Women for Women Cycle Burma 5-15 November 2016

Exploring Burma is like discovering South East Asia as it was 20 years ago. The diversity of its people, culture, and landscape combined with a rich history make it one of the most fascinating countries in the region. What better way to explore this incredible country and meet its welcoming people than by bicycle?

Discover a land of ancient temples, golden pagodas and magnificent monasteries on two wheels.

The Cost What’s included What’s not included Registration Fee: £299 Return economy flights Spending money Sponsorship: £3,200 All accommodation, as per Lunch on days 9 & 10 itinerary Travel insurance Bikes Airport taxes (approx. Food, Snacks and water will £450) be provided whilst cycling UK medics Experienced tour guides Pre-trip information briefing

Challenge Itinerary

Day 1 –Saturday London - Yangon

Day 2 – Sunday Yangon Arrival in Yangon and transfer to the Shwedagon Pagoda, the most sacred Buddhist Temple in Burma. After seeing this incredible sight we transfer to our overnight hotel, have dinner and hear all about the adventure ahead.

Day 3 – Monday Yangon – Bagan 30 km After breakfast we transfer to the airport for an internal flight to Bagan. On arrival we head to our hotel for lunch followed by a bike fitting and a warm up cycle around the famous temples of Bagan. Bagan is home to more than 2,000 magnificent temples, pagodas and stupas dating from the 11th to 13th centuries spread over an area spanning 16 miles. We climb a monument and watch the sunset over the pagoda-filled plains a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 4 – Tuesday Bagan - Mount Popa 60km We start the day with a short ride to the base of Mount Popa passing various small settlements. Mount Popa has played an important role in Myanmar culture, religion and history since the earliest times. Its shrine is dedicated to the worship of the 37 Nats, the Burmese ancient animist spirits. The view over the Myingyan Plain from the top of the Popa- Taung Kalat volcanic peak is simply breathtaking.

Day 5 – Wednesday Mount Popa – Meikhtila 109km A long but rewarding day through stunning scenery on quiet roads. We cycle through central Burma where the terrain is undulating and head in the direction of Shan State. Tonight’s destination is Meikhtila, an important trade centre on the banks of Lake Meikhtila.

Day 6 - Thursday Meikhtila - Kalaw 116km Today we set off through countryside, where we will be greeted by warm and friendly people, who have had little contact with foreigners. We’ll witness at first-hand their culture, lifestyle and traditions. As the day progresses we leave behind the windy, undulating roads of the Shan Plateau and enter the flatter and warmer Central Plain area. Our destination is the former British hill station of Kalaw. The cool mountain air, pine forests and beautiful colonial houses make it a pleasant city to spend the night.

Day 7 – Friday Kalaw –Pindaya 74km This morning, we head north to Pindaya on rolling empty roads flanked by beautiful manicured fields from where much of Myanmar’s produce is sourced. The area is rich with a diversity of hill tribes and we will pass some of the villages en route. After we reach Pindaya, we will visit the famous Pindaya caves, filled with hundreds of Buddha statues.

Day 8 - Saturday Pindaya – Lake Inle 87 km Today is our final day cycling. We have a fabulous ride down off the plateau to the famous Inle Lake. We cross the finish line at Nyaung Shwe, a town on the shores of Inle Lake and the perfect location to end our challenge. This evening we enjoy a celebratory meal where we reflect on a wonderful week.

Day 9 Sunday Free day to relax and explore the Inle Lake area independently or join an optional tour. Inle Lake is the second largest natural lake in Burma and its shores and islands are home to 17 villages on stilts, offering plenty to explore.

Day 10 Monday Transfer to Heho Airport for flight Yangon and onward to London

Day 11 Tuesday Arrive in London.

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Women for Women is administered by Genesis Research Trust, charity registration number 292518. Acting as agents for Classic Tours, ATOL licence 3379