Classic Myanmar

Day 1

Arrival Yangon

Upon arrival at the airport you’ll be met by your guide and escorted by private car for your first visit to Shwedagon Pagoda.

You’ll then be transferred to your hotel and have time to freshen up before heading on a tour of downtown Yangon. You’ll explore the back streets while learning about the history and architecture of the city before stopping at the famous Strand hotel for high tea.

Day 2

Yangon

This morning you’ll uncover what’s behind the golden façade of Shwedagon Pagoda.

Your guide will talk you through the history of the pagoda, the daily life of those living in the surroundings, and you’ll gain a deeper insight into Buddhist religion. See local workshops, markets and monasteries, give offerings to monks, visit a fortune teller, and enjoy a traditional Burmese lunch.

Day 3

Yangon - Bagan

This morning you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Bagan.

Upon arrival you’ll be met by a representative and escorted to your hotel.

In the afternoon you’ll head off the beaten track to visit the temples of Bagan. You’ll see ancient temples and monasteries that are off the typical tourist track, and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch setup in a quiet temple area before discovering more about the Bagan period.

Day 4

Bagan

This morning, visit the Central Myanmar’s Dry Zone and tour the local villages.

Traveling by four-wheel-drive vehicle, experience Nyaung Gyi village and see a blacksmith work at his craft and local people going about their daily activities – carrying bundles of firewood on their backs, slow-moving ox carts and bustling roadside markets. In Se Ywa village, you visit several fascinating small-industry workshops, ranging from cooking oil production to wooden slipper making. You then continue to Taung Kong village, which specialises in ceramics.

This tour is a perfect option for photographers keen to capture shots of local life, or for anyone interested in learning more about Myanmar’s people and their culture. The tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 5

Bagan - Heho – Kalaw

Today you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Heho.

Upon arrival you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to Kalaw’s Elephant conservation project – a project that focuses on protecting the nature, elephants and traditions of local people living here.

After lunch you’ll assist the mahout with washing and feeding the elephants, before being driven to check-in at an Inle Lake hotel of your choice.

Day 6

Kalaw - Inle Lake

This morning you’ll head on a day of sightseeing at Inle Lake - a vast natural lake surrounded by traditional Shan villages.

On the lake itself the Intha people have been living for centuries in a village built entirely on stilts. Go by private motorboat to discover the lake’s natural beauty, visit the floating gardens and have tea at a local house. Stop by a cheroot factory (where Burmese cigars are made), the floating tomato gardens, Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, a weaving factory, and an Intha house. There’s lots to see!

Day 7

Inle Lake

This morning you’ll visit the ruins of Indein. Partly covered by vegetation, the area resembles a ‘pagoda forest’ and is utterly beautiful.

After an hour’s stroll you’ll enjoy a home-made lunch in a local house before continuing to Nam Pan village for a spot of gentle canoeing before returning to your hotel.

Day 8

Inle Lake - Heho - Ngapali

You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Ngapali Beach, the perfect place to spend the last few days of your holiday.

After checking into your hotel you’ll spend the rest of the day at leisure. This is your chance to hit the beach, enjoy a massage in the spa, or sip a cocktail by the pool.

Day 9

Ngapali

Spend today at leisure to enjoy the resort, pool, and long walks up and down the sand. For those looking for something more adventurous, your Lightfoot Travel Designer will be able to advise on activities prior to departure.

Day 10

Ngapali - Yangon - Departure

This morning you’ll be transferred back to Yangon.

You’ll have time for lunch, followed by a foot massage carried out by blind or deaf people, and trained by a local charity.

With a renewed spring in your step, this is your last chance to shop. From longyi (local sarong) and old books, to gold leaves and local paintings, you’ll have souvenirs for all before heading to the airport for your departure flight.