Burma - The Golden Land
16 days from £4240 per person
Burma is one of the most charming countries in the world. Full to the brim with historic treasures, a distinct culture and incredibly diverse natural beauty, this itinerary focuses on the classic cultural and scenic highlights of this 'Golden Land'. Begin in capital Yangon, home to the splendid Shwedagon Pagoda before visiting the ancient royal cities outside of Mandalay. Enjoy a memorable two-night cruise on the Irrawaddy River between Mandalay and Bagan – the latter the location of thousands of stupas that dot the flood plain of the Irrawaddy providing one of the finest views in Asia. End your journey relaxing alongside the floating villages of Inle Lake and the white-sand beaches of Ngapali.
Route: Yangon – Mandalay – Irrawaddy River – Bagan – Inle Lake – Ngapali Beach – Yangon
Itinerary Highlights
Despite modern appearances, Mandalay was the last royal capital of the Burmese kingdom. Highlights include Amarapura, U Bein Bridge and Mingun – site of the world’s largest intact bronze bell.
The Irrawaddy River is the life-blood of the country. Stretching from the mountains of the far north to the flood plains of the delta, there is no better way to experience Burmese life than on a river cruise.
A freshwater lake set amongst the Shan Hills, Inle Lake has many local villages. Local fishermen have a distinct rowing style using a leg to control the oar through the reed-covered water.
Itinerary: Burma - The Golden Land
Accommodation in Yangon: Savoy Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade option: The Strand Hotel
Alternative upgrade option: Belmond Governor’s Residence Hotel
Today tour Yangon with your guide. Discover Chaukhtatgyi Paya, a colossal reclining Buddha, the National Museum, beautiful Kandawgyi Lake and the mesmerising Shwedagon Pagoda. This 2,500 year old Buddhist temple is resplendent in over 60 tonnes of gold leaf, is the most sacred of all Buddhist sites in Myanmar. Explore the many shrines and stay for sunset to admire the view. (B)
Accommodation in Yangon: Savoy Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade option: The Strand Hotel
Alternative upgrade option: Belmond Governor’s Residence Hotel
Accommodation in Mandalay: Hotel by the Red Canal (or similar)
Upgrade option: Mandalay Hill Resort
After breakfast visit the 18th century capital of Amarapura located 11kms south of the city. Explore the ancient pagodas of Pahtodawgyi Paya and Kyauktawgyi Paya and U Bein’s Bridge – a 1.2km long footbridge made entirely of 984 teak posts. Later continue to the ancient city of Inwa. Highlights include the pretty Jade Pagoda, the inricate Maha Aung Mye Bon Zan Monastery and Taung Tha Man Lake. Return to Mandalay in the late afternoon. (B)
Accommodation in Mandalay: Hotel by the Red Canal (or similar)
Upgrade option: Mandalay Hill Resort
Accommodation on the Irrawaddy River: RV Katha Pandaw or RV Zawgyi Pandaw
Accommodation on the Irrawaddy River: RV Katha Pandaw or RV Zawgyi Pandaw
Accommodation in Bagan: Bagan Thande Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade option: Hotel at Tharabar Gate
Alternative upgrade option: Thiripyitsaya Sanctuary Hotel
Today you will travel inland for a full day visit to Mount Popa. This scenic drive through rural central Burma provides a wonderful opportunity to visit some of the small villages along the route. Formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, Mt Popa towers over the surrounding landscape. Believed to be home to spirit Gods known as ‘Nats’, the hill-top temple and shrines that surround the main complex attract pilgrims from far and wide. Undertake the steep climb to the summit and enjoy the spectacular views of the rolling countryside. Later that afternoon, return to Bagan. (B/L)
Accommodation in Bagan: Bagan Thande Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade option: Hotel at Tharabar Gate
Alternative upgrade option: Thiripyitsaya Sanctuary Hotel
Accommodation at Inle Lake: Inle Princess Resort
Alternative accommodation: Inle Lake View Resort
Today explore the stunningly beautiful hidden gem of Inle Lake which is far removed from the busy modern world. With your guide you will visit the small village of Indein which is home to enchanting 17th century pagodas, the Nyaung Ohak Monastery and numerous local craftsmen. After lunch visit further villages to witness silk and lotus weaving and cheroot making before winding your way through unique vegetable gardens of grass and earth that float on the lake surface back towards the hotel. (B)
Accommodation at Inle Lake: Inle Princess Resort
Alternative accommodation: Inle Lake View Resort
Accommodation at Ngapali Beach: Amata Resort & Spa (or similar)
Upgrade option: Bayview Beach Resort
Alternative upgrade option: Sandoway Resort
Accommodation at Ngapali Beach: Amata Resort & Spa (or similar)
Upgrade option: Bayview Beach Resort
Alternative upgrade option: Sandoway Resort
Accommodation in Yangon: Savoy Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade option: The Strand Hotel
Alternation upgrade option: Belmond Governor’s Residence Hotel
**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
What's included
- International flights from the UK
- Domestic flights
- Private car and driver
- Sightseeing with an accompanying English speaking guide
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's not included
- Cost of visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
Guide to Price
The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.
