Authentic Burma, at the rhythm of encounters
10 days, 9 nights
Mandalay – Bagan – Inle – Yangon
From Mandalay to Yangon, this journey immersed me in the very soul of Myanmar. Between sunrises over the sacred hills, the endless temples of Bagan, and the tranquil waters of Inle Lake, each stop revealed an intimate part of the country. I walked at the pace of the monks, cycled through villages, savored local flavors, and shared genuine moments with the people. Sunsets from a longboat, vibrant markets, and the spiritual fervor of the Shwedagon Pagoda will remain etched in my memory. Ten intense days filled with discoveries, emotions, and encounters.
Adventure
Ethical circuit
What makes this adventure in Burma unique
Mandalay, Between Hills and Traditions
Mandalay reveals its vibrant monasteries, timeless wooden bridges, and golden pagodas. Between the monks' devotion, the colorful markets, and the sunset over the hill, the city exudes spirituality and authenticity.
Bagan, the Endless Realm of Temples
Thousands of temples stretch across the horizon, bathed in the ever-changing light of day. By bicycle or hot air balloon, Bagan reveals itself through millennia of history, encounters with local villages, and unforgettable sunsets over the sacred plains.
Inle, on the Waters of Time
A world suspended on stilts, where fishermen, artisans, and floating villages perpetuate ancestral traditions. Inle Lake offers a gentle immersion, amidst floating gardens, hidden pagodas, and preserved traditions, lulled by the gentle lapping of canoes.
Yangon, the Gateway to Gold
A mosaic of eras and cultures, Yangon blends colonial quarters, bustling markets, and majestic temples. The Shwedagon Pagoda, resplendent at dusk, embodies the spiritual soul of the country and offers a luminous farewell to eternal Burma.
Mandalay
Mandalay, the last royal capital of Burma, embodies the spiritual soul of the country. Between living monasteries, golden pagodas and the mythical U Bein Bridge, the city reveals a vibrant cultural heritage, mixed with the gentle charm of its markets and sacred hills.
Day 1: Arrival in Mandalay
“We are beginning our descent into Mandalay. Please return to your seat and fasten your seatbelt,” announces the cabin crew chief. In less than thirty minutes, you will land in the heart of Myanmar’s former royal capital, a cradle of spirituality and artisanal traditions. Between vibrant monasteries, gleaming pagodas, and fragrant markets, Mandalay offers a first glimpse of authentic Asia. Depending on your flight time, we can offer you an immersion in its lively streets: a stroll at the pace of the artisans, a discovery of small temples, and your first taste of the vibrant energy of Myanmar.
- Airport pick-up and private driver to your hotel
Day 2: Mandalay - Amarapura
After breakfast, your guide will take you on a journey into everyday Burmese life. You’ll begin at Mahagandayon Monastery, where the studious lives of hundreds of monks in saffron robes resonate. Further on, the U Bein Bridge, fragile yet majestic on its teak stilts, offers a timeless setting. The day continues with visits to Bagaya Monastery, entirely carved from wood, and Mahamuni Pagoda, where the gold-covered Buddha attracts the devotion of the faithful. As dusk falls, the light gently settles on Mandalay Hill, offering an unforgettable panorama of the city and the Irrawaddy River. Dinner is at your leisure, and you’ll spend a second night in Mandalay.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
Bagan
Bagan, a mythical plain with thousands of temples, offers a journey out of time. Between bike rides, hot air balloon flights and flamboyant sunsets, every moment reveals the spiritual grandeur and timeless beauty of Burma.
Day 3: Mandalay - Mount Popa - Bagan
After breakfast, we set off for Bagan. En route, a stop at Lake Meiktila immerses you in a peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by landscapes of ever-changing colors. After lunch, the journey continues towards Mount Popa, an ancient sacred volcano, crowned by a monastery perched high in the sky. The more adventurous can climb its 777 steps for a spectacular view over the plain. In the late afternoon, we arrive in Bagan, where the silhouettes of its temples are already visible on the horizon. Dinner at your leisure and overnight stay at the hotel.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
Day 4: Bagan
Optional between November and March, the experience begins at dawn with a hot air balloon flight, offering a magical view of the temples stretching as far as the eye can see. The morning continues (or begins) at the local market, a vibrant scene of daily life, followed by a visit to the Shwezigon Pagoda and its sacred relics. You will then discover the Htilominlo and Klay Min Ga temples, famous for their frescoes and unique panoramic views. After some time to relax at the hotel, the day concludes at the Ananda Temple, Bagan’s masterpiece illuminated by the evening glow. Dinner at your leisure and overnight stay at the hotel.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
Bagan - Inle Lake
From the sacred plains of Bagan, the journey continues to Heho and the peaceful shores of Inle Lake. Villages on stilts, floating gardens and canoes gliding on the water reveal the timeless authenticity of Burma.
Day 5: Bagan
In the morning, head to a local home for a friendly cooking class, an opportunity to discover the secrets of Burmese flavors before sharing a generous lunch. In the afternoon, hop on an electric bike to explore the plains of Bagan, between majestic temples and traditional villages. At the end of the day, let yourself be carried away by a cruise on the Irrawaddy River: cocktail in hand, you’ll witness the sunset setting the temples ablaze, a suspended and unforgettable moment. Dinner at your leisure and overnight at the hotel.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
Day 6: Bagan – Heho – Lake Inle
After breakfast, fly to Heho before continuing by road through the verdant landscapes leading to Inle Lake. A stop at Shwe Yan Monastery immerses you in the peaceful atmosphere of this unique place, recognizable by its famous oval windows. At Nyaung Shwe, the ancient gateway to the lake, enjoy a cyclo ride through its lively alleyways, past local shops and scenes of daily life. Finally, board a traditional longboat that will take you to your hotel, nestled in the heart of Inle’s calm waters. Dinner at your leisure and overnight at the hotel.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
Lake Inle - Yangon
From the tranquil waters of Lake Inle to the vibrant streets of Yangon, the journey ends in Myanmar's largest city. Between its colonial heritage, bustling markets, and the golden splendor of the Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon embodies the soul of the country.
Day 7: Lake Inle
Aboard a traditional canoe, discover the unique way of life on Inle Lake: fishermen with their distinctive techniques, villages on stilts, and floating gardens. The morning continues with an immersion in a lakeside village, revealing the singular daily life of its inhabitants. After lunch on your own, head to Indein, one of the most preserved and authentic sites in the region. You will then explore the stilted monastery of Nga Phe and the sacred pagoda of Phaung Daw Oo, both important spiritual sites. The day concludes in workshops where silk is woven and the famous cheroots are rolled, a traditional craft passed down through generations. Dinner on your own and overnight at the hotel.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
Day 8: Lake Inle – Heho – Yangon
Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Heho Airport for your flight to Yangon. Upon arrival, you will receive a warm welcome and be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the afternoon relaxing, exploring the surrounding area, or strolling through the city’s lively streets. In the evening, meet your guide to admire the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda. Draped in gold and vibrant with devotion, it is illuminated at sunset, reflecting a thousand shades on its stupas and offerings. Surrounded by worshippers in prayer, you will experience a suspended, profoundly spiritual, and unforgettable moment. Dinner at your leisure and overnight at the hotel.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
Yangon
Yangon marks the final stop on your journey through Myanmar, with its colonial quarters and the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda that glows at dusk. To extend your adventure, consider a trip to the wild islands of the Mergui Archipelago or a beach break in Thailand.
Day 9: Yangon
After breakfast, immerse yourself in colonial Yangon with its period buildings and bustling avenues, before a photo stop at the Sule Pagoda in the heart of the city. The tour continues to Bogyoke Market, where stalls of handicrafts, colorful fabrics, and precious stones showcase the full range of Burmese craftsmanship. In the afternoon, head to Kyauk Htet Gyi Pagoda to admire the impressive reclining Buddha, whose serenity captivates the eye. In the evening, enjoy free time to stroll through Kandawgyi Park, on the shores of the lake, overlooking the city lights. Dinner at your leisure and overnight at the hotel.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
Day 10: End of your trip… but perhaps not the adventure
It’s time to bid farewell to the land of gold. Depending on your international flight schedule, you will be transferred to Yangon airport with assistance for check-in. To extend your trip, you can choose to visit the unspoiled Mergui Archipelago or enjoy a beach getaway in Thailand before heading home.
- Breakfast, private transportation
Interested in this travel inspiration?
We create personalized estimates based on duration, season and your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I need to take my outbound and return flight?
Arrival is in Mandalay and departure from Yangon. We can, of course, take care of booking your international return flights. Domestic flights are not included, but we can certainly arrange them for you.
What is the best time for this trip?
The best time to travel to Myanmar is from November to March, during the dry season. The weather is pleasant, with sunny days and mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the temples of Bagan, sailing on Inle Lake, or strolling through the streets of Yangon. April and mai can be very hot, while the monsoon season from June to October makes travel less comfortable.
Is it safe to travel to Burma in 2025?
Traveling to Myanmar in 2025 remains complicated due to the current situation. For now, we are not operating any tours there, but we plan to resume in 2026, as soon as conditions allow for safe and worry-free travel. Please feel free to contact us for more information and to be kept informed about the resumption of our departures.
Is it possible to change hotels in certain destinations?
Of course. Each step is customizable and it is entirely possible to adapt or replace a hotel with another address according to your wishes and criteria.
Are all forms of private transport?
Ground transfers are made in private vehicles, for optimal comfort.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for a family trip. The activities are flexible and the accommodations are suitable for children, with a pace that remains flexible.
Can I make any changes to this trip?
Absolutely. This itinerary is a customizable base: you can modify the duration, the hotels, or add excursions to create a trip that fully suits you.
Authentic Burma, at the rhythm of encounters
- That's the phrase we repeated throughout the trip. We thought we were going to discover a country, but we encountered an emotion. With Asiajet, every stop seemed carefully chosen, but the highlight will always be the hot air balloon festival in Taunggyi. Huge balloons, decorated by hand, rose slowly, some releasing fireworks. It was magical, almost sacred. We were at the heart of a rare moment, surrounded by Burmese families sharing this celebration with disarming generosity.
Alexandre & Elodie
- This trip to Myanmar with Asiajet left a deep impression on us. Mandalay, Ava, Monywa… each stop had its own charm, but two moments will remain etched in our memories. First, Bagan. Waking up before dawn, silently climbing into the gondola, and watching the sun rise over hundreds of temples… The children didn't say a word. It was pure magic. And then Salay, more discreet, more intimate. We felt like we were the only people in the world, surrounded by beauty, tranquility, and a rare, gentle welcome. This trip brought us closer to ourselves, but also to a magnificent, genuine, and still unspoiled country. Thank you to Asiajet for allowing us to discover it in a different way.
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