Unforgettable 12 Days Tour To Discover Myanmar In-Depth

Your first day on the 12 days Myanmar itinerary will be an adventure tour to explore the bustling streets and historical charm of Yangon.

As you stroll through the streets, you’ll be captivated by the architectural grandeur of old colonial buildings that hark back to a bygone era. These buildings are a testament to Myanmar’s colonial past, reflecting the influences of British, Burmese, and Indian architectural styles. Then, venture into the old harbor district, where the vibrant atmosphere showcases the city’s bustling trade and commerce. Merchants can be seen going about their daily activities, engaging in trading, and striking deals.

As evening approaches, you’ll visit the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. This magnificent pagoda holds immense cultural and religious significance for the people of Myanmar. It is believed to house sacred relics, including strands of Buddha’s hair. The spire of the pagoda reaches an impressive height of 110 meters and is adorned with diamonds and gold plating, creating a mesmerizing sight.

Shwedagon Pagoda

As you conclude your evening at the Shwedagon Pagoda, the drive will take you to a local restaurant for dinner. Overnight in Yangon.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: dinner.

After your interesting time in Yangon, it’s time to head to Heho Airport. The next destination in your 12 days Myanmar tour is Inle Lake. Upon arrival, you’ll be on a scenic hour-long drive to reach the shores of the lake.

Once you arrive at Inle Lake, you continue to board a small boat that will take you across the shimmering waterway, providing an up-close and personal experience of this unique ecosystem. As you navigate through the lake, you’ll be captivated by the impressive boatmen, who skillfully maneuver their boats using the iconic one-legged rowing style. While cruising through Inle Lake, you’ll also encounter the fascinating floating gardens that dot the water’s surface. These floating gardens are created by the local communities, who ingeniously cultivate vegetables and plants on layers of water hyacinth and mud.

Traditional fisherman at Inle Lake

In addition to its scenic beauty, Inle Lake is a haven for birdlife. The lake serves as a breeding ground and a stopover point for various bird species during their migration routes.

Overnight in Inle Lake.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

In the morning, embark on a cruise to Indien Village, located on the far bank of Inle Lake. This charming village is known for its collection of 16th-century stupas, which exude a mysterious and somewhat spooky appeal.

Indien Village

Exploring Indien Village allows you to understand more about the local culture and witness the traditional ways of life that have been preserved for centuries. The village is home to skilled artisans who continue to produce their crafts using techniques passed down through generations. You’ll have the opportunity to observe these skilled craftsmen and women meticulously hand-roll these cigars using a blend of tobacco leaves and various aromatic ingredients, the production of powder from dried flowers pressed into Buddhist images, or witness the construction of traditional boats using locally sourced materials.

After leaving Indien Village, you’ll return to Inle Lake for resting. The 3rd day of the 12 days Myanmar tour goes well.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

After your exploration of Inle Lake and Indien Village, it’s time to head back to Heho and start a new journey to Kengtung, a vibrant city situated in the eastern part of the Shan State. Kengtung offers a gateway to discover the fascinating ethnic tribes and minorities that provide a unique opportunity to gain insights into their ways of life and cultural traditions.

Upon arriving in Kengtung, you can begin your adventure by taking a guided walk around the town and visiting Nyaung Tong Lake, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the Palaung people. The Palaung are an ethnic minority group known for their vibrant culture and unique attire. The women adorn themselves with intricate waist belts made of red cloth and silver, which are the distinctive feature of their traditional clothing. Here, you can engage in conversations, and explore their customs and beliefs to learn about the rich tapestry of their cultural heritage.

Nyaung Tong Lake

Overnight in Kengtung.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

The 5th day of the 12 days Myanmar tour will be a full-day trip to explore Kengtung.

Get ready for an adventurous day of trekking as you explore the beautiful countryside on your way to Pin Tauk. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to pass by Anh tribal villages and continue on to the Akha villages, which are nestled high in the mountains. These villages offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and traditions of the local communities. The Akha women, known for their strong sense of identity and traditions, take pride in their elaborate and ornate headdresses, which are a significant symbol of their cultural heritage. Life in these mountain villages is centered around farming and labor. Families support themselves through their agricultural activities and cultivating the land.

Women in the Akha Hill tribe village

During your trek, you’ll have the opportunity to take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch by a scenic waterfall. Take in the beauty of your surroundings, and take a moment to dip your toes in the cool pools. To add to the cultural experience, you can try the local homemade rice wine. This traditional beverage is believed to be a remedy for sore feet after a long day of trekking.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

After your trekking adventure and exploration of the tribal villages, you have the option to enjoy a leisurely start to the day or take a walk to the morning market. The market is always bustling with activity, offering a vibrant glimpse into the local culture and daily life.

Then, you’ll drive to the airport for a flight to Mandalay, one of the most favorite destinations in the 12 days Myanmar itinerary. Mandalay is the royal capital of Myanmar, steeped in history and cultural significance. As you arrive, you’ll notice the majestic Mandalay Hill casting its shadow over the city. The focal point of Mandalay is the reconstructed palace, which is surrounded by a large moat. Mandalay also acts as a hub for smaller ancient cities that have played significant roles in the region’s history and landscape. These nearby cities, such as Amarapura, Ava (Inwa), and Sagaing, offer their own unique attractions and historical sites.

Mandalay Hill

Upon arrival in Mandalay, your private car will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. Overnight in Mandalay.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch.

The 7th in your 12 days Myanmar itinerary is a visit to the surrounding areas of Mandalay. After breakfast, embark on a short drive to Amarapura, a former capital of Myanmar and a renowned center of learning since 1783. Despite being ravaged by fire and earthquakes multiple times, Amarapura has been rebuilt and continues to thrive as a place of cultural and religious significance. This place also remains an active teaching facility and home to numerous young monks. After exploring Amarapura, take a leisurely stroll across the iconic U Bein Bridge, often hailed as the longest teak wood bridge in the world.

Returning to Mandalay, you’ll visit the Mahamuni Pagoda, a revered Buddhist site housing statues that are believed to have been created in the true likeness of Buddha. Next, head to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, where you’ll encounter the largest book in the world. The pagoda complex is adorned with 729 stone tablets, each inscribed with religious texts and stories.

Mahamuni Pagoda

To close your full-day exploration in Mandalay, you’ll stop at an artisanal gold leaf workshop to witness skilled artisans crafting delicate gold leaf sheets. Then, get to Mandalay Hill, a sacred site offering panoramic views of the city to enjoy the breathtaking sunset vistas.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

After having breakfast at the hotel in Mandalay, you’ll start with a roughly four-hour road journey to reach the charming town of Monywa. Along the way, stop at Sagaing, a former capital city that is nestled amidst rolling hills. Sagaing is renowned for its collection of stupas and monasteries that dot the landscape, creating a picturesque scene. Visit the main monastery, which offers spectacular views overlooking the Irrawaddy River.

Continuing your journey, you’ll arrive in Monywa. Begin by exploring the Thanboddhay Pagoda, dating back to the 14th century. This pagoda is renowned for its intricate architecture and unique design. As you explore both the interior and exterior of the pagoda, you’ll be amazed by the thousands of Buddhist images that adorn its walls. From there, head to the Bodditatuang Pagoda, a place of tranquil beauty. This pagoda is characterized by its remarkable setting, with hundreds of Buddha statues peacefully seated under the shade of Banyan trees.

Thanboddhay Pagoda

In the afternoon, you’ll have a chance to watch skilled artisans at work as they weave cotton blankets and showcase their craftsmanship and dedication to this traditional craft. As the day draws to a close, ascend to the top of a pagoda to witness the mesmerizing sunset.

Overnight in Monywa.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

The next spot in your 12 days Myanmar tour is Ancient Bagan.

After a scenic boat ride across the Chindwin River, you’ll arrive at the remarkable cave temple complex of Pow Win Taung. This cave temple, dating back to the 17th century, is a true marvel. As you explore the interior, you’ll be captivated by the impressive paintings that adorn the walls. Additionally, you’ll find Buddhist statues seated on shelves that have been intricately carved out of the rock.

A short distance away from Pow Win Taung lies Shwe Ba Taung, another site where temples have been carved out of the narrow cliffs. The narrow cliffs provide a striking backdrop, adding to the mystique and charm of this ancient site. Following your visit to Pow Win Taung and Shwe Ba Taung, embark on a relaxing cruise along the Irrawaddy River, taking in the serene beauty of the surroundings as you make your way to Bagan.

Shwe Ba Taung

Arriving in Bagan later in the afternoon, you’ll check into the hotel to relax and prepare to embark on a fascinating exploration of this ancient city tomorrow.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

On the 10th day of 12 days Myanmar itinerary, you’ll have a ride bike tour to explore Bagan.

Get ready for an exciting adventure as you hop on a bike and explore the awe-inspiring landscape of Bagan. With over 10,000 temples and religious structures that were built over a 250-year period during the ancient empire of Pagan, Bagan is a true testament to Myanmar’s rich cultural and historical heritage. While the number of remaining temples and pagodas has reduced to just over 2,200, you’ll still have an incredible array of architectural wonders to discover.

Bagan’s temples & pagodas

Cycling around Bagan allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in the enchanting surroundings. The roads are relatively flat, making it an easy and enjoyable ride Take your time to explore the temples that pique your interest, each with its unique architectural style and historical significance. As you cycle through Bagan, you’ll also have the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and witness their way of life.

Enjoy the last day in Bagan with a leisurely dinner.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Have breakfast at the hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Mount Popa, a magnificent temple situated atop a dormant volcano. When you approach the site, you’ll admire the dramatic sight of the temple perched high on the summit. Mount Popa is considered a sacred place and is dedicated to the worship of the 37 ancient Nats, or spirits, in Myanmar mythology.

Mount Popa

Reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding plains of Bagan, especially on clear days. Besides, don’t forget to explore the monastery and learn about the myths, folklore, and religious significance associated with Mount Popa.

In the afternoon, you’ll leave Mount Popa and be ready for a short flight to Yangon, the vibrant and bustling former capital of Myanmar.

Overnight in Yangon.

Included: Transportation, English-speaking guide, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

It’s time to say goodbye to Myanmar.

After a leisurely morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. End of the 12 days Myanmar tour with memorable memories.

Included: Transportation, Meals: breakfast.