Breathtaking Burma

Today you'll head out early to catch your flight to the ancient wonder of Bagan. Here spread out across the horizon are the peaks of 4,500 brick and gilded ancient temples. Dotting the skyline in many shapes and forms some say they compare in splendour to the majestic Angkor kingdom. Theravada Buddhism was introduced by the former kings of Pagan (Bagan) in the mid 11th century, which spurred on the swift building of a swathe of temples to worship their gods, be they Buddhist, Hindu or Nat, over the ensuing 200 or so years.

This afternoon you will take a tour by horse and cart (2 people travel per cart) to visit some of the main temples and go shopping in some of the local markets. Hawkers often surround the most popular temples, selling lacquer ware or handicrafts and there are also stalls offering cool drinks and a welcome touch of shade.

The next day you travel to Ngat Pyit Taung Monastery where you can explore the temple's caves and learn about local traditions and beliefs. Later you visit a Monastic Primary School, seeing the local children here as they go about their lessons will give your kids a totally different perspective on school life! There will certainly be many smiling faces to welcome your visit too. Onwards to the town of Nyaung U where you will visit small neighbouring villages and learn about traditional life here. You will see the process of creating "Poneyay" - pea powder paste and watch as local plum jam is made and packed, if you are lucky they will give you a taste of it too!On your second evening in Bagan you will see a colourful marionette performance which will delight the kids, a tasty dinner of traditional Bamar cuisine is included while you watch.Hotel (AA) – 2 nights - Swimming Pool (Bx2, D on day 5)

Setting off across the mountains today you cross the plateau which is crammed with farms and make a stop at the caves of Pindaya. As one of the 'Golden Caves' in Shan state, pilgrims flock to worship the 8000 or so Buddha images which adorn the caverns, tunnels and meditation chambers of this huge limestone cave. You'll venture into the labyrinth of tunnels with your guide to gain a better insight into its history.

Pushing on towards Taungyi, you take the turnoff to the resort town of Nyuangshwe, set at the northern end of Inle Lake and your base for the next few days.
The calm waters of Inle Lake are the life-blood for many ethnic minority communities found in stilt houses in lake's shallow fringes and surrounding areas.
The following day you head out in motorised boats and spend the day taking in all the sights from the distinctive leg rowing of local fishermen casting their nets and Nga Hpe Kyaung Monastery with its jumping cats and collection of ancient Buddha images to the floating tomato plantations and plethora of cottage industries such as silversmiths, weavers and cigar makers. You may even come across the floating market which circles the lake each 5 days, where locals sell traditional wares and you can take advantage of shopping opportunities which might come your way.The final day at Inle is free for you to relax or choose your own activities. Perhaps visit the markets, take a wander around the nearby waterfront, cycle off into neighbouring villages or see old payas/temples and the lovely teak monastery. Guesthouse (AA) – 3 nights (Bx3)