Myanmar
Be Enchanted
One of the enigma’s of Asia, Myanmar, has decided to open up its borders. A win-win for all people involved!
Myanmar is Southeast Asia’s largest country. From the tropical untouched archipelago’s of the south, to the Irrawaddy delta of the foot of the Himalaya’s, Myanmar has it all. The people of Myanmar are shy, but curious. They are friendly, sincere, thoughtful and are never hesitate to lend a helping hand.
The treasures of the country cannot be seen in just one trip. Maybe two or three may not even be enough. But the one thing we can guarantee is that, no matter how many times you travel to Myanmar, not once will you be disappointed.
The moment you step out of the plane, people smile at you, welcome you and guide you. Myanmar is very diverse. From the plains of Bagan, the Inle Lake, the long stretch of beach, and the snowcapped mountains of the north, there is something for each type of traveler.
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Off the beaten track highlights of Myanmar
This amazing trip through a country that takes your breath away starts in Yangon. The city reminds you of Asia in the 1980’s; colonial buildings, uncoordinated, typical authentic Asian! Former British grandeur stands out between the Chinese style shophouses and are home to local businesses, apartments and all kinds of restaurants and coffee shops.
Leave Yangon for the cultural beauty of Bagan. You travel by e-bike over the sandy paths that connect the 4000 temples. The experience is secluded with a nice picnic in between. And trust Bespoke Laos that we will find the quiet roads connecting the incredible temples! Not far from Bagan you will find a little town called Salay. Here is where you venture off the beaten track and explore Myanmar the local way.
You travel further up north and you reach Mandalay, the gateway in the central part of the country. Here you enjoy a bike ride into the countryside. Meet the incredibly friendly people and learn about the historical importance of Amarapura, Ava and Sagaing.
The tour ends of course around the Inle Lake, where a multiple day trek through the Kalaw area shows you rural life and nature at its best. By train and boat you travel further south to the lesser known Moebyel Lake and drive to Loikaw. The area is home to many minorities who still live the traditional lifestyle. You hike from village to village and meet amazing people, each with a very different cultural background.
Outline of the tour
Day 01
Arrive in Yangon and start in the evening with a visit to the Schwedagon Pagoda
Day 02
Enjoy a walk around downtown Yangon and learn about the British influence
Day 03
Fly to Bagan and make your way to Salay for a sunset walk through the village
Day 04
Rise early an observe the monks collecting alms around the local market. Transfer to Bagan
Day 05
Step onto an e-bike and explore the Temples of Bagan off the beaten track
Day 06
The experience of a lifetime: a balloon ride over Bagan!
Day 07
Transfer to Mandalay with local stops along the way
Day 08
Bike the ancient cities of Sagaing, Ava and Amarapura
Day 09
Explore the local Jade market, U-Bein bridge and other city highlights
Day 10
Fly to Heho and transfer to Kalaw
Day 11
Trek through Kalaw from village to village and stay at local people’s home
Day 12
Trek to the railway station of Kalaw and transfer onward by train and car to Nyaungshwe
Day 13
Cycle around the Inle Lake, occasionally taking a boat
Day 14
transfer by boat to Pekon over the Inle Lake and Moebyel Lake and by car to Loikaw
Day 15
Explore the ethnic diversity of the region on foot
Day 16
Transfer to the airport of Loikaw, connect in Yangon for your flight out
The unique aspects of this tour?
- Exploring Yangon and its colonial past on foot
- Interesting local experiences with fortune tellers, artists and farmers
- Getting away from the crowds in Salay
- Being part of ancient old traditions and ceremonies
- Become Chinese trader at the Jade market
- A champagne breakfast and balloon ride over Bagan
- Explore Bagan away from the crowds by e-bike
- Homestay experience in Kalaw
- Bike ride along rice paddy fields surrounding the Inle Lake
- Authentic minority village trek with a visit to the local homes of a “ Longneck” family
- Local picnics, invites to local homes and pagodas, and visit interesting school projects