Myanmar

Ultimate Myanmar: Off the Beaten Path in South East Asia

When

October To May

Price

From £6,000pp excl. flights
(based on 2 ppl sharing)

How long

14 nights ideal length

On this 14 night cultural odyssey to Myanmar we’ll take you on a tailor-made adventure through the Golden Land. Starting with the historic sites of Bagan, a region known for its pristine temples, where we’ll send you up in a hot air balloon to watch the sunrise over the network of ancient sites. You’ll then cruise down the Irrawaddy River to the former capital of Mandalay, home to the iconic U Bein Bridge. From here it’s’ onto the peaceful villages of Inle Lake, where you’ll be immersed in village life, here we can arrange local craft workshops or for you to master the art of one leg paddle fishing (trust us, it’s harder than it looks). You’ll finish your trip in the heart of the capital Yangon staying at the luxurious Belmond Governors Residence, exploring the markets and temples of the city.

Bask in the beauty of Bagan

You’ll land in the former capital of Yangon and after a good night’s sleep, you’ll be driven to your luxury bolt hole the Bagan Lodge. Our private guide will show you the best bits of Bagan, the ancient capital of many Burmese kingdoms. First up is the Dhammayangyi Temple, the largest in Bagan which is the perfect introduction to the area. The following day you’ll visit the impressive Mount Popa, home to an important monastery as well as some spectacular views. We’ve saved the best til last though; we’ll send you sky high on a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the city and temples to gain a new perspective on this beautiful setting.

Make this itinerary yours

Each and every Black Tomato trip is tailored exactly to who you are and what you want to do So tell us about yourself and we’ll create something that’s entirely you.

Start Planning

Make your way to Mandalay

In the morning you’ll take to the water for a three-hour cruise down the Irrawaddy river to reach Monywa. En route enjoy a scenic lunch and visit the Regal Pakhangi monastery before checking in to the Win Unity Resort Hotel. The next day you’ll be up bright and early to discover the incredible caves at Po Win Taung, these meditation caves are carved out of pink stone and hold temples that are sure to inspire. Before leaving Monywa you’ve got time to marvel at the Bodhi Thataung statue, the second tallest statue in the world before setting off for Mandalay through the striking Saigang hills. One night in The Mandalay Hill Resort, with its panoramic views of the Royal Palace and Shweyyataw Temple is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready to explore. Spend the next few days visiting the old ancient capitals, as well as U Bein the longest teak bridge in the world. Next, for a bit of exercise with a day trip out of Mandalay, you’ll see old colonial houses, explore the Kandawgyi Botanic Garden and trek up the incredible Anisikan waterfalls.

Fall in love with Inle

Catch a short one hour flight from Mandalay to the local airport of Heho where a guide will escort you to the Villa Inle Resort and Spa. Inle Lake is one of Myanmar’s most tranquil and idyllic spots, making it one of our favourites. Enjoy a boat trip, where you can observe the floating villages and gardens and prepare to be left speechless at the balance of the distinctive leg-rowers. You’ll be truly immersed in the fascinating traditional culture in every way at Inle Lake, where for a unique experience you can try your hand at one legged rowing with the fishermen. Set off on a hidden path from the Pa O Tribe village to Kakku, a hidden gem in the heartland home to a monastery and ruins where you can drink in the view over the valley. The following day your guide will take you up into the beautiful hills on foot to visit the smaller local villages belonging to the Pa O and Palaung tribes. Take a rest for a home hosted lunch and feel free to chat to your hosts as your guide will be on hand to help with the language barrier. Just when you thought that Myanmar couldn’t get any better you’re in store for a true East meets West experience to the Red Mountain Estate Vineyard in nearby Mine Tauk. Take a tour through the vineyard with the winemakers themselves, followed by a tasting session where you can try the various varieties of Shiraz and Moscato.

Leave on a high from Yangon

Last but most certainly not least make a pit stop back in Yangon. This buzzing, exotic metropolis remains the economic hub of Myanmar and is home to over four million people. Spend your final day wandering through this charming colonial city, soaking up the sights of the magnificent golden Shwedagon Pagoda and completing your stash of souvenirs at the Bogyoke or Mingalar markets. Return to the Belmond Governor’s Residence for a little peace and quiet before embarking on the journey home.

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