"Mystical Myanmar: 9 Days of Temples, Culture & Scenic Wonders from Yangon to Inle Lake"
YANGON – MANDALAY – BAGAN – MT.POPA – INLE LAKE -INDEIN -YANGON
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Yangon – City Exploration
Morning:
- Arrival in Yangon
Welcome to Myanmar! Upon your arrival at Yangon International Airport, you will be greeted by your friendly guide who will assist you with your transfer to your hotel for check-in and a brief refreshment. Prepare for an exciting day ahead as you begin your exploration of this captivating city. - Visit Shwedagon Pagoda
Your first stop will be Shwedagon Pagoda, one of Myanmar's most famous and revered landmarks. The golden stupa, towering at 99 meters, is not only a religious icon but also an architectural marvel. Enjoy panoramic views of the city as you explore the pagoda complex, absorbing the serene and spiritual atmosphere. Take time to witness local devotees in prayer and appreciate the intricate details of this majestic site, which has stood for over 2,500 years.
Lunch:
- Traditional Burmese Lunch
For lunch, indulge in a delicious meal at Shwe Sa Bwe or Le Planteur, renowned for blending authentic Burmese flavors with international influences. Relish traditional dishes like Mohinga (fish noodle soup) and Tea Leaf Salad, alongside other delightful regional delicacies.
Afternoon:
- Sule Pagoda & Colonial Buildings
After lunch, head to Sule Pagoda, located in the heart of Yangon. The pagoda’s octagonal shape and central location make it an important landmark in the city. From here, take a stroll around the colonial district, where you’ll find iconic colonial-era buildings like the Strand Hotel, Post Office, Yangon City Hall, and the Independence Monument. These grand buildings stand as a reminder of Yangon’s colonial past and offer a fascinating contrast to the city’s traditional Burmese architecture. - Secretary Office Exploration
Continue your historical journey with a visit to the Secretary Office, a site that played a pivotal role in Myanmar’s fight for independence. Learn about its significance in the country’s struggle for freedom and the events that shaped the nation’s path.
Evening:
- Dinner at Karaweik Palace
As evening falls, enjoy a memorable dinner at Karaweik Palace, an ornate restaurant located by the scenic Kandawgyi Lake. The palace is designed in the style of a traditional Burmese royal barge, offering a stunning backdrop for your meal. Indulge in a traditional Burmese buffet while enjoying a captivating cultural performance that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of Myanmar.
Overnight:
Return to your hotel for a restful night, reflecting on the day’s exploration of Yangon’s spiritual landmarks and colonial charm. Get ready for more adventure in the days to come!
Day 2: Yangon – Mandalay – Ava – Amarapura – Mandalay (by Flight / Horse Cart)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Yangon, enjoying traditional Burmese dishes to fuel you for your adventure. - Flight from Yangon to Mandalay
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Yangon International Airport for your morning flight to Mandalay. The flight takes about 1 hour. Upon arrival at Mandalay, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to the city center.
Late Morning:
- Visit Ava (Inwa)
After arriving in Mandalay, you will head towards Ava (Inwa), one of Myanmar’s ancient royal capitals. This historic site is known for its colonial-era architecture and temples, set in a tranquil rural landscape. You will explore Ava in a traditional horse-drawn cart, which adds a charming and nostalgic touch to the experience.- Visit the Nanmyin Watchtower: Also known as the Leaning Tower of Ava, it’s the remains of a palace and offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Ava’s past.
- Bagaya Monastery: Explore this ancient teak wood monastery, with beautiful intricate carvings and statues of Buddha.
- Ava’s Ancient City Walls: Take in the ruins of the ancient city walls, which speak to the rich history of the area.
Lunch:
- Traditional Burmese Lunch in Ava
Enjoy a traditional Burmese lunch at a local restaurant in Ava, where you can sample dishes like Shan noodles, Burmese curry, and freshly made spring rolls.
Afternoon:
- Visit Amarapura
After lunch, travel to Amarapura, a former capital of Myanmar, located just south of Mandalay. Amarapura is famous for its U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest teak bridge.- U Bein Bridge: Take a leisurely walk or boat ride around U Bein Bridge, which spans Taungthaman Lake. The bridge is particularly stunning at sunset, offering one of Myanmar’s most iconic and scenic views.
- Mahagandayon Monastery: Visit this large and renowned Buddhist monastery in Amarapura, where you can observe the daily rituals of the monks and see them gather for their mid-day meal.
Evening:
- Return to Mandalay
After your visit to Amarapura, return to Mandalay and relax at your hotel. - Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local Mandalay restaurant, where you can taste authentic Burmese specialties, such as Burmese curry with rice, fried shrimp, and vegetable salads.
Overnight:
- Stay Overnight in Mandalay
After dinner, retire to your hotel for a restful overnight stay in Mandalay, reflecting on a day filled with historical exploration, scenic beauty, and cultural immersion.
Day 3: Mandalay – Sagaing – Mandalay City Tour (by Car)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel in Mandalay, fueling up with a mix of traditional Burmese dishes or international favorites. - Drive to Sagaing
After breakfast, you will depart for Sagaing, which is just a short 30-minute drive from Mandalay. Sagaing is a serene hilltop town known for its stunning pagodas and monasteries. This region is an important center for Buddhist study and meditation.
Late Morning:
- Visit Sagaing Hill and Pagodas
Upon arrival in Sagaing, head to Sagaing Hill. From the top, you’ll have panoramic views of the Irrawaddy River and the surrounding area. The hill is dotted with over 600 pagodas and monasteries. Some key highlights include:- Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda: This prominent pagoda offers sweeping views of the surrounding hills and is a peaceful retreat for pilgrims.
- U Min Thonze Pagoda: This unique pagoda features a crescent-shaped corridor with 45 seated Buddha statues, each facing a different direction. The setting is particularly picturesque and tranquil.
Lunch:
- Traditional Burmese Lunch in Sagaing
After your visit to Sagaing Hill, enjoy a traditional Burmese lunch at a local restaurant. Savor delicious dishes such as Burmese salads, grilled fish, or Shan-style noodles.
Afternoon:
- Drive Back to Mandalay and City Tour
After lunch, return to Mandalay for a more in-depth exploration of the city. The city is known for its rich culture and history, so your tour will include the following highlights:- Mandalay Palace: Visit the historic Mandalay Royal Palace, which once served as the residence of Myanmar’s last monarch. The palace is a grand example of traditional Burmese architecture, and you’ll learn about the country’s royal history and customs.
- Mahamuni Pagoda: Visit one of Myanmar’s most revered Buddhist sites, the Mahamuni Pagoda, which houses a large, gold-covered Buddha statue. The statue is an important pilgrimage site, and you can watch as devotees apply gold leaf to the statue.
- Shwenandaw Monastery: Known for its exquisite teak carvings, Shwenandaw Monastery is an architectural gem. This monastery was once part of the royal palace and is one of the few structures that survived World War II.
- Kuthodaw Pagoda: Known as the world’s largest book, Kuthodaw Pagoda is home to 729 marble slabs inscribed with the Buddhist scriptures, providing a fascinating look into Myanmar’s spiritual heritage.
Evening:
- Sunset at Mandalay Hill
As the day winds down, head to Mandalay Hill for a beautiful sunset. The views from the hill are stunning, with the city and surrounding countryside bathed in a golden glow as the sun sets. - Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Mandalay’s renowned local restaurants, offering a mix of traditional Burmese cuisine and fresh local ingredients.
Overnight:
- Stay Overnight in Mandalay
After dinner, head back to your hotel for a restful overnight stay in Mandalay, ready for another day of exploration tomorrow.
Day 4: Mandalay – Mount Popa – Bagan
Morning:
Early Morning Departure from Mandalay
- Start your day early, around 7:00 AM, for a scenic drive to Mount Popa. The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Mount Popa is a stunning extinct volcano and a significant pilgrimage site in Myanmar. It’s home to Taung Kalat, a monastery perched on a rocky peak, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Visit Mount Popa
- Upon arrival, take a short climb to the top (about 777 steps). At the summit, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding plains and visit the Popa Taungkalat Monastery, which houses various statues and shrines dedicated to the local spirits (Nats).
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Departure for Bagan
- After exploring Mount Popa, continue your journey to Bagan (another 1.5 to 2-hour drive). You should arrive in Bagan by early afternoon (around 2:00 PM).
Afternoon:
Arrive in Bagan
- Check into your hotel and take a short rest before you begin your exploration of Bagan’s famous temples.
Visit Some Key Temples
- Head out to explore some of the iconic temples in Bagan such as:
- Ananda Temple: Known for its stunning architecture and intricate murals.
- Shwezigon Pagoda: One of the oldest and most important pagodas in Bagan.
- Dhammayangyi Temple: The largest and most imposing temple in Bagan.
Sunset View from a Temple
- End your day by watching the sunset over the Bagan temple plains. Shwe San Daw Pagoda is a great spot to capture the sunset with panoramic views of the temples.
Dinner:
- After sunset, enjoy a traditional Burmese dinner at a local restaurant such as The Moon (Bagan) or Oasis Garden Restaurant, both of which offer delicious local and international cuisine.
Overnight in Bagan:
- After dinner, return to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in Bagan.
Day 5: Bagan Full-Day Tour
Morning:
Optional Balloon Ride Over Bagan
- If you choose the balloon ride option, wake up early (around 5:00 AM) for an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the Bagan temple plains. The ride typically lasts around 45 minutes to 1 hour and offers a bird's-eye view of the thousands of ancient temples, pagodas, and the Irrawaddy River at sunrise.
- Balloon Ride Duration: 1 hour
- Note: Balloon rides are weather-dependent, and advance booking is essential.
Visit the Villages Around Bagan
- After breakfast, take a guided tour to some of the villages surrounding Bagan. This will give you a glimpse into traditional Burmese life and culture. You can visit local villages such as Minanthu Village or Pwa Saw Village, where you can see farmers at work, traditional weaving, and more.
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Explore More Temples
- After your village visit, explore more of Bagan’s temples. Some additional sites to consider:
- Thatbyinnyu Temple: Known for its towering height and stunning views.
- Sulamani Temple: One of the best-preserved temples with intricate carvings.
- Htilominlo Temple: Famous for its fine brickwork and beautiful murals.
Afternoon:
Palin Elephant Camp
- In the afternoon, head to the Palin Elephant Camp (located about 30-40 minutes from Bagan), where you can learn about the conservation efforts for elephants in Myanmar. At the camp, you may have the chance to get close to the elephants, feed them, and watch them interact with the camp staff.
Relax & Enjoy Local Crafts
- After the elephant camp visit, head back to Bagan and visit local handicraft shops or art galleries to explore traditional crafts like lacquerware, marble carving, and handwoven textiles.
- Duration: 1 hour
Evening:
Sunset Boat Ride on the Irrawaddy River
- In the late afternoon, enjoy a relaxing sunset boat ride on the Irrawaddy River. The ride offers a peaceful way to enjoy the stunning views of Bagan’s temples silhouetted against the setting sun. This is a perfect opportunity for photography.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
Dinner
- After your boat ride, enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant overlooking the river, such as Sanon Restaurant or The Irrawaddy River View Restaurant, where you can relax and enjoy local delicacies.
Overnight in Bagan:
- After a full day of sightseeing and exploration, return to your hotel in Bagan for a relaxing overnight stay.
Optional Add-ons or Adjustments:
- Additional Temple Visits: If you're not interested in the elephant camp or want to explore more temples, you can adjust the itinerary to include sites like the Bupaya Pagoda or Pyathadar Temple.
- Local Market Visits: You could also stop by Nyaung U Market, a lively market
By Jakub Hałun - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51404310
Day 6: Bagan – Nyaung Shwe – Inle Lake (by Private Car)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel
Begin your day with a traditional breakfast at your hotel in Bagan, perhaps enjoying dishes like Mohinga (Burmese fish noodle soup) or Nan Gyi Thoke (Burmese noodle salad). - Private Car Transfer to Nyaung Shwe
After breakfast, embark on your scenic drive from Bagan to Nyaung Shwe, the gateway town to Inle Lake. The journey will take approximately 5-6 hours, offering beautiful views of rural landscapes, local villages, and the Shan Plateau.
Lunch:
- Lunch on the Way
Enjoy a stop along the way for a traditional Burmese lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample regional dishes such as Shan noodles, fried rice, and Burmese curries.
Afternoon:
- Visit Shwe Yan Pyae Monastery
Upon arrival in Nyaung Shwe, visit the Shwe Yan Pyae Monastery, a beautiful and serene place known for its unique circular windows. The monastery provides a peaceful ambiance, and you can observe the local monks going about their daily routines. - Transfer to Inle Lake
After visiting the wine factory, you’ll take a short drive to Inle Lake, where you'll check into your lakeside accommodation. Relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the area.
Evening:
- Relaxing Dinner by the Lake
Enjoy a peaceful dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor fresh local dishes while taking in the beautiful view of Inle Lake. The evening ambiance by the water will leave you with lasting memories. - Stay Overnight in Inle Lake
After dinner, check into your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay. Take in the tranquility of the lake and the surrounding hills as you unwind for the evening.
Day 7: Inle Lake – Indein (Boat Sightseeing)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at your hotel, and prepare for a boat tour of Inle Lake. - Boat Ride to Indein Village
After breakfast, board a traditional long-tail boat for an exploration of the lake. You'll head towards Indein, a small village located on the western shore of the lake. The boat ride offers scenic views of the floating gardens and stilted villages along the lake’s shores.
Late Morning:
- Visit the Indein Pagoda Complex
Upon arriving at Indein, take a stroll through the Indein Pagoda Complex, a hidden gem with hundreds of ancient stupas scattered throughout the area. Some of these pagodas date back over 500 years. As you walk through the complex, enjoy the peace and solitude of this sacred site, which offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Lunch:
- Lunch at a Local Restaurant
After exploring Indein, enjoy a traditional Shan lunch at a nearby restaurant, featuring local specialties such as Shan noodles, fried tofu, and fresh vegetables from the region.
Afternoon:
- Boat Ride to Other Villages
In the afternoon, continue your boat tour, stopping by some of the nearby villages on Inle Lake. Visit local handicraft workshops, where you can see artisans creating beautiful lotus fabric, silk weaving, and other traditional crafts. You'll also have the chance to interact with the locals and learn about their unique way of life.
Evening:
- Sunset at Inle Lake
In the evening, take a serene sunset boat ride over the lake. The setting sun casts a golden glow over the water, making it one of the most scenic and tranquil moments on the trip. - Dinner and Overnight in Inle Lake
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at your lakeside hotel or a nearby restaurant before retiring for the night.
Day 8: Inle Lake – Heho – Yangon (by Flight)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel
After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Heho Airport for your flight back to Yangon. - Flight from Heho to Yangon
Take your flight from Heho to Yangon, which typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Lunch:
- Lunch in Yangon
Upon arrival at Yangon Airport, you will be transferred to a local restaurant for a relaxing lunch. Choose from traditional Burmese dishes like Mohinga (fish noodle soup) or Lahpet Thoke (tea leaf salad) to indulge in the local flavors one last time.
Afternoon:
- Explore Yangon City (Optional)
After lunch, depending on your interests and time available, you can choose to explore more of Yangon. You may want to visit:- Bogyoke Aung San Market: Explore Bogyoke Aung San Market, one of Yangon’s most popular markets. This bustling market is filled with jewelry, handicrafts, antiques, and fabrics, perfect for souvenir shopping. The colonial architecture of the building also adds to the charm.
- Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda: If you haven't yet seen it, consider visiting the Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda, home to a massive reclining Buddha statue, which is a striking sight.
Evening:
Kandawgyi Lake: Take a relaxing stroll around Kandawgyi Lake, where you can enjoy the peaceful scenery, the iconic Karaweik Palace floating on the lake, and views of the nearby Shwedagon Pagoda.
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant
For your final dinner in Myanmar, enjoy a delicious Burmese meal at one of the local restaurants in Yangon. You can try more classic Burmese dishes like Curry with Rice, Grilled Fish, and Desserts like Shwe Yin Aye (a coconut and jelly dessert).
Overnight:
- Stay Overnight in Yangon
After a day of travel and exploration, check into your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay in Yangon. Take some time to reflect on your journey through Myanmar, from its ancient temples to vibrant cities, before preparing for your departure the next day.
Day 9: Yangon – Departure
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy your final breakfast in Myanmar at your hotel. Take in the flavors of a traditional Burmese breakfast or opt for a more familiar international option, depending on your preference.
- Flight Departure
Bid farewell to Myanmar as you board your flight. As you leave, reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had, from the golden spires of Shwedagon Pagoda to the cultural wonders of Mandalay,Bagan, Inle Lake, and the peaceful countryside.
End of Tour
This concludes your tour of Myanmar. We hope that your journey has been filled with unforgettable memories, and we look forward to welcoming you back to this beautiful country someday. Safe travels!
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 |
| Inle | Hu-Pin Kaung Daing | *** | Superior |
| Bagan | Bagan Sense Hotel | *** | Deluxe |
| Mandalay | Hotel Hazel Mandalay | *** | Superior |
Accommodation in Twin/Double Sharing Room (4*Star Hotel Category)
| City | Hotel Name | Hotel Category | Room Category |
| Yangon | Zealax Hotel & Residence | **** | Superior |
| Inle | Aureum Inle Resort | **** | Mountain view Villa |
| Bagan | The Hotel @ Tharbar Gate | **** | 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 |
| Inle | Villa Inle Boutique Resort | ***** | Garden View Villa |
| Bagan | Heritage Bagan | ***** | Grand Deluxe |
| Mandalay | Ease Hotel | ***** | 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 | 2404 $ | 302 $ | 2706 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1262 $ | 1564 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1010 $ | 1312 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 838 $ | 1140 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 784 $ | 1086 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 705 $ | 1007 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 209 $ | ||
| Balloon Riding in Bagan | 180 $ | ||
| 4 Star Hotel with English Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2602 $ | 302 $ | 2904 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1361 $ | 1663 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1109 $ | 1411 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 937 $ | 1239 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 883 $ | 1185 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 804 $ | 1106 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 308 $ | ||
| Balloon Riding in Bagan | 180 $ | ||
| 5 Star Hotel with English Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2959 $ | 302 $ | 3261 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1540 $ | 1842 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1288 $ | 1590 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 1116 $ | 1418 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 1062 $ | 1364 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 983 $ | 1285 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 487 $ | ||
| Balloon Riding in Bagan | 180 $ | ||
| 3 Star Hotel with Language Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 2965 $ | 302 $ | 3267 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1543 $ | 1845 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1197 $ | 1499 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 950 $ | 1252 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 854 $ | 1156 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 748 $ | 1050 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 209 $ | ||
| Balloon Riding in Bagan | 180 $ | ||
| 4 Star Hotel with Language Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 3163 $ | 302 $ | 3465 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1642 $ | 1944 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1296 $ | 1598 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 1049 $ | 1351 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 953 $ | 1255 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 847 $ | 1149 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 308 $ | ||
| Balloon Riding in Bagan | 180 $ | ||
| 5 Star Hotel with Language Guide | Land Cost | Flight Fare | Total Cost |
| 1 Pax | 3520 $ | 302 $ | 3822 $ |
| 2 Pax | 1821 $ | 2123 $ | |
| 3-4 Pax | 1475 $ | 1777 $ | |
| 5-7 Pax | 1228 $ | 1530 $ | |
| 8-12 Pax | 1132 $ | 1434 $ | |
| 13-16 Pax | 1026 $ | 1328 $ | |
| Single Supplement | 487 $ | ||
| Balloon Riding in Bagan | 180 $ | ||