[PHOTOS] Portraits of burma (Burma) by Our Customer

SEA WANDER tours is honored to introduce portraits of burma with captivating photos by Michael Kennedy - who traveled with us in November, 2016 and shared these outstanding images.

Kennedy was a professional photographer for 20 years, primarily a photojournalist. He achieved publication in tremendous newspapers and magazines, including Sports Illustrated, a outstanding American magazine.

Kennedy stepped away from that world for 15-years to be a high school English teacher. He is now retired, and never far from a camera.

Kennedy was an awesome customer that we were very lucky to meet. Each email he sent reflected his enjoyable sense of humor, and they were always so pleasant to read. He rated us a five-star experience upon arriving home from his burma trip. Read the review of his myanmar adventure on our website or in Trustpilot .

Acknowledgment - All photos displayed here are the work of Michael Kennedy. SEA WANDER has permission to post these photos on our websites and channels only. All other use of these photos ought to possess the consent of Michael Kennedy.

Burma Domestic Flights Updates

Due to the bad street infrastructure, traveling in myanmar by domestic flights could be the most comfortable picking to access main visiting places. However, the flight within this country very much different from other countries in South East Asia. Here are some outstanding points for travelers visiting to myanmar.

PAPER TICKET REPLACED BY E-TICKET

Up to 2014, you might not notice any “paper ticket” in other Southeast Asia countries. However, some burma domestic airlines used them till early 2015. And especially, if you had lost the ticket,you would own had to buy a new one. So we used to advise our travelers to keep the airline tickets carefully.

You be able to see a photo of paper tickets by one of SEA WANDER staff on her inspection in late 2014 below.

The airlines very well catching up with the speed of myanmar improvement as a whole. Not too long since Air Bagan and Air KBZ started to use e-Ticket system. Now most of the airlines in burma use e-ticket issuing system that is more convenient in no doubt.

This boarding pass for a flight from Mandalay to Yangon but it stopped en-rout at Bagan airport. The sticker indicated which passengers were going to land in Yangon.

BOOKING TICKET IN myanmar DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

At the present time in myanmar, the electronic ticket is used commonly however most airlines do not yet overture online booking with secure payment gateway. The online payment by cards be able to finish up to 4 - 5% surcharge for card processing fee. Then SEA WANDER strongly recommend you should book your burma flights locally. Moreover, the domestic flights within burma sometimes cancel with very short find that severely impacts to your burma adventure plan. A local agent is much more effective in dealing with this issue and rearranges another flight as well as amend all services accordingly.

Where to book

There are several ways to book locally.

Hotel – You may show your travel plan to your hotel concierge. They will research the options and book flight tickets on your behalf as a small commission.

visit Agent – Contacting a local myanmar journey operator is another splendid choice who can support you fantastic booking in make progress.
International booking engine - Priceline.com is a huge name for ticket and hotel bookings. You may book from your home country too. Only route between Yangon - Mandalay available and vice versa.

Plan and purchase – You may blog flight schedules online then confirming with the airline office by a phone call. You will need to get to the office or own it sent to you to make payment and purchase the ticket.

If you know exactly your go to plan, you may purchase your tickets at the airport when you arrive in myanmar. Remember to transfer from international terminal to domestic terminal to buy.

When to book

Generally, as early as possible. Mostly we recommend our customers should book weeks in progress. If it is a holiday or festival or peak days,a month advanced booking is highly recommended.

Most the domestic adventurer flights depart around the same time. Thus, even if the airline you opt is sold out, you be able to purchase the ticket at the identical time, site or itinerary of other airlines. Moreover, in case that a flight has to cancel due to some unexpected reasons, the carrier often works with others to move your booking to the soonest flight schedule.

Currency

Tickets are quoted and paid for USD. If you try to pay by burma Kyat, you quiescent have to exchange the currency BACK to USD to buy the ticket.

ROUTES AND SCHEDULES

Most myanmar traveler destinations are accessible by a plane including Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Ngapali of which Yangon and Mandalay possess international checking counters. One thing you need to pay attention when booking is how numerous LAYOVERS in each route because this may add a significant amount of time for the tours.

Most of the carriers operate as commuter planes and circle around primary tourism destinations of Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, and Inle Lake. Some be able to skip a city or fly to other directions. Therefore, you should know surely the route and not just the direction, to avoid the case that you could disembark at a wrong destination. However, you will be attached STICKERS on your chest to verify which flight you are on.

myanmar domestic airlines is small with a few airplanes ( 2 - 3 we must say) so most routes are only available once a day or less. From Yangon, you usually leave in the morning and come back in the afternoon.

You should prepare, plan and be ready in the situation of DELAY. They usually expect until ultimate minutes to find how numerous travelers book, and unless there are enough passengers, they will CANCEL. In recent year, thanks to many tourists travel to burma, flight cancellation is not taken site frequently anymore. They may cancel because of weather as well, particularly during the heavy fog of winter months or low cloud during the rainy season.

At busy destinations, they will simply REGROUP PASSENGERS from different flights onto one flight, so Air Bagan, Asian Wings, and air Mandalay, for instance, will use just one plane, so even if you book with Asian Wings, you be able to be on a Mandalay flight. Similarly, if there are insufficient citizen on a Yangon - Mandalay flight, they will combine it with a Yangon – Bagan flight, so you will find that you stop at Bagan too.

Prepare for burma Traveling in Water Festival

Thingyan, burma Water Festival, takes place toward the finish of the hot, dry season and ushers in the myanmar New Year. This biggest festival is the best occasion for travellers who are seeking for authentic images of Asia

Water Festival Timing and Meanings?

Water festival is also known as Thingyan festival that is originated from the Buddhist version of a Hindu myth. Annually, water festival goes to mid April. This is the biggest festival in a year of Burmese. All citizen is off from their work to reunite with families and pay their careness to elder people.

Water festival is held in one of the hottest time with a meaning of using water to wash out bad lucks, so that splendid lucks to come.

>> Thingyan Eve (14 April): this day is for numerous religious activities. And by nightfall, locals begin their real fun time of festival by starting music, song and dance.

>> Water festival day (15 April): This day was taken because it was the day Thingyan really arrives as Thagyamin makes his descent from his celestial abode to earth.

>> Water festival day (16 April): this day is Thagya Min returns to the heavens, the ultimate day of the water festival. During water festival, the government also relaxes some restrictions of gathering.

>> New Year Day (17 April): This day is for local visiting elder people and relatives. Younger people often perform hair washing for the elder in traditional manner with shampoo beans (Acacia rugata) and bark.

How the overall settings of myanmar Water Festival?

The offices are closed, banks are closed too. There is no public transport as well as major own transport companies are also off. That means there is hardly overnight buses to connect long distances.

There are no train operating during those days, even you are well ready to carry the hardest train tours – possibly all over Asia.

The sole point sounds great in transportation is domestic airlines working. But the ticketing offices are closed. Booking flights in evolve are extremely advised.

Restaurants are closed, too. The best choice is eating at your hotels, inns or hostel because those accommodation types keep open.

adventure to myanmar in Water festival – Yes or No?

No – there are tremendous reasons to say “NO”

• The high possibility of services insufficiency could occur more often. That can lead to some surcharges from hotels or services quality downgrade.
• You could get trouble in finding suitable modes of transport while domestic flights be able to beyond budget limits.
• Delays in flights or documentary processing such as Visa approval could incur and make effects to your plan.

Yes – there are numerous MORE reason to say “YES”

• This is the biggest festival in myanmar (Burma) - yes, one single in a year
• One of the most fascinating festivals in Asia and most typical ceremony in tropical, hot country.
• Witness or even take part in preparing activities with busy atmosphere.
• Music, song and dance all night long to welcome the most important day of festivals.
• There is no worries, no difference but just HAPPY.
• Get into a “water fight”. There is no boundary between foreigners and locals.
• Enjoying for featured experience in a year is definitely worthy to scarify some usual comfort.

advice to visit in water festival

• Booking in evolve few weeks or even month ahead will settle down the services insufficiency issue.
• travel by air whenever and wherever possible but stay silent a day before and AFTER the festival time as the transportation services are flocked up by locals.
• be sure to get your Visa done previous festival time.
• Prepare for plastic bags or waterproof items to protect your electronic devices.
• Plenty of easy-to-dried clothes to alter several times.
• Prepare yourself mind to get involved in the biggest festival in the year and accept for all possible services changes and alternatives.

Water festival coincides with Easter holiday in Western countries. Are you ready to get wet in Easter holiday with SEA WANDER ? Drop us an email at info@seawander.asia or contact us for more information here.

Beautiful spectacle of Shan State

Shan state located at North East of the country could make the best highlight of any cultural and natural exploration to myanmar due to its hidden natural beauty with featured Shan ethnic lifestyle.

Stupas at Kakku

The stupas at Kakku were built upon an area designed to look like the Buddha's footprint. The stupas at Kakku were built upon an area designed to look like the Buddha's footprint. Thought to contain been originally constructed in the 16th Century, the origin of the stupa fields is currently unknown. The Stupas of Kakku are a short drive from Taunggyi, capital of the mountainous Shan State, and are best visited in March, when an annual festival takes place.

Curious Fish, Fascinating people Home at Inle Lake.

Inle Lake certainly holds the distinction of being the highest lake in myanmar and home to some uncommon fish. At an altitude of just over 800 meters, the lake is one of the most special ecosystems in burma (Burma), playing home to mollusc and fish species that can't be found anywhere else in the world.

Hidden Gems: Lashio

Lashio lies close to the Chinese border with myanmar and is a surprisingly large city for its remote location. It is the capital of the Shan Province and a hive of activity. The city itself is the beginning of the once notorious “Burma road." It was built to serve the Allied forces in myanmar and extends all the way to central China and the city of Kunming. The major highlight in Lashio is a Buddhist Temple. The Mansu temple is about 5 kilometers out of town and easy to reach by bike or taxi. It blends in perfectly with the spectacle and, as with much of Lashio, the Chinese influences are clear in the design work.

Hidden Gems: Kyaing Tong

Kyaing Tong (or variously Kengtung, Chiang Tung, Kengtong, or Cheingtung depending on the local dialect being spoken) is a small town in Shan State. It’s worth noting that Kyaing Tong was until fairly recently in the center of the “Golden Triangle”. The area has only recently been opened to tourists. So when you decide to visit, you’ll be among the first foreigners for many years to set foot in this friendly, rural community.

Astonishing 8,000 statuses in Pindaya Caves

The Pindaya Caves are set in the hills of Shan State near Pindaya, a small city with a spidery legend. The best places to travel here is one of the three major caverns at Pindaya, only the southernmost cave is currently open to the public. It extends back into the hillside for about 500 feet or so. What makes it unique is not the cave itself but the 8,000 or so images of Buddha enshrined there. They were placed in the cave during the late 18th and early 19th centuries in the main. This reflects a very different Buddhist branch to main stream of myanmar.

Hidden Gems: Kalaw

Kalaw is a hill town located on the rolling hills of the Shan Plateau. It is a former colonial British hill station and there are some interesting colonial remains to realize. Primarily, however, Kalaw is fast developing a reputation for its hiking potential in the captivating and scenic mountains. The weather is cool and the view is a pretty combination of pine forests and bamboo groves. Notably it is located to the west of remarkable Inle Lake and many travelers are now hiking between the two.

Walking at Yangon British Colonial Streets

Yangon, the biggest city and the former capital of burma, is a fantastic site to travel. This city has the most colonial buildings in Southeast Asia and is regarded as “London” of this region. Hidden behind these red bricks and pastel-painted stucco facades are mysteries from a forgotten era when Yangon was the most cosmopolitan and thriving city in Southeast Asia.

High Court Building, formerly known as the Parliament for Justice, built in 1914, before World War I

British myanmar existed for just above a half century (1885 – 1942), but Outer burma was the British colony from 1852. Yangon colonial buildings constructed in late 19th century, and truly wonderful about their diverse styles and structure. The British Raj disapproved of blending styles within a single city’s architecture. They told their consulting architect James Ransome “not to put up any Mongrel buildings”, and guided him to style “Calcutta Classic, Bombay Gothic, Madras Saracenic, Yangon Renaissance”.
Downtown Yangon, the central business district, like an open-air museum, looks refreshingly different from every other large city in Southeast Asia. Block after block of constructions characteristic columns, domes, balconies, art deco trim, and even a clock tower.
These structures include civic and governmental buildings, concentrated in eastern Sule Pagoda. Road names here are reminiscent of London: Strand road, Bank street, Merchant street, Pansodan road (or Phayre street); while the atmosphere makes remember the past Shanghai, Hong Kong or Singapore.
“Yangon has captured a sense of time that has been lost in Singapore and Hong Kong." said Ian Morley, an assistant professor in the history department at Chinese University of Hong Kong. "You (Yangon’s residents) possess this downtown environment, which is relatively intact. It's got a sense of historical integrity as it was built from the late 1800s and early 1900s."
The century-old buildings had the fashions of the decade, commonly combining the latest European styles with oriental influences, creating a dramatic and eclectic cityscape. This durable architectural heritage recalls images of English cities such as London or Liverpool. Apartment buildings painted pale blue and green, with shuttered windows, filigree balconies and steep wooden stairs. In this extraordinary collection, some elegant, some imposing, some delicate. Even, citizen may be found several of most excellent Victorian Architecture of London quiet standing at this global-half side.

An original colonial building

The most prestigious business address was Lower Pansodan street. Big banks, offices and department stores filled majestic buildings. Strand Hotel is a featured mansion by its liveried doormen, old floor tiles and whirling ceiling fans. With the new investment, it once again become a magnet for wealthy travelers. Another reminder of amazing British burma is Pegu Club, where British imperial officers used to smoke cigars, played billiards, and sip their global cocktail - gin, lime juice, orange curaçao and bitters.

Strand hotel, Victorian-style, built in 1896 is the most remarkable and expensive hotel in Yangon

"The same economic influences that built the grand antique mills and commercial firms of Manchester's city centre and Sheffield University's red-brick buildings after the industrial revolution helped to build colonial Yangon, and the physical resemblances are startling," said Dr. Su Lin Lewis, a fellow at the Institute of Historical Research in London. "In contrast, the city's narrow apartment buildings have resonances in downtown Calcutta and Chinese shop-houses in Penang and Singapore. The whole of Yangon is so special and evocative it can be used as a film set."
"Yangon's heritage buildings are an important part of the city's and the country's history and have a wealth of cultural capital," Dr. Lewis added. "They could become a draw for tourism as well as for creative development – some have already been restored as restaurants and hotels, but there's also room to restore them as museums, galleries and office buildings."
However, due to the economic development in Yangon recently, some colonial buildings disappeared, even a whole of a street. They are threatened by demolition to make way for new office blocks and shopping mall.
In 1996, the Yangon City Development Committee issued a heritage list that includes 189 buildings that cannot be changed or demolished without the committee's permission. “This has helped to ensure the survival of numerous of the city's most important antique buildings”, said Dr. Zaw Win, the YCDC's chief engineer, “although numerous, especially those owned by relocated government ministries, own been left to decay.”
Yangon colonial-era buildings are as memories of days gone by. They are valuable because they contain featured old architectural features. They reflect images of the former Yangon, which had ever been a prosperous and busy city, a key note in international trade and finance networks. Yangon’s old-style colonial architecture is priceless, which needs to be researched and preserved.

Even though the capital of myanmar was moved to Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon is the most important port for any trips to burma due most airlines scheduling their routs in and out from Yangon. A city tour in Yangon is a must for all travellers with Shwedagon pagoda - the iconic symbol of burma as well as a walk along colonial streets to recal Victorian time. You may combine Yangon tour with other places for a complete burma package or carry a sole Yangon excursion by referring here!

Top Three Places for Balloon in myanmar

The primary Myanmar’s commercial balloon ride was taken destination in 1999. Since that time, balloon rides contain become a attraction in myanmar adventure. These balloons were made by British and have a perfect safety record. They usually do not run in summer.

Seawander.asia has the honor to introduce three hot balloon ride places to travelers: Bagan, Mandalay, and Inle Lake.

1/ Balloon over Bagan

Bagan became the central powerbase in middle 9th century under King Anawratha. The antique city was the capital of the Pagan Kingdom from 9th to 13th century, the primary kingdom unifying the regions, which would be later into state of the art myanmar today. Bagan is located in Mandalay region.

On an exclusive balloon rides, travelers can contemplate the unrivalled overview of all Bagan ancient city, along with Ayeyarwady river in the west and mountains in the east.

From high altitude, thousands of various temples, stupas and other historic sites with variety of shapes and sizes reveal imposingly. On balloons, you could realize the golden Shwezigon, the original Buddhist temple, while listen to stories about the King Anawratha, who built Shwezigon in 1057 and started the Burma’s temple building tradition, which lasted over 230 years. Stupas after stupas, temples after temples appear breathtaking, the series of old images drift below you. A balloon ride is the greatest way to capture entirely the majesty of the temple complex, rather than a get to from ground.

The pilot will lead you to Ayeyarwady river, you could see the local life. Panoramic landscape also comprise green fields and mountains. You could catch glimpse of the volcanic Mt. Popa to the east and Taungyi Taung on hilltop.

Sunrise is the most charming time to bring a Bagan balloon ride, to feel slowly the glamorous and secretive Bagan unfolds under your eyesight.

2/ Balloon over Mandalay

Mandalay is the Myanmar’s central culture and education, as well as an important trade and social hub. As a crowded city, it is really busy, but also extremely interesting to adventure.

Founded over 155 years ancient by King Mindon, the city has retained the ancient Palace, surrounded by an extensive moat and city wall.

uncover Mandalay, there is no better way than by a balloon ride, which makes the whole of historic Mandalay open up below your eyes: temples, citizen, and hidden sights. Highlights include Mandalay Hill tower in the north, Ayeyarwady river in the west and U Bein Bridge in the south.

The balloons will carry off at the morning, when the landscape engulf in mist. Travelers will encounter different scenes: rushed life on streets, hasty trade’s residents at markets, holy space in temples, and monks walking in long queues with bare foot on ground.

In Ayeyarwady river, herds of buffaloes wade in stream. Boats of all shapes and sizes load fully goods and passengers. You be able to observe frenetic traffic in this plentiful river.

U Bein Bridge near Amarapura is the world’s longest teak footbridge, mild curving 1,300 yards, spanning over Taungthaman lake. If possible, pilots will lower the balloon near the lake’s surface, you may watch the enchanted and quiet spectacle of silent water-face, before to bringing you back to land closeby.

3/ Balloon over Inle Lake

Spectacular, uncommon and incredible, Myanmar’s Inle Lake is one of the most featured places in our planet. The balloon tour officially launched in Oct 2014 (details here) will offer you a panorama about this outstanding lake along with the still life here.

Leg-rowing fishermen, stilted villages, floating vegetable gardens, up-and-down boats and layered mountains surrounding the lake are the most common scenes in Inle Lake. The aerial expedition will begin in early morning, when mist covers everywhere and the landscape is magical.

When the Inle balloon lifts slightly off the ground, fantastic sights disclose in front of your eyes. The flight moves at various heights above the water-face. The whole of immense Inle lake, mountains and marshes will be embraced into your vision. This is awesome! If being a cultural curious person, you can observe overall the local living activities, from stilt dwellings, primitive boats or motorized canoes carrying tourists along first canals. Specially, you will be surprised by well-killed Intha fishermen, who row their skiffs by one leg while casting their nets, using legs to control other fishing tools.

Immersing serene markets. You can encounter Inle’s well known festivals. The balloons also glide slowly through bird sanctuaries and teak monasteries. Possibly, you will say “hello” to Ywama village, well-known by its tall teak stilted houses and its floating market; or wave your hands to Maing Thauk, the particular village with its wooden bridge.

Shwedagon Pagoda - Golden Icon of burma

No trip to myanmar could complete without a get to to the 2,500 years ancient Shwedagon Pagoda, which enshrines strands of Buddha's hair and other holy relics.

Located west of the Royal Lake on 114 -acre Singuttara Hill in Yangon, Shwedagon Pagoda is the most sacred and impressive Buddhist place for the people of the Union of myanmar. From a humble beginning of 8.2 meters, the Shwedagon Pagoda today stands near 110 meters. Shwedagon Pagoda is covered with hundreds of gold plates and the top of the stupa is encrusted with 4531 diamonds; the largest of which is a 72 carat diamond. It is clearly one of the wonders of the religious world.

Shwedagon Pagoda is a repository of the best in burma heritage – architecture, sculpture and arts. The Shwedagon Pagoda consists hundreds colorful temples, stupas, and statues that reflects the architectural era spanning nearly a 2,500 years. To understand this monumental work of art and architecture, you should carry an insider's sight of this glorious symbol of Buddhism to the lives of the myanmar citizen. Shwedagon Pagoda forms the focus of religious as well as community activities – the hasty of devotees and monks washing the statues, offering flowers, worshiping, and meditating. Shwedagon Pagoda is administered by the Board of Trustees of Shwedagon Pagoda.

In the pagoda, there are 8 planetary posts corresponding to 8 planets and 7 days in the week; Wednesday is divided into two (A.M. And P.M.). These post are marked by animals that represent the days – Tiger for Monday, Lion for Tuesday, Tusked Elephant for Wednesday morning, Tuskless Elephant for Wednesday afternoon, Rat for Thursday, Guinea Pig for Friday, Nāga or Serpent Dragon for Saturday and Galon for Sunday.

burmese people believed there were 7 planets of astrology — Moon (Monday), Mars (Tuesday), Wednesday morning (Mercury), Wednesday afternoon (Rahu), Jupiter (Thursday), Venus (Friday), Saturn (Saturday) and Sun (Sunday). It is important to the Burmese to know on which day of the week they were born, as this will determine their exact planetary post among the 8 posts to hold traditional rites and pray.

Updated Note Feb 2015: Shwedagon pagoda is undergoing renovation and most parts are covered with bamboo sticks. The renovation is supposed to complete around April 2015. During this time, HIT myanmar is very sorry for any inconvenience caused to passengers visiting this destination.

For your visiting information

Opening Hours: 04:00 - 22:00 hrs daily, except on the next days that Shwedagon Pagoda is open 24 hours:

1.Waxing Day of Tabaung – the day previous full moon day of the burma Lunar month Tabaung (around March) and
2.Waxing Day of Wakhaung – the day previous full moon day of the myanmar Lunar month Wakhaung (around June which is the beginning of the Buddhist Lent).

Entrance Fee: $8.00 per person
Shwedagon pagoda has 4 entrances: East, West, South and North. All foreigners ought to enter through South Gate to purchase tickets while Burmese be able to get into via the remaining gates without fee.
Dress code: wear trousers or at least knee length shorts or skirt; t-shirts with elbow length sleeves are also expected and you are expected to be barefooted when entering Shwedagon Pagoda.

Visiting tip: Morning at Shwedagon is believed as the most scared and striking moment. Rise up early, walk to the pagoda and wait for the sun puts the original light in a purer morning through golden roof; you will get the extraordinary, magical image of the pagoda that is not normally seen.

Top 3 Pagodas have to Seen in Bagan myanmar

Bagan, burma has over 2,200 stupas and pagodas. It could bring you several days to explore them all. Here is top three most important pagodas that you should never miss when visiting Bagan - the UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site.

Ananda Temple

This is the Bagan's holiest temple, built by the third king, Kyan-zit-tha in 1091. Ananda comes from the Pali word "anantapannya", which means "boundless wisdom". The temple houses four Buddhas facing the cardinal directions, which show the four Buddhas who own attained Nirvana. The fifth, Maitreya, is yet to appear. This is the most important temple in all out of thousand stupas in Bagan.
Location: Left side on the southern stretch of the Bagan-Nyaung Oo Rd. Just prior the road heads to Tharaba Gate of old Bagan.

Shwesandaw Temple

This is the "sunset temple", because you will stay here to view the spectacular Bagan sunset. This surely overture the best opportunity for photography. You will meet many other foreign adventurer as well as local Burmese gather here for most radiant moment of the day. You should get here early to climb up to the top levels and keeps a kind destination. The top levels are small and space is scarce. The climb up is a reasonably easy 5 minute walk up a flight of stairs, but the steps get narrower and steeper near the top. Not recommended for those with vertigo, but if you can make the climb, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset as the temples and scenery are set ablaze in golden sunrays. A great compromise is to climb to the 3rd or 2nd highest level, where the steps are much more manageable than the topmost level, is less crowded, and the sight is just as splendid. It starts getting crowded here as early as 4:30pm, so if you may not make it as early as said, consider taking a scenery from the Shwe-Gu-Gyi temple closeby instead (easily passable if on bike).

Shwezigon Temple

This gourd-stupaed golden pagoda is the first and prototype monument (including for the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda of Yangon) built in myanmar style in 1087. Appareantly, it is rather similar to Shwedagon pagoda, but its history and story ara always attract tourist to adventure. Careful on the stall vendors, they are the pros employing hard sell psycho tactics.
Location: Heading south, right side on the northern stretch of the Bagan-Nyaung Rd. After passing the bus station. A long covered walkway with souvenir stalls starts from the road to the compound.

Bagan is one of the most known for places in burma then all packages adventure often include an excursions to Bagan. Depending on your interest of temples, pagodas and Buddhism, we be able to manage the lenght of stay accordingly or add some extra, active activities for best diverse experiences.

Jumping Cat Monastery in Inle Lake

The must-seen destination for any adventure to Inle Lake, burma is jumping cat monastery. The monastery is not only special itself in architecture but the wonderful train of such the lazy creature as cats to become professional entertainers

Nga Phe Kyaung is a wooden monastery, which was built on stilts on Inle Lake, myanmar just north of Ywama. This monastery was built in 19th-century on stilts with an splendid collection of Buddha statues. The monastery set on wooden and mosaic pedestals that are hundreds of years ancient. The most popular characteristic of this monastery is for its cats that were trained by the monks to jump through small hoops.

The monastery has indeed become a good-hearted of refuge for cats. The monks carry tender loving care of their four-legged friends, and much to the enjoyment of the spectators the cats performed tricks: for a piece of food they jump through rings which the monks hold up high.

Updated on August 2014 by seawander.asia : the cats at the monastery now have not jumped any longer because their trainer – a monk – had passed away. Now you could visit this destination for featured architectural piece of the wooden monastery and play around with mysterious but captivating cats. We could manage a jumping cat show at a local restaurant, please contact us!

Golden History of Mon citizen and Kingdom

The Mon is a small ethnic group living in Southern part of burma. The citizen has their contain interesting history and culture. This is a snapshot about their golden age when they ruled burma

The Mon are an ethnic group of myanmar (Burma) living mostly in Mon State, Bago Region, the Irrawaddy Delta and along the southern border of Thailand and burma. One of the earliest peoples to reside in Southeast Asia, the Mon were responsible for the spread of Theravada Buddhism in Indochina. The Mon were a major source of impact on the culture of myanmar. They speak the Mon language, an Austroasiatic language, and share a common origin with the Nyah Kur citizen of Thailand from the Mon mandala (polity) of Dvaravati.

The eastern Mon assimilated to Thai culture long ago. The western Mon of burma were largely absorbed by Bamar society but continue fighting to preserve their language and culture and to regain a greater degree of political autonomy. The Mon of burma are divided into three sub-groups based on their ancestral region in Lower Myanmar: the Man Nya from Pathein (the Irrawaddy Delta) in the west, the Man Duin in Bago in the central region, and the Man Da at Mottama in the southeast.

Mon Kingdom or Hanthawaddy Kingdom

Kingdom of the Mon citizen, who were powerful in the whole burma (Burma) country from the 9th to the 11th and from the 13th to the 16th century and for a brief period in the mid-18th century. The Mon migrated southward from western China and settled in the Chao Phraya River basin (of southern Thailand) about the 6th century AD.

After the Mon moved westward into the Irrawaddy River delta of southern burma in the ensuing centuries, they acquired Theravāda Buddhism. By 825 they had firmly established themselves in southern and southeastern myanmar and founded the cities of Pegu and Thaton.

About the identical period, southward-migrating Burmans took over lands in central burma and established the kingdom of Pagan. In 1057 Pagan defeated the Mon kingdom, capturing the Mon capital of Thaton and carrying off 30,000 Mon captives to Pagan.

After the fall of Pagan (1287) to the invading Mongols, the Mon, under Wareru, regained their independence and captured Martaban and Pegu, thus virtually controlling their previously held territory. The following 200 years witnessed incessant warfare between the Mon and the Burmans, but the Mon managed to retain their independence until 1539, when they came under the domination of Toungoo myanmar. In 1757, after a revelation, Burmans permanently took over the Mon. The Mon now peaceful centred in southeastern burma, though their numbers are small compared to those of the ethnic Burmese.

Brand New burma River Cruise Opens for Bookings

SEA WANDER proudly introduces newest, top luxury cruise in myanmar - Anawrahta (formerly Shin Arahan), a masterpiece of combining between traddional Buddhist ideas with mordern British technology of ship building

With the largest cabin space on the Irrawaddy, and the highest crew to passenger ratio, The Anawrahta offers the finest onboard experience in myanmar. This impressive vessel is initiated with a name after an 11th century monk, Shin Arahan, renowned his courage and wisdom. However, as respect for the ethnic minorities and sensitivities within the country that do not use the religious personages, the cruise company decided to change its name in to "Anawrahta" cruise.

Anawrahta cruise is the perfect vessel on which to find out Myanmar’s mighty Irawaddy River. Built to resemble a British colonial paddle steamer, the elegant 65-meter-long, Anawrahta river cruise features three spacious decks and 23 glorious cabins. With its gleaming white rails, polished lacquer, intricately carved woodwork and shining brass, The Anawrahta takes guests back in time to an era of bygone elegance.

Built : 2015

Port : Yangon / burma, and other Irrawaddy river ports depending on season

Cruising Area: Irrawaddy River and Chindwin River

Vessel’s Registry: myanmar

Type of Vessel : River Cruiser

Length : 65 meters / 213 feet

Beam : 14 meters / 45 feet

Draft : 0.9 meters / 3 feet

Gross Tonnage: 650 tons

Cruising speed : 12 knots

Electricity : 220 Volts

Engines : 2 Caterpillar

Generators: 3 Caterpillar

Water : Reverse osmosis plant with UV filtration and ozone treatment

AC : Centralized air-conditioning system throughout the vessel, personal control in each cabin

Laundry : Full laundry service on board

Internet : Wifi-internet in public areas, connectivity depending on 3G coverage

Safety : International safety canon, including smoke and fire alarm system throughout the ship, emergency lighting systems, emergency communication system, evacuation equipment, Defibrillator (AED) on board, crew is trained on first aid.

Crew : 38 crew members, including Cruise manager and English speaking guides

Capacity : 46 Passengers

enjoy the comforts you’d wait in a fine resort on land with a waterfront spectacle that’s constantly changing. When building the Anawrahta, we sourced materials, handicrafts and fine arts from the best artisans and artists throughout the country. The personal staterooms and public venues showcase the talent of local artists, many of whom employ traditional skills passed down for generations.

Deluxe Stateroom

The Anawrahta’s 16 beautifully appointed deluxe rooms are decorated with original handicrafts, locally-carved wood panels and richly-textured fabrics inspired by the brocade of Burma’s ethnic minority groups. Grand windows and serene colors inspire total relaxation.

Size: 32 square meters / 344 square feet.

Junior Suites

Named after some of the most magical temples in Bagan, the Anawrahta offers three Junior Suites: the Ananda, the Bupaya and the Mauna. Combining dark, regal wood with the bright oranges, saffrons and greens of the floral offerings presented at temples, these suites suggestion a comfortable seating area and a personal balcony from which to enjoy the lush beauty of the Irrawaddy.

Size: 48 square meters / 517 square feet.

Executive Suites :

Located on the Terrace Deck, each of our two Executive Suites is a spacious 59 square meters, including an indoor seating area and a independent balcony. Polished wood, locally-made brocade and artefacts collected in Mandalay, Bagan and Yangon create a relaxing yet exotic ambiance. These suites are named after two of Bagan’s most intriguing temples, the Hindu temple of Nanpaya and the Buddhist temple of Sulamani.

Size: 59 square meters/635 square feet, including 16.5 square meters/177 square feet of balcony space.

Royal Suites

The Anawrahta cruise offers two opulent Royal Suites, the Yazakumar, named after a Bagan Dynasty prince famous his filial love and piety,and the Arahan. Equipped with a personal terrace and a personal Jacuzzi, these stunning suites feature elaborate woodcarvings, fine works of Burmese art, and handmade artefacts commissioned throughout burma.

Size: 86 square meters / 926 square feet, including a terrace of 29 square meters / 312 square feet balcony with a private Jacuzzi

Anawrahta cruise proposal 3 programs setting the most luxury myanmar tours: Golden Land Voyage sailing between Mandalay and Bagan 5 days, great Irrawaddy sailing between Yangon and Bagan 8 days and Exotic Chinwind river 12 days sailing between Mandalay and Bagan.

• The very primary embarkation is Exotic Chinwind at 19 Sep 2015
• next is Golden Land Voyage on 11 Oct 2015
• And primary embarkation of amazing Irrawaddy river on 15 Oct 2015

SEA WANDER is proud to be very primary agent offering Super Deals for large Opening of the Anawrahta, final luxury cruise in myanmar. Requests of brochure, program and bookings by clicking here or please kindly send to:

SEA WANDER Limited Company

Email: info(at)seawander(dot)asia

Hotline: 84-90-224-3637

Experience Yangon Circular Train

With as cheap as about one US dollars, a foreigner could relax true essence of Yangon local life with a train ride through charming rural landscapes.

While Yangon is a fast-paced, chaotic city to get lost in, riding the Circle Line train provides a window into the daily routine of the myanmar people away from the commercial center of the country. Train Circle, which has existed since British colonial times, marks an elementary cultural feature to Yangon citizen.

The train begins from Yangon Central Railway Station to Mingaladon Railway Station near Yangon International Airport, via Insein to the west and Okkalapa in the east. When you arrive at the station, train guards will immediately point you in the right direction of the tourist ticket booth as you pass through the aged platforms, rusting antiquated trains and families sleeping rough on any spare space available.

The carriage rocks and rumbles as you slowly make your way through 45.9 kilometres of track via 39 stations which form a loop around Yangon. Stopping at each and every station for only a minute or two, people clamber on with only seconds to spare, lugging on more belongings than you may squeeze into an average sized car boot. The train returns back to Yangon’s city station before making the same journey over and over again throughout the day (about 20 times with 100,000 to 150,000 sold per day), until the early afternoon. The loop, which takes about three hours to complete, is a good way to see a cross section of life in Yangon.

The train schedule is from 3:45 am to 10:15 pm daily. The cost of a ticket for a distance of 15 miles is one hundred kyats - local myanmar currency (approx. Nine US cents), and that for over 15 miles is two hundred kyats (about 18 US cents). For our customers, mostly foreigners, you will pay 1 USD or 1200 Kyat in a little ticket office on platform seven in Central Railway Station regardless of the length of the journey and ticket is valid for the whole day. That’s great way to realize the views of Yangon surrounding changing at each stop.

Some words of Train Circle in myanmar history

Yangon Circular Railway was built during colonial times by the British for short transfer around the city. In July 2011, the Ministry of Rail Transportation announced that it intended to privatize the Yangon Circular Railway, since the government-run system operates at a loss for the government.

In December 2012, Japan International Cooperation Agency began its collaboration with Yangon City Development Committee to advance a master plan for the Greater Yangon region, including the issue of public transport.

While train visit in myanmar generally is a real issues that need your consider much, Yangon Circular train is good method for those one who want to experience something truly local. The train experience of 45 minutes up to 2-3 hours is interesting experience because of its uniqueness that you never notice in other parts of South East Asia countries, let alone Western ones.

Suggested tour:
We overture a package journey to experience many modes of transport in myanmar including air travel, train ride, local bus travel, boat cruising combining with easy hiking to experience best parts of this splendid country. Click here for tours details

Flying over Inle Lake, myanmar by Hot Air Balloon

Inle Lake is the largest lake of burma, nested among mountains of the Shan State. Inle lake is often known as the top places in burma for trekking and adventures. Adding more activities to adventure lovers, Holiday Indochina - MyanmarTour.com - introduces a new product – Inle hot air balloon – for new and featured experience when travelling to myanmar

How the trip look like?

The passengers will rise up early for being collected from hotel and transfer by boat to the balloon point. The morning mist of the lake is also a nice image to enjoy the trip from beginning. Arriving in the balloon checking point, an experience UK-licensed Commercial Balloon Pilot will provide a comprehensive safety briefing. After that, the balloon will take off gently. The flight duration is about 1 hour

What is the highlights?

The passenger will certainly relax the best panoramic scenery of the lake when the balloon gets the criterion height. Depending on the wind, the scenery be able to be various with:

- Motorized canoes transporting visitors along the main canal from Nyaungshwe on a day’s expedition

- Intha fish men is rowing the boats with one legs

- The layered mountain surrounding the lake

- Floating vegetables and gardens

In some occasions of festivals or better weather with strong winds, the passengers will have lucky chances to witness:

- Inle known for festivals at hidden villages under the shadow of the mountain

- Across the bird sanctuary

- Or even to even to Ywama village with its tall teak stilted houses and its famous floating market.

The passengers booking Balloon trip will relax fresh tee, coffees and light cake before taking off. After landing, relax fresh water, fruit juice, fruit and a celebratory champagne style chilled glittering wine in glass flutes whilst the enthusiastic crew pack the balloon away.

Is that trip safe?

All pilots are UK-licensed Commercial Balloon Pilot who are well trained and experienced with balloon ride control.

If the winds are too light for the balloon to cross the lake, the pilots are experienced enough with advanced practiced to land the balloon at the top a purpose-built floating balloon platform that follows the balloon all the time. The balloon will then be “sailed” back to shore, adding an extra dimension to morning’s flight.

How to book?

The trip is taking the very first flight on Oct 2014. And now open for booking via our website Seawander.asia. With new hot air balloon trip in Inle, now passengers contain more options to take balloon ride: in Bagan, in Mandalay and in Inle Lake (Myanmar)

Request us by mail at info(at)seawander(dot)asia

Train go to - Real journey in burma

Train travel in burma be able to be a true tours trip if you are not well papeared and accept for real infrastruture conditions in burma. However, it may be very fun and special experience that you may never see in another country

If thinking about experiencing several modes of transport in burma, traveling by train could be an unforgettable experience to them. Depending on your physical condition, this be able to make your myanmar tour from challenging to adrenaline bumping adventures. However, train riding can be the best way to attempt challenging experiences as local people. Let look into this deeper with MyanmarTour.com's real experience in our FAM trip on Aug 2014 to decide this tours suits you or not.

SEA WANDER inspect trip on Aug 2014. Train from Yangon - Mandalay in 15 hours. This official helped us very much to keep our door locked (actually fastened !?!) during the night trip.

The most popular and possibly longest rout train is Yangon – Mandalay. It departs at 5 pm, ends at 8 am of the following days and takes 15 hours sharply. If you must get this thoughtful of trip, make sure that you are strong enough to survive when the trip finishes. Generally, Myanmar’s trains are old. The railway tracks were degraded seriously and the carriages shake so intensively that it is impossible to read or even walk. Throughout the way, trains shake continuously, sway left to right, then jump up to down. It will be very much beyond your imagination and completely in the opposite side to trains adventure in Vietnam or any other SEA countries. Inside cabins, fans – yes, soft berth – yes, air conditioners – no, lock – kinda…yes, actually a hook which easily loose off because of train shaking. The advice is to try to look for some fasteners to keep the door “locked” (!?). The train moves rather fast but due to the rail way condition that makes the whole carriage bounce steadily. (View clip details here)

So that is the blog, let answer fundamental questions:

- Is it cheap? Yes, definitely around US$ 40 compare to a flight at around US$ 110 to US$ 120.

- How is its hard level? Challenging to adrenaline bumping.

- Is it worth to experience? Very much depends. If you are very interested in real local life, very fantastic health, hunger for real tours, the answer is yes. Otherwise, think about it again.

- Roughly pick one word, do you offer it for regular travel? Nope.

- Is there any alternative inexpensive like this? Yes. VIP buses, overnight drive at around US$ 20-30/person per way. Modern vehicle, smooth road, business seats and lavatory installed.

- I am a bit worried but it sounds so fun, I just want to experience train a little bit. What do you recommend? Ok. Take a shorter train such as from Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin or Yangon Circle Train

A deluxe, premium train might be launched around Oct – Nov 2014 with an expectation of more convenient and easier ride. This information perhaps take happiness for travelers who tend to bring a burma tour in the future, and also proposal more choices for them, comfortable feeling or interestingly challenging feeling as local citizen.

burma now is changing so fast, so stay tuned and keep updated with us!

Myanmar Embassies List and Visa Updates

Visa on arrival now process only directly with Government at http://evisa.moip.gov.mm since Sep 2014. Please kindly note that there is no agent be able apply traveler Visa by another way. SEA WANDER be able to support our travelers to deal with this by filling the form at this portal and paying on your behalf when you feel confused with the form and procedure.

There are two ways to obtain burma (Burma) Visa for tourists:

• From Sep 2014, the original one is e-Visa at the only and single address of http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ (notice the detail here). The portal is now for both adventurer Visa and Business Visa. 100 Countries are now available to choose on the system. Online payment by cards (credit/debit) are accepted.
• The second way is going to your most convenient diplomatic offices as listed below.

This is a list of Embassies and Consulates Overseas of burma. Please note that you will need the Hard Copy of our passport and the applicants be able to be required to attend in person at the Embassies/Consulates.
The procedure and fee be able to be slightly different among embassies.
Laos, Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Brunei are excempted with the length of stay upto 14 days.
If your flights transit up to 24 hours in Bangkok we may help to get Visa with represent services. The documents need submitting previous 10Am and get Visa around 4pm in the same day. Please contact to our Consultants for best support of getting myanmar Visa at 84-902 24 3637

Burmese Embassies and Consulates Overseas

Location	Address	Telephone
Australia	22 Arkana street, Yarralumla ACT 2600, Canberra, Australia	+61262733811
Austria	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Germany	-
Belgium	Generaal Wahislaan 9, 1030 Schaarbeek, Belgium	+3227019381
Brazil	SHIS QI 25 Conjunto 5 Casa 14, Lago Sul, Brasilia DF 71.660-250, Brazil	+556132483747
Cambodia	181 Preah Norodom Boulevard, Sangkat Boeung Keng Kang I, Khan Chamcar Mon, Phnom...	+85523223761
Canada	85 Range street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 8J6, Canada	+16132329990
China	6 Dong Zhi Men Wai Da Jie, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of Chin...	+861065320359
Czech Republic	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Germany	-
Denmark	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Germany	-
Finland	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Germany	-
France	60 Rue de Courcelles, 75008 Paris, France	+33156881590
Germany	Thielallee 19, 14195 Berlin, Germany	+49302061570
Hong Kong	2401-2405, 2436-2440 Sun Hung Kai Centre, 30 Harbour street, Hong Kong	+85228450810
Hungary	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Germany	-
India	3/50F Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi-110021, India	+911126889007
Indonesia	Jl. Haji Agus Salim No 109, Menteng, Jakarta 10350, Indonesia	+62213158908
Ireland	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in United Kingdom	-
Italy	Viale di Villa Grazioli, 29-00198 Roma, Italia	+390636304056
Japan	4-8-26 Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 140-0001, Japan	+81334419291
Laos	Thai Friendship road, Ban Watnak, Sisattanak District, Vientiane, Laos	+85621314910
Macau	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in China	-
Malaysia	8(C) Jalan Ampang Hilir, 55000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia	+60342516355
Maldives	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Sri Lanka	-
Mexico	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in United States	-
Netherlands	Overaseweg 96, 4836 BC Breda, Netherlands	+310765317317
New Zealand	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Australia	-
Norway	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in United Kingdom	-
Philippines	8F Gervasia Corporation Centre, 152 Amorsolo street, Legaspi Village, Makati Cit...	+6328931944
Poland	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Germany	-
Portugal	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in France	-
Russia	41-B Nikitskaya (Gertsena), Russia	+74956915684
Singapore	15 St. Martin's Drive, Singapore 257996	+6567350209
South Africa	201 Leyds road, Arcadia, 0083 Pretoria, South Africa	+27123412557
South Korea	723-1, 724-1 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 140-210, Republic of Korea	+8227903814
Spain	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in France	-
Sri Lanka	4A Rosmead Avenue, Rosmead destination, Colombo 7, Sri Lanka	+94112681007
Sweden	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in United Kingdom	-
Switzerland	Avenue Blanc 47, 1202 Genève, Switzerland	+41229069870
Taiwan	Accredited through Burmese Embassy in Hong Kong	-
Thailand	132 Sathon Nua street, Bangkok 10500, Thailand	+6622340278
Turkey	Çetin Emeç Bulvarı 1328 Sokak No 6/1 Öveçler Çankaya, Ankara, Turkey	+903124725016
United Arab Emirates	Accredited through Maldivian Embassy in Turkey	-
United Kingdom	19A Charles street, London, W1J 5DX, United Kingdom	+442074994340
United States	2300 S street, NW, Washington DC 20008, USA	+12023323344
Vietnam	298A Kim Ma street, Hanoi, Vietnam	+84438453369

Myanmar Best Golf Courses

myanmar has tremendous international canon golf courses which may satisfy any golfer at different levels of professionals. Here is the list of three top ones. Your could contact us if you want more golfing days in your vacation

The Pun Hlaing Golf Club

Situated in the northwest of Yangon city, only 8 miles away from the city centre, the Pun Hlaing Golf club features a 18-hole, 7,012 yards golf course superbly designed by the legendary Gary Player.

With its glamorous views of the Hlaing and Pun Hlaing rivers, and the spectacular backdrop of Shwedagon Pagoda from several holes. Pun Hlaing Golf Club has enjoyed the title of "The Pride of Myanmar" since its inception in 2000. It was selected as the country's host venue for the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in 2001, Putra Cub 2005, burma Masters tours 2008 and 2009. Pun Hlaing's Club members were privileged to have the occasion to play with the visiting golf professionals in a Pro-Am tournament held at Pun Hlaing Golf course prior the two-day 2009 Masters Tournament was held.

House owners, Residents, and the Club's Term Members and guests may also relax the Golf Club's facilities like the Horizon's Restaurant, with its famous week-end buffets, or inclue a drink on the outside verandah overlooking the putting green and the 18th hole. Adjacent to the 10th tee, members could also use Yangon's only full-size turf Driving Range, with its possess shower and locker-room facilities, and practice on the Club's newly completed pitch-and-put green. Additionally, the Club hosts and caters for own tournaments, both for home owners, and for outside business groups, diplomatic missions and other associations.

After a visit to Pun Hlaing Golf Club in November 2002, its designer and legend Gary Player commented on his website that "Of the tremendous golf courses I have seen in the world, Pun Hlaing Golf Club has to be in the top five. It reminds me of Augusta, Georgia".

Pun Hlaing Golf Club Information:

Holes: 18 Golf Cart:

Par / Yardage: 72 / 7,012

Designer: Mr. Gary Player

Established: 2000
2 Persons: 46 USD 1 Person: 33 USD
Golf Set: n/a
Golf Shoes: n/a
Umbrella: n/a

Location: Northwest Yangon

Distance: About 45 minutes from city center

Driving Range:no

Open on: Daily Facilities: Club house, caddies, clubs

Ye Dagon Taung Golf Club

Ye Dagon Taung Golf Club or the waterfall course is located 30 mintues west of downtown Mandalay towards Maymyo. Situated at the base of Yay Dagon Taung (Water Fall) Mountain it features attractive panoramic views of the Shan Mountain ranges which you may enjoy during your golf game.

This course is cool and pleasant in the winter and offers challenging gameplay with long and narrow fairways and small, tight and fast greens. This course is a favorite for nature lovers. They do not supply electric golf carts here and that is for the best. Walking the course you adventure appreciate the picturesque view that is just simply charming.

Definitely another course too add to your list if you see yourself in or around Mandalay do not miss out on this one.

Ye Dagon Taung Golf Club Information:

Holes: 18

Golf Cart: No Electric Cart

Par / Yardage: 72 / 7127

Designer: Designed by MCDC (Mandalay City Development Committee)

Established: 1996

Golf Shoes: n/a

Golf Set: n/a

Umbrella: n/a

Driving Range: no

Location: West of Mandalay toward Maymyo

Distance: 30 Minutes drive from downtown

Open on: Daily

Facilities: Restaurant, bar, golf shop, caddies and clubs avaliable

Bagan Golf Resort

Bagan Golf Resort is located next to Bagan Golf Resort Hotel at the back of the Archaeological zone only 10 minutes from antique Bagan. The golf course has been built in amongst the world well known Bagan temples, stupas and pagodas tremendous dating back to the 11th century. Playing golf in this setting is pure magic, overlooking the panorama of the ancient ruins is an unforgettable and serene experience.

Playing in the mornings here is good-hearted and cool as there is no rainy season as such like the southern parts of burma you could play all year round. The gameplay here is not overly challenging most holes feature a bunker or two but overall it’s a fun course to play.

The golf is ok but to relax this course you really need to take your time, enjoy and appreciate the good atmosphere and charming antique setting.

Bagan Golf Resort Information:

Holes: 18

Golf Cart: n/a

Par / Yardage: 72 / 7417

Established: 1998

Designer: n/a

Golf Set: $14

Golf Shoes: n/a

Umbrella: $4

Driving Range:n/a

Location: West of Mandalay toward Maymyo

Distance: close to Bagan ancient City, next to Bagan Golf resort hotel at the back of the Archaelogoical zone Facilities: Club hire, buggy hire, caddies

Open on: Daily

There are several golf clubs in burma which can ensure remarkable golf experience for professional golfers. MyanmarTour.com suggestion a tour combining perfect balance of golfing and culture exploration, please view journey here. Otherwise, we can customize your burma golf packages for more golfing days which very much vary to fit to your golf profestional level.

Top 5 Places to visit in Myanmra (Burma)

find our top places of interests for myanmar tour with short description. They are not covering all amazing site of burma but they should not be missed when you're planning a worth remembering trip to myanmar.

myanmar is a delightful and sacred country, largely uncharted by tourists. Located in Southeast Asia on the Bay of Bengal, the country has preserved its culture and scenery, remaining relatively unchanged since the British colonial times. The country is known as the ‘Golden Land’ because of the countless number of pagodas and temples, which dominate the spectacle.

myanmar also offers a variety of characteristic beauties and historical artifacts like sparkling waterfalls, graceful lakes, luxurious caves, untouched beaches and the thousand year antique golden pagodas scattered around myanmar, especially in Bagan and Mandalay. (See: burma map here)

explore more about these top attractions in the country that you should not miss out when tour to Myanmar:

1. Yangon - the former capital

Yangon, the most cosmopolitan city in burma which used to be capital of burma until 2005, has earned the name of "The Garden City of the East". You will notice the incredible Shwedagon Pagoda and own chance to feed your shopping habit on the vast array of traditional myanmar arts and crafts.

Read more on Yangon:

• go to guide and tour of Yangon burma
• Suggested itinerary for Sightseeing in Yangon (Myanmar)
• Yangon surrounding tours ideas: Dala and Twante

2. Mandalay - the ancient capital

Mandalay is the second largest city in myanmar (after Yangon), and a former capital of burma. Mandalay is popular for its spectacular Royal Palace, the world largest ringing bell in Mingun and the old colonial British hill stations of Pyin Oo Lwin, new experiences are to be found around myanmar.

Read more on Mandalay (Myanmar):

• adventure guide and tour of Mandalay myanmar
• Best things to do in Mandalay

3. Bagan - the land of over 2000 stupas and pagodas

Known as the city of four million pagodas, Bagan is one of the richest archaeological sites in Asia. You be able to also view the temple filled spectacle at sunrise by hot-air-balloon. Bagan is likely to be the attraction to any myanmar holiday.

Read more on Bagan (Myanmar):

• visit guide and journey of Bagan burma
• Experiencing a day in Bagan

4. Inle Lake - the giant natural lake at 1800m height

Inle reflects remarkable sight, pure natural beauty and becomes one of the most famous traveler destinations in the Shan State. Getting on the lake will open your eyes to special local methods of farming and fishing. Spot fishermen rowing by in a featured method —propelling their boats forward with one leg wrapped around an oar.

Read more on Inle lake (Myanmar):

• adventure guide and journey of Inle burma
• Trekking in Kalaw

5. Ngapali Beach - the best beach of the country

Ngapali is perhaps Myanmar’s best-known beach. With its miles of white sand, turquoise waters and green palms, it is steadily becoming one of the most pretty beaches in the world.

Read more on Ngapali (Myanmar):

• go to guide and adventure of Ngapali myanmar
• Best beaches in burma and best time to go

Balloon myanmar Festival in November

November is the most beautiful month in myanmar when the rain stops and weather is so cool. This is best time for a tour to burma as well as the best months for locals citizen to held exciting festival. Full Moon of Tazaungmon is one of the most important festival in a year of myanmar, taking destination in November. Lets go with us to join in vibrant, good festival by passing overland the country with diverse activities

Full moon festival (or Tazaungmon Festival)

Also known as Festival of Lights or Full moon of Tazaungdaing, it is held on Tazaungmon - the eighth month of Burmese calendar (usually in November as western calender). This day marks the finish of the rainy season.

• Date in 2016: 14 November
• Date in 2017: 03 November
• Date in 2018: 23 November

Full moon Festival is to honor the introduction of Buddhism in myanmar. On this day, robe-weaving competitions to create featured yellow monk robes named matho thingyan are held over the country during two consecutive nights (the preceding night and the full-moon night), most outstanding in Yangon’s Shwedagon pagoda. Contestants will work continuously from night to sunrise. These robes will be offered to monks in the Kahtain ceremony.

This habit commemorates the well-known story about the Gautama Buddha’s life. Understanding that the Buddha would soon pass away, the Gautama Buddha’s mother, Maya, spent the whole night weaving yellow robes for him. Her sister Gotami (Buddha’s aunt) then kept on this habit and offered new robes annually.

Nevertheless, the main significance of this festival is light, as tremendous suppose this festival has existed even prior the introduction of Buddhism in myanmar, to honor the God of Light and the awakening of Lord Vishnu. Sparkle fireworks, fire balloons are sent to the sky and multicolored lanterns are lighted. It is also said that the Gautama Buddha would return to Tawadeintha on this day to get to his mother’s reincarnated spirit so people illuminate the path for him by lighting candles and lanterns.

In Shan state, long queues of people holding traditional lit lotus flower lanterns march on roads. Especially in Taunggyi, hot air balloons made from bamboo and mulberry paper are released on air as offerings to Tavatimsa, the heaven in Buddhist cosmology, or as a way to drive away evil spirits. This tradition is also held in Naypyidaw (current capital) and Pyin Oo Lwin (near Mandalay).

Also on this chance, tremendous people come back home to pay homage to elders. Almsgiving and charity consisting of sautuditha feasts are also common during this festival, regarded as merit-making activities.

Full moon activities in other places in Myanmar:

• Shwezigon Pagoda - Festival in Bagan, on the Full Moon Day, there is a ritual of offering a filled alms bowl to a thousand and more monks and novices. Lacquer ware, glazed pots and hand woven cotton blankets are sold by villagers living in the region at this fantastic country fair. (Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone Mandalay Region)


• Phowintaung Pagoda Festival, Location : Monywa, Sagaing Region of Mandalay. Duration : 2 days like other pagoda festivals with the usual entertainment provided. Myanmar thanaka, sandalwood and woven textiles (cotton blankets and longyis mainly) could be bought at the diverse stalls around the pagoda area. (One day previous Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone)


• Shwesandaw (Pyay) Pagoda Festival in Bagan, Shwesandaw Pagoda is one of Myanmar’s biggest Buddhist pilgrimage sites and the festival of this pagoda is one of the most visited festivals for pilgrims all over the country. During the festival, the sacred tooth hall which contains a Buddha tooth relic is opened for devotees. (Full Moon Day of Tazaungmone)





• Our suggested burma tours to relax those activites are: myanmar Insight journey with Balloon Festival in 15 days and Inle with Taunggyi Festival or contact to our team by dropping us a message at info@seawander.asia to customize our myanmar tour to whatever you could such as.

On the tours: Safe & Enjoyable

burma is generally safe for traveling. Anyway, the better your preparation, the more enjoyable you will get on tours. Please read our safe instruction carefully for maximum fun moments on your trip

Crime and fraud

burma (Burma) is a generally a very safe country to adventure in and crime targeting tourists is uncommon. Nonetheless, you should apply common sense as you would when travelling anywhere. Be sure your spending money is out of spectacle and close to your body, and keep jewelry to a minimum. You could wish to use a money belt, especially if you are travelling on trains during your stay.

In major cities, we offer travelling by taxi if you are out at night. Make sure you negotiate and agree to a price before you get in. It is always a amazing idea to take a hotel address card with you to show your driver.

While on holiday to any places, including but not limited to myanmar, always keep a copy of your basic documents i.e. Passport, airline tickets, credit cards and traveller’s cheques, separate from the originals in a safe place. Because, just in case of lost, it is much easier and quicker to solve the issue. Most hotels own room-safes or deposit boxes at reception where you may store valuables.

Medical care

As with travelling to other parts of Asia, you need to take precautions when visiting burma. Mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis are endemic in myanmar. You should talk to your doctor about prophylaxis, and ensure you take clothing that covers your arms and legs as well as a splendid quality repellent. We strongly suggest you consult your doctor with regards to vaccinations and up-to-date health advice at least a month prior you depart.

Medical facilities outside main cities are extremely limited. In the event that you require any surgical treatment, you will likely need to be evacuated to Bangkok or Singapore.

Money exchange

The official Burmese currency is the Kyat (MMK) and you should plan to use this in most parts of the country, although USD is also widely accepted. Exchange rates fluctuate so we recommend keeping USD and exchanging as you get to.

It is best to take USD cash as your main source of money. There are very few ATMs, travelers cheques are not widely accepted, and your credit card may only be accepted in a limited number of larger hotels and businesses. In addition, commission rates may be quite high in some places. Check out our guide for money and currency in myanmar!

Ensure that the USD notes you carry are new, clean and undamaged, otherwise they can not be accepted. It is a splendid idea to keep receipts for any purchases as you could be asked to supply them by Burmese customs officials on departure.

SEA WANDER adventure hotels 2017 - 2018

Whatever the settings is, your comfortable and memorable trips to myanmar is our utmost priority. We guarantee that all our hotels/resorts selected are the best ones at their ranges. This reflects in our price which at primary, you may find it higher than our competitors. However, we will never downgrade the services in order to compete on prices.

Even though there are some more choices of accommodation in burma in before years, the limitation of accommodation here has quiet been very serious, especially in peak time (from Nov to March). Tourists are advised to book hotels in expand months ahead. Fantastic news, however, is that the hotels in myanmar begin to feel the heat of competition and take a move with very beautiful promotion in Low Season(from may to Aug). The lower range accommodation taking renovation while keeping very affordable prices is also a notable change.

2017 HOTEL UPDATES BY SEA WANDER tour

• Taw Win Garden Yangon hotel, a very new, grand hotel opened in 2014, is our original picking for Deluxe option - 4-star accommodation.
• large United hotel 3 stars with spacious rooms that tremendous possess a spectacle of Shwedagon pagoda is the site you are going to spend your stay in Yangon.
• After one pilot year operating, SEA WANDER decided to pick Yadanarpon Dynasty hotel 3 stars in Mandalay as our original picking. Please be aware that Yadanarpon Dynasty Hotel, that is newer, is a different property to Yadanarpon hotel.
• Paradise Nyangshwe hotel 3 stars will supply rooms when you are staying in Inle Lake. That hotel location is loveable while the price is very much affordable.

DETAILS OF OUR ACCOMMODATION LISTS

***Note: The below listing is SEA WANDER Tours' evaluation and rating - not the actual rating of the hotels. The actual star ratings of those hotels may be slightly different. The evaluation and rating are based on our have experiences of staying those hotels and/or inspection trips bySEA WANDER's staffs ourselves.

Affordable choice (2+ stars hotels)

The price of those hotels is running from $40-$60/room/night in Low Season and from $50 - $90/room/night in High Season

Destinations	Hotel Name	Descriptions
Yangon	Mr. Lee or MK hotel	loveable, small hotel with very clean rooms, central location. Affordable price
Bagan	Thante Bagan hotel	Best valued hotel in Bagan with an unbeatable location and amazingly considerate rooms with spacious bathroom. Website of the hotel: www.thantenyu.com
Mandalay	M3 Mandalay Hotel	suitable location in the heart of Mandalay city with few walks to convenient services eg. Shopping, restaurants and surprisingly good-hearted room under its price range. Website of the hotel: m3hotelmandalay.com
Inle Lake	Paradise Nyangshwe hotel	Unbeatable location in Nyangshwe town center that is a distance to the market while tranquil very peaceful. The services and the rooms are much more valuable than the price. Website of hotel: www.inleparadise.com
Ngapali	Yoma Cherry Lodge	Small, boutique hotel with its architectural charm, a well-tended garden, and a beach terrace. Website of the hotel: www.yomacherrylodge.com

Comfortable picking (3 stars hotels)

The price of those hotels is running from $60-$90/room/night in Low Season and from $80 - $130/room/night in High Season

Destinations	Hotel Name	Descriptions
Yangon	broad United Hotel	A perfect location with very spacious rooms. Numerous rooms have an awesome view of Shwedagon pagoda. The restaurant serves until very late at night with delicious foods. Website of the hotel: www.hotelgrandunited.com
Bagan	Thande Bagan hotel	Having some only colonial building dating back to 1922. Spacious rooms, friendly staffs, and very reasonable prices. Website of the hotel: www.baganthandehotel.net
Mandalay	Yadanarpon Dynasty hotel	Yadanarpon Dynasty is a new and very centrally located hotel. Easy access to the biggest tea shop of Mandalay. Website of the hotel: yadanarpondynastyhotel.com.
Inle Lake	Paradise Nyangshwe hotel	Unbeatable location in Nyangshwe town center that is a distance to the market while peaceful very calm. The services and the rooms are much more valuable than the price. Website of hotel: www.inleparadise.com
Ngapali	Thande Beach Hotel	Beachside resort with affordable price. Website of the hotel: www.thandebeachhotelmyanmar.com

Deluxe picking (4 stars hotels)

The price of those hotels is running from $90-$130/room/night in Low Season and from $130 - $180/room/night in High Season

Destinations	Hotel Name	Descriptions
Yangon	Taw Win Garden hotel	Taw Win Garden is a huge 4-star hotel centrally located. Very spacious room with thoughtful amenities. Close to shopping center.Website of the hotel: www.tawwingardenhotel.com.
Bagan	Tharabar Gate Bagan	Instyle, peaceful resort for hidden stays with very thoughtful rooms. Website of hotel: www.tharabargate.com
Mandalay	Mandalay Hill Resort	salient scenery to the whole Mandalay city. Website of hotel: www.mandalayhillresorthotel.com
Inle Lake	Inle Princess Resort	attractive gem as its name with great architecture blending between the traditions and culture of the Shan and Intha people. Website of the hotel: www.inleprincessresort.net
Ngapali	Amara Ocean resort	loveable personal bungalow with dedicated services and staffs. Website of the hotel: www.amaragroup.net

Luxury picking (5 stars hotels)

The price of those hotels is running from $150-$200/room/night in Low Season and from $180 - $300/room/night in High Season, ever more with higher room types.

Destinations	Hotel Name	Descriptions
Yangon	Shangri-La Hotel	Very centrally located, huge hotel with a thoughtful sight to Sule pagoda. Website of the hotel: www.shangri-la.com/yangon/suleshangrila
Bagan	myanmar Treasure resort	A graceful blend of traditionalism and contemporary elegance. Website of the hotel: www.myanmartreasureresorts.com/location-1/bagan/
Mandalay	Sedona hotel	Very good location that faces to Mandalay Hill and Royal Palace. Spacious room with fully equipped. Website of the hotel: www.sedonahotels.com.sg
Inle Lake	Aureum Inle resort	likeable beautiful resort with all villas floating over water and spacious inside. Website of the hotel: www.aureumpalacehotel.com/inle.html
Ngapali	Sandoway resort	59 villas and cottages are scattered throughout the 6 acres of 450 meters long beach frontage and tropical gardens, most with ocean views.

final Luxury picking (top 5 stars hotels)

The price of those hotels is running from $200-$350/room/night in Low Season and from $300 - $550/room/night in High Season

Destinations	Hotel Name	Descriptions
Yangon	Governor Residence	A top five-star hotel under the management of repute Belmond Group. Best long-standing 5 stars hotel. Website of hotel: www.governorsresidence.com/web/pyan/governors_residence.jsp
Bagan	Aureum Resort & Spa (Villa Rooms)	Expanding in 27 acres,this award-winning resort impresses any guest with its style and services. Website of hotel: www.aureumpalacehotel.com
Mandalay	Rupar Mandalar resort	Tranquility and calm site with beautifully designed rooms. Website of hotel: www.ruparmandalar.com
Inle Lake	Aureum Inle resort	loveable attractive resort with all villas floating over water and spacious inside. Website of the hotel: www.aureumpalacehotel.com/inle.html
Ngapali	Ngapali Hilton resort and spa	striking resort built and managed by a reputed brand name. Just opened in 2015 with well-appointed amenities. Website of the hotel: www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/myanmar/hilton-ngapali-resort-and-spa-SNWNBHI/index.html

River Cruises in burma

3 stars: Irrawaddy Princess II cruise. Affordable and comfortable cruise running between Mandalay and Bagan with 2 days or 3 days program. Website of the cruise: www.irrawaddyprincess2.com

4 stars: Paukan Cruises. Long standing history fleet with 4 cruises with boutique style offering several programs . Website of cruises: www.ayravatacruises.com and www.paukan.com
5 stars:
- street to Mandalay Cruise. The top reputable cruise on Irrawaddy river with luxury style. The program varies from 3 nights to 7 nights. Website of cruise: www.belmond.com/road-to-mandalay-myanmar
- Anawrahta River Cruise. The newest cruise on Irrawaddy river set new concept of luxury standards. Cruise program varies from 3 nights to 7 nights. landscape here for cruise details.
In 2017, there were numerous cruises set their maiden voyages eg. The Strand Cruise, Ananda Cruise or Sanctuary Retreat. That gives us more choices of river cruises. Depending on your booking dates, HITMyanmar will try our utmost efforts to look for the most ideal departure dates and prices.