MYANMAR (BURMA) MYANMAR’S CULTURAL CITIES The cultural heritage of this diverse country is ever present in Burma’s extraordinary cities. From the colonial history of Yangon, through to the ancient temples of Bagan, you’ll discover this country through its cities and experience the communities that thrive within them. YANGON You’ll find tree-lined streets and shaded parks in this picturesque city, formerly the capital of Myanmar. The skyline is dominated by the gold-crusted Shwedagon Pagoda, a Buddhist temple that attracts thousands each year. We suggest taking a walking tour through the great city where you’ll wander through colourful markets before stopping in a local tea shop to sample one of the staples of Burmese life. BAGAN The countless temples scattered throughout Bagan are an architectural wonder of the world and date back to the 11th and 13th centuries. We recommend seeing them at sunrise from a gracefully gliding hot air balloon. Take a boat ride from Mandalay up the Irrawaddy River, where you’ll interact with local farmers growing tobacco, cotton and chilli. MANDALAY Mandalay is the spiritual heart of Myanmar and is home to an abundance of monasteries, pagodas and religious shrines. Though much of the city was destroyed during World War II, the city has undergone dramatic change and development. Look down across it all from Mandalay hill, the summit is a prime location to observe a sunset. Outside the city don’t miss a trip to the picturesque U-Bein Bridge, the world’s longest and most-photographed teak bridge.
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