Journey to Myanmar

Gold-smothered stupas and soaring Buddha statues, serene waterways lined with floating gardens, fascinating handicrafts and hill tribes: these are just a few of Myanmar’s little-known treasures. Ruled under a military junta until a civilian government was installed in 2011, Myanmar, or Burma, is a profoundly Buddhist country whose gentle people have retained many of their ancient traditions. Immerse yourself in the enchanting culture of Myanmar from the glorious temples of Yangon and Mandalay to the timeless stilt villages of Inle Lake.

Days 1, 2, & 3 — Yangon, Myanmar

Depart the U.S., cross the international date line, and arrive in Yangon on Day 3. Transfer to our elegant Victorian hotel, and meet fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner.
The Strand Yangon (D)

Day 4 — Yangon

Our introduction to Yangon begins at Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda, where a colossal reclining Buddha stretches more than 200 feet. Next, visit Botataung Pagoda, an unusual pagoda above a circular building, which was reconstructed after being destroyed by an Allied bomb during World War II. Examine royal artifacts at the National Museum and encounter the gleaming stupas of Shwedagon Pagoda, a soaring, gilded pagoda tipped with more than 4,000 diamonds. Attend a candle-lighting ceremony before dinner in town.
The Strand Yangon (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Yangon/Mandalay

A morning flight brings us to Mandalay, founded as a royal capital in 1857, now a hub of commerce and trade. Cross U Bein Bridge, a teak structure that spans nearly 4,000 feet across Taungthaman Lake. Stop in at a silk weaving workshop and visit Mandalay's most important Buddha image at the Mahamuni Pagoda. After lunch, admire the intricate teak carvings of the Shwenandaw Monastery and see the 729 chiseled marble slabs—each with its own stupa—of Kuthodaw Pagoda. End the day taking in the view from atop Mandalay Hill.
Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Mandalay

Set out on a boat trip up the Irrawaddy River to Mingun village, catching a glimpse into life along the river's edge. Exploring by oxcart, see the massive, unfinished Mingun Pagoda; the 19th-century Mingun Bell—the world's second largest undamaged, working bell; and the pristine Hsinbyume Pagoda. In Sagaing, step into a silversmith's workshop to watch artisans renowned for their engraving skills.
Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Mandalay/Bagan

Fly to the ancient capital of Bagan, which flourished in the 11th and 12th centuries, when over 10,000 temples, stupas, and monasteries were built on the Bagan plain. Today, more than 2,200 of these structures—from tiny stupas to towering temples—still dot the landscape, along with many piles of ruins. Head into the vibrant Nyaung U Market; visit gold-plated Shwezigon Pagoda, Bagan's greatest reliquary; and examine 13th-century murals at Gubyaukgyi and Htilominlo Temples. This afternoon, take a horse-cart ride to Ananda Temple, home to four great, gilded Buddha statues. Stop in at a lacquerware workshop to watch artisans ply their ancient craft. Tonight, a deputy director from the Myanmar Ministry of Culture’s Department of Archaeology joins us for dinner.
Aye Yar River View Resort (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Mount Popa

Rise early for an optional hot-air balloon ride over the sand-colored stupas of Bagan. Then set out on an excursion to Popa Hill, a volcanic peak that features prominently in Burmese mythology and is considered the home of powerful nats, or spirits. Spend the day exploring the area and enjoy a special temple dinner this evening.
Aye Yar River View Resort (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Bagan

Visit the Mon-style Manuha Temple, built by a captive king—according to legend—in 1059, and see the massive Buddha figures inside. Continue to the Nanpaya Temple, known for its elegant masonry and decorative arts. End the day at Shwesandaw Pagoda, one of Bagan's tallest structures.
Aye Yar River View Resort (B,L,D)

Day 10 — Heho/Inle Lake

Fly to Heho, the gateway to Inle Lake, and travel overland and by boat to our hotel. Skimming along the waterways in a long-tail boat, catch a first glimpse of floating gardens, stilt houses, and fishermen poling their skiffs with one leg. Settle into your private chalet, and then set out to explore this afternoon. At the Phaung Daw U Pagoda, see five Buddha images that worshippers have covered with so much gold leaf that they have lost all trace of their original forms. Stop by Ngaphechaung Monastery, set on stilts and teak planks in the lake, also known for its resident cats that have been trained by monks to perform tricks.
Inle Princess Resort (B,L,D)

Day 11 — Inle Lake

Delve into the lively bustle of the roving Fifth Day Market, and see the colorful headdresses, jewelry, and clothing of the hill-tribe people who come here to barter. After lunch with a local Shan businessman, explore the floating gardens and stilt villages of Inle Lake and Nampan. Watch traditional weavers use ikat dyeing techniques, visit a Burmese cigar factory, and stop in at a boat builder's workshop and a traditional forge.
Inle Princess Resort (B,L,D)

Day 12 — Heho/Yangon

Return to Yangon by air. This afternoon, stroll through the Bogyoke Aung San Market past merchants selling lacquerware, silver, textiles, and other handicrafts. Then take a walk through the lively food and fruit markets of Chinatown. Gather tonight to toast your adventure at a farewell dinner.
The Strand Yangon (B,L,D)

Day 13 — Yangon/U.S.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
(B)