Family - Breathtaking Burma Itinerary

Arrive in Burma’s major city and perhaps stroll through its quiet streets enjoying the colonial heritage and golden pagoda domes

Set off on a boat journey to fully appreciate the spectacular landscape of the Yangon River. Stop by the village of Twante, renowned for its pottery, and have a go at making pots using techniques unchanged over centuries.

Fly to the mystifying temple complex considered the jewel in Burma’s crown. Overcome the breathtaking enormity of this ancient city by taking a pony and cart ride to explore Bagan’s staggering number of pagodas and temples. Enjoy the ornate decorations and the well-preserved drawings found across the site.

Visit the temple caves at this monastery to get an insight into local people’s spiritual beliefs. Visit the monastic primary school and have the chance to join in the local children’s lessons. Head for Nyaung U and learn how to make local delicacies including plum jam and pea powder paste (poneyay). After a tour of the handicraft workshops, watch the puppets come to life in a traditional marionette show.

After a flight to Heho, travel on to Kalaw and enjoy a leisurely day enjoying the simple beauty of this former colonial hill station. If the views capture the family’s imagination, perhaps even set off walking through the picturesque mountain landscape. The following day spend time and play games with the children at the Rural Development Company Orphanage. Pick up a few words in a language lesson and join in the singing and dancing.

Having stopped to admire the Buddha statues at the Pindaya Caves, reach Inle Lake. Board one of the traditional narrow flatboats and watch the fishermen’s unusual leg-rowing technique. Marvel at how life in this area is focused around the freshwater lake and meet the locals on who live, and work, in the floating villages.

Return to Yangon and enjoy a guided walking tour of the downtown area. Visit the city centre’s Karaweik Lake and admire the dazzling Karaweik building, a restaurant in the shape of former royal barge, which appears to be sailing in the middle of it. Wonder at the gold-plated splendour of Shwedagon Pagoda and watch the fading sunlight reflect off the ornate exterior as the temple comes alive with candles. A magical end to a breathtaking family holiday to Burma.