Tour Notes

Myanmar – Beyond the Tourist Trail Tour Duration – 15 Days

Tour Rating Fitness ●●●●○ | Off the Beaten Track ●●●○○ | Culture ●●●●● | History ●●●●○ | Wildlife ●●○○○ Tour Pace Moderate Tour Highlights

A visit to the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda Getting off the beaten track in Kayah State Travel like a local – travel on the train and bus

Tour Map - Myanmar – Beyond the Tourist Trail

Tour Essentials Accommodation: Mix of hotels Included Meals: Daily breakfast (B), plus lunches (L) and dinners (D) as shown in the itinerary. Group Size: Maximum of 12 Start Point: Yangon End Point: Yangon Transport: Private cars, local bus, train, bikes, boat, scheduled flights Countries: Myanmar

Myanmar – Beyond the Tourist Trail For years Burma, or the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, occupied a politically incorrect hinterland. A dictatorial military regime presiding over institutional abuse of human rights, ignoring electoral defeat and denying democracy to the Burmese people. Travellers were advised not to visit. Times changed. Since 2011, following free elections, opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi has effectively led a more liberal government. However, persecution of Burma’s Rohingya Muslim minority, resulting in the displacement of a million people, has been likened to ‘a textbook example of ethnic cleansing’ by the United Nations. Press freedoms have continued to be attacked and journalists gaoled. In the light of Suu Kyi’s silence in condemning these actions, many long-time supporters deserted her. Politically, Myanmar is neither black nor white. Small scale tourism offers a window onto this complicated country and injects cash at a grass roots level into an economy starved of investment. To see once is worth a thousand words… And for those with the time and a disposition to accommodate the vagaries of pioneering off-the-beaten-track tourism, this fascinating tour really lives up to its billing. Tour itinerary notes While our intention is to adhere to the day-by-day itinerary as printed below, a degree of flexibility is built in. Overnight stops may vary from those suggested and on occasions alternative accommodation, of a similar standard to that named below, will be used. Tour Guide Our guides are a key strength, chosen for their knowledge of and passion for the areas in which they work. All of our guides are carefully hand-picked, and are not just passing through these countries, but are usually locally born. Unlike some companies it should be noted we do not send a guide or tour leader from Undiscovered Destinations in the UK as we have every confidence in our locally appointed representative who is responsible for operating the tour on our behalf. Where possible you will have the same guide throughout your trip but on occasions it may be necessary to change the guide at one or more points during the tour. In the event of a small group of 4 or less, you will be allocated a local guide at each location, and will not have the same guide with you throughout the tour.

Itinerary Day 1 - Yangon Arrival Upon arrival in Yangon transfer to hotel accommodation. Overnight at Clover City Centre Plus Hotel or similar. Yangon Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is a delightfully ramshackle city. Founded in the 18th century and becoming an important port it was destroyed by fire and then again suffered during the Second Anglo-Burmese War in the 19th century. Much of downtown Yangon hosts a splendid array of colonial style architecture dating back to the British occupation, including the wonderfully picturesque City Hall and the High Court. Many streets are thronged with people buying from the numerous stalls set up alongside the pavements, selling everything from fried insects to engine parts. Central Yangon contains the wonderfully gaudy Sule Pagoda, an ancient structure in the middle of a busy intersection, which gives a great picture of how Myanmar melds ancient spirituality and modern day commercial interests. The jewel in Yangon’s crown is however the Shwedagon Pagoda, a collection of stupas encrusted in gold which attracts pilgrims from all over Myanmar, and is said to contain hairs from Buddha. Containing numerous images of nats (spirits) and Buddha himself, Shwedagon is immensely important for the Burmese people, and is where Aung San Suu Kyi addressed a crowd of hundreds of thousands demanding democracy from the military regime.

Day 2 - Yangon This morning we visit the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda. There’s time to discover the history of the pagoda, learn about the daily lives of people living in the immediate vicinity and gain an insight into the Buddhist religion and how spirituality combines with belief in nats – Myanmar spirits. The tour passes workshops, markets and monasteries along the way and includes a traditional Burmese breakfast, offerings to monks and the pagoda, and a visit to a fortune teller. The afternoon is free to discover downtown Yangon and its heritage buildings independently. You may wish to revisit Shwedagon in the evening to see the pagoda illuminated in all its glory. Overnight at Clover City Plus Centre Hotel or similar. (B) Day 3 - Yangon – Mandalay This morning we head to the airport for a short domestic flight to Mandalay, followed by transfer to hotel accommodation. In the afternoon we visit the Mahamuni pagoda and examine the centuries-old Buddha statue, originating from Mrauk Oo. Later, we continue to Amarapura, a quiet village known for its artisan weavers. Finally, we visit the famous Mahagandayon Monastery complex, home to hundreds of monks, take in a 100-year-old institution dedicated to training weavers, taste Mandalay rum, produced since 1886, and watch sunset from the U-Bein Bridge. Overnight at Victoria Palace Hotel or similar. (B) Day 4 - Mandalay by bike Two wheels provide a great way to appreciate the city and surroundings. The ride starts among the back lanes of town, passing markets and lively neighbourhoods, heading for the north east of the city. After a short ride we find ourselves in true countryside, where farmers tend their fields and villagers go about their daily tasks, often stopping to wave as we pass. We stop at a market to see what’s on sale, then discover the multiple applications of bamboo, used to construct everything from roofs and walls to fans. Later, we dismount and walk through a typical central Myanmar village to learn about lifestyle and farming practices. On the way back to town we stop at a tea shop for some snacks, and expect to return around noon, giving our legs a rest and heading back to the hotel by motorbike. The rest of the day is free to relax. Overnight at Victoria Palace Hotel or similar. (B) Please note: Suitable clothing is advisable for this activity, such as quarter length trousers or shorts, t-shirts and closed shoes. Hats and sunscreen and hat are a must too. Day 5 - Mandalay to Bagan This morning we take a public bus to Bagan, arriving at lunchtime and checking-in to hotel accommodation. In the afternoon a guided sightseeing tour starts by climbing a pagoda for an impressive view over the whole plain before visiting some of the area’s most interesting temples. Highlights include the Ananda, Dhammayangyi and Thatbyinnyu. Overnight at Zfreeti Hotel Hotel or similar. (B) Day 6 - Explore Bagan Today is a free to explore Bagan independently at your own pace. Consider renting a horse drawn buggy, a bicycle or an electric bike. For a spectacular perspective, book at least six months in advance, and take an early morning hot-air balloon ride over the Bagan plain. Overnight at Zfreeti Hotel or similar. (B) Please note: Accurate weights of all passengers are required for balloon flights. Passengers in excess of 125kg/280lb will attract a 100% surcharge on the ticket price. Pregnant women and children younger than eight-years-old or under 137cm tall are not permitted to fly. Day 7 - Bagan to Kalaw (Approximate driving time: six-hours) Today’s long drive takes us to an elephant conservation project near Kalaw. If we arrive on schedule there’ll be time to take a peaceful walk in the forest before meeting the elephants and their mahouts. The project was started by local school friends and focuses on protecting the elephants, the environment, and preserving the

traditions of local people. As well as providing a natural environment for retired working elephants, the project assists villagers in education and micro finance. We have an opportunity to learn about the elephants, to help wash them in the river and feed them in beautiful forest surroundings. After lunch we continue on to Kalaw itself. Overnight at the Dream Villa Hotel or similar. (BL) Day 8 - Kalaw – Loikaw by Train An early start sees a spectacular train journey through the landscapes of Pa O. The train leaves Kalaw at 06:00 and arrives at Saung Byaung station around 16:00, but be prepared for delays... On arrival we continue by private car to Loikaw to enjoy a traditional, home cooked meal at a local family house. Overnight at Kayah Land Hotel or similar. (BD) Please note: We recommend you carry enough drinks and snacks for the train journey. The train has hard wooden seats, so it may be an idea to bring a soft pillow for the journey. Day 9 - Loikaw Today we start with a visit to the busy morning market of Loikaw, followed by the former palace of the Kayah prince and Kayah Museum. Later, we drive to Kasae Kum village where the rings that some Kayah women wear around their necks are made - the story of longneck women is itself an intriguing tale. Next, we continue to Pemsong village, stretching our legs, and not our necks, on a four-hour ‘trail of the ancestors’. During the walk, local guides recount the story of their ancestors, describing their belief in spirits, the significance of totem poles, and the application of herbal medicines. We have a picnic lunch before arriving in one of the Kayah villages and meeting more longneck women. Finally, we drive towards Loikaw, visiting a Kayah boxing training centre, before enjoying Kayah liquor (or a beer) sundowners with Kayah sausages. Overnight at Kayah Land Hotel or similar. (BL) Day 10 - Loikaw – Kayah Village Walk This morning we visit Hta Nee La Leh and meet members of the community who will explain their animist shrines and traditions. We take lunch at a local house, leaving the rest of the day free for independent exploration or just relaxation. Overnight at Kayah Land Hotel or similar. (BL) Day 11 - Loikaw – Pekon – Samkar – Inle Lake (Approximate journey time: four-hours) After breakfast we drive to Pekon and take a boat across Pekon Lake towards Samkar village to visit Samkar Monastery. Later, we continue by boat to Inle Lake. Overnight at Paramount Inle Hotel or similar. (B) Day 12 - Inle Lake Today is dedicated to exploring this magical lake by boat. We discover its natural beauty, visit the floating gardens, see some of the famous leg rowing fishermen, and take tea in a local home. Traditional markets are held in different villages around the lake, according to a five-day schedule. We visit one of the markets frequented by Shan and Pa O people. We also visit a local cheroot factory, where Burmese cigars manufactured, floating tomato gardens, the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, Intha Heritage house where Burmese cats are bred, and if there’s time, call in at a weaving factory. Overnight at Paramount Inle Hotel or similar. (BL) Day 13 - Inle Lake In the morning we visit the recently discovered ruins of Indein, still partly covered by vegetation. If time allows, we’ll take a short walk to a viewpoint over the lake and visit a school in Tha Ley village. We take lunch at a local house before continuing towards the Nam Pan village for an interesting canoe excursion exploring the village life on the lake’s side channels. Finally, we visit a recently established vineyard, one of two in the whole country, for tastings. Overnight at Paramount Inle Hotel or similar. (BL)

Day 14 - Inle Lake via Heho to Yangon A short domestic flight from Heho airport returns us to Yangon, followed by check-in at hotel accommodation. The rest of the day is free to explore the city. Overnight at Clover City Centre Plus Hotel or similar. (B) Day 15 - Yangon Departure The tour ends today and after breakfast airport transfers meet onward flights. (B)

Optional Extension to Ngapali Beach 4 Days/3 Nights (Not available as an extension in the wet season May – October) Day 14 – Inle Lake – Heho – Thandwe (Ngapali Beach) This morning head to Heho airport for a domestic flight to Thandwe, for Ngapali Beach. On arrival transfer to hotel accommodation. Overnight at Linn Thar Oo Lodge or similar. (B) Day 15-16 – Ngapali Beach Spend the next 2 days at leisure at Ngapali Beach. Overnight at Linn Thar Oo Lodge or similar (B) Day 17 – Ngapali Beach – Yangon Transfer to Thandwe airport for flights back to Yangon. On arrival transfer to hotel accommodation. The rest of the day is free to relax. Overnight at Clover City Centre Hotel or similar. (B) Day 18 – Depart Yangon

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight (B)

Optional Cultural/Historical Extension to Mon/Kayin 5 Days/4 Nights Day 15 – Yangon – Golden Rock This morning we leave Yangon and visit the Taukkyan War Cemetery, where over 6,000 Allied soldiers are laid to rest, and the Rangoon Memorial records 27,000 Commonwealth soldiers who died in Burma during WW2. It’s here that prisoners of war forced by the Japanese to construct the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway’ in Kayin and Mon state are commemorated. Later we continue to Kyaiktiyo and visit the Golden Rock pagoda. Balanced on the edge of a mountain, over the years the pagoda’s rock has been entirely covered by gold leaf, and it has become one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Burma. Overnight Golden Sunrise Hotel or similar. (B) Golden Rock The Golden Rock at Kyaiktiyo is one of the most sacred, must-see sights in Burma. The huge, gold-leaf boulder balances precariously above you on the edge of a cliff. Topped with its glittering stupa, it is believed to house a single Buddha hair that maintains its equilibrium. Day 16 – Golden Rock – Hpa An There’s an early start today as we drive to Hpa An. Exploring by kayak and on foot through typical Kayin landscapes and traditional villages, we see how local people live and work, taking lunch at a local house. We continue by kayak to the remarkable Saddar Cave known for its Buddha statues and carvings. Overnight at Hotel Gabana or similar. (BL) Please note: The streams in this region are shallow, and we’ll use small kayaks to get around. This means you could get wet. Sandals, shorts and a t-shirt are recommended, and of course a hat and sunscreen. We are supporting local communities in this off-the-beaten-track region and therefore you’ll be accompanied by

local people. Though English language skills may be limited a genuine love of the area sees them share their community with pride. Mon and Kayin State The more remote areas of Mon State and Kayin State are undiscovered areas of Myanmar offering spectacular nature and intriguing tribal culture dating back for many, many centuries in the history of South East Asia. The Mon are believed to be one of the first civilisations in this part of the world. Although their kingdom was lost to the Bagan king in the 11th century, their rich culture can still be seen in daily life with their specific sarongs, traditional food, language and music instruments. The Kayin (also known as Karen) are one of the indigenous tribes of the jungle known for their traditional boxing skills. Kayin is a state of beautiful, natural scenery rich with traditional villages and waterways surrounded by spectacular limestone mountains. Day 17 – Hpa An – Cruise on the Thanlwin River and Mawlamyine Today we board a private board boat for a cruise on the Thanlwin (Salween) River – one of the longest rivers in Myanmar, ending in Mon State. As the river is quite narrow we have fantastic views of life on the river banks. We stop at Pa Lin village to visit the community, home to Kayin, Shan, Mon, Bamar and PaO people. Continuing along the river, we also stop at a small jetty in U Na Auk village. Here, we take tuk tuks to see the ornate carvings and decorations of the temples and ordination hall donated to the village by Mr Na Auk, a successful Mon trader during the British period. On arrival in the city of Mawlamyine we visit a local house for a home cooked lunch of Mon specialities. In the afternoon we visit the Mon Museum and walk around an area notable for impressive colonial buildings from the time writers George Orwell and Rudyard Kipling lived in the city. Finally, we visit the Seindon Mibaya Monastery known for its exquisite wood carvings, before returning to Hpa An for the evening. Overnight at Hotel Gabana or similar. (BL) Day 18 – Hpa An – Bago – Train to Yangon After breakfast we drive northwards, passing through rural villages and towns of Mon and Kayin State. We call in at Kawgun Cave, known for its artwork of clay Buddha statues dating from the 7

th century, the period of

the Mon kingdom. Later, we stop at the former Royal Palace I Bago. From Bago we continue by train to Yangon, a great way to take in the scenery. On arrival at Yangon station we transfer to hotel accommodation. Overnight at Clover City Centre Plus Hotel or similar. (B) Day 19 – Depart Yangon Transfer to the airport for your onward international flights. (B)

Tour Inclusions/Exclusions Inclusions: Arrival and departure transfers Domestic flights All accommodation Services of English-speaking guide(s) / tour leader where mentioned Meals as listed (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary Excluded: International flights Any airport taxes

Travel Insurance Visas Drinks

Important Information Foreign Government Travel Warnings We constantly monitor the advice posted by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). In particular, we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At present there are no warnings against travel to any of the areas we visit in Burma. It should be noted that this information applies to British citizens. Other nationals are asked to check the current position of their respective government. Accommodation and Meals Hotel Check-in Times As a general rule most hotels will allow guests to check-in from 2pm. Please note that the price of your tour does not include guaranteed early check-in. Therefore please advise us if you would like to ensure that your room is available for an earlier arrival. This is particularly relevant on the first day of the tour and for early morning arrivals. One option is to pre-book and pay for an extra night at the beginning of your tour which will guarantee your accommodation is available irrespective of what time you arrive. Please contact us for information and costs. It should also be noted that on many of our tours we have set-aside Day 1 of the itinerary as an ‘arrival day’. For this reason and because tour participants are likely to be arriving at different times, and often from different countries, guided sightseeing or other activities are not included. If you are arriving early or before the start date of the tour and would like to organise some extra arrangements on a private basis please contact us. Accommodation Rating The accommodation on this tour is in small hotels and guesthouses. With a few exceptions you can expect rooms to be en-suite, with private bathroom and when necessary air-conditioning will be provided. There is one night spent in a traditional village house, which has basic and shared facilities. Some properties may have a restaurant and/or bar. We welcome solo travellers and single rooms will be allocated subject to the applicable tour supplement. Please note that on occasions you may not always be allocated a double or twin room, as some hotels have designated single rooms. These may be smaller in size. However, the supplement payable takes this into consideration. Food & Drink The daily meal basis is shown in the tour itinerary; breakfast (B), lunch (L) and dinner (D). Please note that lunch may be a picnic. Drinks are not included and will be payable locally in cash. Dietary Requirements If you have any special dietary requirements you must notify us at the time of booking. While we will make every effort to cater for you, we cannot guarantee that this will be possible.

Budgeting for your Tour You will need some extra money to cover meals and drinks not included in the tour price, any optional sightseeing, souvenirs and items of a personal nature such as laundry. Food The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more. Myanmar dishes – from $5 Thai, Indian and Chinese dishes – from $5 Western dishes – from $10 Drink The prices for drinks can vary greatly depending upon location and the prices detailed below are an average guide. In general, you would expect that drinks purchased in a supermarket or local bar to be less expensive, whilst drinks in an upmarket bar or restaurant may be more expensive. Local Beer $3 Water $1 Tipping – Guide and Drivers Tipping is common practice in Asia. If your local guide has been helpful then you could think about tipping. As a rough guide, drivers can be tipped between $2-4 per day and guides between $7-15 per day – these figures are per group, not per person. Foreign Exchange ATM Availability: There are now ATM machines in a growing number of places in Myanmar- we recommend that you check with your card issuer as to the locations Credit and Debit Card Acceptance: Although some of the larger hotels will accept Visa or Mastercard, officially these are not accepted due to international sanctions Local Currency: Kyat (Chat) Recommended Currency for Exchange: US Dollars - you must ensure your notes are clean and crisp – many places will not accept notes with even small blemishes. In addition to this US$100 notes with the CB prefix for the serial number will not be exchanged. Where to Exchange: Yangon or another major city – your guide will advise you. Joining your Tour Flight Information Our advertised prices do not include the cost of international flights. Please contact us if you would like a quotation to book a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme. Joining Tour Abroad Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a free airport transfer, both on arrival and departure. In order that the transfer can be arranged please ensure that you advise us of your flight information once available. Please advise the date, time and flight number for your arrival/departure. If we have not been advised of this information at least 2 weeks before travel, then you will be required to make your own way to the hotel on Day 1 of your tour.

Travel Insurance It is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country and be valid for the entire duration of your holiday. Visa Information Most nationals including UK, EU and US visitors require a visa for entry to Myanmar. Although visa regulations can change and you should always check the current requirements at the time of booking, at present the Myanmar Government offers an e-visa for many nationals. This includes UK, EU, US, Australian and New Zealand passport holders. For further details please visit – http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Passports It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, valid for at least six months after the date of return to the UK. We strongly advise that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages, as this may be a requirement of the local immigration authorities. In addition certain countries will stipulate that the two blank pages are opposite each other. If you are unable to meet these requirements you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by the immigration authorities. For specific information about the requirements for your destination please check with the country’s embassy or consulate. Alternatively UK citizens can visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice Vaccinations & Protection As with travel to most parts of Asia, we strongly recommend that you contact your doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice and the necessary vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. For a visit of less than one month, almost certainly you will be advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis. Anti-malaria medication will also be required and the use of a DEET-containing insect repellent is highly recommended. The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.

Preparing for your tour Climate Myanmar has 3 different seasons: winter (mid Oct–Feb), summer (March–May) and green season (June mid Oct). These seasons are very similar to the seasons in Thailand. Every season has its own advantages and disadvantages to travel.

http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/http://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advicehttps://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/43/medicines-abroad

March–May (summer) The whole country can be hot (especially in the afternoon around 35 degrees Celsius) so you’re advised to plan sightseeing more in the mornings and evenings. Landscapes are a bit dry - excellent time to visit the beaches and to visit higher parts of Myanmar. November–February (winter) The most popular season for tourists to travel because of the lower temperatures (evenings in the mountains can be cold- 10 degrees Celsius) while the chance of rain is less. Daytime temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius. A good time to visit any place in the country but it can be busy at the major tourist locations. June–mid October (Green season) The temperatures drop (till about 25-30 degrees Celsius) and the scenery is green. Sightseeing is not too hot and not too dusty. A perfect period to visit Bagan and Mandalay where it isn’t raining a lot (if it does, it is a short shower at the end of the day). Avoid the beaches in this period (it’s raining more at the coast and most hotels are closed in this period). Yangon can get quite some rain as well so it is better to spend just 1or 2 nights here. Sightseeing is great as there aren’t many other tourists around yet – it’s Myanmar at its best! Clothing When it comes to clothing it is usually recommended that lighter clothes are worn through the day, and warmer layers at night. It can get cold in the mountain areas at night. A hat is also advised to be worn through the day to protect from the sun, along with at least one piece of waterproof clothing for any days that the weather may be wet or windy. Equipment The first thing on your list should be a first aid kit. Whilst there is no undue cause for alarm, travellers are best advised to travel well-prepared and to be adequately immunized. A good insect repellent and bite cream is advisable. Suncream/sunblock is a must – please ensure you bring enough as it may not be available locally. Insect repellent, including a bite spray will also be useful to have. You may find a torch useful to have. Footwear Footwear is a main priority on this tour. Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes/boots are recommended. Luggage on tour Your luggage should not exceed 20kgs (44lbs). One large rucksack, and one small hand luggage rucksack is acceptable. Electric Supply & Plugs Electrical supply is 220V/50 Hz and plugs have a variety of pins, but mostly two pins. Tour Itinerary Versions Please ensure that you have an up-to-date copy of these tour notes immediately before you travel, as from time to time our itineraries may be amended, either for operational reasons or in response to feedback from customers. You will be informed of any major changes to your tour but small changes may just be added to these tour notes. These tour notes were updated on 14 November 2019