Cycle the rolling hills of Shan Plateau from Mandalay to Inle, passing rural and tranquil villages where only two wheels can go. Interact with Danu, Taung Yoe and Pa-O villagers, explore a limestone cave and visit the huge number of stupas of Indein for a true Burmese experience.
Itinerary
📍 Transfer to starting point: approx. 3.5 hours Cycling distance: up to 60 km Elevation gain: 285 m Difficulty: Medium
The journey today to the Shan Plateau starts with a transfer to Ywar Ngan. The drive takes around 3.5 hours covering 130 kilometres.
Lunch will be at a local restaurant in Ywar Ngan.
After lunch, listen to a safety briefing from the guide followed by bike fitting. Then, start cycling towards Pindaya.
On the way pass Danu, Taung Yoe and Pa-O villages with many stops for photos and interaction with friendly locals. The scenery is bright with layers of hills and seasonal crops. Stop at Main Ma Ye Hill for fabulous views of the surrounding area. If time permits, visit the famous Pindaya caves which are filled with hundreds of Buddha statues.
Overnight in Pindaya.
Inclusions:
📍 Cycling distance:up to 49 km Difficulty: Medium Elevation gain: 549 m
This morning, continue the journey from Pindaya to Aung Ban, then Kalaw. Pedal over the beautiful Shan Plateau. Hills are gently rolling and decorated with colourful plantations and vegetable farms, depending on the season. See Danu and Pa-Oh people working their farms.
A lunch box will be provided on the way.
According to the rotating 5-day market’s location, there may be a chance to see colourful markets at Pindaya, Pwe Hla, Kyone or Aung Ban.
On arrival at Kalaw, check-in to the hotel.
Overnight in Kalaw.
Inclusions:
📍 Cycling distance: Up to 65 km Difficulty: Medium Elevation gain: 509 m
Today, cycle to Inle Lake starting with a short transfer to Aungban before riding off-road into the hills which are the homes of the hill tribes, once again. There is a stretch of rolling hills then downhill to Indein where Inle Lake comes into sight. On the way, pass small villages, huge monasteries and have the opportunity to interact with local people. Reach Indein at noon.
Lunch at local restaurant in Indein.
Indein is a Pa-Oh village which is known for its picturesque ancient stupas and has magnificent views of the lake below. Go for a short ride through the hidden ancient ruins then walk through the ruined site, where the jungle is beginning to take over, and search for hidden Buddha images. Next, jump back on the saddle of the bicycle and head north up the western shore.
The road back to Nyaung Shwe is paved and on a decline with some undulating hills scattered in between. We’ll ride through the trees and alongside the towering Shan mountains as the backdrop. We’ll see rice paddies below and the open road ahead. Have a quick snack break at Khaung Daing village, known for its delicious handmade soy bean crackers, tofu and other treats.
Reaching Nyaung Shwe in the afternoon and the rest of our day will be our own leisure.
Inclusions:
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