Introduction to Myanmar (Burma)
Myanmar’s ancient temples, golden beaches and smiling faces offer a fascinating and ultimately rewarding journey of discovery through one of
South East Asia’s most enigmatic and least visited countries. From the awe-inspiring temples of Bagan to Mandalay’s fabled history, Myanmar has
countless options for the visitor. Myanmar’s beaches are to date, largely undiscovered, however there are some excellent properties. The beautiful,
unspoilt, white sandy beach at Ngapali is situated on the western coast and reached by a short flight from either Yangon, Bagan or Inle Lake.
Instructions
Listed below are some of the options you can choose for a Tailor Made Holiday to Myanmar (Burma)
To make an enquiry, select the options that interest you, and then click 'continue' to tell us more about what you would like to do
The following options are available as part of Bales Tailor made Holidays:
Places to see and things to do ― Tailor Made Luxury Holidays to Myanmar (Burma)
BALLOONS OVER BAGAN
BALLOONS OVER BAGAN
Visitors to Myanmar can now view what Marco
Polo described as 'one of the finest sights in the
world' from the unique and enchanting
platform of a hot air balloon basket. By taking a
hot air balloon flight you will enjoy a unique
opportunity to see the ancient temples of
Bagan in a way seldom seen before.Your flight
will take place either early in the morning or an
hour or so before sunset. Light winds and stable
weather conditions are needed, the speed of
the balloon and the length of the flight are
governed by the strength and velocity of the
wind. The whole experience will last about 21/2
hours, of which about 45 minutes are spent in
the air.On landing you will be met by the ground
crew who will pack the balloon up whilst you
enjoy a glass or two of celebratory champagne.Select this tailor made option
BURMA OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
BURMA OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
In addition to the well known sightseeing, there
are several lesser known places worth exploring.
The Golden Rock Pagoda near Kyaikhtiyo is
one example, and can be visited on a full day
excursion from Yangon. Another lesser-visited
part of Myanmar is Moulmein, a picturesque old
colonial town and was once an important teak
port. Sightseeing includes a visit to the
Kyaikthanlan Pagoda, the city’s tallest and
most visible pagoda, and to the 100 year old
Seindone Mibaya Kyaung monastery. From
Moulmein you can also visit Setse Beach, a
seaside resort famous for its Yela Pagoda
perched over the sea, and Thanbyuzayat, the
location of the cemetery for allied prisoners of
war who died while building the infamous
‘Death Railway’ in World war II.Select this tailor made option
INLE LAKE
INLE LAKE
Inle Lake is home to the extraordinary
‘leg-rowing’ fishermen who have
developed an original, eccentric way
of rowing with one leg, leaving their
hands free to drop their tall conical nets
over passing fish. The lake is extremely
beautiful, surrounded by mountains
inhabited by colourful hill tribes and
after a fascinating few days visiting
temples and towns, Inle Lake can offer
relaxation following a busy itinerary.Select this tailor made option
IRRAWADDY RIVER CRUISING
IRRAWADDY RIVER CRUISING
The waters of the fertile Irrawaddy basin
flow through some of Myanmar’s most
spectacular scenery, a landscape of
wooded hills and ancient temples,
where life continues amongst the lush
rice paddies and traditional fishing
villages much as it has for many
generations. Our sales team are happy
to discuss the various options for
spending time on the river ranging from
a 1 night to a relaxing 7-night cruiseSelect this tailor made option
THE GOLDEN ROCK PAGODA
THE GOLDEN ROCK PAGODA
The Golden Rock Pagoda at Kyaikhtiyo is one of Myanmar’s most ancient
and celebrated pilgrimage sites. Precariously perched on a rocky outcrop
of the Eastern Yoma Mountains, this giant golden boulder is said to represent the
head of Buddha and is believed to have been constructed during his lifetime some
2,400 years ago. It supports the 6-metre high pagoda, believed to contain a hair of
Guatama Buddha himself. Located some 160 kilometres from Yangon, the country’s
capital, the Pagoda attracts a stream of pilgrims and worshippers to its lofty heights
from October to March and during the celebration of the full moon of Tabaung,
this incredible structure is bathed in the glow of some 90,000 candles. The site is
accessed from the town of Kyaikhtiyo from where a steep climb on foot along a
paved path is required before reaching the base of the pagoda.Select this tailor made option
The Road to Mandalay
The Road to Mandalay
With the style and comfort for which the Orient-Express company is famous, the Road to Mandalay cruise ship is the perfect way to explore the wonders of Burma. The ship features 66 air-conditioned and facilities on board include a Restaurant, Piano Bar, Boutique, small Library and a spacious Lounge, where local entertainment and cultural lectures take place during the cruise.Select this tailor made option
The Shwe Dagon Pagoda
The Shwe Dagon Pagoda
..."Then a golden mystery upheaved itself on the horizon - a beautiful, winking wonder that blazed in the sun...". This was Rudyard Kipling's first view of the magnificent Shwe Dagon Pagoda, which dominates the Yangon skyline and has become a symbol of Burma. The central spire is reputed to contain more gold than is held in the vaults of the Bank of England. The atmosphere of this ancient site at sunset never fails to enchant.Select this tailor made option
Ngapali Beach Extension
Ngapali Beach Extension
Every one knows the famous resorts of Thailand and Malaysia, but few will have heard of this attractive Burmese hideaway on the Bay of Bengal. The perfect place for relaxation, the Sandaway Resort nestles amongst 300 coconut palms on a pristine beach. Accommodation consists of 18 beachfront and sea view villas and 30 individual split-level bungalows, all designed and furnished in traditional Burmese style.Select this tailor made option
Places to stay ― Tailor Made Luxury Holidays to Myanmar (Burma)
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BAYVIEW RESORT NGAPALI BEACH
BAYVIEW RESORT NGAPALI BEACH
Overlooking the Bay of Bengal and the
unspoilt charms of Ngapali Beach, this
wonderful resort offers spacious elegance and
traditional Myanmar design, amidst the tranquil
beauty of the country’s pristine Rakhine coast.
The resort’s 33 comfortable deluxe rooms feature
modern styling and traditional influences and all
come with a spacious terrace. A wide selection of
delicious Thai and Burmese cuisine and fine wines
complement the service, whilst a range of water
and land-based activities offer opportunities to do
as little, or as much as you like.Select this tailor made option
INLE LAKE SHAN STATES
INLE LAKE SHAN STATES
Inle Lake is home to the extraordinary ‘legrowing’
fishermen,who have developed an
original, eccentric way of rowing with one leg,
leaving their hands free to drop their tall
conical nets over passing fish. There are
attractions to see all around the lake, such as
the Indian Temple Complex on the western
shore, the weaving village at Inpawkhone, and
the Nga Phe Kyaung monastery. For your
accommodation we recommend the Inle
Princess Resort nestling on the eastern shore of
the lake about 20 minutes boat ride from the
town of Nyaung Shwe. The Resort offers guests a
secluded retreat with 25 individual cottages,
each built in the traditional style by local
craftsmen using local wood and bamboo.Select this tailor made option
INLE PRINCESS RESORT INLE LAKE
INLE PRINCESS RESORT INLE LAKE
Nestling between the tranquil waters of Inle
Lake and a panorama of misty blue
mountains, this stunning resort evokes the cultural
traditions of the Shan, combining rustic charm with
luxurious comfort. Its 46 wooden chalets are built on
stilts amongst the reeds, offering an airy aspect, with
spectacular views across the lake and gardens, en
suite bathrooms, air-conditioning and a full range of
modern amenities. The resort also serves up a
wonderful choice of local and international cuisine,
with an option to eat out amidst the relaxing
surroundings of its idyllic gardens.Select this tailor made option
PANDAW 1947
PANDAW 1947
Originally built after the Second World War to serve
the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, this unique vessel
has been extensively renovated into 16 en suite
cabins to offer a remarkable concept in boutique
cruising. Its 3 decks feature a stylish lounge and
dining room, a sundeck and solarium and an
exquisite range of specially designed furnishings and
handcrafted ornaments that provides comfortable
and elegant river journeys deep into the heart of
Myanmar’s rich and fertile landscapes. We are also
pleased to offer the newly launched Paukan 2007,
sister ship to the Pandaw.Select this tailor made option
R.V. PANDAW 1947 IRRAWADDY
R.V. PANDAW 1947 IRRAWADDY
The R.V. Pandaw 1947 was built in Scotland and has been
comfortably converted to accommodate 32 passengers in
16 deluxe air-conditioned cabins with ensuite bathrooms.All
cabins are outward facing and guests can enjoy the river view
sitting on the promenade in front of their cabins. The décor of
the ship is "East meets West” style; furniture is made from
Burmese teak and rattan, specially designed for the ship and
incorporating handcrafted Burmese statues, paintings,
lacquerware and pottery.Select this tailor made option
SANDOWAY RESORT NGAPALI BEACH
SANDOWAY RESORT NGAPALI BEACH
Myanmar has to date not built up a resort
culture, but there are some excellent small
properties that will provide you with a
relaxing beach stay We recommend the
Sandoway Resort, nestled amongst 300
coconut palms on the pristine beach
frontage of Ngapali Beach on the Bay of
Bengal. Accommodation consists of 48
villas and cottages all designed and
furnished in traditional Burmese style. All
rooms have private attached bathrooms.
There is a coffee shop and a restaurant
Chinese, European and traditional
Burmese cuisine. Leisure facilities include
a swimming pool and a spa. Fishing, boat
trips, snorkelling and windsurfing are
available.Select this tailor made option
THE GOVENOR’S RESIDENCE YANGON
THE GOVENOR’S RESIDENCE YANGON
Spectacular and stylish, the imposing grandeur
of this restored Burmese mansion house is the
perfect setting from which to explore the delights of
Rangoon’s former glories. Set within a lotus garden
in the embassy district of Yangon, the Governor’s
Residence is ideally located for exploring the city,
and its 49 teak furnished Pansea rooms offer luxury
and an enviable range of modern amenities,
including large free-form baths. The hotel also offers
a good range of dining experiences, as well as
cookery classes, a beautiful free-form pool and
revitalising massage facilities.Select this tailor made option
THE STRAND YANGON
THE STRAND YANGON
Built at the turn of the 20th century and filled with
private art and antiques, this elegant hotel perfectly
captures the opulence and splendour of Yangon’s
splendid bygone heyday. A national landmark, its
Victorian elegance has been recently restored to
reflect the grace of colonial grandeur. Its 32
spacious and beautifully appointed suites offering
teak floors, luxurious bathrooms, high ceilings and
butler service. The hotel itself boasts a bar and
an extensive range of dining facilities, affording a
choice of excellent Asian and European cuisine.
Facilities include a boutique and a spa.Select this tailor made option
Suggested itineraries ― Tailor Made Luxury Holidays to Myanmar (Burma)
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MYSTICAL MYANMAR
MYSTICAL MYANMAR
MYSTICAL MYANMAR
Experience the marvellous ancient monuments, charming peoples, dramatic scenery and colonial nostalgia of Burma (now Myanmar). This itinerary provides a comprehensive journey through this fascinating country
Yangon (2 nights), Mandalay (3 nights), Ayeyarwady River Cruise (1 night), Bagan (3 nights), Inle Lake (2 nights) and (Yangon 1 night)
All flights as shown in economy class
First class accommodation throughout based on two people sharing a twin room
Meals as outlined below B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Private car and driver on all road transfers shown
Private sightseeing as detailed with local English speaking Guides including entrance fees, except on board the Road to Mandalay cruise when sightseeing is on a group basis
UK airport and ticket taxes
Departures on Friday from October to March
Choice of optional extensions
Day 1 Friday
Evening departure from London Heathrow on Thai Airways overnight flight to Doha.
Day 2 Saturday
Arrive in Doha and connect with the onward Qatar Airways flight to Yangon arriving in the late afternoon. On arrival you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to the Governor’s Residence (formerly the Pansea Hotel) for two nights.
Day 3 Sunday
Morning at leisure. In the late afternoon, visit the Sule Pagoda and the surrounding markets in the old colonial centre of Rangoon. Also visit the amazing Shwe Dagon Pagoda, reputed to contain more gold than is held in the vaults of the Bank of England. The atmosphere of this ancient site at sunset never fails to enchant. (B)
Day 4 Monday
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Mandalay (exact flight details to be advised), capital of Upper Burma. Transfer to the Sedona Hotel for three nights. (B)
Day 5 Tuesday
Morning excursion to Mingun by boat to visit the famous Mingun Bell claimed as the largest uncracked bell in the world. Also visit the unfinished pagoda, one of the world's largest and built by King Bodaw Paya. After a break for lunch visit Mandalay Royal Palace Moat, Shwenandaw (Golden Palace) Monastery, Atumashi Pagoda, Kuthodaw Pagoda and Kyauktawgyi Pagoda. The day will end with sunset at Mandalay Hill. (B)
Day 6 Wednesday
Today visit the ancient cities of Amarapura, Ava and Sagaing. Firstly visit Mahagandayone monastery then proceed to Ava for a tour by pony cart then proceed to Sagaing Hills and Ywataung Village - known for its silver craftsmen. (B)
Day 7 Thursday
This morning you will be transferred to embark on the Pandaw 1947 in time for lunch. Cruising commences soon after embarkation and in the afternoon you’ll visit a typical river village to see how the community live and support themselves. Moor overnight. One night in an Upper Deck cabin. (B,L,D)
Day 8 Friday
Cruising continues in the early morning, proceeding downriver to Bagan. Later in the morning after breakfast, disembark near Wet-kyi-Inn village north of old Bagan and make your own way to the Thiripyitsaya Sakura Hotel for three nights. Bagan is one of the most impressive archaeological sites of Asia. More than 2,000 temples and pagodas dot the dry plain beside the Irrawaddy, some dating from the 11th century. Spend the afternoon at leisure. (B)
Day 9 Saturday
Early morning visit to Nyaung Oo market prior to returning to the Pagodas and Temples of Bagan to include Shwezigon, Htilominlo (one of the largest temples in Bagan and noted for its fine plaster carvings) the Khay Min Ga, Gawdawpalin, Seinnyet Nyima Ahma and Wetkyi. Sunset will be viewed from Bupaya, situated on the very famous Ayeyarwaddy riverbank. (B)
Day 10 Sunday
Further sightseeing to include Nagayone, Apeyadana, Manuha, Nanpaya, Mingalazedhi, Myingaba, Gubyauk-kyi and Someingyi Monastery. Afternoon tour of Bagan to include various temples such as Shwesandaw, Shinpin Thalyaung, Dhammayangyi, Ananda and Thatbyinnyu. (B)
Day 11 Monday
Transfer to Bagan airport for the flight to Heho and transfer to Nyaung Shwe Jetty and on by boat to the Inle Princess Resort for a stay of two nights. (B)
Day 12 Tuesday
Full day sightseeing on the lake to include a visit to Indian Temple Complex situated at the western shore of Inle lake. After a break for lunch continue sightseeing with a visit to the weaving village at Inpawkhone, the floating gardens and the Nga Phe Kyaung monastery with its famous jumping cats. (B)
Day 13 Wednesday
Transfer back to Heho airport for the flight to Yangon. Overnight at the Governor’s Residence. (B)
Day 14 Thursday
Morning departure on Qatar Airways via Doha to London Heathrow, arriving early this evening. (B)Select this tailor made option
The Road to Mandalay
The Road to Mandalay
ROAD TO MANDALAY
Experience the marvellous ancient monuments, charming peoples, dramatic scenery and colonial nostalgia of Burma (now Myanmar). A journey along the Ayeyarwady River is a voyage of a lifetime. From this mighty river, which runs the length of the country, treasures can be admired which have for so long been hidden from the world’s gaze.
All flights as shown in economy class
First class accommodation throughout based on two people sharing a twin room
Breakfast daily and all meals included on board the Road to Mandalay cruise
Private Car & driver on all road transfers shown
Private sightseeing as detailed with local English speaking Guides including entrance fees, except on board the Road to Mandalay cruise when sightseeing is on a group basis
UK airport taxes
Departures on Wednesday from September to April
Day 1 Wednesday
Midday flight from London Heathrow by Thai International via Bangkok to Yangon.
Day 2 Thursday
Arrive in the morning and transfer to the Pansea Hotel for 2 nights. In the late afternoon, visit the amazing Shwe Dagon Pagoda, reputed to contain more gold than is held in the vaults of the Bank of England. The atmosphere of this ancient site at sunset never fails to enchant.
Day 3 Friday
Morning visit to the Sule Pagoda and the surrounding markets in the old colonial centre of Rangoon. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 4 Saturday
After a morning flight from Yangon to Bagan board the Road To Mandalay berthed on the Ayeyarwady River (Superior B Deck Cabin) for your 4 night cruise. After lunch on board visit some of Bagan’s more significant pagodas - Ananda Pagoda, considered to be the masterpiece of Mon architecture and the Gubyaukgyi Temple home of some of Bagan’s finest frescoes of the “Jataka” tales. Watch the beautiful sunset at either the Mingalazedi or Shwe San Daw Pagoda. Return to the ship for dinner and local entertainment on board.
Day 5 Sunday
After breakfast there is a further tour of Bagan taking you to the highest, biggest and most important temples including the Htilominlo Temple and the Schwezigon Pagoda. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle or horse-drawn cart for a few dollars and explore this fascinating area on your own. Mid-morning the Road To Mandalay begins its cruise north towards Mandalay. After lunch relax on board and watch the fascinating river life glide by. The ship moors mid-river for the evening. Dinner and overnight on board.
Day 6 Monday
Enjoy the morning on board as the ship cruises towards Mandalay. Arrive at the quaint little village of Shwe Kyet Yet after lunch and disembark for a guided tour of Mandalay. Visit the Mahamuni Pagoda and the Shwe Nandaw Monastery. Return to the Road To Mandalay via the U Bein Bridge, a 1.2km long teak bridge. Back on board for a relaxed dinner and local entertainment.
Day 7 Tuesday
Travel by road and local river vessel to Mingun, home of the world’s largest ringing bell and the remains of the largest brick built pagoda in the world. There is plenty of river life to observe along the way – ferries, teak and bamboo rafts, paddle steamers and numerous small boats. Visit the Hsinbyume Pagoda, one of Myanmar’s prettiest pagodas and the Mingun Bell. In the afternoon visit the Sagaing Hills, crossing one of the very few rivers that span the Ayeyarwady River and enjoy fine views of the Myanmar countryside from the hills of this lovely region. Return to the ship and enjoy the remainder of your day on board.
Day 8 Wednesday
Disembark after breakfast and return by air to Yangon for an overnight at the Pansea Hotel
Day 9 Thursday
At leisure. Your room is reserved until your evening departure to the airport for the Thai Airways International flight via Bangkok to London Heathrow.
Day 10 Friday
Arrive at London Heathrow in the early morning.Select this tailor made option