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Great Explorations

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(604) 730-1247

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Particulars

Trip Dates:

2013

Feb 2-10

Dec 7-15

2014

Feb 1-9

Dec 6-14

Custom trips available and can start any date.

Trip Size:

8-16 participants

Total Days:

10 days/ 9 nights

Arrive/Depart:

Yangon

Accommodations:

Lake View Resort , Inle Lake

Amara Mountain Resort , Kalaw

Mandalay Hill Resort, Mandalay

RV Paukam, Ayeyaraedy River

Thiripyitsaya Sanctuary Hotel, Bagan

Post trips:

Sandoway Resort, Ngapoli

Activity Level:

Moderate
20-40+ miles daily
van supported

Terrain:

Land Cost (current year):
US $3450
Includes 10B/6L/8D

* based on 8+ pax

4-5 pax- add USD$800 pp

6-7 pax- add USD$400 pp

Flight between Yagon and Inle Lake is US$90

Single Supplement:
US $950

Bike Rental:
US $290

Post -trip extensions:
Price: US $595 2D/2N each

Additional Airfare

Bagan to Ngpali: US $90

“This is Burma, and it will be quite unlike any land you know about”, wrote Rudyard Kipling in 1898. More than a century later, Burma’s lure endures as a place where time stands still; the bicycle remains a favorite way for locals to travel- we’ll follow their lead exploring the treasures of this exotic land.

Only Great Explorations:

• Small groups, extraordinary guides, and authentic experiences-in Myanmar, a local guide and driver/support vehicle are with us the entire trip
• A ride you will never forget:- Kalaw to Mandalay
• A river cruise on the luxurious RV Paukan
• Wine included at first and final night receptions
• We design and operate our own trips so there are only good surprises

Please note: we offer daily ‘non-cycling’ options for those who choose not to ride.

Itinerary

DAYS 1+2:
Inle Lake - After meeting in Yangon, we’ll fly north, beginning our journey cycling to stunning Inle Lake and the 4-star Lake View Resort, set amidst fragrant gardens. After lunch, we’ll lead a walk to a nearby village, and then finish the day with a welcome celebration where locals will perform traditional dance. Next day, we’ll spend on the lake, visiting floating farms, produce markets, and a collection of artisan stilt-villages. Along the way, you’ll learn to ‘one-legged’ row, net-fish using traditional methods and even how to roll Burmese cheroots (cigars).

DAY 3:
Kalaw - We’ll ride west along the Shan plateau through pine forests and bamboo groves. Kalaw was a popular hill station in the British days and makes for an atmospheric place to overnight. We’ll meet with a remarkable resident, whose grandfather resided here, and whose home we might visit prior to dinner at a local restaurant.

DAYS 4+5:

Mandalay -We describe it as ‘our road to Mandalay’, a newly built road lined with shade trees where you’re more likely to encounter ox-carts than automobiles, with breathtaking scenery. Descending over 1000 meters (gradually) through pastoral countryside will be unforgettable! Next day we’ll bike to the ancient river-side city of Mingun, where a former king built one of the world’s largest stupas. Climbing to the top will provide outstanding views over the delta. We’ll also visit the ruins of Atumashi, known as ‘the incomparable monastery’, and in its time one of the most magnificent temples in Asia. We’ll finish the day, watching the sun set atop Mandolay Hill before retreating to the comforts of the Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel.

DAYS 6:

Irrawaddy River -

Boarding the luxurious RV Paukan, we’ll cruise down the great Irrawaddy River through the land of golden Pagodas. We’ll stop at villages along the way, enjoying vistas only river travel allows. Accommodation is in private staterooms and the dining room will feature European and Asian cuisine served as we float gracefully down river.

DAYS 7+8:

Bagan- Arriving near historic Bagan, mid-morning, we’ll disembark and cycle into the Old town in time for lunch; afterwards we’ll visit the most impressive of sites here (there are over 2000 ancient monuments including temples, stupas, and monasteries). Next day, options will include a ride sacred Mt Popa, where atop a rocky crag clings a picturesque complex of monasteries and shrines. Back in Bagan, you might wish to experience a hot-air balloon ride over the ancient temples. Accommodation will be at the historic Bagan Hotel nestled on the river.

DAY 9: Depart- flights back to Yangon depart in time to connect with international flights.

EXTENSION DAYS 9-11:
Situated on the Bay of Bengal, these peerless beaches on the west coast are Burma’s best. Departing Bagan in the morning, we’ll arrive to Ngapali in time for lunch. Cycling is an ideal way to see villages along the coast where fishermen bring in the day’s catch. We’ll stay at the idyllic Sandoway Resort Hotel and Spa for 2 nights flying back to Rangon in time to connect with international flights on Day 11.