Experience the magic of Myanmar Monsoon Photography Tour, a unique journey from July to October that showcases the lush beauty of Bagan, Inle Lake, and Yangon during the enchanting monsoon season. This Myanmar Monsoon Photo Tour offers dramatic skies, vibrant greenery, and authentic cultural interactions, all with fewer crowds.
Capture Bagan’s temples surrounded by lush greenery, transforming the arid landscape into a photographer’s paradise. Enjoy spectacular cloud formations and soft light, perfect for creating stunning compositions. At Inle Lake, document local farmers, serene waters, and stilt villages, while Yangon’s bustling streets and landmarks provide intimate and vibrant photo opportunities.
Join us for this one-of-a-kind monsoon photography experience that highlights the true essence of Myanmar!
Why Choose This Tour?
- Exclusive Photography Playgrounds: Our experienced local photographer will guide you to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations that other photographers rarely discover.
- Perfect Timing and Composition: With an expert understanding of weather, lighting, and the best shooting spots, your guide ensures you’ll be in the right place at the right time for extraordinary shots.
- Peaceful and Immersive Experience: With fewer tourists during the monsoon, you’ll enjoy serene surroundings and uninterrupted moments to perfect your compositions.
- This is a photography journey like no other, blending breathtaking scenery, authentic cultural experiences, and professional guidance to help you create a portfolio that captures the essence of Myanmar’s monsoon season.
Join us for this extraordinary adventure and let the magic of the monsoon inspire your creativity!
| Tour name | Rainlight Retreat: A Monsoon Photo Journey |
| Type of tour | Private Myanmar Photo Tour |
| Tour duration | 10 Days / 09 Nights |
| Travel destination | Mandalay-Bagan-Inle-Yangon |
| Tour start point | Mandalay |
| Tour end point | Yangon |
| Min / Max Group Size | 02 pax to 06 pax |
| Departure guarantee | Departure guarantee for minimum group size of 02 pax |
| Recommended travel period | July to September |
| Tour customization | Absolutely ! Please let us know your specific requirement |
This photography program is designed for those who embrace the art of mindful photo hunting, where patience and observation lead to capturing extraordinary moments. Instead of a “shoot-first” mindset, the focus is on immersing yourself in the environment, waiting for the perfect emotion, movement, or light to unfold. You’ll uncover compelling subjects, tell deeper stories through your images, and explore authentic, unscripted locations that spark creativity. With a philosophy rooted in discovery, this program helps you create powerful, narrative-driven photographs that go beyond the ordinary.ve a lasting impression.
Welcome to Mandalay, the cultural heart of Myanmar and its second-largest city. Upon arrival at Mandalay International Airport, your journey into the captivating world of monsoon photography begins.
Arrival and Welcome
Your local photography guide will meet you at the airport to kickstart this immersive experience. Depending on your flight arrival time, the itinerary will be tailored to ensure you make the most of your day. You may either check into your hotel first or dive straight into the vibrant, untold side of Mandalay.
Exploring Mandalay’s Hidden Monastic Gems
Step off the beaten path and discover the tranquil quarters of Mandalay, home to a cluster of colonial-era Buddhist monasteries with unique architectural charm. These hidden spaces offer a serene setting to capture the essence of monastic life and intricate designs blending Burmese and colonial styles. Highlights include the quiet routines of monks, dramatic light and shadow play, and authentic moments of local life.
After your exploration, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening, reviewing your photos and preparing for the adventures ahead. This first day sets the tone for an immersive photography journey, delving into Myanmar’s cultural treasures and untold stories.
With a focus on observation, patience, and storytelling, this program encourages you to seek extraordinary moments that spark creativity and create impactful images. Transform into a photo hunter, capturing scenes that go beyond the ordinary and bring Myanmar’s soul to life through your lens.
Start your day early to capture the essence of Mandalay as it comes alive. Begin with a visit to a vibrant morning street market, where stalls brim with fresh produce, flowers, and goods, creating dynamic photography opportunities. Capture the interplay of light and shadow, shoppers haggling, and the bustling energy of the city.
Afterward, unwind at a local tea shop and enjoy the signature Mandalay Mee Shae, while photographing the camaraderie and morning rituals of locals immersed in Burmese tea culture.
Next, explore Mandalay’s unique craftsmanship at Stone Sculptor Street and a Bronze Casting Workshop. Document skilled artisans transforming marble and bronze into exquisite statues, with highlights including floating stone dust, intense focus, and the artistry of raw materials becoming masterpieces.
In the afternoon, recharge before heading to the iconic U Bein Bridge in Amarapura. As the world’s longest teakwood bridge, it provides stunning opportunities to capture its historic charm and the serene reflections on Taungthaman Lake, rounding off a day rich with culture and photography.
This morning, embark on a scenic road journey from Mandalay to Bagan, offering a unique opportunity to experience Myanmar’s picturesque countryside. Along the way, enjoy stunning views, observe local life, and capture spontaneous shots of rural charm. Upon arrival in Bagan, immerse yourself in its timeless beauty by exploring ancient temples and staging captivating photography sessions. End the day with breathtaking sunset shots over the plains of Bagan, followed by an overnight stay, ready for more adventures in this mystical destination.
Begin your morning exploring a traditional village in Bagan, capturing authentic moments of Burmese life. Photograph families cooking, weaving, and tending to livestock, as well as joyful children playing near wooden homes. Experience the sacred alms-giving ritual as Buddhist novices in vibrant saffron robes walk barefoot through the village, collecting food from the locals. This profound tradition offers rich storytelling opportunities and a glimpse into the spiritual connection between monks and the community. Conclude the morning with a visit to a hidden temple, where you can capture intricate carvings and the grandeur of ancient architecture.
After a midday break and lunch, dedicate the afternoon to stress-free landscape photography. Let your creativity flow as you photograph Bagan’s rolling plains, adorned with ancient temples and dramatic monsoon skies. Use the unique interplay of light, shadows, and reflections to create breathtaking compositions that highlight the beauty of Bagan.
End your day by reviewing your images, refining your best shots, and discussing feedback with your guide. With a perfect mix of cultural immersion, storytelling, and creative freedom, this experience ensures you leave with stunning photographs that showcase the heart of Bagan. Overnight stay in Bagan.
Bagan in the monsoon season unveils unique opportunities for photographers to capture the unseen beauty of this iconic destination. Today’s itinerary blends seasonal agricultural photography, cultural encounters, and an afternoon of sightseeing at Bagan’s renowned monuments
Discover Bagan’s lush transformation during the monsoon season, offering vibrant landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. Capture farmers at work in lush green fields surrounded by ancient temples, and visit a lively local market to photograph vivid scenes of fresh produce, handmade goods, and candid moments.
In the morning, explore a serene nunnery to document the peaceful life of Buddhist nuns in their pink robes, gaining insight into Myanmar’s spiritual culture. After a break, visit iconic religious monuments of Bagan, showcasing the grandeur of the Burmese Empire. Use the dramatic monsoon light to frame the contrast between ancient temples and lush green landscapes.
End the day reflecting on your captures and preparing for the next adventure. This day offers a perfect blend of monsoon-exclusive photography, cultural immersion, and historical exploration, ensuring your portfolio captures the essence of Bagan in its full vibrancy.
The journey from Bagan to Inle Lake is a road less traveled, filled with hidden gems, scenic beauty, and authentic cultural encounters. For photography enthusiasts, this route offers endless opportunities to capture the essence of Myanmar’s diverse landscapes, people, and traditions.
Depart Bagan early in the morning to make the most of the golden light and drive through seasonal farmlands and villages. Stop along the way to capture .
Drive through scenic hill landscapes, capturing dramatic terrains and rural vistas. Arrive at Inle Lake just before sunset. Photograph the golden light reflecting on the lake, stilt houses, and traditional boats as the day transitions to night. Overnight stay at Inle Lake
Immerse yourself in the unique way of life at Inle Lake, where the rhythm of daily activities unfolds beautifully amidst tranquil waters and stunning backdrops. Today’s itinerary is designed to capture the essence of the lake dwellers’ lifestyle, their traditions, and the serene charm of this extraordinary place.
Begin your morning exploring the floating villages, capturing the serene golden light as villagers paddle their longboats, children head to school, and fishermen practice the iconic leg-rowing technique. Reflections of stilt houses and morning activities create perfect photography opportunities. Visit a weaving factory to document skilled weavers working on traditional handlooms, focusing on intricate patterns, colorful threads, and candid moments of craftsmanship. A stop at a local house offers a chance to connect with lake-dwelling families, capturing portraits, home interiors, and genuine interactions. Conclude the morning at the sacred Paung Daw Oo Pagoda, photographing golden Buddha statues, intricate carvings, and the spiritual ambiance.
After a break for lunch, return to the floating villages to witness school boats transporting children, presenting joyful and dynamic photography moments. Then, explore the floating gardens, where farmers tend to their unique agricultural fields, offering striking contrasts of greenery against the calm waters.
End your day relaxing by the lake, reviewing your photos and reflecting on the day’s memorable encounters, before an overnight stay at Inle Lake.
Begin your day with an early wake-up to capture staged shots with local fishermen. Witness their graceful leg-rowing technique and traditional fishing methods in the serene morning light—an extraordinary opportunity for striking and memorable photographs.
After a morning shoot, enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on another day of exploration. Begin with a visit to the vibrant Five-Day Market, a unique cultural experience at Inle Lake where tribal villagers gather to trade goods. This colorful and bustling setting is ideal for capturing authentic portraits and lively market scenes.
Next, head to the Shwe Inn Dein Pagoda Complex on the lake's western shore. This hidden gem features a stunning collection of ancient stupas, many adorned with moss and vegetation, offering atmospheric and photogenic settings for creative photography.
Afterward, enjoy a relaxing lunch before returning to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, soaking in the serene beauty of Inle Lake. Overnight stay on the lake.
Your photography adventure concludes in Yangon, Myanmar’s vibrant cultural and historical capital. The day offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, capturing the energetic heartbeat of the city through its colonial charm and bustling streets.
Morning:
- After breakfast, transfer to Heho Airport for your flight back to Yangon.
- Check in to your hotel, rest, and recharge for the afternoon photography session.
Afternoon:
Dive into street photography in Yangon’s lively city center, focusing on:
- Colonial Architecture: Iconic buildings like Yangon City Hall, the High Court, and The Secretariat showcase the city’s historical charm amid modern life.
- Busy Harbor Area: Capture dynamic scenes of workers, merchants, and cargo boats at the bustling harbor.
- Street Life: Photograph vibrant markets, roadside tea stalls, and candid moments of locals amidst the city’s colorful urban landscape.
Evening:
Return to your hotel to review and reflect on the incredible images captured throughout your Yangon exploration. Overnight stay in Yangon.
Begin your last day in Myanmar with an early morning visit to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the most revered religious landmarks in the world. Arrive before dawn to capture the golden pagoda transitioning from the cool pre-dawn light to the warm hues of sunrise. Photograph spiritual rituals, intricate details, and candid moments of monks and worshippers, all while soaking in the serene atmosphere of this sacred site.
After the photo session, return to your hotel for a late breakfast and some leisure time to reflect, pack, and prepare for your departure. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Myanmar as you’re transferred to Yangon International Airport, concluding your unforgettable Myanmar Photography Tour with a heart and camera full of extraordinary memories.
Services Inclsuion
- • Professional Local photography guide through the trip
- • 11 nights’ accommodation with daily breakfast
- • Private ground transportation & private boat
- • All domestic flights in Myanmar based on detail program
- • Entrance fees to photography locations and government zone fees
- • Government Taxes
- • Bottled waters and refreshing towel during the sightseeing
Services Exclusion
- • International Airfare to/from Myanmar
- • Optional single room occupancy
- • Meals ( Lunch and Dinner )
- • Modeling fees for staged shots
- • Permission Fees to Archaeological department in Bagan
- • Travel insurance
- • Extra charges for hotel early check in and later check out
- • Extra charges for excessed checked in luggage at airport
- • Equipment and baggage insurance
- • Visas (if applicable)
- • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone etc.
- • Tips to local photography guide , driver and boat man
Yes, you can. Because We will visit many interesting places in Myanmar and having a great fun , experience and photos during the trip is as much on the program .So that Your partner will enjoy the journey with the group. However, non-photographers should note that our daily activities of trip program is mainly designed to photograph the highlights of the trip and is generally slower-paced than regular travel itinerary .
The clothing you will need will depend greatly on the destination you are travelling to. We will provide a thorough suggested clothing and gear list in our welcome kit that we send out to all tour participants. Our general recommendation is to dress in layers and pack as light as possible. Try to stay away from heavy cotton clothing like jeans, sweatshirts, and coats. Lighter alternatives that are warm, wrinkle free, and light are your best bet.
We suggest one camera bag, preferably a backpack and one bag for clothes/gear, and one small satchel like the size of a personal item allowed on international flights. You are responsible for carrying your bags on and off buses and trains, and up and down hotel staircases, so pack smart and light.
The rule of thumb is: The sooner the better. We have no way to know when other people will book us . Because this is the private photography tour . Our trained and experienced guide to escort you is very limited so it’s hard to know if and when our experienced local guide will be quickly booked . Our advice is to book as soon as you’ve made the decision to travel, that way your spot is secured.
Generally, the final payment is due in full 45 days before the beginning of your tour. If you’ve booked your trip within 45 days of the departure date, full payment is needed at the time of booking. Last minute bookings require payment up front before confirmation.
Yes. Travel and Medical insurance is mandatory for all Burma Photo Tours trips. Domestic government medical insurance and private health schemes will not cover you in most overseas countries. Burma Photo Tours recommends World Nomads for your travel and medical insurance. You may take other coverage, of course, but you must be adequately insured before participating in our tours. Please check the terms of the policy carefully, particularly the limits of cover (eg. for replacement of photographic equipment, baggage loss etc) and the procedure for making claims (most policies stipulate that claims must be made within a certain time after completion of your journey).
Your policy MUST cover medical costs in case of hospitalisation, emergency travel and repatriation. If you are going on one of our adventure activities, make sure your insurance covers you for this activity. Once you have paid your deposit or full payment, certain fees will apply if you cancel. Therefore we require taking insurance at the time of booking to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances.
Required Coverage:
• Accident & Sickness Medical Expense Coverage (minimum $100,000 USD)
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation of Remains (minimum $200,000 USD)
• Accidental Death / Dismemberment
• Trip Cancellation Coverage
Suggested Additional Coverage:
• Hospital Room and Board
• Baggage and Personal Effects Coverage
• Trip Delay / Interruption
• Visitor to Bedside
We strongly urge you to evaluate your risk and to take out travel insurance that covers the full value of the Trip and personal effects in the case of Trip cancellation, loss or theft of baggage, and emergency evacuation. The Tour Operators their owners, agents and subsidiaries will not be held responsible for these expenses. It is vital for you to realize that if you experience a delay or find it necessary to cancel or cut short the Trip for any reason, you will lose part or the entire sum of the amount paid (see the section “Deposits, Payments, Cancellations and Refunds” in the terms and conditions above).
Travel insurance helps to minimize the risk of monetary losses you would incur in the event of a delay of your departure due to weather, airline strike, missed connection, etc., your inability to travel for reasons such as illness, injury, unforeseen financial complications and other personal circumstances, or if you were required to cut the Trip short for medical or any other reasons.
There are restrictions and limitations on any insurance program. For this reason, we recommend that you read carefully the fine print of your insurance policy.
We strongly recommend World Nomads and Global Rescue.
Our trips are designed to be enjoyed by anyone who is reasonably fit. However some trips visit remote areas with limited or non-existent medical facilities so you must be in good health. Factors such as long walks, bumpy roads, dust, traffic, stairs, humidity, delays and unfamiliar customs and cultures also add to the physical toll. Keep in mind you will need to carry your own bags.
The pre-departure information kit will contain a suggested list of items to bring, but it doesn’t cover medications. We recommend you carry personal medical items for managing common minor ailments such as colds, diarrhoea, blisters, headaches, heartburn, and sore throats etc. Travellers who take regular medication should take an appropriate supply. Allergy and Asthma sufferers should ensure that they have an adequate supply of their routine medicine as some major cities have high levels of smog or pollen.
On certain trips, we may require a doctor’s letter that certifies health and fitness of participants who are over 70 years old.
Minors between the age of 13 and 17 are not able to join our tours unless accompanied by a parent. Our tours are not suitable for younger children under 13.
It is not possible to include international airfare in our prices.
Off course , that is your private photo tour , all shooting activities can be flexible and rearranged depending your shooting style and expectation .
Just fill up the contact form telling us details as requested and we will confirm the booking for you.
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Tour Prices Nett Per Pax</strong></span></p>
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<td width="338"><span style="color: #000000;">For group size of 02 pax</span></td>
<td width="338"><span style="color: #000000;">USD$ 2,911 Nett Per Pax</span></td>
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<td width="338"><span style="color: #000000;">For group size of 03 to 04 pax</span></td>
<td width="338"><span style="color: #000000;">USD$ 2,281 Nett Per Pax</span></td>
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<td width="338"><span style="color: #000000;">For group size of 05 to 06 pax</span></td>
<td width="338"><span style="color: #000000;">USD$ 1,903 Nett Per Pax</span></td>
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<td width="338"><span style="color: #000000;">Single supplement for single occupancy</span></td>
<td width="338"><span style="color: #000000;">USD$ 383</span></td>
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<td colspan="2" width="676">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #000000;">Prices is valid till 31<sup>st</sup> May 2021 & it is subject to change without prior notices</span></p>
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<span style="color: #000000;"><u><strong>Services Information</strong> </u></span>
<span style="color: #000000;">Accommodation of 03 star ++++</span>
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">02 Nights at Deluxe room of Esperado Lake View Hotel , Yangon</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="color: #000000;"><a style="color: #000000;" href="http://www.esperadolakeview.com/">http://www.esperadolakeview.com/</a></span>
<ol start="2">
<li><span style="color: #000000;">03 Nights at Standard Room of Hotel Mindat in Mindat</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">03 Nights at Deluxe Room of Royal Palace Hotel , Bagan</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="color: #000000;"><a style="color: #000000;" href="https://www.royalpalacehotelbagan.com/">https://www.royalpalacehotelbagan.com/</a></span>
<ol start="4">
<li><span style="color: #000000;">01 Nights at Superior Room of Hotel Sakura Princess Mandalay</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="color: #000000;"><a style="color: #000000;" href="https://www.hotelsakuraprincess.com/">https://www.hotelsakuraprincess.com/</a></span>
<ol start="5">
<li><span style="color: #000000;">02 Nights at Deluxe room of Amazing Inle Resort</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="color: #000000;"><a style="color: #000000;" href="http://www.amazinginlay.com/">http://www.amazinginlay.com/</a></span>
<span style="color: #000000;">( Notes : Prices will be a bit changed if you want us to upgrade or downgrade the accommodation )- And also similar room and accommodation will be replaced and booked if the above mentioned room type of hotels not available by the time of our reservation)</span>
<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Domestic Flight</strong></span>
<span style="color: #000000;">04 Domestic flights – RGN-NYU/NYU-MDL/MDL-HEH/HEH-YGN</span>
<span style="color: #000000;">( Remarks : 20 Kg for checked in luggage & 07 Kg for carry on luggage )</span>
<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Modeling Fees</strong></span>
<span style="color: #000000;">Modeling Fees not include in our offered prices and services : please discuss about modeling fees with your travel consultant before you join the tour .</span>
<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Private Transport</strong></span>
<span style="color: #000000;">Different types of private transport will be arranged based on different group size</span>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">07 seat Van with A/c for group size of two pax to three pax</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">09 seat Van with A/c for group size of four pax to five pax</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">14 seat Van with A/c for group size of six pax</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Ballooning in Bagan</strong></span>
<span style="color: #000000;">Optional Ballooning in Bagan not included in our services :</span>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">USD$ 300 per pax for standard services</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #000000;">USD$ 370 per pax for premium services</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Offered prices based on double occupancy</strong></span>
<span style="color: #000000;">All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. A single supplement will apply if you like to take a single room .<em>We will make every effort to connect you with a roommate should you like to share a room. However, if we’re unable to make a match, the single supplement will apply.</em></span>
<span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em> </em><em>Myanmar Visa Fees</em></strong></span>
<span style="color: #000000;"><em>Myanmar Fees not included in our services and prices as well- But you are informed to apply Myanmar Visa through Official Government Website – </em></span><a href="https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/">https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/</a>
<em> </em>
