DESCRIPTION:

Travel to Burma to explore remote villages, discover archaeological sites, meet seldom- visited tribal peoples, and wander among pagodas, shrines, and traditional markets. Here, the Asia of old has endured practically untouched by modern influences. Yet now, the gentle, gracious people of this beautiful Buddhist nation reflect a new sense of hope that freedom, openness, and engagement with the world can prevail. This is an ideal time to visit Burma (Myanmar). While there is no denying that the country is attracting more visitors than ever and is poised for momentous change, there are exquisite temples, pagodas and archaeological sites that still remain less-known – at least for now.

 

The must-see highlights include old Yangon (Rangoon) and the revered golden Schwedagon Pagoda; a journey to the vast and ancient 12th-century Bagan, known as “the city of four million pagodas”; and an exploration by longtail boats of spectacular Inle Lake, home to the famous Intha fishermen, floating gardens, villages, weavers, markets, blacksmiths, and boat-makers. We visit temples, markets, artisans, and historic sites. These sites are included on most trips to Burma for good reason!

 

However, this unusual trip journeys beyond ‘just the highlights’ into new territories, literally. With so much of this country remote and closed off for many years, there still remain pockets of humanity in a type of splendid seclusion, unprecedented in Southeast Asia. This is an opportunity to venture into these lesser-known areas that the government has just opened to travelers – including traditional villages and an archaeological site accessible only by boat, neither of which were possible just a few years ago. For travelers interested in seeing some of the highlights and also reaping the rewards of off the beaten path travel, this trip is for you.

 

There are several customized features of this trip, not typically found on other trips to Burma. In the former British hill station of Kalaw, experience the Green Hill Valley Elephant Project, which focuses on protecting nature, elephants, and traditions of the local people. Travel overland to see Mt. Popa, an extinct volcano rising nearly 5,000 feet above sea level and an important pilgrimage site. In remarkable Loikaw, off-limits to tourism as recently as 2011 (and experienced by very few visitors), the Kayah tribe wears distinctive lacquer coils on their legs, making bending them impossible. Nearby, Paduang tribal women encase their necks in layers of brass rings, which give them the appearance of long necks. Discover Mrauk U, a remote and untouched archaeological treasure trove accessible only by boat, and Sin Ke, a Chin tribe village, where the women tattoo their faces in an ancient tradition that is being abandoned by the younger generation.

 

This is a unique opportunity in time to see a Burma that is both little changed and yet open to change, to talk with locals whose lives have been recently changed by a boost in tourism and others who rarely see foreigners.

 

CONSIDER:

There is a possibility of traveling overland from Thailand to Burma for those seeking even more adventure! Also the trip can be cut shorter while still visiting some new territories.

 

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS & ADD-ONS:

Please inquire.