Balloons Over Bagan

The Grand Voyage Over Myanmar December 2010

(6 days in the cultural heartland of Myanmar seen from a hot air balloon)

Myanmar has been an inspiration to travellers for centuries. Our exclusive balloon safaris take you to the most stunning sites of Myanmar in a style and manner reminiscent of the great days of luxury travel earlier this century. Site seeing by balloon is a truly remarkable experience, allowing you to venture off the beaten path and gain a unique perspective of the country and its people.

Pindya

Reminiscent of the rolling hills of Tuscany, Pindaya is set against some of the highest Shan Mountains and is a delight to see from the air. We will fly along the mountain valley, passing tiny Shan hamlets and hill top pagodas occasionally swooping down to the delight of villagers who have never seen a hot air balloon before. December is a time when the fields are awash with colour, with swathes of green and yellow against brilliant blue skies.

Inle Lake

Shan State’s famed Inle Lake is home to the Inthar people, who live on and around the lake. To fly over the lake in a balloon, has to be one of the most beautiful ways to see this wonder. Our skilled pilots carefully use their knowledge of the winds to steer the balloon over the floating villages and water gardens. You will see the morning fishermen looking for the first catch of the day, and boats laden full of produce on their way to the market by the immense labyrinth of canals. At higher altitude you will be amazed to see thousands of village houses seemingly floating on the lake spread as far as the eye can see.

Bagan

Bagan is one of the most remarkable sights in all of Asia. Our journey explores the ancient capital and surrounding areas from the air to fully appreciate its scale and historical importance. Against a backdrop of ancient temples drifting by, Bagan is at its most magical early in the morning. Sometimes we see mist swirling through the pagodas and lines of monks on their daily procession as the whole community slowly comes to life.

Landings are varied and exciting. Often we land in fields in the very midst of the pagodas, other times on sandbanks next to the mighty Ayeyarwaddy River. Wherever we land our friendly crew and a celebratory glass of champagne will be on hand.