incredible indian tours · shops and market places geared for the local populace. not far is the...

INCREDIBLE INDIAN TOURS

Incredible Burma

This fabulous tour takes in the best sights of Burma including the hill tribes near Kalaw. We visit Inle Lake, Mandalay and ancient Bagan and venture south to the pilgrimage site of Kyaiktiyo (The Golden Rock), the Jurassic-like countryside around Hpa An and the decaying British colonial streets of Mawlamyine. Only now opening up to the west, Burma or Myanmar is an as yet unspoilt remnant of South East Asia with a fascinating blend of India, Thailand and China, yet with it’s very own flavour, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

Dossier Validity: 2021 - 2022

Highlights

• wonder at the leg rowing fishermen at Inle Lake • explore the charming hill station of Kalaw • delve into the host of sights in the erstwhile royal capital Mandalay • ramble through the atmospheric ruins of Bagan • take the pilgrimage to Golden Rock Pagoda • be wowed at the scenic surrounds of Hpa An • discover the melancholic beauty of Mawlamyine

• be dazzled by the Shwedagon Pagoda at Yangon

INCREDIBLE INDIAN TOURS Incredible Burma

20 days / 19 nights

2/15

www.incredibleindiatours.com

E-mail: [email protected]

Ph: +91 95490 02876

Day 1 – Yangon (arrival day)

As today is arrival day there are no arranged activities planned. It is a good day to get orientated in the sprawling city of Yangon. Your local guide will be able to suggest some walking options as well as help you visit some sites if you are feeling energetic. Perhaps visit the Sule Paya neighborhood in the centre of town where you will find shops and market places geared for the local populace. Not far is the Bogyoke Aung San market where you will find a huge range of traditional art and craftwork as well as souvenirs from all over the country. A suggestion would be to save your pennies though as much of what you will see here will be available up country at more reasonable prices. You will have some time to spend here as well when you

return at the completion of your journey. You may wish to take a look at the grand old Strand Hotel, a legacy of days gone by. Take a peek inside at the renovated charm of one of Yangon’s most distinguishable landmarks. Wonderful food is to be found all over the city with various styles of restaurants and cuisine. Ask your guide for suggestions to suite your taste and sense of adventure. In the evening there is a group meeting after which there is a welcome dinner in a local restaurant. Overnight: Summit Parkview or similar

Itinerary


Swedagon Pagoda—Yangon

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Ph: +91 95490 02876

Days 2-4 – Inle Lake

We take a short flight to Heho on the Shan plateau which is the home to the many and varied tribes of the Shan State such as the Shan, Palaung, Padaung, Pa-o, Intha and many others. We make our way down to the town of Nyaung Shwe, which is a starting point for boat trips, bike rides, canoe journeys or gentle strolls through the local produce market. A wonderfully peaceful region and gateway to the Inle Lake itself. On the morning of day 3 we head out early onto the massive expanse of Inle Lake. We will enjoy the company of many other boats heading into the daily market, and may catch a glimpse of the famous leg-rowing fishermen. Our destination depends on the location of the rotating rural market, which will provide us with fantastic visions of rural trading which hasn’t changed in centuries. Tribal people arrive from regional areas to trade, barter, load up on supplies as well as gossip in the market teahouses about the latest doings. There is a thriving silk industry on the lake, as well as silversmiths and various forms of cottage industry. We will take lunch in the shadow of Phaung Daw U pagoda, the holiest religious site in the lake region. Fascinating stories relate to the Buddhist

images ensconced inside. We will also make a stop at the floating gardens. In the evening we enjoy a sumptuous Shan banquet. There are many options to combine and maximize your time in this region. A day hike into the mountains to visit the mysterious and reclusive Pa-O people. Hire a cycle and peddle around the villages, waterways and pagoda. Check out the local markets. Go for a stroll… Overnight: Nyaung Shwe Paradise or similar


Itinerary

4/15



Ph: +91 95490 02876

Days 5-6 – Kalaw

We make our way to the cooler climes of the hill station of Kalaw riding the clunky old Taunggyi Express which winds its way through the plateau and across the Heho plain. There is an opportunity for a day trek in the local area and visit some tribal Palaung settlements. This is a moderate to challenging walk with fantastic views and a lunch taken in one of the local villages. Our guide will help us gain an understanding of local culture and customs as well as assist us as we seek to learn about each other’s world. Many of the villages face challenges such as fresh water and schooling and we will have an

opportunity to look at projects to provide aid to this area. We in turn will hopefully visit a school and have the chance to contribute in any way we can. Overnight: Kalaw Princess Hotel or siimilar


Itinerary

5/15



Ph: +91 95490 02876

Days 7-8 – Mandalay

We drive through some back roads and over the Shan plateau to the cultural capital of Burma with time to explore the nearby streets, cafes and restaurants. This evening we enjoy the fascinating "Mandalay Marionettes". This ancient art form is struggling for survival with the recent introductions of TV and video. Beautifully crafted puppets tell the stories of myth and days gone by. Time to catch up with some of the puppet masters after the show and learn more about their quest to keep this tradition alive. Mandalay has a wealth of sights to dazzle the senses. On day 8, start the day early and see a wonderful sunrise over the world’s longest teak span, U Bein Bridge. We will visit the magnificent Shwe Ein Bin Monastery and the auspicious Mahamuni Pagoda. You are then free to enjoy this fascinating city and perhaps finish up with a climb up the steps of Mandalay Hill for sunset views. Plenty of time to drink in the atmosphere of this cultural heart of the country.

Overnight: Mandalay Hill Resort or similar


Itinerary

6/15



Ph: +91 95490 02876

Day 9 - Mingun & Irrawaddy Overnight River Boat Cruise

We head off early morning to the river ferry port. A short boat ride takes us across to the ancient capital of Mingun where we will see the remnants of an attempt at the tallest pagoda ever built. We can ring the world’s largest uncracked bell and enjoy the company of one of the friendliest communities in Burma. We board our private boat in time for lunch and our overnight journey cruising along the Irrawaddy. The river life is mesmerizing as we meander past other craft transporting their goods up and down the river as well as remote village communities. Depending on the river flow and height we may be able to make a stop in one of these small communities. This is

Kipling’s “Road to Mandalay”. Drinks on the deck can be enjoyed before a wonderful dinner watching the sun go down. We moor alongside the riverbank for a peaceful night. The stars are ever present this far from civilization and you will enjoy a night to treasure. Overnight: River Boat


Itinerary

7/15



Ph: +91 95490 02876

Days 10-11 – Bagan

Arriving in to Bagan mid morning, there is time for a shower before we head out to explore some of the wonderful pagodas and ancient structures nearby our hotel. On day 11, we spend the day on horsecarts, which is a peaceful way to meander through the 40 square kilometers of countryside dotted with pagodas. Some are massive others are tiny in comparison; all offer a glimpse of a time fading fast. Our guide is an expert on the region and will unlock many of the secrets of this mysterious region.

Two days will give you a healthy taste and hopefully will inspire you to return someday. It’s difficult not to be amazed by the 1000 year old pagodas that surround you. Ancient pagodas and new Buddhist images are continually being unearthed; maybe we will be the first to view a new find. There is so much to enjoy and you may wish to hire a cycle or a vehicle to take it all in. There is an opportunity for a side trip to Mount Popa just an hour away. This mysterious area is home of the Nat spirits and provides an awesome vista of the countryside from the peak of this volcanic tower. Make sure you keep on the good side of the spirits as we still have a way to travel! Overnight: Bagan Thande Hotel or similar


Itinerary

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Ph: +91 95490 02876


Days 12-13 – Kyaiktiyo (Golden Rock Pagoda)

After a morning flight to Yangon, we have a half day’s drive through the central heart of Burma. Arriving in the afternoon at Kinpun base camp which is the access point to the famous ‘Golden Rock’ pagoda, we have time for a wander through the village meeting pilgrims who have made the trip already or will join us tomorrow on the trip up the mountain. On day 13 we ride the newly built cable-car which will deposit us a short walk from the temple. This is a very important spiritual journey for all in this country. Share in the fun and the celebration of a momentous journey with Burmese from all over the country.

After exploring the hilltop monuments and temples, we’ll enjoy a stunning sunset before driving down the hill for dinner at our charming guest house. Overnight: Golden Sunrise Hotel or similar

Itinerary

9/15



Ph: +91 95490 02876

Days 14-16 – Mawlamyine

We spend the day driving through the tropical landscape of Mon state to the old seaside town of Mawlamyine. Enroute we will enjoy the afternoon at Hpa An to visit some of the astonishing caves and Jurassic scenery around Mount Zwegabin. Day 15 will be a full day visiting old Moulmein and surrounds including Mudon and it’s astonishing reclining Buddha still under construction. We also visit a meditation centre before heading back to Mawlamyine and spending the afternoon wandering the lovely Colonial streets only recently opened up to foreigners. Sunset at Mawlamyaing Pagoda is a highlight.

On day 16 we spend the day visiting remote Ogre Island. We will see old village settlements and enjoy local Mon cuisine for lunch. Life is carried on as it has for generations here and we will get to see craftsmen at work making wooden articles, as well as see slate boards being made and even rubber band production. Overnight: Hotel Attran or similar


Itinerary

10/15



Ph: +91 95490 02876

Days 17-18 – Yangon

We depart early and drive back through southern Burma with village stops to break up the drive. We will arrive in Bago for lunch and then continue on into Yangon. You are free this afternoon to explore the city. There is the amazing reclining Shwethalyaung Buddha the second largest in the world as well as the unique glass encrusted Botataung Pagoda.

On day 18, we visit the amazing Shwedagon Pagoda which is the largest and most fabled Buddhist Paya in Burma. It is the spiritual hub of the nation and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Wander through the maze of minor temples and stroll around the main pagoda. There you will see Burmese folk from all over the nation making merit and soaking up the atmosphere of this wonderfully spiritual place. The rest of the day is free. you may also wish to top up on your shopping in Bogyoke market, stroll around the Inya Lake or catch the circle train for a bumpy but fascinating ride around the suburbs of the city. Maybe a drink at the “Old Strand” bar a taste of colonial elegance (be it a little pricey!). There is so much to do.

A farewell meal in a local restaurant will give us the opportunity to reminisce about our time in this wonderful country. A sad farewell but we take away a fantastic shared experience and an understanding of the land and its people that we could not gain without first hand contact……

Hotel: Summit Parkview or similar

Day 19 – Departure Day

There are no organized activities today. You may depart at any time.


Itinerary

11/15



Ph: +91 95490 02876

general tour information


price does not include

Visa costs Meals other than those listed Drinks, meal tips, laundry and other items of a personal nature International flights accommodation

Hotels (17 nights), Overnight luxury riverboat (1 night) optional single supplement

If you are a single traveller, you are not required to pay a single supplement as we will match you up with other travellers. If we are unable to match you up with another traveller of the same sex, we will pay your single supplement for you. Should you not wish to share accommodation at all, but would like to guarantee your own room throughout the tour a single supplement of from USD 900 will be payable.

transport

Private Vehicle, Flight, Boat, Train activities included

The following is a list of included activities on this trip. Other activities are optional and will be at your own expense. Boat trip, Lake Entrance, (Inle Lake) Day trek to villages (Kalaw) Mandalay sites Zone fee, (Mandalay) Mingun Pagoda (Mingun) Archeological Zone, Horsecart ride (Bagan) Golden Rock (Golden Rock) Reclining Buddha, Ogre Island (Mawlamyaing) Shwedagon Pagoda (Yangon)

group size

Minimum 5, maximum 10 days

19 days 18 nights starts and finishes in

Yangon price includes

Arrival and departure transfers All accommodation as specified All transportation between overnight stops and to and from included sightseeing Entrance fees for all sites listed as part of the itinerary Full time local tour guide Meals as specified Gratuities for hotel staff, guides and drivers

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Ph: +91 95490 02876

meal inclusions

18 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners meals

Traveling with Incredible Indian Tours we ensure that you will experience a vast array of the gustatory treats available in Burma. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options. This allows you to choose where, and what to eat. More often than not however we eat together as a group. Your tour guide will offer suggestions for favourite restaurants throughout the trip. money exchange As at May 2019 AUD1 = 1050 MMK CAD1 = 1100 BTN EUR1 = 1700 BTN GBP1 = 1950 BTN NZD1 = 1000 BTN USD1 = 1500 BTN There are an increasing number of ATMs in Burma, but ensure you bring adequate spending money in cash as you may not be able to withdraw from some machines with foreign cards. Only USD cash is acceptable to change in Burma. You will need fresh, clean, unfolded, untorn, unmarked notes from 2007 or later. The larger the note, the better exchange rate you will receive.

spending money

Although entrance fees to specified sites are included in the tour price, there are additional sights that you may like to visit. Some sites may levy camera and video fees. Spending money requirements will differ from one person to the next. You will need to take into consideration your spending habits when allowing for drinks, shopping, and optional activities. You can eat and drink very well on US20-25 per day. You will need to allow enough money for the following: Meals – USD400 Optional Activities – USD100 Money for drinks, shopping and incidentals. Tipping is an integral part of life in Burma and is essential to a smooth trip. To make things easier we cover tips for hotel room staff, local guides and for drivers of private transport we use. This does NOT cover restaurant tips (allow 10% on top of your restaurant bill).

physical rating

There will be plenty of walking around towns or sites, which due to the warm climate may make general sightseeing a little more strenuous. culture shock rating Conditions in Burma are not always as comfortable as in other countries. You will be exposed to some poverty and chaotic road traffic. Bargaining is a way of life in Burma, so come prepared. travel insurance

Travel Insurance is highly recommended whilst traveling to the Burma and is compulsory for any group tour with Incredible Indian Tours. participation waiver

All Incredible Indian Tours travellers are required to sign a Participation Waiver prior to or on day 1 of the trip. Please note that signing the form is a prerequisite of travelling with Incredible Indian Tours. visas

E-visas are now available for most nationalities and are valid for 28 days. To apply visit http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/newapplication.aspx health We recommend that you consult your doctor for current medical travel information about before departure. Your leader will be carrying a basic first aid kit, but we suggest you bring along your own as well as any personal medical requirements .

The following websites have up-to-date information about health requirements.

Australia https://www.travelvax.com.au/ New Zealand http://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/healthy-living/travelling USA https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ UK http://www.travelhealth.co.uk/ Canada https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/vaccines

communications

All of our hotels have Wifi, although speeds can be slow. You can purchase a local prepaid sim card (for unlocked cell phones) easily and inexpensively in Burma.



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Ph: +91 95490 02876

your tour manager and tour guide

Your tour manager is there to organise and streamline your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. We also have a full-time local tour guide in addition to your tour manager who will help us to get to know their country, introduce us to their local friends and recommend great local restaurants and experiences. responsible travel

We believe strongly in responsible travel. This includes being respectful to the local culture (ie dressing appropriately, and learning a few basic cultural do’s and don’ts), being mindful of the environment, and leaving a positive image behind. Remember we are ambassadors for our country. Bringing a few photos of your family and home with you is a great way to interact with the locals by giving them a glimpse of your world whilst you visit theirs. joining & finishing point hotel

Summit Parkview 350 Ahlone Rd, Dagon Township, Yangon Myanmar (Burma) Ph: +95 1 211 888 / 211 966 transfer/joining instructions

As you come out of immigration and customs you will be bombarded by taxi companies and drivers to get a lift with them. Some will tell you that you must take a prepaid one. Politely ignore them and look for one of our smiling friends with your name on a board. early arrival information

If you are arriving earlier than day 1, extra accommodation at the Summit Parkview is available at TBA Single/Double per night per room. Please notify us as early as possible if you require extra accommodation as this hotel can be booked up well in advance.



staying on

If you are staying on in Yangon after the tour, extra accommodation at the Summit Parkview is available at TBA Single/Double per night per room. what to take

We will be on the move a lot, so try to pack as lightly as possible. If you wish to bring gifts suggestions would be lipsticks, perfume, stationary and T-shirts. We stress that these things are for gifts for people that you may meet and share an experience with, NOT for children who are truant from school or begging. Ideally bring a backpack or a soft overnight bag with a strap. Suitcases and wheely bags may struggle as the roads and pathways can be rough and hard on luggage. Having said that we do not carry our bags for any distance. Burma is a conservative Buddhist country and we ask that you dress accordingly. Please ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered. laundry

Laundry facilities will be available in most places we will be staying at for 2 or more nights. Elsewhere you may need to do your own laundry if required. weather

The weather during our journey should be great. Daytime temperatures will be warm - in the range 22-30oc with cool to cold nights requiring layers in Nyuang Shwe and Kalaw. In Yangon and the south, the temperatures will be a little closer to tropical, so lighter clothes here will suffice. Don’t forget an umbrella, sun protection and a hat.

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Ph: +91 95490 02876



checklist

Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance (don’t forget your emergency insurance contact details), air tickets. Photocopy of above documents Day pack Health vaccinations/medication Medical/ First aid kit Money: US$ Cash only Money pouch Comfortable walking shoes Warm jumper/sweater Oral rehydration powders or salts Alarm clock and torch/flashlight Sunscreen and mosquito repellent Ear plugs can be useful if you are a light sleeper Lock for your back pack or bag Comfortable walking/hiking shoes for our day walk in Kalaw Note: Certain items such as sunscreen, mosquito repellent and tampons are not readily available in Burma We recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt to store your passport, air tickets, credit cards and cash. Avoid bringing valuable jewellery with you. Most hotels we use have safety deposit boxes. Updated on: 7th March 2020

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Ph: +91 95490 02876

incredible indian tours · shops and market places geared for the local populace. not far is the...

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