Uncover the lost civilization of Mrauk U

Start your adventure with a short domestic flight from Yangon to Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine State in northwestern Myanmar. From Sittwe, enjoy a 5-hour boat cruise along the Kaladan River to reach Mrauk U, once a powerful kingdom and a hub for international traders in the 15th–18th centuries.

As you cruise through peaceful countryside, admire views of local life along the riverbanks. Upon arrival in Mrauk U, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore the town at your own pace.

Often called “the second Bagan,” Mrauk U is one of Myanmar’s most important archaeological sites. Unlike Bagan, it remains off the beaten path, offering authentic charm, misty mornings, and mysterious stone temples spread across quiet hillsides.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Internal flight

Boat

Hotel in mrauk u

After breakfast, begin your exploration with a visit to Vesali, once the capital of the ancient Waithali Kingdom (8th–11th century). See the remarkable Hsu Taung Pre Buddha statue, carved from a single piece of sandstone.

Next, discover the famed Shittaung Pagoda, built in 1535 by King Min Bin to mark his victory over Bengal. Known as the “Temple of 80,000 Buddhas,” this sacred site showcases thousands of Buddha images in narrow corridors. Nearby is Htukkanthein Temple, a fortress-like structure filled with statues of donors and seated Buddhas, built for meditation and protection.

Later, wander through Mrauk U’s rural landscapes, visit remote villages, and see other unique temples with varied architecture reflecting centuries of history and devotion.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Sightseeing mrauk u

Breakfast

Hotel in mrauk u

Begin the day with a visit to the Mrauk U morning market, where locals sell produce, crafts, and daily essentials. This is a great way to observe Rakhine culture and lifestyle up close.

Continue to the Mrauk U Archaeological Museum, home to ancient artifacts, inscriptions, and relics that tell the story of the city’s golden age. Then visit Koe Thaung Pagoda—Mrauk U’s largest temple—featuring an astounding 90,000 Buddha images, built by King Min Dikkha.

Walk through local villages and make your way to Pizi Phara, a hilltop site with serene, moss-covered Buddha statues facing four directions. You’ll also see Lattsaykan Gate, once the city’s main entrance, and nearby Lattsaykan Lake, the royal water reservoir.

In the afternoon, explore Bandoola Kyaung Monastery, said to house a sacred Buddha tooth relic. Then climb to Shwe Taung Pagoda, one of Mrauk U’s highest points, to enjoy a breathtaking sunset panorama of the valley dotted with ancient ruins.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Sightseeing mrauk u

Breakfast

Hotel in mrauk u

After breakfast, take a scenic boat trip along the Lemro River to visit remote Chin minority villages nestled in the hills. The journey offers picturesque views of green farmlands, wooden houses, and fishermen at work.

Once in the villages, stroll around to interact with local people and witness daily life. Here you may meet elderly Chin women with traditional facial tattoos, a cultural tradition slowly fading with time. Learn about their customs, family life, and spiritual beliefs.

Return to Mrauk U in the afternoon and enjoy some free time at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Boat cruise lemro river

chin hill tribe village visit

Breakfast

Hotel in mrauk u

After breakfast, cruise back down the Kaladan River to Sittwe. From here, catch your flight back to Yangon, where your journey ends.

Tour Ends – But the memories of ancient temples, river landscapes, and tribal life will stay with you forever.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Boat

Internal flight

Breakfast