Depart Yangon early this morning for a journey by road to Hpa An, the capital of Kayin state.

Along the way, visit Bayin Nyi cave, where a beautiful monastery sits in front of a sheer rock wall surrounded by a large natural spring. It’s not uncommon to see young monks going for a swim, still clothed in full monk attire.

Arrive in Hpa An in the late afternoon.  Approaching the city, the mountains surrounding Hpa An will slowly come into view. There should be time to drop off bags at the hotel before heading into town to visit Shwe Yin Myaw pagoda. This pagoda is the perfect spot to watch the sun set across the Thanlwin River.

Overnight in Hpa An

Meet with the guide at the hotel after breakfast. The first stop of the day will be Sadan Cave, only open from November to March. Sadan starts off as a typical Myanmar cave, full of Buddha images, before opening up to a natural tunnel. Follow the row of lights through the tunnel for about 15 minutes to get to the other side. Reaching the end, a magnificent view of a hidden lake and meadow come into sight. (In case of closure at Sadan cave, we will substitute another beautiful cave in the Hpa An region)

Stop and have tea or coffee at the tea shop at the edge of the lake. From here, take a tour around the lake with a local boatman (sitting on the bamboo floor of the boat as there are no seats) and visit another cave accessible only by boat. (valid from Oct to Apr)

Afterwards, head toward Lumbini Gardens, home to thousands of identical Buddha statues, before going to Kyauk Ka Lat. This natural rock sculpture, surrounded by a manmade lake, offers spectacular views of Mt Zwekabin and the surrounding area.

The next stop will be Kawgun cave. Every conceivable inch of this cave is covered in Buddha images, many dating back to the 7th century. There is also an option to climb to the top of a large rock formation for great views.

The last stop will be a sunset visit to Bat Cave. Living up to its name, Bat Cave is home to tens of thousands of bats and located along the bank of the Thanlwin River. As the sun dips in the background, the bats come out in droves and is quite a sight.

Just before dark, head back to the hotel.

Overnight in Hpa An

After breakfast, take an hour hour drive to the city of Mawlamyine. Before it was established in Rangoon, Mawlamyine was the British capital of Burma. The British influence can be seen in the buildings, churches, and the beautiful Strand road along the river.

Along the way, stop at Kawdoe Kawnat village to visit Kawnat Monastery, featuring beautiful wood carvings dating back a century.

Arriving to Mawlamyine, start the tour at Kyaik Than Lan Pagoda, the city’s landmark. Built in 875 AD, it enshrines the Tripitaka Buddhist manuscripts as well as a hair relic from the Buddha. The 40 meter high stupa is located on a hill surrounded by 34 smaller Zediyan pagodas. From this vantage point, enjoy panoramic views over the city and harbour.

Next visit the ancient Queen Sein Don Monastery, over 100 years old and famous for its intricate woodcarvings and Burmese crafts.

After the visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, explore buildings remaining from Mawlamyine’s Colonial period, including the Holy Family Cathedral. Built during the colonial era, this church has a beautiful interior rarely seen by tourists.

Afterwards, head to the jetty for a short boat ride to Shampoo Island, sitting at the confluence of five rivers. Spend 30-45 minutes on the island exploring the monastery, nunnery and pagoda.

Finally, return to Mawlamyine and have a chance to stroll down the beautiful Strand road as the sun sets along the river. Tonight, dine at one of the many restaurants along the river.

Overnight in Mawlamyine

This morning, depart Mawlamyine and drive to Kyaikhtiyo, the Golden Rock. In early afternoon, arrive at Kyaikhtiyo base camp (approximately 4 hrs). Travel by local, open-air truck along a winding road (45 minutes) before being dropped off for the 5-minute walk to Golden Rock. 

A huge boulder covered by gold leaf and delicately balanced on the edge of a cliff, Golden Rock is one of Myanmar's main pilgrimage sites.  The pagoda here is said to hold a hair of the Buddha and Buddhists from across the country come here to pay homage. 

Overnight near Golden Rock

After breakfast, return to the base camp by open-air truck and begin the return journey to Yangon. Along the way, stop in Htaukkyan township to visit the Allied War Cemetery. This beautifully-landscaped, peaceful area is the final resting place for more than 27,000 Allied Soldiers who perished during the World War II campaign in Myanmar.

Return to Yangon in mid afternoon