Itinerary
Overview:
Complete your journey in Myanmar with a classic Upper and Central Myanmar circuit, blending hills, culture, temples, and colonial history.
Begin the tour in Mandalay, the royal and cultural heartland of Myanmar, where you can embrace devotion at its monasteries and marvel at the city’s well-preserved cultural architecture, arts, and crafts.
Next, visit Pyin Oo Lwin, a former British hill station, famed for its cool climate year-round, charming colonial architecture, and beautiful botanical gardens. Continue to Hsipaw, home of the historic Sawbwas (Shan chiefs), and explore their former palace and the scenic landscapes of the Shan Highlands, perfect for trekking and cultural immersion.
Experience the ancient temples of Bagan, witnessing one of the world’s most spectacular sunsets, and visit Mount Popa, Myanmar’s sacred volcanic peak, revered as a spiritual sanctuary.
Conclude your journey in Yangon, a city of fascinating colonial architecture and mystical charm, crowned by the magnificent Shwe Dagon Pagoda.
Note: When visiting sacred religious sites, please dress modestly. Shoes and socks must be removed before entering pagodas and temples.
Day 1: Mandalay Arrival
Activities: Mandalay arrival, Hotel check-in, sightseeing in Mandalay
Mingalaba!
Welcome to Mandalay! Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel to check in and freshen up before savoring authentic Burmese cuisine.
Begin your exploration of Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city and the last royal capital of the Burmese monarchy. Visit the Mahamuni Buddha Temple, one of the country’s most revered Buddhist sites, believed to be over 2,000 years old, and famous for the thick layers of gold leaf that give the statue a glimmering, almost otherworldly appearance.
Next, we will admire the Kuthodaw Pagoda, also known as the world’s largest book, featuring 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist scriptures. Then visit Shwenandaw Palace (the Golden Palace Monastery), a superb example of traditional wooden architecture with intricate carvings, and enjoy a leisurely stroll around Mandalay Fort for a glimpse of historic life and heritage.
In the evening, ascend Mandalay Hill to marvel at the panoramic views of the Shan Plateau to the east, the Irrawaddy River to the south, and the surrounding paddy fields, all beautifully lit by the sunset glow.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Day 2 Mandalay – Pyin Oo Lwin
Activities: Drive to Pyin Oo Lwin, explore Pyin Oo Lwin
Start your morning with a scenic two-hour drive to the former British hill station of Maymyo, now officially called Pyin Oo Lwin. Situated on a plateau 1,000 meters above sea level, the town is renowned for its cool climate year-round, lush foliage, and charming British colonial architecture.
Begin your visit with Pwe Kauk Waterfall, a breathtaking natural spot perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, where you can enjoy the cool air, serene surroundings, and cascading waters. Next, we will move toward the Chinese Vegetarian Temple, featuring ornate stucco dragons, rock gardens, and traditional Chinese architecture. This serene temple blends spirituality and culture, with lush gardens that invite exploration and reflection.
Conclude your sightseeing at the National Kandawgyi Botanical Gardens, a must-visit attraction showcasing flower displays, pine forests, and manicured gardens. It’s an ideal place for strolling, photography, and soaking in the refreshing highland scenery.
End your day in Pyin Oo Lwin by enjoying the cool weather and tranquil atmosphere of this scenic hill station, perhaps with a warm drink to complete the experience.
Day 3: Pyin Oo Lwin - Hsipaw
Activities: Drive to Hsipaw
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Pyin Oo Lwin before departing on a scenic drive to Hsipaw. Nestled high in the hills of Shan State, Hsipaw is a charming and tranquil town, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Discover the historic Shan Palace, whose architectural design evokes the elegance of a British country home, and stroll past traditional buildings that reflect the town’s rich heritage. The surrounding landscapes also offer excellent trekking routes for those seeking adventure amidst serene natural scenery.
Upon arrival in Hsipaw, transfer to your hotel for check-in, and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this scenic highland town.
Day 4: Hsipaw
Activities: Hsipaw sightseeing
Highlight your morning with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the daily life of the locals and soak in the vibrant atmosphere and then, drive to Shan shoulder bag factory to observe friendly artisans, learn about unique cultural traditions, and shop for authentic handmade souvenirs.
On the way, stop at the historic Shan Palace (Hsipaw Palace) to explore the palace grounds, learn about the Sawbwa history, and photograph the colonial-era architecture, if the gates are open. Return to the hotel and overnight in Hsipaw.
Day 5: Hsipaw
Activities: Hsipaw light trekking, boat trip and village sightseeing
Power up your morning in Hsipaw with a one-hour boat ride upstream along the Dokhtawaddy River, taking in the scenic mountains, lush valleys, and riverside fruit plantations.
Next, we will embark on a 45-minute trek to the 150-year-old Tai (Shan) Monastery, Maha Nanda Kantha, enjoying the stunning landscape along the way. During the walk, we will pass fruit plantations growing pineapples, papayas, and oranges, offering a glimpse of local agricultural life.
After exploring the monastery, return to the boat and continue to a Shan village, where we can admire traditional houses surrounded by verdant gardens and experience authentic village life.
Conclude the day with leisure time back at the hotel, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Hsipaw.
Day 6: Hsipaw - Mandalay
Activities: Drive to Mandalay, Mingun sightseeing
Say goodbye to Hsipaw this morning and enjoy a scenic drive back to Mandalay. After checking in and resting at your hotel, continue your sightseeing with a ferry ride on the Irrawaddy River to Mingun, taking in the river scenery for about one hour.
We will begin the sightseeing with the world’s largest unfinished pagoda, Mingun Pahtodawgyi, commissioned by King Bodawpaya, and witness the Mingun Bell, weighing approximately 90 tons, the second-largest ringing bell in the world.
Next, we will visit Settawya Pagoda, famous for housing a sacred marble footprint of the Buddha and before returning to Mandalay, stop at the Myatheindan Pagoda, built by Queen Shinphyume, renowned for its unique seven wavy, whitewashed terraces, perfect for stunning photography.
Back in Mandalay, take a stroll through Zay Cho Market to experience the bustling local life, and enjoy leisure time for the rest of the day.
Day 7: Mandalay - Bagan
Activities: Drive to Bagan, discover Bagan: a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Drive to Bagan and begin a wonderful day exploring this mysterious land of over 2,000 ancient temples, where visitors can delve into Burmese history, architecture and the development of Buddhism.
Start with a visit to Shwezigon Pagoda, the holiest pagoda in Bagan, commissioned by King Anawrahta in the 11th century and once the center of prayers. Continue to Htilominlo Temple, renowned for its massive 46-meter-high, two-story red brick structure with intricate stucco carvings, and notable as the last major temple built in the traditional Myanmar style.
Next, we will explore Ananda Temple, a well-preserved architectural masterpiece known as the “Westminster Abbey of Burma.” It is one of Bagan’s finest and most venerated religious sites, reflecting the pinnacle of ancient Burmese temple architecture.
Stroll through other nearby temples and pagodas, taking in the timeless beauty of Bagan’s temple-studded plains, before ending the day by admiring the enchanting sunset from a small hill, one of the most unforgettable highlights of Bagan.
Day 8: Bagan - Mount Popa
Activities: Short drive to Popa, exploration around Mt Popa
One of the highlights of visiting Myanmar is exploring Mount Popa, a 1,518-meter-high extinct volcano. Begin with a visit to Popa Taungkalat Monastery, perched atop a sheer volcanic plug and home to the 37 Mahagiri Nats (Burmese spirits) located at its base. Climb 777 steps barefoot to reach the monastery and temple complex, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding central Myanmar plains. Along the way, you’ll encounter playful macaque monkeys inhabiting the steps, adding a touch of local wildlife to your journey.
After descending, visit a village palm sugar factory to experience local culture and traditional craftsmanship and continue to Minnanthu and Pwa Saw villages to observe daily life in rural Myanmar and enjoy the peaceful landscapes surrounding Mount Popa.
Following lunch, return to Bagan and continue your sightseeing with: Sulamani Temple, known as the “Crown Jewel” of Bagan, a striking two-story temple adorned with intricate frescoes. Next, we will move to Dhammayangyi Temple, the largest temple in Bagan, famed for its massive structure and exceptional brick craftsmanship and Gubyaukgyi Temple (Myinkaba), renowned for its vibrant Bagan-period murals, featuring one of the finest and oldest collections of original frescoes in the region.
End the day with a relaxing boat ride on the Irrawaddy River, enjoying the breathtaking sunset and glimpses of local life along the riverbanks, creating a perfect close to your Bagan adventure.
Day 9: Bagan - Yangon
Activities: Flight to Yangon, explore Yangon
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing to Nyaung Oo Airport for your flight back to Yangon. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
After lunch at a local restaurant, begin your sightseeing with Sule Pagoda, an ancient pagoda predating Shwe Dagon Pagoda, located in the heart of Yangon. Continue with a walking tour to explore Yangon’s colonial landmarks, including City Hall, the grand High Court Building, and the General Post Office, while soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this historic city.
Next, we will visit the Bogyoke Market (Scott Market), Yangon’s largest market for precious stones, handicrafts, and jewelry. Wander the bustling stalls, admire the shimmering gems, and enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere.
The highlight of the day is Shwe Dagon Pagoda, a magnificent golden pagoda atop Singuttara Hill. Believed to be over 2,500 years old and housing the Buddha’s hair relics, it is one of the world’s most spectacular religious sites and a true symbol of Myanmar. Immerse yourself in its glorious golden landscape and spiritual ambiance.
Conclude the day with dinner at a local restaurant and overnight in Yangon.
Day 10: Departure
Activities: Leisure time in Yangon, depart
After breakfast at the hotel, free time for you to relax until departure. Transfer to Yangon International Airport to board the international flight.
Thank you for traveling with us—Tat Tar! (Bye Bye in Burmese way)
