Welcome

DAY 1: YANGON ARRIVAL – CITY TOUR

Upon arrival in Yangon International Airport by morning flight, you will meet our guide transfer to the hotel. After check in the hotel and refreshment, we will start orientation tour in Yangon. First, we will visit Sule Pagoda. Well-known as the Land Mark in city centre, legend said that the Pagoda is 2,000 years old and the central Stupa is still enshrining a hair of the Buddha. Then from Pagoda, we will take the walking tour to the charming and interesting area with its old colonial architecture buildings such as City Hall, High Court, etc. This area is really reflecting the special identity of the city from old British colonial time with lots of photo opportunities for great shots of unique identity od Yangon.

Then our guide will take you for the walk in China Town, the lifelike and busy place with strong influence from Chinese community. This is very potential place for good candid shots and pictures of interesting daily life of Yangon.

In the afternoon visit Botahtaung Pagoda, which hollow type, like maize is inside decorated with glass mosaic and it means the Pagoda guarded by one Thousand vanguards. It is located by the river bank and close to Habrour, attracted by the pleasant atmosphere of the waterfront. You can visit Nathida Jetty and its surrounding to discover the daily working life of Myanmar People.

Evening great sunset at marvellousShwedagon Pagoda& its pagoda bazaar. The massive and magnificent gold-encrusted Shwedagon Pagoda (100 meter high), is one of the wonders of the world. It was built 2500 years ago and enshrined with hair relics of the Buddha and is the holy place for local people to meet devoted Buddhists at meditation and pray. This is symbol of Yangon, so you should not miss the good photos of this pagoda.

Meal: None
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 2: YANGON- BAGAN – WHOLE DAY PHOTOGRAPH IN BAGAN

In the early morning, transfer to airport and leave for Bagan – the place also known as the “City of Four Million Pagodas.” Many of the pagodas and temples are small and simple—but the number of them is staggering. Although Bagan’s centuries-old shrines, pagodas, and stupas do not actually total in the millions, there are well over 2,000 of them scattered along the remote 16-square-mile plain, flanked on one side by the Irrawaddy River. This qualifies Bagan as the largest temple city on the planet, as well as one of the most important archaeological areas in all of Asia. The majority of ruins in Bagan were constructed between the eleventh and 13th centuries, a time when Bagan was the capital of the First Burmese Empire.

Upon arrival in Bagan, transfer to ShweSandaw Pagoda for the first shots and panorama view of over thousands of mysterious pagodas in Bagan. This is one of the highest points in Bagan, so you can have the great overview of Bagan area.

After that we will take the tour to Bagan. Firstly, visit of village market in the town of Nyaung-U: a great opportunity to mingle with the locals and wander among stalls that feature locally-grown crops, rattan items, tea leaves, and colorful traditional clothing – the perfect place for candid shots. Then we make a short stop to see ShwezigonPaya, a beautiful gold-domed pagoda constructed early in the twelfth century that is believed to enshrine a bone and tooth of Gautama Buddha. After lunch in local restaurant, we will have time for resting in the hotel before continue the tour to visit Anada Temple – one of the finest in architecture and most revered temples with its four standing Bagan style Buddha images and huge carved teak doors from thousand years ago. There are different Pagodas to visit today but the will be no repetition, as they all beautiful, interesting and different. Then our guide will take you for the walk to the complex of Pagodas and Stupas in Bagan for some photo shooting there. In the late afternoon, we’ll head to a nearby jetty, where we’ll board a boat to gain a new vantage of the Irrawaddy (also called the Ayeyarwady). The people and the country’s economy depend on this natural resource, as you will undoubtedly observe by the countless number of barges, bamboo rafts, and fishing boats that ply the waters around us. From on board, we will be able to observe how everyday life plays out along the riverbanks as well as taking the great shot of sunset on the river.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 3: BAGAN PHOTOGRAPH

We will wake up early today to get to ShweSandaw Pagoda – the best location where we can have the amazing panorama views of Bagan and it’s pagodas and Stupas in the dawn. This is also the best place for taking photos of Bagan. Witnessing the morning sun illuminating the ancient temples of Bagan is an unforgettable experience.

Then we will have very pleasant walk to discover the area of Khayminga Temple for a panoramic view and visit of the beautiful complex of the Pagoda and Stupas on the beautiful site in the dawn in the great harmony with nature. After that, return to the hotel for breakfast.

Our day will continue by the visit of Dhammayangyi Temple – the widest temple in Bagan. From a distance it resembles the early step pyramids of Egypt. The sides at the base of the structure are almost 78 meters long, while the central core of the temple measures 25 meters long. There are four entrances that each contain a seated Buddha image on a pedestal, the main entrance is the Eastern one. The Western sanctum contains images of the Gautama Buddha and the future Maitreya Buddha, side by side. The temple grounds are surrounded by a wall with huge arched gates that lead to the pagoda. To prevent further deterioration the terraces of the temple are closed to the public.

After that, we will take the excursion to Mt. Popa, an extinct volcano, located 50 km south-east of Bagan and a one hour drive on the road to Mandalay. Climbing 777 steps to the summit takes about 45 minutes and you can visit the Mahagiri Shrine dedicated to the “Nats” (spirits), stupas and a picturesque complex of monasteries at the top where there is a wonderful panoramic view. On the way back to Bagan, observe the natives collecting the juices from the palm trees, palm sugar making technique as well as palm wine.

The rest of the afternoon is free at leisure for you to take your own photos in old Bagan. There will be lots of the photos opportunities that will be easily keep you busy until it get dark.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 4: BAGAN-MANDALAY

In the morning transfer to the airport for flight to Mandalay, which was founded in 1857-1860 as the capital by King Mindon and remained the capital city of the Konboung, Myanmar’s last dynasty. Upon arrival, we will take the tour in Mandalay.

We’ll explore several highlights of Mandalay, which briefly served as capital of the last Burmese kingdom in the mid-19th century. We first visit the MahamuniPaya, home to a highly venerated Buddha image, one of the most sacred in Burma. Over the centuries, devout Buddhists have been applying gold leaf to the 13-foot-high seated Buddha; that gold surface is now estimated to be about six inches thick.

We will also come to visit Jade market – the biggest market for wholesales selling Jade and precious stone in Mandalay. This is unique and very interesting market o discover.

After lunch, we will visit Shwenandawkyaung or Golden Palace Monastery – a very magnificent building beautifully carved in wood, dating back to 19thcentury. It is of great interest, not only as a fine example of a traditional Burmese wooden monastery, but also as a fragile reminder of the old Mandalay Palace that had been totally destroyed by bombs. And then visit to KuthodawPaya – the world’s largest book of 729 marble slabs inscribed the entire Tripitaka, that have been recognized by Guinness book.

Late afternoon, we will come to visit Mandalay Hill 230 meters in elevation, is the natural landmark of Mandalay, a vantage-point for a full panoramic sunset view of the city.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 5: MANDALAY – AMARAPURA – MINGUN – MANDALAY

In early morning, we take a short drive to the ancient royal capital of Amarapura. Upon our arrival, we’ll visit the world’s longest teak bridge. The U Bein footbridge stretches almost three-quarters of a mile over Thaungthaman Lake, and is heavily utilized by the local monks in maroon robes who carry alms bowls back and forth to monasteries. Constructed of more than 1,000 teak posts, the U Bein has withstood the elements for over two centuries. The best time to take good photos of the bridge is in the morning when it is not too busy and the light condition is the best. Back to your hotel for breakfast.

Later in the morning transfer to the jetty for boat trip to Mingun which is 11 km upriver from Mandalay on the western bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River. It is noted for the MingunPaya, a huge unfinished pagoda, Myatheindan Pagoda and a gigantic 90-ton bell – the largest uncracked ringing bell in the world. The 45 minute boat trip to Mingun is a very pleasant way to see the life along the Ayeyarwaddy River.

Afternoon is free at leisure for you to take photos in Mandalay on your own.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 6: MANDALAY – SAGAING – INNWA (AVA)

This morning we will drive to Sagain for sightseeing. Visit KaungHmuDaw Pagoda: built in 1636 by King Thalon to commemorate Inwa’s establishment as the royal capital of Myanmar) , visit picturesque Sagaing Hill, where hillsides are dotted with numerous pagodas and monasteries. This is perhaps the living centre of Buddhist faith in Myanmar today.

Then we will visit Soon OoPon Nya Shin Pagoda nearby was constructed in 1312, U Min ThonzehPagoda, U Min Chaukzeh Pagoda & U Min Koezeh Pagoda.

Afternoon take the sightseeing For Innwa. Firstly you take by small boat across the Ayeyearwaddy River. Start the sightseeing at MahaAungmyeBonzan Monastery (aka), Me Nu OkeKyaung: a brick and stucco monastery built by Nanmadaw Me Nu, the chief queen of Bagyidaw, of her royal about U Bok (NyaungganSayadaw) in 1822 & located on the south bank of Ayeyawaddy River and north edge of Inwa, BagayaKyaung :the largest measures 60ft in height and 9ft in circumference, and NanmyintHmyawzin (Nanmyint watchtower).

Back to Mandalay then drive to Amarapura again. Then we can observe the life of over 1000 monks at Mahagandaryon Monastery. It is not only the most reputed and well-known monastery in Myanmar but also known by all tourists from all over the world for its unique value like a person with good perfume attracts people all around without being seen. The name of the monastery means “The sense of perfume”. Late afternoon will be the great condition for good photograph with great lighting and afternoon activities of the monks in the monastery. Then we will be back to the U Bein Bridge again for the late afternoon and sunset shooting. It could be more busy in the afternoon, but lighting condition and photo taken on the lake at the sunset will be different. Drive back to Mandalay.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 7: MANDALAY – HEHO – PINDAYA – KALAW

In the morning transfer to the airport for the flight to Heho. Upon arrival to Heho, drive Pindaya sightseeing to Pindaya Caves. Then proceed to Shwe U Min Paya. This is a cluster of low stupas just below the ridge near the Pindaya Caves. On the way, we can do sightseeing to Tea plantation, seasonal fruit plantation. Driving will take one and half hours (50km). Visit to Myin Ma Hiti Cave, visit to Nee Paya at Kalaw (Bamboo Strip lacquer Buddha Image) after that visit to KalawShwe U Min Pagoda. Checking in at hotel in Kalaw. This was a popular hill station in the British days and it is still a peaceful and quiet place. At an altitude of 1320 m it is also pleasantly cool in every season. The pleasant walk to the town as well as the central market also can give you lots of photos opportunities in this charming town.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 8: KALAW – INLE LAKE

In early morning, drive from Kalaw to NyaungShwe village, the starting point of the trip into the Inle Lake, passing through breath-taking scenery in many ways, with great panoramic picturesque landscaping, Pa-O and Danu women in colorful traditional dresses and their ethnic villages. It is also famous for Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery which is elegant ancient monastery with its oval-shaped windows.

Arrive at NyaungShwe, a traditional long boat (motorized) will take you to Inle Lake, the vast, beautiful and picturesque nature lake, 900 meters above sea-level, 22 km long and 10 km across, is one of the main tourist attractions in Myanmar. The boat will take you passing through breath-taking scenery in many ways, with great panoramic picturesque landscaping. You can see the local fish men fishing on the traditional boat with typical way of rowing their boat by one leg – the most well-known image of Inle Lake, witnessing the local traffic on the lake as well as other ways of fishing by local people. Inle lake is vast area but you always can see some activities on your on your boat ride. It is ideal way for taking the photos of the lake. We will cross the lake then and visit Nga HpeKyaung – a stunning wooden Pagoda and monastery built on the stilts with beautiful selection of Buddha statues inside. From the pagoda, you also can have the great view of the floating garden – very amazing way of local people growing their vegetable on the surface of water with very well-known tomato farm. Then we continue to Nampan, a village built on stilts over the water. Here, we’ll visit workshops to learn about cheroots, popular cigars made by hand and wrapped in tree leaves, and see how Inle Lake canoes are built. We also will come to visit one of the typical families living on the house on the stilts in the village before cruising to In Paw Khone village- well-known for silk weaving workshops and the technique and creation of the fascinating design of the silk products from unique material from special silk taken from lotus stem.

After lunch in local restaurant, we will take the brief visit of PhaungDawOo Pagoda – famous for 800 years old Five Buddha statues which are enshrined in the center of the building. Millions of local people have come to pray and stick the gold leave around the Buddha statues. Images that are so laden with gold their features are unrecognizable.

The boat then will take you to visit the workshop of weaving by the Padaung tribe – very famous as long neck lady tribe. They came from their village on the other side of the lake, but you can meet, interact as well as learning about their interesting custom in this workshop.

The last place to visit in our long but interesting day on Inle Lake is Mine ThaukBrige – over one kilometer wooden bridge built by local people on the side of the lake. It is very scenic place for watching the sunset, taking photograph and mingle with local people. Coming back to the boat station across the lake again in the beautiful lighting of sunset time.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 9: INLE LAKE – HEHO – YANGON

Morning take a flight back to Yangon. Upon arrival in Yangon transfer to the hotel for check in.

We will start our tour today in Yangon by the visit of ChaukvHtatGyi, a huge reclining Buddha image – housed in a large metal – roofed shed. The feet of the Buddha wear a very readable with the 108 sacred marks. Definitely not miss this colossal image. Then we will visit Kandawgyi Park, one of the most scenic places in the city with beautiful lake, lovely wooden bridges, green and impressive vegetation. This is also can be the ideal place to mingle with local people.

You also will have time to visit Bogyoke Aung San – the central market of Yangon with interesting collection of Jade, Petrified wood and local handicraft. This is also the best place for your shopping in town.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Yangon

DAY 10: YANGON – DEPARTURE

After breakfast, free time at leisure. You can be relaxing at the hotel or discover Yangon on your own until the departure time to the airport for the flight home. End of 10-Day Myanmar Photography Tour.

Meal: Breakfast

DAY 1: MANDALAY ARRIVAL AND SUNSET AT U BEIN BRIDGE

Upon arrive you will be pick up at Mandalay airport and transferred to your hotel. On the way to the hotel visit at U Bein Bridge and after sunset take to you at Hotel.

Meal: None
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 2: MANDALAY – MINGUN – SAGAING – INWA(AVA) – PHOTOGRAPHY TOURING

This morning we will drive to the jetty for boat trip to Mingun which is 11 km upriver from Mandalay on the western bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River. It is noted for the MingunPaya, a huge unfinished pagoda, Myatheindan Pagoda and a gigantic 90-ton bell – the largest uncracked ringing bell in the world. The 45 minute boat trip to Mingun is a very pleasant way to see the life along the Ayeyarwaddy River. Afternoon drive to Sagain for sightseeing. Visit KaungHmuDaw Pagoda: built in 1636 by King Thalon to commemorate Inwa’s establishment as the royal capital of Myanmar) , visit picturesque Sagaing Hill, where hillsides are dotted with numerous pagodas and monasteries. This is perhaps the living centre of Buddhist faith in Myanmar today.

Then we will visit Soon OoPon Nya Shin Pagoda nearby was constructed in 1312, U Min Thonzeh Pagoda, U Min Chaukzeh Pagoda & U Min Koezeh Pagoda.

Afternoon take the sightseeing For Innwa. Firstly you take by small boat across the Ayeyearwaddy River. Start the sightseeing at MahaAungmyeBonzan Monastery (aka), Me Nu OkeKyaung: a brick and stucco monastery built by Nanmadaw Me Nu, the chief queen of Bagyidaw, of her royal about U Bok (NyaungganSayadaw) in 1822 & located on the south bank of Ayeyawaddy River and north edge of Inwa, BagayaKyaung :the largest measures 60ft in height and 9ft in circumference, and NanmyintHmyawzin (Nanmyint watchtower).

Back to Mandalay then drive to Amarapura again. Then we can observe the life of over 1000 monks at Mahagandaryon Monastery. It is not only the most reputed and well-known monastery in Myanmar but also known by all tourists from all over the world for its unique value like a person with good perfume attracts people all around without being seen. The name of the monastery means “The sense of perfume”. Late afternoon will be the great condition for good photograph with great lighting and afternoon activities of the monks in the monastery. Then we will be back to the U Bein Bridge again for the late afternoon and sunset shooting. It could be more busy in the afternoon, but lighting condition and photo taken on the lake at the sunset will be different. Drive back to Mandalay.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay.

DAY 3: MANDALAY – BAGAN – WHOLE DAY PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR IN BAGAN

In the early morning, transfer to airport and leave for Bagan – the place also known as the “City of Four Million Pagodas.” Many of the pagodas and temples are small and simple—but the number of them is staggering. Although Bagan’s centuries-old shrines, pagodas, and stupas do not actually total in the millions, there are well over 2,000 of them scattered along the remote 16-square-mile plain, flanked on one side by the Irrawaddy River. This qualifies Bagan as the largest temple city on the planet, as well as one of the most important archaeological areas in all of Asia. The majority of ruins in Bagan were constructed between the eleventh and 13th centuries, a time when Bagan was the capital of the First Burmese Empire.

Upon arrival in Bagan, transfer to ShweSandaw Pagoda for the first shots and panorama view of over thousands of mysterious pagodas in Bagan. This is one of the highest points in Bagan, so you can have the great overview of Bagan area.

After that we will take the tour to Bagan. Firstly, visit of village market in the town of Nyaung-U: a great opportunity to mingle with the locals and wander among stalls that feature locally-grown crops, rattan items, tea leaves, and colorful traditional clothing – the perfect place for candid shots. Then we make a short stop to see ShwezigonPaya, a beautiful gold-domed pagoda constructed early in the twelfth century that is believed to enshrine a bone and tooth of Gautama Buddha. After lunch in local restaurant, we will have time for resting in the hotel before continue the tour to visit Anada Temple – one of the finest in architecture and most revered temples with its four standing Bagan style Buddha images and huge carved teak doors from thousand years ago. There are different Pagodas to visit today but the will be no repetition, as they all beautiful, interesting and different. Then our guide will take you for the walk to the complex of Pagodas and Stupas in Bagan for some photo shooting there. In the late afternoon, we’ll head to a nearby jetty, where we’ll board a boat to gain a new vantage of the Irrawaddy (also called the Ayeyarwady). The people and the country’s economy depend on this natural resource, as you will undoubtedly observe by the countless number of barges, bamboo rafts, and fishing boats that ply the waters around us. From on board, we will be able to observe how everyday life plays out along the riverbanks as well as taking the great shot of sunset on the river.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 4: BAGAN PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR – FLIGHT BACK TO MANDALAY

We will wake up early today to enjoy sunrise time. And then we will visit temples untildeparture time to Nyaung U airport to take a flight back to Mandalay .Upon arrival in Mandalay transfer to the hotel for check in.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 5: FLY BACK HOME

After breakfast, free time at leisure. You can be relaxing at the hotel or discover Mandalay on your own until the departure time to the airport for the flight home.

Meal: Breakfast

DAY 1: YANGON ARRIVAL – YANGON CITY PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

Morning arrival in Yangon and check-in to a comfortable downtown hotel.Introductory session from Robert before an afternoon walking orientation tour of the city followed by a scenic sunset boat cruise on the Yangon River.

Photography Themes; introduction to travel photography.Street-life, architecture, sunset on the river.

Meal: Non
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 2: YANGON CITY PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

Morning departure for a fascinating and unusual train journey on the Yangon circular line. The (very) slow local train completes a loop through the suburbs and outlying villages providing an original and behind the scenes view of local life and Yangon city – a great introduction to Burma. After lunch, we will take a stroll through the picturesque Kandawgyi Lake Gardens before a sunset visit to the incredible Shwedagon Temple, Burma’s most sacred and certainly one of it is most awe inspiring sights.

Photography Themes; Local life, Markets, Shwedagon Pagoda.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 3: YANGON – MANDALAY – MANDALAY CITY PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

Morning flight to Mandalay and time to explore the nearby ancient city and former 14th to 19th century capital of Inwa(Ava). Discover the old city, temples and villages by horse and cart. Check-in to our downtown hotel and time at leisure before a sunset visit to the iconic U Bein Bridge-reputed to be the longest wooden bridge in the world.

Photography Themes; Street-life, Temples at Inwa Old City, U Bein Bridge.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 4: MORNING WORKSHOP AT MANDALAY – MINGUN PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

Morning workshop with Robert followed by an afternoon boat trip up the Irrawaddy to the spectacular site of Mingun for an opportunity for chance to put some ideas and advice into practice among the picturesque riverside ruins of the ancient city and temples.

Photography Themes: Technical advice and tips, river-life, ruined temples.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 5: MANDALAY TO BAGAN BY CRUISE

Early morning departure by boat down the Irrawaddy River to Bagan; bucolic river scenes, mountain views and a great way to arrive in the historic, ancient city. Late afternoon orientation visit to the site of the ruined 11th to 13th century capital – still containing over 2,000 chedis, stupas, pagodas scattered across a riverside plain and certainly one of the most incredible sites of South East Asia.

Photography Themes; River Life, Landscapes, Sunset at Bagan.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 6: PHOTO SHOOTING IN BAGAN

Morning dawn visit by pony and trap to the temples with a return to our hotel for late breakfast. Afterwards; visit Bagan at your leisure: with a map, hat and torch (to discover temple’s hidden stairways), roam the country lanes by bicycle, hire a pony and trap, visit the best known temples or find some hidden chedis of your own.

Photography Themes; Temples, Landscape, Village Life, Bagan, Sunrise.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 7: BAGAN – MOUNT POPA – KALAW BY PRIVATE CAR

Morning departure by road, heading eastwards to the distant Shan Plateau. Our first stop will be Mount Popa – one of the country’s most sacred sites located on the summit of an extinct volcano which rises dramatically – near vertically – from the plains below. Local style lunch in the town of Meilktila before a scenic climb up the Plateau itself to our destination, the charming little town and old hill-station of Kalaw.

Photography Themes; Landscapes, ‘on the road’, Farms and Villages, Mount Popa.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 8: PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR AT KALAW

Morning hike through the surrounding hills to visit one of the local Palaung hill-tribe villages; a scenic walk, mountain views, visit to the village and chance to meet some it’s friendly inhabitants! Afternoon return to Kalaw for a post production session from Robert.

Photography Themes; Hill-Tribe Peoples, Landscapes, Farms and Village Life, Local Markets, Post Production.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 9: MORNING PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR AT PINDAYA – TRANSFER TO NYAUNG SHWE BY PRIVATE CAR

Day trip through the picturesque countryside of the Shan Plateau taking in, firstly, one of the local farmer’s markets before heading to the town of Pindaya to visit the spectacular ShweUmin Cave temples. Lunch by the lake and a chance to check out the traditional umbrella making which Pindaya is also famous for. Afternoon transfer to Nyaungshwe gateway town to the famous Inle Lake and some free time to explore the lively market town.

Photography Themes; Landscapes of the Shan Plateau, Handicrafts, Pindaya Cave Temples.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 10: INLE LAKE PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR BY BOAT

Day boat trip around the picturesque lake including visits to: a lakeside village market, a traditional hand rolling cheroot factory, a fascinating lotus weaving project and the unusual floating gardens.

Photography Themes: Village Life, Handicrafts and Traditional Industries, Fishing and Lake Life, Landscapes.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 11: INDEIN PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR BY BOAT

Morning departure across the lake and up river to the small lakeside village of Indein from where we will hike through the picturesque landscape to visit the site of a ruined Shan city known as the ‘Shan Bagan’ where myriad ruined stupas dot the lush vegetation. Return to NyaungShwe for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.

Photography Themes: Lake Life, Local People, Local Markets, Landscapes, Ruined City of Indein.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 12: MORNING FREE AT INLE LAKE – FLY BACK TO YANGON

Free morning at Inle Lake to do your own thing: cycle to the extraordinary Red Mountain Winery, check out the local market, visit a local village by canoe or just relax in a tea shop before an afternoon return flight to Yangon.

Photography Themes: Local Markets, Street Life.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 13: MORNING WALKING TOUR – FLY BACK HOME

Morning walking tour taking in some of the street life and architecture of bustling Yangon before a late afternoon departure.

Photography Themes: Street Life, Architecture, Local People and Markets.

Meal: Breakfast

DAY 1: YANGON ARRIVAL – WAILING TOUR

Arrival in Yangon (Rangoon), and check-in to a comfortable downtown hotel close to the famous Scott Market. Time to relax before an afternoon walking tour of the city and a scenic sunset boat cruise on the Rangoon River.

Meal: Non
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 2: YANGON SIGHTSEEING

Departure for a fascinating and unusual train journey on the Yangon Circular line The (very) slow local train completes a loop through the suburbs and outlying villages providing an original and behind the scenes view of local life; a great introduction to Burma. After lunch we’ll take a stroll through picturesque Kandawgyi Lake .Take a easy day.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 3: YANGON – KYAING TONG SIGHTSEEING

Wake up early for lovely sunrise view and a quite morning stroll .Today we pay visit to Great Shwedagon before flight and have breakfast at hotel and then depart to airport Flight to Kyaing Tong upon arrive visit to Naung Tong lake , Shan Monastery watt inn with beautiful Buddha imag3e and family run Shan lacquer ware workshop.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kyaing Tong

DAY 4: KENG TONG SIGHTSEEING

Drive by road to the northern mountains to visit Arn hill-tribes, best known for their black teeth and primitive way of life. First, you will arrive in PIN TAUK VILLAGE of AKHA and LAHU tribes. The AKHA tribe constitutes the majority of population in the Kyaing Tong region. Their costumes are in vivid colors. Later, the vehicle will stop near WAN PING village where you will begin the hike for 15 minutes to Wan Pin Village. Continue to WAN LAR village, known for the bird poacher and their unique snares. From here, the path is steep and leads to a village of ARN tribe, animists and well known for their black costumes. A tranquil Arn village awaits the visitors on a hillock with a panoramic view of the serene environs. One can see the terraces of paddy fields and set against a back drop of mountain ranges. There is a shrine at the entrance of the village where the villagers customarily make a sacrifice to propitiate the deities before their hunt. Return on a foot path for 1½ hours to the vehicle amidst paddy fields and vegetations. Return to Kyaing Tong. On the way we can make a brief stop at Wan Kam, famous for its rice wine production.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Kyaing Tong

DAY 5: LOI MWE VILLAGE

After breakfast visit to Kyaing Tong BAZAAR to observe the colourful trading of Chinese merchants and of the different minority tribes from this area. Afterwards proceed to LOI MWE (appr.2hrs drive). LoiMwe which literally translated means "misty mountain" is at an altitude of over 1600 meters above sea level. It commands a magnificent view of the surrounding area and enjoys a temperate climate. Visit the old colonial governor's house and an old church. The main attraction along the way is the scenery on the ascent to LoiMwe, which passes through forests, terraced rice fields. On the way back from LoiMwe you will have several stops to visit different villages. WAN LUN SHAN VILLAGE, HO LUP AKHA VILLAGE where you can see the traditional Akha tribes with their colourful dresses; NANG CHO WA VILLAGE and PANG-Y Lahu village on the left and right side of the road.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Kyaing Tong

DAY 6: VISIT IN KYAING TONG – FLIGHT TO HEHO

After Breakfast at the Hotel, visit DHAT ZOAM DOI ancient Pagoda followed by Akhe's WAN SAI VILLAGE (different to Akha village) and Ann's o Lung village beside the road. After flight to Heho Upon arrive through the picturesque countryside of the Shan Plateau taking in, firstly, one of the local farmers’ markets before heading to the town of Pindaya to visit the spectacular ShweUmin cave temples. Lunch by the lake and a chance to check out the traditional umbrella making which Pindaya is famous for. In the afternoon we’ll continue our scenic route to NyaungShwe – gateway town to the famous Inle Lake.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Kyaing Tong

DAY 7: INLE LAKE – INDEIN BY BOAT

Morning departure across the lake and up river to the small lakeside village of Indein from where we’ll hike through the picturesque landscape to visit the site of a ruined Shan city, known as the Shan Bagan, where myriad ruined stupas dot the lush vegetation. Return to NyaungShwe for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 8: INLE LAKE – SAGAR – PHEKHON BY BOAT – LOIKAW BY CAR

Board on traditional long tailed boat and head south for Sagar village, 64 kilometers with approximately 3 hours by boat. On the way we may observe ways of life of Shan, Pa O and Intha tribes. We have lunch on the way and proceed to Phekhone through Sagar and Phekhone Lake encompassed by breathtaking and refreshing landscape along the Bilu Creek. We continue south-east to Loikaw, 39 kilometers with approximately 1½ hours by boat. If time permits enjoy panoramic and sunset view from TaungkweZeti.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Loikaw

DAY 9: LOIKAW – HTAYKHO (DAY RETURN)

After having breakfast at a hotel, we will go to Kayaw tribe, HtayKhu village. It takes about 2 hours’and 30 Minute drive by car. On the way to the village, the road is tough and steep but the landscape is fantastic and panoramic views over the Kayaw region. You can enjoy the Kayaw traditional lunch at a local home or take lunch box. Visit local houses and go around the village. In the evening, we will come back to Loikaw.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Loikaw

DAY 10: LOIKAW – PANPET (DAY RETURN)

After having breakfast at a hotel, we will go to Pan Pet ,Kayan village. In this village, you can see the long neckwomen( Kayan tribe). You can visit around the village and visit their home. The villagers are making Kayan bracelets, weaving cotton, carving wooden, weaving bamboo and other handwork. You can see these activities and study. And you can enjoy the Kayan traditional lunch at a local home. And then, we will go to Hta Nee La Leh ,Kayah village. In this village, you can see their way of life and believe. And you can visit around the village and their home. These include musicians who play traditional bamboo guitars, experts in Kayah dress, and artisans who make distinctive Kayah lacquer leg rings. In the evining, we will come back to Loikaw.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Loikaw

DAY 11: LOIKAW TO KALAW BY PRIVATE CAR

Breakfast at the hotel. Start 6 hours drive to Kalaw for onward destination. Several stops for photo shooting two night stay at Kalaw,an old British hill resort stands on the altitude of 1,315m above the sea level – also known as Pine Land .. Have the panoramic view of Kalaw; old colonial style buildings from a hillock opposite of Kalaw.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 12: KALAW – HIKE THROUGH THE HILLS

Morning hike through the surrounding hills to visit one of the local Palaung hill-tribe villages; a scenic walk, mountain views, visit to the village and chance to meet some of it’s friendly inhabitants. Afternoon return to Kalaw with time to wander around the small town, perhaps explore the market or sit in a local tea shop and watch the world go by?

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 13: KALAW – HEHO – MANDALAY

After the breakfast car ride from Kalaw to Heho for flight to Mandalay On arrival, drive to Amarapura, located 11km south of Mandalay. Amarapura had been the royal city twice in Myanmar’s monarchic time. Visit BagayaKyuang, the largest monastery in Burma. It is a huge 19th century, wooden monastery with a large population of monks. See the famous U Beinbridge, a Magnificent teakwood structure spanning Taungthaman Lake for a distance of about 1 kilometer. Built in 1849, it comprises 1060 teak posts, most of which are original. Although historic, it is still in daily use by local villagers. Proceed take a tour to the Venerable Mahamuni Pagoda including a traditional gold leaf workshop. Sightseeing tour include SHWE INBIN, one of the most outstanding monasteries in the country, SHWE NAN DAW KYAUNG or GOLDEN PALACE MONASTERY, a superb example of a traditional wooden building, KUTHODAW PAGODA known as the world’s largest book consisting of 729 marble slabs engraved with Buddhist scriptures.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 14: MANDALAY – INWA(AVA) – SAGAING SIGHTSEEING

Sunrise at UBein Bridge! It’s worth it! Quite different from the hordes of people in the evening. We may be lucky and see some monks crossing the bridge in the pink light of dawn. From there going to the local tea shop for breakfast, before leaving for Ava, where we visit this magnificent site by horse and cart. A definite stop amongst others is the BagayaKyaung which is superb wooden monastery where young monks take their lessons. We then go on to Sagaing where we visit the SetkyarThida Nunnery and the Monastic Education School, both offering great photo opportunities. Sunset photos at Sagaing hill before returning to the hotel.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 15: MANDALAY – BAGAN BY DAY CRUISE

Early morning departure by boat down the Irrawaddy River to Bagan; bucolic river scenes, mountain views and a great way to arrive in the historic, ancient city. Late afternoon orientation visit to the site of the ruined 11th to 13th century capital – still containing over 2,000 chedis, stupas, pagodas scattered across a riverside plain and certainly one of the most incredible sites of South East Asia. Photography. Around about evening time arrive at Bagan transfer to the hotel for a relaxing evening and early night!

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 16: BAGAN SIGHTSEEING

Up early for sunrise, an experience not to be missed by any photographer! I like the ShwesandawPaya for this although so do many others! Back to the hotel for breakfast and then a leisurely full day in Bagan.E bikes or a/c car with all day for sightseeing. Any main pagodas we may have missed yesterday we will see today and enjoy a picnic lunch at one them. We will visit a couple of local workshops including where the delicate lacquer ware is made. Sunset at another pagoda.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 17: PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR IN BAGAN

After the breakfast setting photography in some temple today is very excited for people, and back relax.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 18: BAGAN – FLY BACK TO YANGON – FLY BACK HOME

Morning Breakfast at hotel and then heading to airport Flight to Yangon, Upon arrive sending to International airport for you departure.

Meal: Breakfast

DAY 1: YANGON ARRIVAL

You will meet at Yangon international airport and Transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is your own leisure.

Meal: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 2: YANGON SIGHTSEEING

Morning departure for a fascinating and unusual train journey on the Yangon circular line. The (very) slow local train completes a loop through the suburbs and outlying villages providing an original and behind the scenes view of local life and Yangon city – a great introduction to Burma. After lunch, we will take a stroll through the picturesque Kandawgyi Lake Gardens before a sunset visit to the incredible Shwedagon Temple, Burma’s most sacred and certainly one of it is most awe inspiring sights.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 3: YANGON – BAGO – SIGHTSEEING

Early morning departure by car and drive to Kyaikhtiyo (114 km, 5 hrs from Yangon). On the way visit in Bagon including highlights: Shwemawdaw Pagoda, stands as a landmark of Bago and it is the highest pagoda in Mon state with the elevation of 114 meter high, built over 2000 years ago; Shwethalyaung Reclining Buddha which is one of the most elegant reclining Buddha images, stretching 55 meter long and 16 meter high and was built during 9th century. The excavation site and restoration work at KanbawzaThadi which is noted for the famous palace of King Bayinnaung (1551 – 1581 AD) and Four giant Buddha images of Kyaikpun Pagoda (28 meter high), built by King Damazedi in 15th century. a huge boulder completely covered by gold leaves and delicately balanced on the edge of a cliff. The gold-plated boulder is said to maintain its balance thanks to a single hair of the Buddha being enshrined inside the pagoda and offering one of the most stunning panoramas of the entire Myanmar.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bago

DAY 4: BAGO – HPA-AN SIGHTSEEING

After breakfast, drive to Hpa-An. On the way, visit the caves of Kawgon and Payon well known for their countless Buddha images, stalactites and stalagmites. Upon arrival to Hpa-An, check in at the hotel and pay a visit to Kantharyar Lake famous for its small island with interesting rock structure with pagoda atop.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hpa-An

DAY 5: HPA-AN SIGHTSEEING

Hpa-An is surrounded by dramatic limestone karst scenery including the sacred Zwekabin Mountain symbol of Karen State and we will spend the day exploring the area’s caves, tunnels, temples and mountains by road, boat and on foot, as well as passing through some of the area’s traditional Karen villages.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Hpa-An

DAY 6: HPA-AN – MAWLAMYING SIGHTSEEING

After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Mawlamying, now Mawlamying, capital of Mon State with a stop at a riverside Karen fishing village on the way. Formerly home for several years to George Orwell and immortalized by kipling we reckon it’s one of the country’s friendliest and most scenic towns. Visit a lively market before heading up for sunset at one of the hill-top pagodas overlooking the town and Gulf of Martaban

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Mawlamying

DAY 7: MAWLAMYING – BILU ISLAND SIGHTSEEING

Off by local boat to nearby BiluKyun ‘Orge Island’ – where we will visit traditional Mon villages and discover some of the local handicrafts and cottage industries. They don’t see many tourists yet, but the villagers will be happy to show you how they make can walking sticks. Burmese style bamboo hats slate blackboards and even back-garden rubber band making. Afternoon return to Mawlamying for perhaps some sundowners at a waterfront café?

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Mawlamying

DAY 8: MAWLAMYING – YAE – DAWEI

A short drive south brings us to the delightful little town of Yae. Until late 2013 the town had been off limits to foreigners since independence in 1948 due to perceived security issues with Mon and Karen autonomists. We will visit the spectacular temples site atop charmingly named Banana Mountain as well as taking in the rustic riverside market before continuing in the afternoon to Dawei, formerly Tavoy.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Dawei

DAY 9: DAWEI SIGHTSEEING

Our day tour of Dawei starts out with another lively waterfront market before heading to the nearby Dawei Peninsula. There can’t be many stretches of coast left in Southeast Asia as spectacular, but yet so little developed. Now is the time to visit as in 10years time it’s fishing villages, deserted bays and seaside pagodas will be a distant memory.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Dawei

DAY 10: DAWEI SIGHTSEEING

Just photo shooting.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Dawei

DAY 11: DAWEI – YANGON

Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we will drive back to Yangon. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is your own leisure.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Yangon

DAY 12: FLY BACK HOME

Breakfast and free time until time to go to the airport for departure flight. Then, transfer you to the Yangon International Airport three hours prior according to your flight departure time.

Meal: Breakfast

DAY 1: YANGON ARRIVAL – YANGON CITY PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

Morning arrival in Yangon and check-in to a comfortable downtown hotel.Introductory session from Robert before an afternoon walking orientation tour of the city followed by a scenic sunset boat cruise on the Yangon River.

Photography Themes; introduction to travel photography.Street-life, architecture, sunset on the river.

Meal: Non
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 2: YANGON CITY PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

Morning departure for a fascinating and unusual train journey on the Yangon circular line. The (very) slow local train completes a loop through the suburbs and outlying villages providing an original and behind the scenes view of local life and Yangon city – a great introduction to Burma. After lunch, we will take a stroll through the picturesque Kandawgyi Lake Gardens before a sunset visit to the incredible Shwedagon Temple, Burma’s most sacred and certainly one of it is most awe inspiring sights.

Photography Themes; Local life, Markets, Shwedagon Pagoda.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 3: YANGON – MANDALAY – MANDALAY CITY PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

Morning flight to Mandalay and time to explore the nearby ancient city and former 14th to 19th century capital of Inwa(Ava). Discover the old city, temples and villages by horse and cart. Check-in to our downtown hotel and time at leisure before a sunset visit to the iconic U Bein Bridge-reputed to be the longest wooden bridge in the world.

Photography Themes; Street-life, Temples at Inwa Old City, U Bein Bridge.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 4: MORNING WORKSHOP AT MANDALAY – MINGUN PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

Morning workshop with Robert followed by an afternoon boat trip up the Irrawaddy to the spectacular site of Mingun for an opportunity for chance to put some ideas and advice into practice among the picturesque riverside ruins of the ancient city and temples.

Photography Themes: Technical advice and tips, river-life, ruined temples.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 5: MANDALAY TO BAGAN BY CRUISE

Early morning departure by boat down the Irrawaddy River to Bagan; bucolic river scenes, mountain views and a great way to arrive in the historic, ancient city. Late afternoon orientation visit to the site of the ruined 11th to 13th century capital – still containing over 2,000 chedis, stupas, pagodas scattered across a riverside plain and certainly one of the most incredible sites of South East Asia.

Photography Themes; River Life, Landscapes, Sunset at Bagan.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 6: PHOTO SHOOTING IN BAGAN

Morning dawn visit by pony and trap to the temples with a return to our hotel for late breakfast. Afterwards; visit Bagan at your leisure: with a map, hat and torch (to discover temple’s hidden stairways), roam the country lanes by bicycle, hire a pony and trap, visit the best known temples or find some hidden chedis of your own.

Photography Themes; Temples, Landscape, Village Life, Bagan, Sunrise.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 7: BAGAN – MOUNT POPA – KALAW BY PRIVATE CAR

Morning departure by road, heading eastwards to the distant Shan Plateau. Our first stop will be Mount Popa – one of the country’s most sacred sites located on the summit of an extinct volcano which rises dramatically – near vertically – from the plains below. Local style lunch in the town of Meilktila before a scenic climb up the Plateau itself to our destination, the charming little town and old hill-station of Kalaw.

Photography Themes; Landscapes, ‘on the road’, Farms and Villages, Mount Popa.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 8: PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR AT KALAW

Morning hike through the surrounding hills to visit one of the local Palaung hill-tribe villages; a scenic walk, mountain views, visit to the village and chance to meet some it’s friendly inhabitants! Afternoon return to Kalaw for a post production session from Robert.

Photography Themes; Hill-Tribe Peoples, Landscapes, Farms and Village Life, Local Markets, Post Production.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 9: MORNING PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR AT PINDAYA – TRANSFER TO NYAUNG SHWE BY PRIVATE CAR

Day trip through the picturesque countryside of the Shan Plateau taking in, firstly, one of the local farmer’s markets before heading to the town of Pindaya to visit the spectacular ShweUmin Cave temples. Lunch by the lake and a chance to check out the traditional umbrella making which Pindaya is also famous for. Afternoon transfer to Nyaungshwe gateway town to the famous Inle Lake and some free time to explore the lively market town.

Photography Themes; Landscapes of the Shan Plateau, Handicrafts, Pindaya Cave Temples.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 10: INLE LAKE PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR BY BOAT

Day boat trip around the picturesque lake including visits to: a lakeside village market, a traditional hand rolling cheroot factory, a fascinating lotus weaving project and the unusual floating gardens.

Photography Themes: Village Life, Handicrafts and Traditional Industries, Fishing and Lake Life, Landscapes.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 11: INDEIN PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR BY BOAT

Morning departure across the lake and up river to the small lakeside village of Indein from where we will hike through the picturesque landscape to visit the site of a ruined Shan city known as the ‘Shan Bagan’ where myriad ruined stupas dot the lush vegetation. Return to NyaungShwe for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.

Photography Themes: Lake Life, Local People, Local Markets, Landscapes, Ruined City of Indein.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 12: MORNING FREE AT INLE LAKE – FLY BACK TO YANGON

Free morning at Inle Lake to do your own thing: cycle to the extraordinary Red Mountain Winery, check out the local market, visit a local village by canoe or just relax in a tea shop before an afternoon return flight to Yangon.

Photography Themes: Local Markets, Street Life.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 13: MORNING WALKING TOUR – FLY BACK HOME

Morning walking tour taking in some of the street life and architecture of bustling Yangon before a late afternoon departure.

Photography Themes: Street Life, Architecture, Local People and Markets.

Meal: Breakfast

DAY 1: YANGON ARRIVAL – WALKING TOUR

Morning arrival in Yangon, and check-in to a comfortable, downtown hotel close to the famous Scott Market. Introductory session from Gary before an afternoon walking tour of the city followed by a scenic, sunset boat cruise on the Yangon River and a welcome dinner.

Photography Themes; introduction to travel photography.Street-life, architecture, sunset on the river.

Meal: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 2: YANGON – LOCAL TRAIN AND SHWEDAGON PAGODA

Morning departure for a fascinating and unusual train journey on the Yangon circular line. The (very) slow local train completes a loop through the suburbs and outlying villages providing an original and behind the scenes view of local life and Yangon city – a great introduction to Burma. After lunch, we will take a stroll through the picturesque Kandawgyi Lake Gardens before a sunset visit to the incredible Shwedagon Temple, Burma’s most sacred and certainly one of it is most awe inspiring sights.

Photography Themes; Local life, Markets, Shwedagon Pagoda.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 3: MANDALAY – INWA OLD CITY – U BEIN SUNSET

Morning flight to Mandalay and time to explore the nearby ancient city and former 14th to 19th century capital of Inwa(Ava). Discover the old city, temples and villages by horse and cart. Check-in to our downtown hotel and time at leisure before a sunset visit to the iconic U Bein Bridge-reputed to be the longest wooden bridge in the world.

Photography Themes; Street-life, Temples at Inwa Old City, UBein Bridge.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 4: MANDALAY – WORKSHOP – AFTERNOON AT MINGUN

Morning workshop with Gary followed by an afternoon boat trip up the Irrawaddy to the spectacular site of Mingun for an opportunity to put some ideas and advice into practice among the picturesque riverside ruins of the ancient city and temples.

Photography Themes: Technical advice and tips, river-life, ruined temples.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 5: MONYWA – OFF THE BEATEN TRACK ON THE CHINDWIN

Overland departure for the fascinating, yet rarely visited, town of Monywa on the banks of the Chindwin River. We will take in what is said to be the world’s largest standing Buddha statue, a monastery housing an astonishing 500,000 Buddha images and some ancient underground temples hewn out of the solid rock. In the afternoon we’ll continue south to Bagan for a dusk visit to one of the ancient city’s fabulous temples.

Photography Themes; Architecture, Temples, Landscapes, Sunset at Bagan.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 6: BAGAN – DAY TOUR OF THE TEMPLES

Orientation visit and introductory tour to the site of the 11th to 13th century capital. The area still contains over 2,000 chedis, stupas and pagodas, scattered across a riverside plain, and is certainly one of the most incredible sites of Southeast Asia.

Photography Themes; Temples, Landscape, Village Life, Bagan, Sunrise.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 7: BAGAN – AT LEISURE TO EXPLORE AT YOUR OWN SPEED

Visit Bagan at your leisure: with a map, hat and torch (to discover temples hidden stairways); roam the country lanes by bicycle; hire a pony and trap; visit the best known temples or find some hidden chedis of your own; rise early to take in dawn or sit out the hot part of the day by the pool. Your guide will be on hand to advise and recommend, but we’d like to give you the opportunity to explore this phenomenal and highly photogenic site at your own leisure and pace.

Photography Themes; Temples, Landscape, Village Life, Bagan

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 8: BAGAN – HEHO – PINDAYA – INLE LAKE

Flight to Heho airport and drive through the picturesque countryside of the Shan Plateau taking in one of the local markets before heading to the town of Pindaya to visit the spectacular ShweUmin cave temples. Lunch by the lake and a chance to check out the traditional umbrella making which Pindaya is also famous for. In the afternoon we will continue our scenic route to NyaungShwe – gateway town to the famous Inle Lake.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 9: INLE LAKE – BOAT TRIP

Fascinating day trip by boat around the picturesque lake. We will visit a lakeside village market, a traditional hand rolling cheroot factory, a lotus weaving project and the unusual floating gardens.

Photography Themes; Village Life, Handivrafts and Traditional Industries, Fishing and Lake Life, Landscapes.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 10: INLE LAKE – INDEIN – BOAT TRIP

Morning departure across the lake and up river to the small lakeside village of Indein from where we will walk through the picturesque landscape to visit the site of a ruined Shan city. The site, known as the “Shan Bagan”, has myriad ruined stupas dotting the lush vegetation. Return to NyaungShwe for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.

Photography Themes: Lake Life, Local People, Local Markets, Landscapes, Ruined city of Indein.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 11: INLE LAKE – HEHO – YANGON

Free morning at Inle Lake to do your own thing: cycle to the extraordinary Red Mountain Winery; check out the local market; visit a local village by canoe or just relax in a tea shop before an afternoon flight to Yangon.

Photography Themes: Local Market, Street Life.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 12: YANGON – MORNING AT LEISURE – DEPARTURE

Free time to perhaps do some last-minute souvenir hunting at the famous Scott Market of check out one of the City’s bustling markets before a late afternoon departure.

Photography Themes: Local Markets, Architecture

Meal: Breakfast

DAY 1: YANGON ARRIVAL – WAILING TOUR

Arrival in Yangon (Rangoon), and check-in to a comfortable downtown hotel close to the famous Scott Market. Time to relax before an afternoon walking tour of the city and a scenic sunset boat cruise on the Rangoon River.

Meal: Non
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 2: YANGON SIGHTSEEING

Departure for a fascinating and unusual train journey on the Yangon Circular line The (very) slow local train completes a loop through the suburbs and outlying villages providing an original and behind the scenes view of local life; a great introduction to Burma. After lunch we’ll take a stroll through picturesque Kandawgyi Lake .Take a easy day.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

DAY 3: YANGON – KYAING TONG SIGHTSEEING

Wake up early for lovely sunrise view and a quite morning stroll .Today we pay visit to Great Shwedagon before flight and have breakfast at hotel and then depart to airport Flight to Kyaing Tong upon arrive visit to Naung Tong lake , Shan Monastery watt inn with beautiful Buddha imag3e and family run Shan lacquer ware workshop.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kyaing Tong

DAY 4: KENG TONG SIGHTSEEING

Drive by road to the northern mountains to visit Arn hill-tribes, best known for their black teeth and primitive way of life. First, you will arrive in PIN TAUK VILLAGE of AKHA and LAHU tribes. The AKHA tribe constitutes the majority of population in the Kyaing Tong region. Their costumes are in vivid colors. Later, the vehicle will stop near WAN PING village where you will begin the hike for 15 minutes to Wan Pin Village. Continue to WAN LAR village, known for the bird poacher and their unique snares. From here, the path is steep and leads to a village of ARN tribe, animists and well known for their black costumes. A tranquil Arn village awaits the visitors on a hillock with a panoramic view of the serene environs. One can see the terraces of paddy fields and set against a back drop of mountain ranges. There is a shrine at the entrance of the village where the villagers customarily make a sacrifice to propitiate the deities before their hunt. Return on a foot path for 1½ hours to the vehicle amidst paddy fields and vegetations. Return to Kyaing Tong. On the way we can make a brief stop at Wan Kam, famous for its rice wine production.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Kyaing Tong

DAY 5: LOI MWE VILLAGE

After breakfast visit to Kyaing Tong BAZAAR to observe the colourful trading of Chinese merchants and of the different minority tribes from this area. Afterwards proceed to LOI MWE (appr.2hrs drive). LoiMwe which literally translated means "misty mountain" is at an altitude of over 1600 meters above sea level. It commands a magnificent view of the surrounding area and enjoys a temperate climate. Visit the old colonial governor's house and an old church. The main attraction along the way is the scenery on the ascent to LoiMwe, which passes through forests, terraced rice fields. On the way back from LoiMwe you will have several stops to visit different villages. WAN LUN SHAN VILLAGE, HO LUP AKHA VILLAGE where you can see the traditional Akha tribes with their colourful dresses; NANG CHO WA VILLAGE and PANG-Y Lahu village on the left and right side of the road.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Kyaing Tong

DAY 6: VISIT IN KYAING TONG – FLIGHT TO HEHO

After Breakfast at the Hotel, visit DHAT ZOAM DOI ancient Pagoda followed by Akhe's WAN SAI VILLAGE (different to Akha village) and Ann's o Lung village beside the road. After flight to Heho Upon arrive through the picturesque countryside of the Shan Plateau taking in, firstly, one of the local farmers’ markets before heading to the town of Pindaya to visit the spectacular ShweUmin cave temples. Lunch by the lake and a chance to check out the traditional umbrella making which Pindaya is famous for. In the afternoon we’ll continue our scenic route to NyaungShwe – gateway town to the famous Inle Lake.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Kyaing Tong

DAY 7: INLE LAKE – INDEIN BY BOAT

Morning departure across the lake and up river to the small lakeside village of Indein from where we’ll hike through the picturesque landscape to visit the site of a ruined Shan city, known as the Shan Bagan, where myriad ruined stupas dot the lush vegetation. Return to NyaungShwe for lunch and an afternoon at leisure.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Inle Lake

DAY 8: INLE LAKE – SAGAR – PHEKHON BY BOAT – LOIKAW BY CAR

Board on traditional long tailed boat and head south for Sagar village, 64 kilometers with approximately 3 hours by boat. On the way we may observe ways of life of Shan, Pa O and Intha tribes. We have lunch on the way and proceed to Phekhone through Sagar and Phekhone Lake encompassed by breathtaking and refreshing landscape along the Bilu Creek. We continue south-east to Loikaw, 39 kilometers with approximately 1½ hours by boat. If time permits enjoy panoramic and sunset view from TaungkweZeti.

Meal: Breakfast
Hotel in Loikaw

DAY 9: LOIKAW – HTAYKHO (DAY RETURN)

After having breakfast at a hotel, we will go to Kayaw tribe, HtayKhu village. It takes about 2 hours’and 30 Minute drive by car. On the way to the village, the road is tough and steep but the landscape is fantastic and panoramic views over the Kayaw region. You can enjoy the Kayaw traditional lunch at a local home or take lunch box. Visit local houses and go around the village. In the evening, we will come back to Loikaw.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Loikaw

DAY 10: LOIKAW – PANPET (DAY RETURN)

After having breakfast at a hotel, we will go to Pan Pet ,Kayan village. In this village, you can see the long neckwomen( Kayan tribe). You can visit around the village and visit their home. The villagers are making Kayan bracelets, weaving cotton, carving wooden, weaving bamboo and other handwork. You can see these activities and study. And you can enjoy the Kayan traditional lunch at a local home. And then, we will go to Hta Nee La Leh ,Kayah village. In this village, you can see their way of life and believe. And you can visit around the village and their home. These include musicians who play traditional bamboo guitars, experts in Kayah dress, and artisans who make distinctive Kayah lacquer leg rings. In the evining, we will come back to Loikaw.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Loikaw

DAY 11: LOIKAW TO KALAW BY PRIVATE CAR

Breakfast at the hotel. Start 6 hours drive to Kalaw for onward destination. Several stops for photo shooting two night stay at Kalaw,an old British hill resort stands on the altitude of 1,315m above the sea level – also known as Pine Land .. Have the panoramic view of Kalaw; old colonial style buildings from a hillock opposite of Kalaw.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 12: KALAW – HIKE THROUGH THE HILLS

Morning hike through the surrounding hills to visit one of the local Palaung hill-tribe villages; a scenic walk, mountain views, visit to the village and chance to meet some of it’s friendly inhabitants. Afternoon return to Kalaw with time to wander around the small town, perhaps explore the market or sit in a local tea shop and watch the world go by?

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kalaw

DAY 13: KALAW – HEHO – MANDALAY

After the breakfast car ride from Kalaw to Heho for flight to Mandalay On arrival, drive to Amarapura, located 11km south of Mandalay. Amarapura had been the royal city twice in Myanmar’s monarchic time. Visit BagayaKyuang, the largest monastery in Burma. It is a huge 19th century, wooden monastery with a large population of monks. See the famous U Beinbridge, a Magnificent teakwood structure spanning Taungthaman Lake for a distance of about 1 kilometer. Built in 1849, it comprises 1060 teak posts, most of which are original. Although historic, it is still in daily use by local villagers. Proceed take a tour to the Venerable Mahamuni Pagoda including a traditional gold leaf workshop. Sightseeing tour include SHWE INBIN, one of the most outstanding monasteries in the country, SHWE NAN DAW KYAUNG or GOLDEN PALACE MONASTERY, a superb example of a traditional wooden building, KUTHODAW PAGODA known as the world’s largest book consisting of 729 marble slabs engraved with Buddhist scriptures.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 14: MANDALAY – INWA(AVA) – SAGAING SIGHTSEEING

Sunrise at UBein Bridge! It’s worth it! Quite different from the hordes of people in the evening. We may be lucky and see some monks crossing the bridge in the pink light of dawn. From there going to the local tea shop for breakfast, before leaving for Ava, where we visit this magnificent site by horse and cart. A definite stop amongst others is the BagayaKyaung which is superb wooden monastery where young monks take their lessons. We then go on to Sagaing where we visit the SetkyarThida Nunnery and the Monastic Education School, both offering great photo opportunities. Sunset photos at Sagaing hill before returning to the hotel.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Mandalay

DAY 15: MANDALAY – BAGAN BY DAY CRUISE

Early morning departure by boat down the Irrawaddy River to Bagan; bucolic river scenes, mountain views and a great way to arrive in the historic, ancient city. Late afternoon orientation visit to the site of the ruined 11th to 13th century capital – still containing over 2,000 chedis, stupas, pagodas scattered across a riverside plain and certainly one of the most incredible sites of South East Asia. Photography. Around about evening time arrive at Bagan transfer to the hotel for a relaxing evening and early night!

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 16: BAGAN SIGHTSEEING

Up early for sunrise, an experience not to be missed by any photographer! I like the ShwesandawPaya for this although so do many others! Back to the hotel for breakfast and then a leisurely full day in Bagan.E bikes or a/c car with all day for sightseeing. Any main pagodas we may have missed yesterday we will see today and enjoy a picnic lunch at one them. We will visit a couple of local workshops including where the delicate lacquer ware is made. Sunset at another pagoda.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 17: PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR IN BAGAN

After the breakfast setting photography in some temple today is very excited for people, and back relax.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

DAY 18: BAGAN – FLY BACK TO YANGON – FLY BACK HOME

Morning Breakfast at hotel and then heading to airport Flight to Yangon, Upon arrive sending to International airport for you departure.

Meal: Breakfast