Mrauk U Explorer

After breakfast, transfer to Yangon airport for your domestic flight to Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine state. Rakhine State is separated from the mainland by the Rakhine Hills and people have developed a strong identity, distinct from the Bamar majority. Upon arrival, take the road by car to Mrauk U (-142km/3 ½hr), the ancient capital of the Rakhine Kingdom (15th century). Take a stroll around the small town to stretch your legs.

Enjoy a spectacular sunset at Haridaung Hill.

Overnight in Mrauk U

After breakfast, the tour begins, as usually, with the local market. Start your archaeological visit with the picturesque Pay Si Pagoda with five seated Buddha Images; the 16th century Rakhine style Kothaung Temple, known for its 90,000 Buddhas; Min Kaung Shwe Gu Stupa, well-known for its delicate sandstone carvings; Phaya Oat Stupa comprised of twenty nine small caves with Buddha images. After these visits, take a short walk to a typical Rakhine village to observe their ways of life and have a look at the old palace excavation site of Sakya-Man-Aung, a tall stupa guarded by two remarkable protectors.

Afternoon sightseeing will include the massive Shitthaung-Paya, a curiously remarkable temple with countless Buddha images and interesting reliefs, Andawthein with its unique stone carvings and floral designs and the fortress-like temple Htaukkan-Thein, noted for the numerous stone sculptures in the vaulted passages, Bawdi Shwe Gu Pagoda, well-known for fine carvings of 550 Jataka stories.

Sunset at Shwe Taung Hill.

Overnight in Mrauk U

After breakfast, drive to the jetty and take a local boat trip to Chin tribal villages, along the Lay Myo River. In the Chin ethnic village, observe the way of life of Chin ethnic folks and meet some local Chin ladies and their unusual tattooed faces.

Overnight in Mrauk U

In the morning, depart for Sittwe by private boat (-6hr) and enjoy the peaceful river life along the KALADAN river. A few stops are planned to visit typical villages and experience their simple and natural way of life.

Upon arrival in Sittwe, check-in at the hotel and start sightseeing with a visit to the ancient Mahakuthala monastery, decorated with 99 windows and depositary of many precious old Buddhist palm leaf scriptures.

Do not miss sunset at the View point, usually quite busy with locals at this time.

Overnight in Sittwe

In the morning, visit the extraordinary fish market in Sittwe and travel back to the 12th century as fishermen unload their catch for sale (if time permits). Transfer to the airport for your flight to Yangon.

End of the Tour!