7Days 6Nights Enchanting Myanmar

Mingalabar! Myanmar is one of the most magical and undiscovered destinations in the world: a golden land of breathtaking beauty and charm that is steeped in fascinating history and traditions.

Exceptional Experiences:

 

  • Witness dazzling Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. 
    The Shwedagon Pagoda, officially named Shwedagon Zedi Daw and also known as the Great Dagon Pagoda and the Golden Pagoda, is a gilded stupa located in Yangon, Myanmar. The 326-foot-tall (99m) pagoda is situated on Singuttara Hill, to the est of Kandawgyi Lake, and dominates the Yangon skyline. Shwedagon Pagoda is the most scared Buddhist pagoda in Myanmar, as it is believed to contain relics of the four previous Buddhas of the present kalpa.

 

  • Explore ancient temples in Bagan. 
    Bagan was the 11th century capital of Myanmar and provides one of Asia's most extraordinary travel experiences. The flat plains that stretch out across Bagan are dotted with the remains of over 2,000 pagodas, temples and stupas which once stood in splendor before the sword of Kublai Khan. One of the temple your guide will take you to visit is the last "Burman-style" temple built in Bagan - Htilominlo Temple - which stands and impressive 150 feet tall and 140 feet wide at its base.

 

  • Lotus Garden Dinner on the Ayeyarwaddy Sandbank.
    Board a small boat and drift down the river, appreciating the local scenery including traditional teak dwellings, cheerful waving youngsters, and local women going about their daily chores, as you glide by. On arrival at the sandbank, a team of service staff awaits with torches to guide you to the Lotus Garden and to your elegant table setting where you will sit down to enjoy your dinner with traditional dancing and music performances.

 

  • Visit beautiful Inle Lake, one of Myanmar's natural wonders.  
    Inle Lake is a true gem. This special destination is so filled with charm and character; a place you wish you could keep to yourself - but once you’ve visited, you’ll surely want to tell the world of the magic you discovered here. This enchanting destination is set in the hills of the southern Shan state in the east of Myanmar, near the border with China, Laos and Thailand. High hills flank the lake on both sides of the shore. The lakeshore and islands have hundreds of villages (including monasteries and pagodas) built on stilts, inhabited mostly by the industrious Intha people. Crystalline waters, lush green hills, deep, cloudless skies and a calming and serene lake inhabited by a jovial and welcoming community are the perfect ingredients for an idyllic vacation.

 

  • Lunch at a Floating Restaurant in the middle of the Inle Lake.
    A unique chance to enjoy a serene lunch as you float in the middle of Inle Lake. Your guide and boat will take you across the lake to an anchored pair of floating boats – one for dining and one completely kitted out as a floating kitchen, where the talented chefs will prepare a delicious menu à la minute. Take in the beautiful scenery and observe local fishermen going about their daily duty around you as you enjoy your lunch.

 

  • Dinner in man-made cave Wine Cellar.
    Inspired by traditional Myanmar pottery ovens, Inle Princess Resort’s famous Wine Cellar lies in a manmade cave and contains more than 2,500 bottles of wine. Tonight, enjoy a truly unique experience as you sit down to a special private dinner in the atmospheric cellar complete with a dinner table fashioned from one of Inle Lake’s iconic local boats. Enjoy a menu featuring a fusion of Shan, Burmese, and French cuisine which is sure to delight the palate.

 

  • Enjoy an unforgettable sights with 1,000 oil lamp illuminate Shwedagon Pagoda. 
    At sunset, your guide will take you to a singular experience at Shwedagon Pagoda. This architectural masterpiece is a golden fantasy of gilded stupas, serene statues of Buddha and mythical beasts and is said to be over 2,500 years old. According to legend, eight hairs of the last Buddha are enshrined within the gleaming golden stupa. On the outside, the stupa is plated with 8,688 solid gold slabs and the tip of the stupa is set with 5,448 diamonds and 2,317 rubies, sapphires and topaz stones. A huge emerald sits in the middle to catch the first and last rays of the sun, literally the jewel in the crowning glory of Burmese architecture. Just after the sun has set, you will be invited to begin lighting the neatly arranged oil lamps that rest on the waist-high inner wall that encircles the magnificent stupa. As darkness descends, the combination of the glittering golden stupa (illuminated by carefully positioned spotlights) with newly lit oil lamps creates a special moment of elegance that every photographer will want to capture and each visitor will cherish.

 

  • Gourmet Menu at Le Planteur, top fine dining restaurant in Yangon.
    Enjoy an unforgettable fine dining experience at the acclaimed Le Planteur Restaurant. Established in Yangon in 1997, Le Planteur has become one of the top fine dining restaurants in Yangon. Situated in a lovely landscaped garden overlooking Inya Lake, the mansion has been carefully restored to its original form; a blend of colonial design with charming Myanmar influences.

 

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Itinerary:

 

Day 1: SINGAPORE - YANGON (-/-/-)

Departure from Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Yangon, Myanmar.

Yangon is a city where contemporary and colonial Myanmar (19th and 20th centuries) continue to coexist decades after the departure of the British. A handsome city with a history of over two millennia, Yangon stood as the country’s capital for 100 years. Rebuilt on a grid plan in the 1850s, the wide tree-lined boulevards are bordered by stately stone buildings. In the 1880s, Yangon was renowned as “the Queen of the East”. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in the chaotic street-life, thriving markets, charming tea shops and modern, diverse eateries or simply wander the bustling, yet incredibly safe city.

On arrival at Yangon International Airport, you will be met by your expert guide and transferred to hotel for check in. The rest of your day is at your leisure at hotel.

 

Day 2: YANGON - BAGAN (B/-/-)

This morning, you will be transferred to the Yangon Domestic Airport for the flight to Bagan.

Bagan was the 11th century capital of Myanmar and provides one of Asia’s most extraordinary travel experiences. The flat plains that stretch out across Bagan are dotted with the remains of over 2,000 pagodas, temples and stupas which once stood in splendor before the sword of Kublai Khan. An inspirational destination, Bagan is evocative of a bygone era that many nations have failed to preserve – a living history for all to see. Take time to enjoy the laid-back aura of this magical land, and fully understand the enigmatic qualities that have been inspiring travellers with awe for centuries.

On arrival in Bagan, you will visit Shwezigon Pagoda, which was built to house the Buddha’s collarbone, frontal bone and tooth. The location of Shwezigon Pagoda was determined by a white elephant released from Ceylon carrying Buddha’s tooth. The pagoda was built on the precise spot that the elephant stopped to rest.

Then round-off your morning out with a visit to Kubyaukgyi Temple, which is located in the quaint village of Wetkyi-In. The Kubyaukgyi Temple dates back to the early 13th century and has a pyramid-shaped spire very similar to that of the Mahabodhi Temple located in Monywa. Inside the temple are some of Bagan’s finest frescoes depicting famous Buddhist stories.

Then, you will be transferred to the hotel for check in.

Your guide will take you to visit the last “Burman-style” temple built in Bagan – Htilominlo Temple – which stands an impressive 150 feet tall and 140 feet wide at its base.

Four Buddha figures grace each corner of the ground and first floor, facing the cardinal directions. Many of the old murals can still be discerned, as can a number of the friezes. Several old horoscopes, painted with the belief they will protect the building from damage, can also be seen adorning the walls – which still stand in excellent shape, despite having been built around 1211 AD.

And then, you will proceed to visit Ananda Temple, one of the best preserved and most impressive temples in Bagan. Built in 1090 AD, the Ananda Temple is known for its four striking golden Buddha statues held within, facing North, East, South and West. Also within the temple grounds is Ananda Oakaung; the remains of a monastery complex with mural decorated walls depicting Burmese life from the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries. The murals are faded in certain places, but your guide will be sure to show you the best examples.

Enjoy a spectacular end to your day by viewing a dramatic sunset over the temple-dotted plains from a prime location selected by your expert guide. You will then be escorted back to your hotel by private air-conditioned vehicle, where the remainder of your evening will be yours to enjoy at leisure.

Hands-on Lacquerware Experience
Try your hand at one of Myanmar’s ancient handicrafts – lacquerware production. Emblematic of Bagan, lacquerware typically takes months to produce because each layer of lacquer requires several weeks to dry. As you don’t have a few months to wait, you can try your hand at various steps in the production process at one of the best local workshops in Bagan.
Please note: This activity takes place in an outdoor workshop in true “local style” (including sitting on the floor) so please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty or dirty!

 

Day 3: BAGAN (B/-/D)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then, your guide will meet you from your hotel and take you to the traditional settlement of Min Nan Thu, located south of Nyaung Oo, on your bicylce. En route to the village you will pass many temples including Tayokepay, Phayar Thonezu, Kyauk Kan U Min, and Lay Myaynar Phayar.

Stop at Nandamanya temple to see its fascinating mural paintings before continuing to a weaving workshop and brick-making factory. Unlike Angkor Wat in Cambodia, most of the temples in Bagan were made using bricks, and this factory has been producing bricks by hand using the same traditional method for centuries.

Upon arrival at Min Nan Thu village, explore by bicycle and witness the rhythms of daily local life. Visit a farmer’s house to see how peanut oil is produced and observe local women spinning thread nearby. If you wish to have a chat with the friendly locals, your guide will be on hand to assist. At the conclusion of your explorations, enjoy a private transfer back to Bagan.

In the afternoon, you will visit Manuha Temple, located just south of Myinkaba village. The temple was built by King Thaton, the last king of the Thaton Kingdom. King Thaton was defeated by the invading Pagan Kingdom and Thaton was captured.

During his imprisonment, Thaton was permitted to build the Manuha Temple, the construction of which is said to reflect the king’s displeasure of captivity – all the Buddha images here appear very cramped in their enclosures. In 1975, an earthquake hit the area and buried the Buddha effigies underneath; however, they were able to successfully renovate the area in 1981.

Next, proceed to Nanpaya Temple, known for its outstanding masonry work and beautiful interior design. This striking temple reflects the strong Brahman influence that affected the Theravada Mon kings. Be sure to take note of the relief of the god Brahma; the statue’s three faces all possess the typical facial features of Mon, which are said to be representations of King Manuha.

Signature Highlights: Lotus Garden Dinner on the Ayeyarwaddy Sandbank
This evening, board a small boat and drift down the river (approximately 15 minutes), appreciating the local scenery including traditional teak dwellings, cheerful waving youngsters, and local women going about their daily chores, as you glide by.

On arrival at the sandbank, a team of service staff awaits with torches to guide you into the Lotus Garden and to your elegant table setting where you will sit down to dinner. During your meal, enjoy traditional dancing and music performances. After dinner you will be escorted back to your overnight accommodations by your guide.

 

Day 4: BAGAN - HEHO Inle Lake (B/-/-)

This morning, you will be transferred to the domestic airport for the flight to Heho.

Upon arrival in Heho, continue overland to explore the 19th–century Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery. The structure is built entirely out of teak wood and is fully functional until this day.

Inle Lake is a true gem. This special destination is so filled with charm and character; a place you wish you could keep to yourself - but once you’ve visited, you’ll surely want to tell the world of the magic you discovered here. This enchanting destination is set in the hills of the southern Shan state in the east of Myanmar, near the border with China, Laos and Thailand. High hills flank the lake on both sides of the shore. The lakeshore and islands have hundreds of villages (including monasteries and pagodas) built on stilts, inhabited mostly by the industrious Intha people. Crystalline waters, lush green hills, deep, cloudless skies and a calming and serene lake inhabited by a jovial and welcoming community are the perfect ingredients for an idyllic vacation.

Then, you will be transferred to the hotel for check in by boat.

You will visit an important religious site in the Shan State, Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda enshrines five golden Buddha images carried back to Myanmar by the 12th century King Alaungsithu upon his return from the Malay Peninsula. The images were deposited in a cave near the lake and not rediscovered until centuries later. Since being relocated to this pagoda, the Buddha effigies have been so completely covered in gold leaf by worshipers that they have taken on an entirely different shape altogether.

After visiting the pagoda, witness the unique methods of farming and fishing on the lake during a scenic boat trip. The local residents create “floating gardens” from bundles of floating water hyacinths which, over time, develop a soil layer from the silt in the water and can be used to grow various fruits and vegetables. The most common crops growing on the buoyant gardens are cauliflower, tomato, cucumber, cabbage, bean and eggplant.

Next, visit the Ngaphechaung Monastery. This elegant wooden monastery is built on stilts over the lake and has an impressive collection of Buddha images in the Shan, Tibetan, Bagan and Innwa styles on a highly ornate wood and mosaic pedestal.

 

Day 5: INLE LAKE (B/L/D)

This morning, your guide will take you on a private boat to Inle Lake’s famous 5- day market. This vibrant market is held on a five day rotating cycle, visiting five villages around the lake in turn. Along the way you’ll see the famous early-rising leg-rowing fishermen ply their trade, so be sure to keep your camera at the ready.

No matter where it’s located, the buzzing market gives you the opportunity to see and meet the local hill tribe people as they buy and sell their goods, which range from intricate handmade crafts to produce grown on the lake’s famous floating gardens.

The market is a photographer’s dream, and the relaxed, soft-sell attitude will surely endear you further to the local community. Take time to stroll the fascinating marketplace with your guide, who will be on hand to explain – and help you sample, if you wish – some of the curious and exotic produce the vendors sell.

Please note: the market will be closed on full moon days, black moon days and public holidays. Any purchases made at the market are at guest’s own expense.

Signature Highlights: Lunch at a Floating Restaurant
For lunch today you will have the unique chance to enjoy a serene lunch as you float in the middle of Inle Lake. Your guide and boat will take you across the lake to an anchored pair of floating boats – one for dining and one completely kitted out as a floating kitchen, where the talented chefs will prepare a delicious menu à la minute.

Take in the beautiful scenery and observe local fishermen going about their daily duty around you as you enjoy your multi-course lunch. The menu includes local appetizers, a choice of several main dishes and climaxes with a special dessert of the day, local beer and soft drinks.

In the afternoon, you will enjoy a scenic boat ride along a densely forested river away from Inle Lake to visit Indein, a typical lakeside village situated in the south-west corner of the vast lake.

Alight your boat to explore the village with your guide and observe the relaxed local lifestyle before making your way up a beautiful stairway lined with wooden columns and market stalls selling exotic trinkets to Shwe Indein Pagoda. Shwe Indein comprises an impressive unrestored collection of ancient Shan-style stupas clustered together at the top of a hill. Once you reach the peak, you can enjoy not only the fascinating assortment of stupas, but also stunning views out across the lake and the surrounding area.

Signature Highlights: Wine Cellar Dinner at Inle Princess Resort
Inspired by traditional Myanmar pottery ovens, Inle Princess Resort’s famous Wine Cellar lies in a manmade cave and contains more than 2,500 bottles of wine. Tonight, enjoy a truly unique experience as you sit down to a special private dinner in the atmospheric cellar complete with a dinner table fashioned from one of Inle Lake’s iconic local boats. Enjoy a menu featuring a fusion of Shan, Burmese, and French cuisine which is sure to delight the palate.
Please note: Wine Dinner includes one glass of local wine. Approximate duration: 2hours

 

Day 6: HEHO Inle Lake - YANGON  (B/-/D)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then you will be transferred to the airport for the flight to Yangon.

On arrival in Yangon, you will visit Bogyoke Aung San Market (also known as Scott Market) where you can find all the consumer goods a Myanmar family could possibly need or want. Scott Market is a shopper's paradise; here you will find everything from old antique heirlooms to fresh fruits and vegetables and everything between all under one roof.
Please note: Scott Market is closed on Mondays and public holidays.

Then you will be transferred to the hotel for check in.

In the afternoon, you will visit the Reclining Buddha Pagoda. Not actually a true pagoda, this impressive open sided pavilion houses a 230-foot Buddha statue in the reclining position. Also within the pagoda enclosure is a centre devoted to the study of sacred Buddhist manuscripts and a collection of Buddha effigies in the Buddha Shrine Hall showing how the image of Buddha differed throughout the 16-17th centuries.

Proceed to visit Shwedagon Pagoda. This architectural masterpiece is a golden fantasy of gilded stupas, serene statues of Buddha and mythical beasts and is said to be over 2,500 years old. According to legend, eight hairs of the last Buddha are enshrined within the gleaming golden stupa. On the outside, the stupa is plated with 8,688 solid gold slabs and the tip of the stupa is set with 5,448 diamonds and 2,317 rubies, sapphires and topaz stones. A huge emerald sits in the middle to catch the first and last rays of the sun, literally the jewel in the crowning glory of Burmese architecture.

After having ample time to enjoy the magnificent pagoda, your guide will escort you back to your hotel.

Signature Highlights: 1,000 OIL LAMPS TO ILLUMINATE SHWEDAGON PAGODA
At sunset, your guide will take you to a singular experience at Shwedagon Pagoda. This architectural masterpiece is a golden fantasy of gilded stupas, serene statues of Buddha and mythical beasts and is said to be over 2,500 years old.

According to legend, eight hairs of the last Buddha are enshrined within the gleaming golden stupa. On the outside, the stupa is plated with 8,688 solid gold slabs and the tip of the stupa is set with 5,448 diamonds and 2,317 rubies, sapphires and topaz stones. A huge emerald sits in the middle to catch the first and last rays of the sun, literally the jewel in the crowning glory of Burmese architecture.

Just after the sun has set, you will be invited to begin lighting the neatly arranged oil lamps that rest on the waist-high inner wall that encircles the magnificent stupa. As darkness descends, the combination of the glittering golden stupa (illuminated by carefully positioned spotlights) with newly lit oil lamps creates a special moment of elegance that every photographer will want to capture and each visitor will cherish.

Signature Highlights: Gourmet menu dinner at Le Planteur
Enjoy an unforgettable fine dining experience at the acclaimed Le Planteur Restaurant. Established in Yangon in 1997, Le Planteur has become one of the top fine dining restaurants in Yangon. Situated in a lovely landscaped garden overlooking Inya Lake, the mansion has been carefully restored to its original form; a blend of colonial design with charming Myanmar influences.

 

Day 7: YANGON DEPARTURE  (B/-/-)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the Yangon International Airport for your departure flight back home.

 

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Package Includes:

  • Proposed flight on Silkair and Domestic flight on Air Kanbawza - Economy Class
    • SINGAPORE/YANGON      MI518      15:15/16:40
    • BAGAN - HEHO - YANGON Domestic flight TBC
    • YANGON/SINGAPORE      MI522      16:20/20:50
  • Return airport transfers
  • 2 night' accommodation in Yangon: Belmond Governor's Residence, ROH Room or similar
  • 2 nights' accommodation in Bagan: Bagan Lodge, Bagan Villa Room or similar
  • 2 nights' accommodation in Inle Lake: Inle Princess Resort, Inle Lake Lake House or similar
  • Tour as per itinerary with English Speaking guide

 

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