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Myanmar Beyond the Surface With Strand Cruise

Mandalay – Mingun – Ava – Bagan – Popa – Yangon – Ngapali Beach – Yangon
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Overview

Overview

Myanmar Beyond the Surface With Strand Cruise – 12 Days
Start in Mandalay – the fascinating royal city of Burma, this extraordinary journey will lead you through the very best of the country. Step back to the oldest teak bridge in the world, linger at the sacred temples and delve into the glorious history of a long-lasting Buddhist culture. Enjoy some of the finest breakfasts in the breathtaking scenery along the beautiful Irrawaddy River, listen to the call of Mother Nature and immerse into the cool water at Ngapali Beach. Let’s go beyond the surface and be mesmerized by the charm of Myanmar – the land of the golden pagodas.

Highlights

  • Be impressed by the striking pagodas of Yangon: Shwedagon and Chauk Htat Gyi Pagodas.
  • Explore the most outstanding temples among over 3000 monuments in Bagan.
  • Indulge in the unworldly beauty of the sunset in each sightseeing day.
  • Enjoy an exhilarating beach holiday at Ngapali Beach – the gem of Southeast Asia
  • Discover the cultural capital of Mandalay and its major heritage sites

Tour Itinerary

Mingalabar! Welcome to Mandalay, the cultural center of Myanmar! Today, meet your guide at the airport and then transfer to the hotel for check-in. Overnight in Mandalay.

Meal: n/a

Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay.

After breakfast at the hotel, start the day with a trip to the serene Royal Lake for a short morning visit. Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and breathe the fresh air surrounding the lake. Afterward, take a scenic drive to Amarapura where we visit the appealing U Bein Bridge – the oldest and longest teak bridge in the world. It has been passed through 200 years and become one of the best places in Myanmar to gaze out at the daily life of Burmese people. Take a boat cruising on the lake, you will capture the best view of the bridge and people crossing the bridge. Next up, we come to Manhamuni Pagoda and the teak-carved monastery of Shwe Inn Bin which is also a great meditation site in Mandalay’s heart.

At mid-day, transfer to the jetty where we embark on the Strand Ship. The crew will welcome you on board with a delicious buffet lunch of Mediterranean dishes. After having lunch, the ship arrives at Mingun, a small charming village where we visit the largest yet unfinished Mingun pagoda by tuk-tuk. This is also where you will have a chance to witness Mingun Bell – the world’s second-largest ringing bell.

Later on, travel to Hsinbyume Pagoda, the super marvelous white-washed temple built in 1816 by King Bagyidaw in honor of Queen Hsinbyume, who unfortunately lost her life in childbirth. Before sunset, return to the ship and sail along the river. Relax on the sundeck and watch the gorgeous sunset with the signature cocktails of the Strand Hotel.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accommodation: Overnight on the Strand Cruise.

This morning, your guide will take you to the ancient capital of the Burmese kingdom of Ava. On arrival, get on a horse cart to slowly capture the laid-back ambiance of the town. In the past, Ava used to be a renowned city but then devastated by war and natural disasters. To date, what we see is the ruins of its former glory. Stop at Yadana Shemee, Bopaya Monastery, and the brick monastery.

After that, return to the Strand Cruise and have lunch served in the Asian family style of the sundeck while the ship keeps sailing towards Bagan.
This afternoon, enjoy your leisure time onboard. Watch interesting traditional performances by local artists and entertainers, then finally a sunset cocktail.
This evening we stay the night near a remote section of the river. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner in the wild nature.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight on Strand Cruise.

In the morning, we reach Bagan and begin our Bagan Heritage Trail. The place is famous for the buildings’ astounding architecture and the designs of Burmese temples. We first visit Ananda Temple, one of the most revered temples in Myanmar. Then we move to Shwezigon Pagoda, the stunning attraction famous for its fascinating gold-leaf decorations.

After lunch on board, we continue our Bagan trail with a trip to the incredible temple of Shwesandaw, the elegant Sulamani and Gubyaukgyi Temple.
Later on, return to the board and enjoy the sunset from the sundeck. This evening, enjoy your final farewell French dinner in the restaurant.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight on Cruise

Rise before dawn this morning to capture the lovely sunrise of Bagan from the sundeck. Then, enjoy your final breakfast on board and disembark from the Strand Cruise to transfer to the hotel in Bagan. Let’s spend the whole day to discover the treasure of Bagan hidden behind magnificent temples. Head to Kyanzittha Umin, a tunnel with an interesting feature of exotic paintings. From here, proceed to Htilominlo Temple, an impressive 46-meter-tall sanctuary that is one of the largest monuments on the plains of Bagan.

Following your afternoon sightseeing with a visit to Dhammayangyi, the largest temple on the plains of Bagan. Our next stop is Nanpaya Temple, which follows the Mon-style architecture noted for its intricated stone carvings. Regarded by legend as the residence of King Manuha.

Meal: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

The morning of day 6 is one of the most special days of your trip. Wake up early in the morning to take a hot balloon ride over Bagan (optional, on your own budget, required to book in advance). Be amazed by the incredible view of over 3000 ancient temples and ruins scattered on the plain. With the gentle Irrawaddy River to the west and the mountains to the east, the balloon ride will be your flight of a lifetime.

After a 45-minute ride over the morning ride, we will then have a small party to welcome you back with sparkling wine and fresh fruits.
As we return to the hotel, have breakfast, and then take a drive to Mt Popa, an extinct volcano with a spectacular view from 398 feet above sea level. Hike up to 777 steps to reach the top and learn more about the Nat worship in the Taung Kalat Monastery. Today overnight in Popa.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Popa.

This morning, say goodbye to Bagan to board a domestic flight to Yangon. On arrival, take a drive through the downtown city to explore the fabulous mix of architecture and sites. The street of Yangon is filled with many historical buildings which have faded somehow through time. We first visit Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda, home to a 70-meter-long reclining Buddha image. The feet of the statue carved with many traditional symbols are where people gather to pay homage.

Leaving the pagoda, we transfer to Karaweik Hall, an impressive royal floating barge located on the beautiful Kandawgyi Lake.
Highlight your city tour with a visit to Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the greatest Buddha monuments in the world. As the sun immerses everything in golden light, take a stroll around the pagoda land to observe local pilgrims and monks offering their devotions.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

After breakfast, say goodbye to Yangon and take a flight to Ngapali Beach via Thandwe airport. Well-known as the gem of Asia, Ngapali will enchant you with charming fishing villages and coconut trees. Overnight in Ngapali

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Ngapali.

Day at leisure on the beach. You can lie on the white sand beach for sunbathing, swimming, or stroll along the white sand beach to touch the light breeze and enjoy the fragrance of the ocean. You can also get on a bike and cycle to the nearby village to explore the daily life of the local people.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Ngapali

Enjoy your own free time on the beach.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Ngapali

After breakfast, we take a flight back to Yangon. On arrival, enjoy a visit to Bogygoke Aungsan Market (Scott Market), the sprawling 75-year-old market. This is where you will find a whole variety of interesting Burmese souvenirs, from lacquerware to jewelry. If you want to purchase some unique items, bargain at the stores to fully experience the Burmese market atmosphere.

Next up, drive through the city and observe the influences of other cultures in the region. Stop at the lovely St Mary Cathedral, the 2500-year-old Sule Pagoda, and Rangoon Synagogue where you will have an opportunity to meet with the Trustee to learn the Jewish Life in the Pagoda Land. Finally, visit Little India and Chinatown to soak up the bustling atmosphere and stop to greet the vendors and learn about the local wares.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

After breakfast, the day is at leisure until the driver comes to pick you up to transfer to the airport for an international flight. Trip ends. Thank you for traveling with us!

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: n/a.

Important Note*

  • PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE
  • The itinerary can be customized basing on your interests (you can extend your stay at each location, add/remove activities)

Price & Inclusion

Hotel category Private Tour
(US$/person)
2 – 4 pax 5-8 pax 9+ pax
3* Hotels US$ US$ US$
4* Hotels US$ US$ US$
5* Hotels US$ US$ US$
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Note*:

  • The price would vary depending on the group size, grade of hotel. Please contact us or book the tour for price in details.
  • Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Booking Policy

Price Includes

  • 9 Nights’ Accommodation with daily breakfast as per detail itinerary
  • 3 Nights’ the Strand river cruise (State Suite) twin/double sharing
  • 3 Domestic Flight ticket: Bagan – Yangon – Ngapali – Yangon
  • Balloon Over Bagan (Classic)
  • All transfer and sightseeing by private air-conditioned car as per the itinerary mentioned
  • All concerned entrance fee and zone fees
  • Experienced English speaking local tour guide in each city (except for in Ngapali)
  • Meals in the itinerary with authentic local Burmese food (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).

Price excludes

  • Visa to Myanmar
  • Compulsory dinners for New Year Eve & Christmas Eve
  • Not mentioned Meals & Drinks
  • Other personal expenses.
  • Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Personal travel insurance

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellation received 60 days or more before arrival date: 25% of total rate
  • Cancellation received from 30 days to 59 days prior arrival date: 35% of total rate
  • Cancellation received from 15 days to 29 days prior arrival date: 75% of total rate
  • Cancellation received less than 14 days prior arrival date or No show: 100% of total rate

Children Policy

  • For infant (<02 years old): FOC
  • 02 – 10 years old without bed: 35% adult rate
  • 02 – 10 years old with extra bed: 75% adult rate
  • 02 – 10 years old in twin share: 90% adult rate
  • from 11 years old: 100% adult rate

Note*: The rate for children applicable for one child sharing a twin or double room with two adults

Customer Reviews

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5 star ratingAncient Capitals A meticulously planned exploration of Myanmar's most iconic cities. Bagan's ancient temples was fascinating. We appreciated the early morning start for Bagan sunrise. It's so impressive. Aung was our guide in Bagan and we realy loved him. He was knowledgeable,... read more
Obed Pennsylvania Avatar
Obed Pennsylvania
5 star ratingShort but Sweet Even in just a few days, E-Travel Myanmar gave us a perfect introduction to this fascinating country. The itinerary was well-balanced between cultural sites and local experiences. Our guide's flexibility allowed us to explore off-the-beaten-path temples and markets. Visits to... read more
Niko D Avatar
Niko D
5 star rating10 days Yangon - Bagan - Inle lake Adventure Myanmar is an amazing country. It's so sad seeing that it's not safe travelling through the country now. But we had a great tour. We appreciated the private guides' deep knowledge of Buddhist architecture and symbolism. The sunset view of... read more
Filippo C Avatar
Filippo C
5 star ratingFive days of pure Myanmar magic We had a bussiness trip in Myanmar and spent 5 days to explore Yangon and Bagan. Perfect for time-conscious travelers! This 5-day whirlwind tour hit all the right notes. Our guide made sure we experienced the best of Yangon and... read more
Randie Avatar
Randie
5 star ratingMyanmar's hidden treasures E-Travel Myanmar crafted an incredible journey through this magical country! From the golden splendor of Shwedagon Pagoda to the serene Inle Lake, every moment was spectacular. The local guides shared fascinating insights about Buddhist culture and traditional lifestyles. We particularly... read more
Rudies Avatar
Rudies
5 star ratingOur gateway to authentic burmese experiences We can't praise Soe Soe @ E-Travel Myanmar enough for her authentic experiences and in-depth destination knowledge. She went above and beyond to craft a personalized itinerary that perfectly suited our interests as a couple and recommended us what to... read more
Bailey Avatar
Bailey
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Our Suggested Hotels in Myanmar

Cities 3* Hotels 4* hotels 5* Hotels
Yangon Grand United Hotel SuleShangri-la Hotel The Governor's Residence
Bagan Floral Breeze Hotel Bagan Thande Hotel Aureum Palace Hotel
Mandalay ShweIngyinn Hotel Mandalay HillResort Mandalay HillResort
Kalaw Hill Top Villa Hotel Royal Kalaw Hills Resort Royal Kalaw Hills Resort
Inle Lake Amazing Nyaungshwe Pristine Lotus Inle Resort Aureum Palace Hotel
Ngapali Pleasant View Resort Jade Marina Resort& Spa SandowayResort

Note*:

  • Depending on your budget, you can choose a suitable hotel category.

  • Early checking/late checkout are not included and you can change the to any other hotels  and room type if required. Additional charge/discount will be made accordingly.

  • The list of hotels are used for our all tour itineraries in Myanmar.

  • Different hotels might be selected depending on your request.

  • Our tour price includes the ROH room at the hotel. If any special request, please let us know in advance. Surcharge is applied for higher room type.

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