a stunning teakwood structure, and the Nanmyin Watch Tower, the last remnant of the royal palace. Also, stop by the Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, a beautiful brick-and-stucco building showcasing traditional architecture.
Evening:
- Visit Mahamuni Pagoda
Head to the Mahamuni Pagoda, one of Myanmar’s most sacred sites. Admire the gold-leaf-covered Buddha image, which has been adorned by devotees for centuries. - Dinner at a Local Mandalay Restaurant
Conclude your day with a traditional Burmese dinner, savoring local flavors.
Overnight:
Stay overnight in Mandalay.
Day 6 Mandalay – Cultural Exploration & Sunset at U Bein Bridge
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel
Fuel up for the day with a delicious breakfast. - Visit Shwenandaw Monastery
Explore the Shwenandaw Monastery, a masterpiece of teakwood architecture with intricate carvings. Originally part of the Mandalay Royal Palace, it offers a glimpse into Myanmar’s royal and artistic heritage. - Visit Mandalay Royal Palace
Discover the grandeur of the Mandalay Royal Palace, a symbol of Myanmar’s royal history. Stroll through the reconstructed palace complex and learn about the country’s regal past.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a flavorful Burmese meal at a local restaurant. - Explore Local Handicraft Villages
Visit traditional handicraft villages to observe artisans creating wood carvings, tapestries, and other crafts. This is a great opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs. - Visit Kuthodaw Pagoda
Stop by the Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to the "World’s Largest Book"—729 marble slabs inscribed with the Buddhist canon.
Evening:
- Sunset at U Bein Bridge
End your tour with a visit to U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest teak bridge. Take a leisurely walk to enjoy the stunning sunset over Taungthaman Lake. - Dinner at a Local Mandalay Restaurant
Reflect on your journey over a final dinner in Mandalay, enjoying more delicious Burmese dishes.
Overnight:
Stay overnight in Mandalay.
Day 7: Mandalay – Yangon & Departure (By Flight)
Morning:
- Flight to Yangon
After breakfast, take a morning flight from Mandalay to Yangon.
- Yangon Circular Train Ride
Upon arrival, embark on a Yangon Circular Train ride. This 3-hour journey will take you through local neighborhoods, markets, and scenic countryside, offering a unique glimpse into everyday life outside the city center.
- Lunch:
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Yangon.
Afternoon:
- Bogyoke Aung San Market
Spend your last hours in Myanmar at Bogyoke Aung San Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs to take home. - Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda
Visit Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda before heading to the airport. The pagoda houses one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in Myanmar.
Evening:
- Departure
Your guide will transfer you to Yangon International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your memorable Myanmar adventure.
Tour Includes |
Tour Excludes |
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Accommodation in Twin/Double Sharing Room (3*Star Hotel Category)
| City | Hotel Name | Hotel Category | Room Category |
| Yangon | Summit Park View Hotel | *** | Superior |
| Kalaw | Kalaw Heritage Hotel | *** | Superior |
| Inle | Hu-Pin Kaung Daing | *** | Superior |
| Mandalay | Mandalay Lodge Hotel | *** | Superior |
Accommodation in Twin/Double Sharing Room (4*Star Hotel Category)
| City | Hotel Name | Hotel Category | Room Category |
| Yangon | Zealax Hotel & Residence | **** | Superior |
| Kalaw | Kalaw Heritage Hotel | *** | Superior |
| Inle | Amata Inle Resort | **** | Deluxe |
| Mandalay | Rupar Mandalar Resort | **** | Deluxe |
Accommodation in Twin/Double Sharing Room (5*Star Hotel Category)
| City | Hotel Name | Hotel Category | Room Category |
| Yangon | Sedona Hotel | ***** | Premier Room |
| Kalaw | Kalaw Heritage Hotel | *** | Deluxe |
| Inle | Villa Inle Boutique Resort | ***** | Garden View Villa |
| Mandalay | Mingalar Mandalay | ***** | Superior |
*** In the event that the mentioned hotels are not available, we reserve the other similar ones
Tour Price Validly Date From (01. Jan.2025-30. Sep.2025)
| 3 Star Hotel with English Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2139 $ | 302 $ | 2441 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1118 $ | 1420 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 923 $ | 1225 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 733 $ | 1035 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 722 $ | 1024 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 635 $ | 937 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 165 $ | ||
| 4 Star Hotel with English Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2210 $ | 302 $ | 2512 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1153 $ | 1455 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 959 $ | 1261 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 768 $ | 1070 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 757 $ | 1059 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 671 $ | 973 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 201 $ | ||
| 5 Star Hotel with English Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2531 $ | 302 $ | 2833 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1330 $ | 1632 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1135 $ | 1437 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 945 $ | 1247 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 934 $ | 1236 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 847 $ | 1149 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 344 $ | ||
Tour Price Validly Date From (01. Jan.2025-30. Sep.2025)
| 3 Star Hotel with Language Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2551 $ | 302 $ | 2853 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1324 $ | 1626 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1061 $ | 1363 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 815 $ | 1117 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 773 $ | 1075 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 667 $ | 969 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 165 $ | ||
| 4 Star Hotel with Language Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2623 $ | 302 $ | 2925 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1360 $ | 1662 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1096 $ | 1398 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 851 $ | 1153 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 809 $ | 1111 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 703 $ | 1005 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 201 $ | ||
| 5 Star Hotel with Language Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2943 $ | 302 $ | 3245 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1536 $ | 1838 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1273 $ | 1575 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 1027 $ | 1329 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 986 $ | 1288 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 879 $ | 1181 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 344 $ | ||