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Itinerary
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Burma – Mountains, Beaches & Stupas

14 Day Tour

From: £2490

Mountains, Beaches & Stupas

The redspokes Mountains, Beaches and Stupas cycling holiday is a richly varied journey through Myanmar’s cultural and natural highlights. Beginning in Yangon, the tour…

The redspokes Mountains, Beaches and Stupas cycling holiday is a richly varied journey through Myanmar’s cultural and natural highlights. Beginning in Yangon, the tour introduces the country’s spiritual heritage with a sunset visit to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, before travelling north to the tranquil Shan Hills and Inle Lake, famous for its floating villages and traditional way of life.

Cycling follows quiet rural roads through farmland and forest, visiting sacred sites such as the Pindaya Caves and climbing the volcanic Mount Popa, before reaching the extraordinary temple plains of Bagan. The journey then contrasts perfectly with time to relax on the unspoilt beaches of Ngapali Bay, creating a memorable blend of cycling, culture and coastal calm.

Cycling Difficulty

4/10 – Moderate

No. of Cycling Days

6 days of cycling

Avg. Daily Distance

76 kilometers
/ 47.2 miles

Avg. Daily Ascent

1476 meters
/ 4,843 feet

Accommodation Grade

Comfortable

Included Meals

Most Meals

redspokes Mountains Beaches and Stupas, Burma cycle holiday combines the highlights of Myanmar’s cultural and geographical wonders. In Yangon we begin with a sunset trip to the splendid Shwedagon Pagoda. Locally known as Shwedagon Zedi Daw the shimmering golden temple is 99 meters high and can be seen from most areas of Yangon, day and night.

Travelling north we visit Inle Lake in the Shan Hills, enjoying a memorable boat trip. The lake is famous for its floating villages and gardens and minority communities. You will witness the unique Intha oarsmen navigating their traditional leg-rowed boats and encounter Pao hill tribes who come to the area to trade their wares.

Our cycling begins with a ride along picturesque road. We visit the Pindaya Caves; a magnificent Buddhist pilgrimage site with over 8 000 statues, located within limestone ridge. Many legends are told about the caves, including a tale of seven princesses bathing in a lake, who were captured by a giant spider and trapped in the cave only to be rescued by Prince Kummabhaya of Yawnghwe. Our holiday continues as we cycle along a rural inland route through forested areas of banana and coconut trees and farmland with a wide variety of crops from rice fields to peanuts, sesame and peas to reach the mighty volcanic Mount Popa. You can ascend all 777 steps to the summit to experience panoramic views, sacred symbolism as you mingle amongst pilgrims and encounter the local population of monkeys.

We cycle on to reach the ancient holy city of Bagan. Set on the banks of the Irrawaddy River over 2000 temples spread across the plain. Dating back to the 11th Century, Bagan is one of the world’s most significant historic and religious sites and the former capital of the ancient Kingdom of Pagan. Here you can explore the many stupas, the old town, Nyaung Oo Market and the shimmering Shwezigon Pagoda.

As we head on to the west, we fly to beautiful Ngapali Bay. Located on the Bay of Bengal, Ngapali has a relaxed fishing village atmosphere and unspoiled white sand beaches, framed by coconut tree palms that look out at cobalt blue seas. We have a few days to relax and explore the area around Ngapali.

We return to Yangon for the penultimate day of redspokes Mountains Beaches and Stupas, Burma cycling holiday. There is time this afternoon to see more of the city.

You will be left with lasting memories of Myanmar culture, rural landscapes and intriguing cities.

Tour Features

Yangon: Shwedagon Paya, circular train, bazaars.
Inle Lake: stilt-houses, Intha leg-rowing oarsmen.
Pindaya Caves: 8 000 Buddhist statues.
Mt. Popa: volcanic mountain shrine.
Bagan: UNESCO World heritage stupas and pagodas.
Ngapali: white sand coast on the Bay of Bengal.

What's Included

Support vehicle
Accommodation
Most meals
Snacks and mineral water during cycling days
Airport transfers on the start and end day of the tour
Local professional English speaking guide(s)

What's Not Included

International flights
Alcoholic drinks
Meals not stated on the itinerary
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips for guide (s) and support staff
Bike hire (available if required)

Key Places – Burma – Mountains, Beaches & Stupas

Bagan

Famous for its many temples Bagan in the Mandalay region of Burma, is an ancient city located on the banks of the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River in the country’s central dry zone. During the summer months temperatures soar here. Back in the 9th Century Bagan was the Capital of the Kingdom of Pagan. From the 11-13th Centuries more than 10,000 Buddhist religious sites were built in the Bagan plains and today the remains of more than 2,000 of these historic temples and pagodas survive. This is the largest and most concentrated area of Buddhist sites in the world and of great historical and archaeological interest.

A spectacular and romantic way to enjoy the views of Bagan is to take a hot air balloon trip at dawn and enjoy the sunrise. It’s best to visit the temples during the morning before the heat of the day sets in. An afternoon siesta will prepare you for your evening visit to the small night market where there are local goods on sale and live music and entertainment.

Inle Lake

Inle Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake 900 m above sea level in the Shan state of Myanmar. It is a stretch of water 22km long and 10 km wide and the second largest lake in Myanmar. Many minorities live in the area, directly on and around the lake you will encounter the Intha people. The Intha fishermen are known for their unique leg rowing. They stand at the stern of the boat on one leg and wrap the other leg around the oar. This practise developed because of the density of reeds and plants in the lake. The Intha women roll cigars and weave. ‘Intha’ means ‘children of the lake’.
The area is a wildlife sanctuary and thousands of water birds migrate here or use the waters as a breeding area. Some are rare species you are unlikely to find elsewhere. December and January are the best times for bird watching. On the North Bank of Inle Lake is the town of Nyang Shwe. Two main attractions in Nyang Shwe are the Cultural Museum and the Royal Palace of Sahn Saw Bwar. A bridge crossing takes you to a magnificent stupa completely clad in mirror tiles and 3 km outside of town you can visit the Red Mountain Winery and enjoy beautiful sunset views.

There is also a market in the town every 5 days where women from local hill tribes of the Inle region come to sell crafts and produce. Most of the communities are devout Buddhists who live in simple wooden or woven bamboo houses on stilts.

Ngapali Beach

Set in tranquil rural Burma, Ngapali Beach, fringed by coconut palm trees extends for 3km of white sand coastline along the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal. Untainted by modern development, Burma’s popular coastal resort is another highlight on the redspokes cycle tour. People come here to relax, swim, snorkel and fish in beautiful surroundings. Situated 7km from the ancient sea port town of Thandwe, Ngapali comprises a series of stretches of sand between which you will find small fishing communities where fish, shrimp and coconut hang out to dry in the sun.

There are opportunities for pony rides along the beach. The area can be explored on foot, by bicycle or you can take a ride in a trishaw pedalled by local villagers, and see local markets where crafts, weaving and pottery are sold. Motorised fishing boats offer trips around the local islands including a black sand islet. Away from the coast you can walk in the hills with lake and reservoir areas, the habitat for local wildlife.

You will have ample opportunities to sample freshly caught seafood in the local restaurants.

Yangon

Yangon also referred to as Rangoon (meaning “End of Strife”) is a former capital of Myanmar (Burma) and the principal city of the Yangon region. Yangon grew from the small 11th C fishing village: Dagon in the area directly around the Shwedagon Pagoda. According to legend the Pagoda itself was built during the time of the Buddha. Today it is the country’s largest city with a population of over five million. Yangon is a mix of British, Burmese, Chinese and Indian influences. British colonial occupation led to the development of parks, lakes and buildings in addition to the traditional wooden architecture, in an area known as “the garden city of the East”. In addition to this are modern high rise developments and shanty town quarters.

Bogyoke Aung San covered Market (Scott Market) is a huge indoor area where can find a variety of traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Yangon’s circular train is a ‘sight’ in itself. Buy your ticket at the office on platform 7 in the Central Railway Station or at any circular train station. Choose a clockwise or anti clockwise journey. Prepare for three hours on a hard wooden seat, whilst the locals will be a curiosity to you and you to them cherry sellers will step on and off the moving train with a bowl of cherries on their head to tempt you with their fruit.

Itinerary – Burma – Mountains, Beaches & Stupas

Day 1: Arrive Yangon

redspokes Mountains, Beaches and Stupas, Myanmar tour begins in Yangon. You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. For those who arrive early in the day there will be a city walking tour of Yangon, Burma’s largest city and the former capital. The tour will begin at 1pm. Later this afternoon you will be taken to see the sunset at the Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the most spectacular religious monuments in South East Asia and the oldest Buddhist stupa in the world. The pagoda’s imposing form dominates the city skyline. This evening, there will be a group meeting with the redspokes guide.

Accommodation: Hotel (D)

Day 2: Yangon – Nyaung Shwe

We board a morning flight to Heho then transfer by vehicle from the airport to Nyaung Shwe. Located on the banks of Inle Lake, Nyaung Shwe is the trading hub for villagers living around the lake and in the Shan mountains. Local hill tribes include the Intha and Pao people. Street traders here sell cigars, local crafts and food. The Intha fishermen are renowned for their distinctive leg-rowing technique. This afternoon you can take a boat trip across the water, seeing floating gardens, pagodas and the main produce market.

Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 3: Nyaung Shwe – Pindaya

Today we begin cycling on sealed roads and soon begin a sustained 6-7km climb. After 27km we turn off onto a secluded unsurfaced road that takes us to the lakeside town Pindaya. Most famous for the caves that house thousands of Buddha statues, Pindaya is also where traditional Shan paper umbrellas are manufactured. This is a very picturesque and relaxing ride and most of the route apart from a stretch of 7km is surfaced. You can expect to get into Pindaya a little after lunch. It’s a beautiful place to stay and you have the opportunity to visit the Pindaya Caves. Although they are one of the town’s main attractions, we will see few tourists as Pindaya is visited mainly by Burmese pilgrims. The many images of Buddha are made of white marble, bronze or plaster, coated with gold leaf. Many legends are told about the caves including a tale of seven princesses bathing in a lake who were captured by a giant spider and trapped in the cave only to be rescued by Prince Kummabhaya of Yawnghwe.

Cycling Distance: 62km (38.5 miles)
Cycling Climb: 733m (2,404ft)
Cycling Descent: 479m (1,571ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

Day 4: Pindaya – Ywar Ngan

We continue cycling on the tour today towards Mandalay, first on quiet back roads, then on the main road which is main only by name, not by nature. We will encounter very little traffic here due to the surface being unsuitable for large vehicles who take an alternative route. The cycling terrain is fairly up and down, with nothing too challenging in the way of climbs.

Cycling Distance: 76km (47 miles)
Cycling Climb: 1,097m (3,599ft)
Cycling Descent: 958m (3,143ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

Day 5: Ywar Ngan – Kyaukse

We cycle on to Kyaukse through forested areas with rice fields, banana and coconut trees. Our route includes over 500m of uphill cycling but also a mighty 1,737m downhill. As we reach the 43km mark leaving the mountains behind our descent ends and we really begin to feel the heat. Kyaukse is a small peaceful town 25 miles (40 km) south of Mandalay located on the Zawgyi River, although it is in Burma’s dry zone. The Kyaukse area is known for its turmeric, mango and onions. You can walk out to visit the town pagoda and enjoy a lovely view of the area.

Cycling Distance: 79.8km (50 miles)
Cycling Climb: 1,689m (5,541ft)
Cycling Descent: 506m (1,660ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 6: Kyaukse to Myingyan

Leaving Kyaukse behind we head for Myingyan, cycling on through remote Burma. There is a 20km stretch along busy road. You can take the support vehicle to avoid cycling this stretch of the route if you prefer. Along the way, we pass through many villages and have unparalleled opportunities to observe traditional lifestyles of the rural Burmese. We can stop to meet friendly locals. Farmers here grow crops such as peanuts, sesame and peas, there are many toddy palm trees. The route is flat, but we will need stamina to contend with the heat. Myingyan lies in the valley of the Ayeyarwady River, to the south of Mandalay, on the east bank of the river.

Cycling Distance: 105km (65 miles)
Cycling Climb 505m (1,656ft)
Cycling Descent: 525m (1,722ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7: Myingyan – Mount Popa

Today our cycling tour continues through the rural landscape, we ride past fields of millet, sesame, cotton, maize, rice and a great variety of peas and beans. We head south east enjoying the landscapes of Burma’s dry zone; the first part of the route is fairly flat with a few gently undulating slopes. We will see Mount Popa in the distance, an imposing extinct volcano.

Cycling Distance: 81km (50 miles)
Cycling Climb: 960m (3,150ft)
Cycling Descent: 430m (1,410ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 8 : Mount Popa to Bagan

We start the day cycling to Mount Popa, a 1518 metre-high volcanic mountain with stunning views of the surrounding area. Popa Taungkalat monastery is perched on the top of the volcano and reputedly home to 37 Mahagrini Nats (spirits). At the foot of the mountain you will find a shrine to the spirits. A climb of 777 steps to the top of Popa is well worth the effort for the awe inspiring panoramic views. As we ascend we will pass pilgrims, souvenir shops and Mt Popa monkeys. Back on the bikes we cycle on to Bagan.

Mount Popa in Burma

We pass through villages where the locals produce a range of products using the juices of the Toddy palm trees, including sweet molasses and wine. As we cycle by we see the farmers in action as they climb the trees to collect the juice. Traditional farming methods are practiced here and oxen are still used to help grind corn and rice. We approach Bagan on the banks of the Ayeyarwady River with temples dotted all along the waterfront.

Cycle Distance: 53km (33 miles)
Cycling Climb: 119m (390ft)
Cycling Descent: 631m (2,070ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B)

Day 9: Bagan Rest Day

We begin with an early morning guided ride (on local bikes) to visit the local Pagodas before the heat of the day sets in. You are free this afternoon to enjoy the sights. There are options to visit Nyaung Oo Market, and the Shwezigon Pagoda which many of Burma’s later stupas were modelled on. You can join an organised tour of some of the major temples in the Bagan area or just relax by the pool in the hotel. This evening you will enjoy the sunset over Bagan’s imposing ancient monuments.

Accommodation: Hotel (B)

Day 10: Bagan to Ngapali Beach

Today we take a flight south to the beautiful Ngapali Beach which is a short distance from Thandwe in Rakhine State. Ngapali beach is Burma’s most popular and well known coastal resort. As you relax here with the deep blue waters of the Bengal Sea, white sands and beautiful palm trees you really will feel you’ve arrived in paradise. This evening we can watch a beautiful sunset whilst sipping a cocktail on the sands before dinner. There is a wonderful variety of local fresh fish and seafood of offer in the restaurants.

Accommodation: Guest House (B)

Day 11: Ngapali Beach Local area

Ngapali’s remote tranquil surroundings offer a variety of activities. Today you have options to take a boat trip to do some fishing or snorkelling. Alternatively, you can stroll around the surrounding villages, visiting traditional markets or hire a local bike and ride along the entire stretch of sand, experiencing traditional life alongside ox-drawn carts. Returning to the beach this evening there’s time for a sunset stroll along the sands.

Accommodation: Guest House (B)

Day 12: Ngapali – local area

More time to enjoy your relaxed surroundings. There is the option to join a day trip to one of the nearby fishing villages and learn about traditional life for the local fisherman. After lunch you can relax and enjoy a beautiful unspoiled beach with more options for swimming snorkelling or kayaking before returning to Ngapali. If you prefer to stay in the local area you can walk to the far end of the bay to a large hilltop Buddha, the final stretch to the hill top is steep and rocky but you will be rewarded with panoramic views.

Accommodation: Guest House (B)

Burma Ngapali Beach

Day 13: Ngapali – Yangon

We will take a flight back to Yangon this morning. This afternoon we have time for a walking tour of Little India and Chinatown.

Accommodation: Hotel (B, D)

Day 14: Yangon

The tour ends today. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Meals: B

Essential Info – Burma – Mountains, Beaches & Stupas

Holiday Status (available, guaranteed)

Holiday Status

Before booking your holiday with us, please check the status of your chosen tour. We strongly advise against booking any flights or making other travel arrangements until the tour is marked as Guaranteed.

To confirm your place, simply pay the deposit. This deposit can be refunded at any time until the tour status changes to “Guaranteed”. Your final balance will be due 56 days before the tour start date.

When you book, you are agreeing to our booking conditions – please take a moment to read them in full.

Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to go ahead. As bookings come in, the status will update from Available, to 2 More to Guarantee, and finally to Guaranteed once the minimum is met. You can always check the current status on the ‘Dates and Prices’ section of the tour page.

Tour status definitions:

Guaranteed – The tour is confirmed and open for booking.
Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed to run, but only a few spaces left.
Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Tour is open but needs just 2 more bookings to confirm.
Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed to run.
Contact – Please get in touch if you’re interested in this tour.
Fully Booked – This tour is no longer available.

Once a tour is marked Guaranteed, you can confidently go ahead with booking your flights and making travel plans. We don’t cancel trips once they reach guaranteed status, except in very rare and exceptional circumstances.

Available – trips are open for booking but not yet confirmed.

Contact – If you would like to book this tour, please contact us.
Fully Booked – trips now closed for booking.

What’s Included

Support vehicle
Accommodation
Most meals (see trip notes for details)
Snacks and mineral water during cycling days
Airport transfers on the start and end day of the tour
Local professional English speaking guide(s)

What’s Not Included

International flights
Alcoholic drinks
Meals not stated on the itinerary
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips for guide (s) and support staff
Bike hire (available if required)

Getting there and away

The tour starts in Rangoon (Yangon). You will need to arrive on Day 1 of your itinerary. Your flight departure at the end of the trip should be booked for the final day of the itinerary. We appreciate that people join redspokes tours from all over the world. Whatever time you arrive at the airport on the trip start date you and your luggage will be transferred to the joining hotel. Please bear in mind that if you arrive before midday you may have to wait for your room to be made available. If you decide to arrive early or stay on after the tour, redspokes can assist you in booking your extra accommodation and airport transfers at additional cost.

Our tour price does not include your international flight.

Check out www.kayak.com or www.opodo.co.uk for an idea of times and prices.

Bike Hire

For this tour we have 2020 Marlin 7 bikes in a range of sizes. They are new for this season and all are well maintained bikes with Shimano components and suspension forks. Spare parts (tubes, tyre, chains etc.) are included in the price of the bike rental and will be carried in the support vehicle with a tool kit and track pump.

The bikes are equipped with flat pedals. Those who prefer to use spd or clip-in pedals, are welcome to bring these with you, along with your own cycling shoes and cleats. You are also welcome to bring your own saddle.

If you are able to do a simple repair yourself then you can if you wish take a small repair kit with you as this will avoid the need to wait for assistance should the team or support vehicle be any distance away. The bikes will come with one water bottle cage fitted.

We strongly advise all customers to bring their own cycle helmet as this is not included as part of your bike hire and hire or purchase options at your destination cannot be guaranteed. Please be aware that failure to wear a cycle helmet is at your own risk and might also affect the validity of your travel insurance.

Extra Expenses

If you wish to hire a bike or have a single room for the tour this can usually be arranged for you at extra cost. You will have the opportunity to request these extras at the time of booking or, subject to availability, at a later date, by emailing your request to us.

If you require additional accommodation or transfers in advance of the trip start date or at the end of your trip we can arrange this for you at extra cost.

Bike Support & Grading

You will at all times have the security of a support vehicle; either a jeep or a bus. The vehicle will carry your luggage (we transport your main baggage by support vehicle from each overnight stop to the next) and yourself if you want. The support vehicle will be with us throughout the day stopping around every 12 miles (20 km).

Our leaders carry a good tool kit and will help to fix any bike problems so all you normally need to carry is a daypack, for your camera etc. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be equipped for all repairs, so if you are bringing your own bike on the tour you must ensure that it is in good working order. If in doubt, have it fully serviced by a bike shop before you travel.

Solo Travellers

We have a wide mix of cyclists on our tours from couples and friends to solo travellers. Our prices are based on twin shared accommodation. If you sign up for one of our tours as a solo traveller we will twin share you with another person of the same gender in your group. If you prefer to have your own room this is an option on most of our tours for an extra charge.

Bringing your own bike

The Burma tour is suitable for mountain bikes with front suspension or strong touring bikes.

We strongly recommend that you have your bike fully serviced before going on the tour. Ensure that wheel spokes are adjusted, greasing all bearings, check gear and brake cables, tighten all nuts and bolts, check chain, quick release clamp and tyres. Put in a new inner tubes and check wheel rims aren’t worn.

We recommend that you take the following items with you.

Multi tool
Tyre levers
Pump
Spare inner tubes
Spare spokes
Check with your bike shop for disc/ brake pads
A few links for your chain
Spares for any unique things for your bikes i.e fluid or bleed kit.

Your bike must be carried as part of your luggage allowance. The weight of a bike in cardboard box is about 15-20kg, so please bear this in mind when packing for the trip and you may have to pay for excess luggage.

Eating & Drinking (Special diets)

Most meals are included in your trip price apart from on non cycling days and some other exclusions. Please check the itinerary for full details. If you have a special dietary request, please advise us at the time of booking. Most diets can be catered for, but it is always important to advise us in advance.

Burma has a fertile climate and growing conditions all year round. Rice is the staple food here, and Burma used to be the World’s biggest rice exporter. Meat or fish, soup, salad and vegetables are all cooked in their own ways, with additional relishes. It is customary for dishes to be laid out on the table and served together so that diners can make their own choices and combinations. It is common for meat or fish to be cooked in oil, seasoned with pounded onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, chilli and spices, and then simmered. The most typical accompaniment is a kind of relish made from preserved fish or prawn, served with chilli powder. Mohinga, (rice noodle served with fish soup) is the favourite Myanmar dish mostly enjoyed at breakfast or on special occasions. Laphet, pickled tea leaves with a dash of oil and served with sesame seeds, fried garlic and roasted peanuts is another popular snack typical of Myanmar.

Insurance

It is mandatory that you are well-insured for the full duration of the tour. This must include personal injury, medical expenses, death, repatriation, helicopter or aircraft rescue, loss of luggage or equipment, cancellation or curtailments.

You should also ensure that there are no exclusion clauses limiting protection for the type of activities included in your tour. Any claims concerning matters for which you are insured must be directed to your insurers. We strongly recommend that you take out insurance at the time of booking your trip to ensure that you are covered in the event of cancellation.

For people within the UK, Snowcard Insurance Services specialize in all mountain sports holidays including mountain biking. Follow the link above to obtain full information and a quote.

Passport & Visa

Whilst we endeavour to provide correct and relevant information obtained directly from the relevant Embassies, High Commissions and Consulate Generals – this information is subject to frequent changes, without warning and at very short notice. Due to this, we cannot be held liable for any errors in the information provided on this site. We strongly advised you to check all information with the relevant embassy for details on your visa/passport requirements. Please check the link below for some further details – Myanmar Embassy.

You must be in possession of a valid passport and visa. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of arrival or 1 month after expiration of visa and have 2 blank pages in your passport for each country that you visit.

You can apply online for an e-visa. Alternatively, visa application forms for UK residents can be obtained by clicking here. If you would prefer to pay an agent to get your visa, we would then suggest using Travcour UK Ltd. They have been in the visa business for 25 years.

Please ensure you check that all the details on the visa are correct prior to your departure.

Accommodation

We choose accommodation on the basis of comfort rather than luxury. Our prices are based on sharing a twin room. Should you wish to have a room all to yourself there is a single supplement option on the majority of our tours. For more information on the additional costs please see dates and prices.

The majority of the accommodation for this trip is in either guest house or hotel.

Some rooms will have en-suite facilities and air-conditioning.

Health & Vaccinations

We strongly recommend that you contact your doctor or local Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks before going on your trip for advice on the correct vaccinations required for your trip. Also please refer to advice from National Travel Health Network and Centre .

There are no mandatory vaccinations for this trip, however the following are recommended Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis.

Vaccination requirements can change and we aren’t medically qualified to answer your questions regarding vaccinations so please also check again with your health professional before departing for your trip.

Climate

Myanmar has three seasons – hot, rainy and cold. With a tropical climate and high humidity, the temperature and rainfall vary from region to region. The provinces in the hilly regions have a pleasant climate while the central and low lands are relatively hot. The southwest coast of Myanmar receives rain 200 inches per year whilst the central flat land receives less than 20 inches per year. Each season has its own attractions. During monsoon, July-September, landscapes are green and lush, the cooler season is from October- February (20-30 C), and it is fine to visit central and upper Myanmar such as Bagan and Inle Lake. Light casual clothing is recommended all year round. It is much cooler at night in the Shan region where you will need warm clothing.

Burma Classic Climate Chart

Equipment List

In terms of clothing this is clearly up to you and we can only supply a rough guide as to what to take. This guide is entirely flexible and should be tailored to your specific needs. The weather is usually warm and humid, although between October – February it can be cooler in the evenings so please bear this in mind when packing.

Cycling helmet
Sunglasses
Water bottles or camelbak
Lightweight trekking boots/shoes – cycling footwear
Lightweight trekking shorts
Padded cycling shorts
Baggy shorts (will need to be worn in some areas)
Long trousers
T-shirts
Long-sleeved shirt
Swimwear
Fleece jacket/pullover
Waterproof Biking Jacket (breathable fabric)
Fingerless biking gloves
Sun hat
Torch or headlamp – & spare bulbs/batteries
Buff
scarf
Strong Sunscreen/ Lip balm
Clothing to cover shoulders and legs when visiting temples and holy sites.

Our guides carry first aid supplies, however we also recommend you bring your own kit which should contain the following item;

Paracetamol/ Ibuprofen (or whatever you prefer for headache)
Lomotil or Diacalm
Rehydration salts (Dioralite)
Antiseptic cream
Throat lozenges
Plasters (band aids)
Nasal spray
Eye drops
Ear plugs
Anti bacterial hand wash
Antiseptic wet wipes
Insect Repellent
Blister pads

Tipping & Spending Money

Tipping is an accepted part of everyday life, and although it is always at your discretion, you will be expected to tip to reward service. 50USD for the guide and team at the end of the tour is recommended.

It is customary for this to be collected up and given to your guide who will distribute it amongst the team. Unfortunately there is usually a hierarchy for the division between guides, helpers and drivers.

Spending money depends on your taste for souvenirs, drinks etc. We estimate that £250 will be more than enough to cover the 14-day tour.

Country Profile

Republic of the Union of Myanmar – Capital: Nay Pyi Taw

Population 53 million
Currency Kyat
Area 676,552 sq km (261,218 sq miles)
Major language Burmese, minority languages
Major religions Buddhism
Life expectancy 64 years (men), 69 years (women)

Cycle Tops & T-shirts

Our professional cycling tops are designed with three rear elasticated pockets to give you plenty of space for your cycling essentials and comes with a silicone bottom hem. Lined with COOLMAX ® to keep you cool and comfortable and ensure moisture wicking. Available in varies sizes so please refer to size charts for more information.

Burma Cycling Top

Accommodation – Burma – Mountains, Beaches & Stupas

Accommodation on this journey through Myanmar is comfortable, varied and full of local character, reflecting the wonderfully diverse places we visit along the way. Throughout the tour, we stay in a carefully selected mixture of hotels and welcoming guesthouses, chosen for their comfort, location and hospitality.

In Yangon and the larger towns, accommodation provides a good level of comfort and a relaxing base for exploring. As we cycle through the countryside and into smaller, less-visited communities, we stay in locally run hotels and guesthouses where the atmosphere is more traditional and the welcome often particularly warm.

In some of the more rural locations, the choice of accommodation is naturally more limited and properties can be simpler than those found in the main tourist centres. Rooms have private bathrooms and provide a comfortable place to relax after a day on the bike, while these stays allow us to experience parts of Myanmar that relatively few visitors get to see.

A particularly enjoyable contrast comes towards the end of the journey when we leave the mountains and countryside behind for the beautiful coast. Here, several nights beside the beach provide the perfect opportunity to slow down, swim, explore the local area or simply relax by the sea.

The combination of comfortable city hotels, characterful rural stays and relaxed coastal accommodation adds enormously to the experience, providing a good balance of comfort and authenticity while keeping us close to the landscapes, communities and culture of Myanmar.

Accommodation Level: comfortable

See our Accommodation Grading page for more details.

Testimonials – Burma – Mountains, Beaches & Stupas

Here is what our customers have to say about our ‘Burma – Mountains, Beaches & Stupas’ Cycling holiday.

Claire Bugler, Abergavenny, Wales

Dermot was a fabulous guide full of enthusiasm and constantly making an effort to ensure everyone was having a great trip. The local team really were lovely too and their strength is certainly their warmth and friendliness. Burma is a beautiful country with some fabulous cycling. It is definitely a country on the move though so I feel privileged to have experienced it now at such an interesting point in its development. I loved the relaxed style with which Dermot ran this trip. As someone who has travelled independently in the past I was concerned about joining a tour and losing the sense of adventure and exploration but wanted to join a tour for some company whilst travelling. Despite having a larger group I still felt there was a nice sense of independence and that things weren’t too prescriptive.

Some plans were flexible and we were included in the decision making when possible which I really liked. Therefore it was perfect for me. I know that there was discussion regarding cutting the Nepali beach section of the trip, I guess it is difficult to please everyone but I thought this was one of the best sections of the trip, the beach was fabulous and I enjoyed the riding here most too. I think it would be a real shame not to visit the area. I hope that the Burma trip goes from strength to strength and lots more people get to see what a great country it is, good luck with future trips. Thank you redspokes!

Bruce Irving, Norwich, England, UK

Myanmar is full of delightful honest people. One of my best redspokes trips ever. Superb accomodation and food. Mount Poppa was the most fabulous place I have ever stayed, Nagpali beach is a must do!

Daniele Leyder, Kingston, Australia

I really enjoyed the experience of Bike riding in Myanmar. Countryside was beautiful and locals very welcoming. Very impressed by Chan’s organisation of the trip including the food.

I had forgotten to notify I was vegetarian, but he organised vegetarian meals for me at short notice. Very nice being able to hop in the bus when it was becoming too hard to continue pedalling in the heat. Chan would always make sure everyone was ok and enjoyed the trip.

Colm Faherty, Dublin, Ireland

A fascinating country at the cusp of great change. One of the best redspokes trips I have been on with an excellent local support team who cannot do enough to support the trip. I cannot recommend this trip highly enough!

John Roche, Leeds, UK

Our first experience of Burma was extremely positive. The support team were excellent they anticipated our every need always willing to help but not in the way. Nothing was too much trouble. The guide Mellow was very informative about the history and culture of Burma, we liked the extra trips e.g. Inle Lake, sunset boat trip at Bagan and visits to the many temples. The school visit was interesting so impressed by the enthusiastic pupils and their teachers.

Muriel Thomson, Aberdeen, Scotland

A lovely country with very friendly people. A good cycle route with varied countryside. Everything very well organised. Ngapali beach was super. Nice quiet beach and lots to do. Full day jungle trek we did was excellent.

Myanmar is certainly worth a visit before it gets too touristy.

Richard Kitson, Brighouse, West Yorks, England

Great to see Burma/Myanmar before it might get spoilt by tourism. Good cycling despite the poor surfaces in some places, but it’s obvious that that is being addressed month by month. Accommodation in general was very good, considering, but where there was no tourism the places were basic, but that didn’t come as a surprise.

It was great that we ate at genuine local venues each day for the main meals and the ride stops and this only enhances the trip. Burma was such a friendly and safe place and the bike support staff were first class.

Alf Glover, Chorley, England

A happy returning redspokes customer, I would certainly recommend this trip. Go before the country changes, lovely country and lovely people. Looking forward to next redspokes adventure!

Phil Hurcom, London, England, UK

A fabulous tour in a fascinating country full of wonderfully welcoming people, amazing sights and challenging cycling.

Kalayar and her team couldn't be more helpful, the accommodation was uniformly excellent even in the less traditionally tourist locations and the attractions of Myanmar combine to make this a great 2 weeks.

Kate Cheesman, London, England

Excellent trip. Dermot and local staff wonderful. Bikes excellent and superbly maintained by those overnight "elves" who oiled, cleaned and polished them and sometimes even left flowers on them! – Wonderful "invisible" beings!!

Beautiful countryside & amazing people. Go now before it turns into Thailand

Martin Hamilton, Telford, England, UK

Absolutely superb trip, exceeded all my expectations. The crew looked after us fantastically well – nothing was too much trouble. Overall an excellent trip to a fascinating country.

Diana de Rooij & Gerrit Aarnoudse, Utrecht, Netherlands

Very happy with our very first organized tour experience, as part of our honeymoon :) I'm glad we chose cycling with redspokes to explore the beautiful country of Burma/ Myanmar. I wish redspokes all the best with organizing and touring. Keep exploring new routes!

Marjorie Leighton, Campbeltown, Scotland

This was my first cycling holiday. There were parts that were harder than I had anticipated. However I made it and thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would do it again. It was a great way to see the country and the way of life and interact with the locals. The organisation, accommodation, food, guides and bikes were of a high standard. I am glad to have done the trip with the beach extension as this gave another insight into life in the country and the ability to keep cycling or not. I would recommend it to anyone.

Alison Urquhart, Sydney, Australia

I loved experiencing Burma at handlebar level. It’s a great way to see the country and to meet the locals. The riding is varied with flat sections, challenging climbs and some challenging road surfaces. I was very happy with the bike I hired from redspokes and Jules and Phoe Aung ensured that it fitted me and was expertly maintained over the trip. The food is delicious and there is plenty to eat. I have celiac disease and had no problems eating gluten free.I loved my time at Ngapali Beach “swimming, body surfing and with my cabin right on the beach front.

Our local staff was awesome“ ensuring that we had everything we needed and more. They had a great sense of humour and we shared many laughs. In summary, redspokes organized a great tour of Myanmar at a great price and I can’t wait to tour with redspokes again.

Julie Saunders, Otaki, New Zealand

I thoroughly enjoyed another wonderful redspokes adventure. Burma is a great country, the people were so welcoming & friendly accompanied by great scenery. We had a great team looking after us who shared their knowledge. As always it was enjoyable to experience some of places that are not visited by many tourists.

Peter and Geraldine McGill, Belfast, Northern Ireland

This was the first redspokes cycle trip for us,we have in the past used other companies. However we were hugely impressed by the local redspokes team particularly Kalayar who nurtured and looked after everyone. She was amazing & a HUGE asset. Nothing was too much bother and both she & her team worked very hard to ensure that we all had a positive experience. One note of caution, this is not a cycling trip for ‘softies’. The climbs are tough as is on occasions the terrain. This is a very challenging trip but worth the effort.

We were also impressed by redspokes commitment to the local communities, good to see that tourism can be used positively for the benefit of all.

Karen and Rob Jones, Kenilworth, England

We chose this trip because it included some challenging cycling and is a new country to tourism. Most of the accommodation was better than expected, and a couple of places challenging, but this is to be expected. It was our first 2 week trip – full on and no real rest days because we wanted to make the most of Bagan etc. It was great to see the beach, but would have been good to have longer there – don’t know how this would be possible. Would it be possible to do any sort of circular cycle for a day?

It was good to eat in the local restaurants and try new foods and be helped to do this by the Burmese guides. The local agent Kayalar was great and I would be confident to contact her if we wanted a future trip to Burma. Thanks for a great experience.

Deborah Hammond, Washington, United States.

This trip had absolutely no glitches, amazing for two weeks in a poor country, I am incredibly impressed by your logistical genius.

Excellent local guides especially in Bagan.

Matthew Conduit, Toronto, Canada

"This was my third redspokes tour and it won't be my last! Everybody should run to see Burma now before it changes forever. As always redspokes got me to places away from the main tourist draws, off the beaten path, which made me feel like I was the only foreigner for hundreds of miles. And with the wonderful local guides I was always made to feel at home even though I was only a visitor."

Julie Watkinson, Edinburgh, Scotland

As usual, redspokes gets you to places that other tourists generally don’t see, and that comes with its own challenges – the accommodation can be “rustic” at times! For me that just adds to the appeal… you can’t beat a bit of reality once in a while.

I can’t praise the staff enough – I can honestly say I’ve never been so well looked after on a cycling trip! Kalayar is an angel and nothing is too much trouble for her and her team. The scenery on this trip is fantastic but what made it for me are the Burmese people – they’re the most amazing smiley, friendly, gentle people I’ve ever encountered and cycling in their country was an absolute joy.

Judy Bedford, Leeds, UK

"An excellent trip which was well organised and managed by Claire and her team who made our visit to Burma so memorable. Every care was made to ensure the cycling each day ran smoothly and safely, the bikes were good for the terrain and well serviced every day. The team were wonderful and very attentive I can't speak too highly of them all. The group size of 12 was about right. Loved the variation of the tour with so many places visited eg Bagan and Napali Beach. Visiting the school and meeting the children was a highlight of the trip for me."

Becky Layton, California, United States

The Burma trip exceeded expectations! We are now loyal followers of redspokes. The pre-tour support was good and the local tour support in Myanmar was the best we've experienced. Our tour leader, Kalayar, was warm, lovely and knowledgeable. Her team were incredibly gracious and attentive to our every need. They sang, played guitar and danced for us on several occasions! Our on-road cyclist guides were strong, supportive and encouraging. The cycling was challenging and rewarding. redspokes is active in the communities where they do business and supports a school in the Rahkine State near the Bay of Bengal. We stopped there one day and were greeted by hundreds of kids for the "handover ceremony". It was amazing!

Nigel Fielden, Sale, Cheshire, England, UK

A really interesting tour – relatively modest on mileage but some punishing surfaces to ride on, particularly in the latter stages. The country is fascinating, the people friendlier than anywhere I've been, and the tour provides a nice mix of different landscapes to cycle through.

Kay Thompson, Christchurch, New Zealand

The bike trip was fantastic and well organised. The food varied throughout the trip which was great, the snacks along the way brilliant. The locals were extremely friendly and always wanting to help. I felt very safe as the trip was well supported.

Ros Lawson, Edinburgh, Scotland

Another outstanding trip with redspokes and another trip that begins with lovely accommodation that deteriorates the more rural you get! This is however, part of a personal challenge & one that really can't be avoided if you want to visit parts of Burma (Myanmar) that are as yet un-Westernised.

It is an incredibly beautiful country with lovely welcoming people & an abundance of temples! Highlights of the trip were Bagan & Ngapali Beach. I would have happily had an extra day at the beach & extended the trip slightly, (I'm sure others would agree).

David Harrington, Davis, California, USA

What absolutely delightful, charming, friendly, and most helpful staff we had to look after us: to make sure we remained safe while on our bikes, to make sure we were well hydrated and fed along the routes, to tend to our luggage before we knew it needed tending, to kept us informed and to educate us, to take care of the nearly endless little details and behind the scenes scrambling and work, and to make sure we enjoyed our Myanmar journey every step and pedal of the way!

“You want ice cream? We will get that across the street for you!” “How big is the pool? We will measure it for you (22 x 34′)!” “You are not feeling up for dinner? We will give you Choco-Pie snacks now for when you wake up hungry at midnight!”

Kalayar was absolutely the sweetest and most genuinely caring woman I’ve ever encountered on a tour; she considered the six of us bikers her “children” in looking after our well-being, health, safety, and happiness for the entire two weeks. She also looks after her crew and fellow country men and women with the same concern, donating food or money to road crews as we biked throughout the country, supporting education with school supplies and books, and so many more things that we are certainly unaware.

The landscapes were varied and beautiful, the routes and roads challenging but not an issue with the excellent front suspension Trek 4300s, the weather nearly ideal (save for a few days with rain showers and occasional downpours), and the locals we encountered through every village simply the most sweet, friendly, curious, and happily smiling people in the world! Myanmar is relatively still a land and people beautifully untouched by outsiders, especially when compared to the many neighboring countries in SE Asia that have been increasingly influenced for decades. This precious gift won’t last forever. Please start training now and give beautiful Kalayar a loving hug from Lu Kong Gee Koko and Ah Shay Gee Nyi from California!

Gill Newman, Marlow, England UK

This was a fantastic trip. Whilst I didn't find the cycling particularly challenging, there was a nice balance between cycle days and sights / rest days. More time at the beach would have been good. I thought Julian was an outstanding leader. He was organised, supportive towards those who were finding it difficult, encouraging towards others to get the best out of them and overall a very friendly and personable guy. 5*

Keith & Pat Green, Dudley, West Midlands

We both enjoyed the trip to Myanamar. The locals seemed really pleased to see us and were very friendly. The scenery was very green and lush with lots of colorful flowers and there were lots of cultural things to see. The whole team looked after us very well and the riding group itself was good fun.

Kathryn Mayne, Boulmer, England

I was very impressed with local crew who were keen to make our visit as smooth and interesting as possible. Visiting a variety of areas of Myanmar, the city, the hills, the valleys, and the beach all added to the overall experience of trip.

Mike and Berta Glodowski, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

The tour provided us with a memorable opportunity to see and come in contact with a beautiful country and its people, certainly before it becomes commercialized and further developed. As we cycled deeper into rural areas the dress, appearance and demeanor of the people became much more interesting. As with new tours or those that push the boundaries into less developed areas there were a few unforeseen challenges presented to our group and the local crew, though these challenges were certainly worth the overall experience and I expect logistics will continue to improve as the tour evolves. Nevertheless the support crew attempted to the very best of there ability to ensure all riders were provided for.

Special thanks to the crew for decorating the restaurant and gifts to my wife and I as we celebrated our 30 year wedding anniversary on beautiful Ngapali Beach thus making it the most memorable anniversary yet.

Jay MacDonnell and Ewa Burton, Gormley, Canada

A great trip with a lovely crew (redspokes is lucky to have them) – a pleasure to see Burma before tourism and the modern world take hold.

Cheryl Hyslop and Mike Burgener, Ottawa, Canada

We've already recommended this trip to our friends! The tour made it easy for us to see aspects of Burma that we never would have uncovered on our own. It was very well organized and the local support team was amazing ! They could not have been more accommodating and helpful.

Louise Ryan, Pearl Beach, Australia

I loved this tour! Kalayar's caring and thoughtful leadership added significant value …. She ensured that her cyclists were not only healthy and happy, but that we were learning and experiencing the culture of here beloved Myanmar.

Steve Coral, Boulder, Colorado, USA

redspokes puts together an awesome trip. The cycling can be serious, but my friend and I had no shame being the slow man group, bringing up the rear, stopping a lot and chatting up the locals. No one looked down on us for riding the sag bus about 20% of the time. The local crew was wonderful, always super supportive. It's fascinating being on this kind of gritty trip, you're close to the ground and the local population, gathering experiences that the tour bus riders can never access.

Nic and Julie Hodgetts, Sutton Coldfield, UK

We have just had the most amazing time in Myanmar. The organisation was second to none. Bagan was breathtaking and dare we say that the electric bikes were a great way of seeing the pagodas and temples. Myanmar is a very special place and we are so pleased to have seen it at this time. Now looking forward to planning our next redspokes trip.

Jonathan Pearce, Marrickville, NSW, Australia

redspokes has given me the opportunity to enjoy challenging cycling in beautiful parts of the world with great companions whilst also supporting worthy local causes. Chapeau to Dermot!

Niamh Collins, Cavan, Ireland

Fantastic trip with great travel companions and a fantastic support crew. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would unreservedly recommend it. Thank you.

Susan Smith, Manchester, England, UK

The Burmese tour company were excellent. The local people were all smiles and everyone was very helpful. Golden Buddha's galore and the stupors of Bagan were a real WOW.

Kristina Isberg, California, USA

Burma is an incredible place to cycle, and I’m so glad I did the redspokes inaugural tour! The people are so friendly and curious about visitors. The food was wonderful. There is a rich Buddhist culture and it was incredible to visit Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the temples of Bagan and all the local stupas. While the poverty was obvious, as well as the lack of quality roads, I still learned a lot and felt I was providing money into the country. As Burma opens to tourism, I was glad to be there to experience this amazing country!