1USD = 30 THB and 1 THB = approx. 2.50 INR

August 25^th, 2007, I took flight Indigo at 2:30 PM from Bangalore Airport and arrived at Bangkok at 00:30 AM. Non-stop Flight from Bangalore to Bangkok cost me INR 14,762 and returning flight I got in INR 12,810. The Airport was small, crowded and congested. The line for Thai Visa on arrival was long. I had already filled my visa form given by the hostess inside the airplane. To dodge the long wait line, I took the express visa that cost me THB 2000, THB 1000 extra, (double than normal visa) but the wait time was less- just few minutes. Less than 10% of the total visa seeker were in express line. Cheapest way to reach from Airport to hotel in Thailand is not a taxi, its public bus. Came out and took a pre-paid taxi at 700 THBfrom Airport to my hotel. The taxi driver was rude and was trying to fleece more money and wasn’t returning 300 change when I gave him 1k THB. I had to threaten him to get the money. Reached hotel in an hours’ time and crashed onto bed.

Most of the international hotels have 2PM check-in time. So, I had booked hotel from 25^th itself and had informed them in advance that I will be arriving mid night. I saw few guests sitting on the sofa and waiting for the morning. To save money - do NOT do this mistake - save couple of thousands on hotel and spoil your day 1 without sleep. Now here is the best 8 days itinerary for Thailand. However, this is not the cheapest way to see Thailand

Day 1 – Bike rentals in Thailand – Next morning and what a view from my window. I took up a taxi and went to market and picked up a bike on rent. There are many Bike rentals in Bangkok - That cost me INR 2k (or THB 800) per day. The rate varies from Bike to bike but most of the bikes are in range of THB 700 to THB 1200. Now the sequence of “Bangkok had me” started.

Day 2 – How to go to Ayutthaya from Bangkok is here - I went from Bangkok to Ayutthaya approx. 100 km. from my Bangkok hotel. I loaded my phone with map and started the journey. It was extremely difficult to follow map and I ended up couple of times on wrong lanes and had to reroute myself asking people. Once I ended up at some place which had no active civilization and was kind of settled amidst back waterways. Riding through the waterways over small bridges was fun but exhausting too. Communicating with countryside people was little difficult as most of them do not understand English. City area was better though. I somehow moved back on express lane and was flagged by the cop. I wasn’t sure if that was for me and I didn’t stop my bike racing above 100 km/hr. I was flagged again and this time I realized I was the only biker in the non-biking express lane. I was Flagged again, chased and fined ☹. Bangkok almost had me.Well, finally I reached Ayutthaya. Now another task was to understand how to start seeing this widespread Ayutthaya. Nevertheless, after lunch in an eatery, I started from one corner and started exploring. It was sad to see that 100s of headless buddha statue. The head was cut, stolen and sold in the antique market. Ayutthaya was also famous for the golden buddha statue which was hidden and disguised inside a layer plaster of Paris, however when by mistake the layer got broken labourers found tonnes and tonnes of gold somewhere in 1950’s. Elephant ride was famous over here however under the blazing sun I gave it a pass. After exploring Ayutthaya 4-5 hours I left and somewhere on the way 30 km before Bangkok I had a flat tyre. Bangkok had me again.Thankfully after pulling the bike for around 2 kms I got the puncture repaired. A repair cost me 100 THB. And the adventure didn’t end here. I was flagged again on the expressway biking by cop named Hui. How much did it cost me – THB 1000. Bangkok was not ready to let me go. It had me again.

Reached back Bangkok at around 7 PM, ate stomach full of fish and slept for another early morning trip.

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Day 3 – How to go to Pattaya from Bangkok – You can take a bus or a taxi. Taxi will cost THB 2000 and bus will cost TBH 300 to 500 depending upon quality. I rode from Bangkok to Pattaya which was approx. 140 km and took 3 hours to reach because of the city traffic. Pattaya was costal town however nobody was interested in the sea or in the beaches. I checked in noon and went for an early evening walk and to watch cabaret.

I went to ALCAZAR CABARET. However, this entire show was more than cabaret. It was about different country’s culture as well as a little drama. The song which they used for Indian Cabaret was - Sakira, mai Sakira- and had mention of places like Banaras, Bihar, Munger and the music was exciting on the highest beat. The fee was THB 1000, but every penny was worth it. On the down part – the show was full of Indians on low budget holiday laced with Rasam Sambhar and sweat smell + few had opened their shoe for 1-hour show;I almost puked. At one point I almost gave up and wanted to move out of the show. It was chocking.

After the show people are allowed to click pic with the dancers on an agreed amount, however there were many Indians who were trying to kiss those dancers or forcefully trying extra advantages. They looked nothing but potential rapist (I know this is controversial statement however this is how they looked like forcing themselves to max what they could achieve in full public view, i have no idea how would they behave if there was no public.)

While walking back to my hotel on the coastline, Pattaya made me realize why it was famous for its amazing bar and pub lined coast and wonderful girls. Beach area was notorious however most good hotels are around the coast.

Day 4 – How to go to floating market in Pattaya – It was hot sunny so I hired a full day Tuk-Tuk. They charged THB 500. The driver and I guess his wife were sitting in front. They had lot of eatables and the women was knitting a sweater. We went directly to Pattaya floating market. The entry fee was high. THB 300 but it was a good covered market. Moving around and eating was fun in the noon for few hours. From there I went to Pattaya Aquarium and Sanctuary of Truth (Prasat SutJa-Tum)and returned to hotel. I spent evening at the beach which was just across the road and had food in a nice restaurant overlooking the ocean.

Day 5 – How to go to Bangkok from Pattaya - Today I left Pattaya to Bangkok. Coming back was easier.Checked into the hotel, freshen up and ready for another night. Today was an exciting day. I went to Soi Cowboy. The entire street was much more than I expected. I never had ever imagined something out of a fairy tale. The entire street was blood red. Pole dancing was just going on in every alternate deck with girl covering barely enough. No open bar or pub serves eatables. They only serve drinks. I spent around 3 hours on this blood red street. Make sure you are not abducted for a happy ending.

Day 6 – Best way to explore Bangkok - Today I decided to explore Bangkok riding. Started with palace and Wats. No not that Bombay wala “waatlagadiya”. Wat means temples and most of them are Buddha Wats

A trip to Bangkok is not complete without a visit to one of the famous floating markets.

Due to the vast network of canals and waterways, Bangkok and the surrounding area, were formerly known as the Venice of the East. People relied on canals for transportation, and therefore people would tend to sell things directly from their boats, and thus giving rise to many floating boat markets.

These are the perfect places to immerse yourself in a whole new shopping experience, and taste some of the best local cuisines!

Here are the list of floating markets in Bangkok, mentioned in the order of their popularity.

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (94 kms)
• Amphawa Floating Market (96 kms)
• Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market (15 kms)
• Taling Chan Floating Market (9 kms)
• Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market (23 kms)
• Tha Kha Floating Market (86 kms)

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Distance from city center - 94 kms
Opening Hours - 7 AM - 11 AM (Morning market)
Highlights:

• Largest and most colorful market of all (making it usually crowded).
• It is a best place for photographers, as the place is exteremely lively.
• You need to leave the hotel early in the morning to see the charm of this place.

Amphawa Floating Market

Distance from city center - 96 kms
Opening Hours - Fri, Sat and Sun from 12:00 PM until 8:00 PM (Afternoon market)
Highlights:

• Wonderful boat tours to hidden temples for just 50 baht per person. The main attraction is Wat Bang Koong temple - which looks as if it has been swallowed by a tree!
• The famous Maeklong Railway Market is at a distance of 17 kms from this place.

Khlong Lat Mayom floating market

Distance from city center - 15 kms
Opening Hours - Sat and Sun from 9 am – 4 pm
Highlights:
Food paradise. It is one of the best places to taste local food. Some of the must try items are:

• Pla pao – Thai salt crusted grilled fish
• Gai galae - Thai grilled chicken
• Khao lam - flauvored rice stuffed into a pole of bamboo.

Khlong Lat Mayom is close to the city and is situated in a lovely green lush area with an abundance of good food to eat. Here there are less of floating boats, but more of solid structures next to the waterway, selling stuffs.
You can take a boat ride and explore the nearby villages in just 50 THB.

Taling Chan Floating Market

Distance from city center - 9 kms
Opening Hours - Sat and Sun from 8 am – 5 pm
Highlights:
Close to city and has good food options
Option for Thai foot massage

Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market / Bang Phli Floating Market

Distance from city center - 23 kms
Opening Hours - 8 am – 5 pm
Highlights:
One of the oldest and traditional floating markets
Perfect place to try thai noodles, fresh fruit, seafood and other local delicacies.

In China, newly wed employees are entitled to marriage leave – extra days of paid leave. There is no such leave in many other countries like India for example

Every region in China offers employees who get married at least three days of leave. Many other regions in China offer additional marriage leave, with Gansu and Shanxi – which offer 30 days – the most generous.

An employee is eligible for marriage leave once he or she has registered the marriage with the relevant authorities, including divorced individuals who get re-married and foreign employees.

China is relatively stingy when it comes to statutory annual leave. Employees with less than a year of work experience are not entitled to any leave, and those with 1-10 years of experience are entitled to just five days.

“Marriage is a very important event in Chinese culture,” said Jessica Huang, Senior Brand and Marketing Manager at Dezan Shira & Associates. “Marriage leave is a way for the government to recognize its significance.”

There are no concrete guidelines on the time period during which marriage leave must be used. Employers can include rules on marriage leave in their company handbook to determine how and when it can be used, and which documents must be submitted as proof. Usually, employers stipulate that marriage leave must be used within a year of the marriage registration.

Previously, China offered additional “late marriage leave” as an incentive for couples to get married at an older age and postpone having children, as part of its One Child Policy. However, late marriage leave was abolished in late 2015 with the introduction of the Two Child Policy, except in Tibet.

Faced with a rapidly aging population, China is now encouraging couples to have children. Yet, marriage and birth rates are slowing. In 2016, there were 11.4 million new marriages in China – a 6.7 percent year-on-year drop, and the third consecutive year of decline.

The government is expected to develop new policies to encourage population growth and counteract these demographic trends, including the relaxation of existing family planning laws.

Click here for the complete guide to marriage leave in China.

The time on my phone read 4:00 AM and temperature 6 degrees. I knew I had to wake up at 5:00 and make myself ready to leave by 6:00 AM but the antsy and sleep deprived me was just not able to gather courage of getting out of the coziness and warmth of my bed.

Fast forward 7:00 AM. Our vehicle trudges through the serpentine roads and I am mesmerized by the rhododendrons that spread wide across and painted the slopes red. I fill my lungs with fresh mountain air and spare my energy for moving around freely at 15,200 ft. (4,600 m). We hear occasional firings and are informed about the practice sessions of Indian Army. That’s when I spot the board that reads – “Highest artillery firing regiment in the world”. I proudly exclaim inside my head, “Wow! That’s certainly something to be extra proud about your country”.

Most of the paths we cover fall under no- photography zone, however, they are strikingly beautiful. All I do is drink down the beauty of the valley, the numerous lakes and colorful slopes. Our driver points towards the abandoned army bunkers every now and then, which are otherwise difficult to be spotted. The temperature has still not budged beyond 6 degrees and I start wondering what it would be like being at the higher altitude I was heading to.

Our first stopover is at Y- junction army checkpoint for breakfast. I fail to keep a watch on the amount of coffee that I gulp down along with piping hot momos. The road from here seems to be blocked due to heavy traffic ahead. I glance at my watch and it reads 8:00 AM. We start off within few minutes of wait. The actual adventure starts after leaving Y- junction. The road ahead from Y- junction is one of the roughest roads and, at some patches they are totally non- existent. I would have never been able to drive on such roads keeping my sanity intact. As we gain altitude, the greens disappear and the entire landscape turns white, with snow everywhere. Another hour of drive and we reach our destination for the day.

37 km from Tawang, at a height of 15,200ft ASL, is the place that served as the trade route between India and Tibet in older times. This is the route from where 14th Dalai Lama escaped Chinese army and this was the same route through which the People’s Liberation Army of China had invaded India during the 1962 Sino- Indian war, one of the fiercest battle in Indian history that resulted in the death of 4,383 Indian soldiers.

I stand at Bumla Pass, the Indo- China border.

I can feel the warmth of the sun on my face as I stare at the sky. We are greeted with broad smiles and utmost respect by the army officers and are offered tea and snacks. “How can they be so grounded with perfect mannerisms even after living through such extremities?” I wondered and felt like giving them a bear hug. We are escorted to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) by Major Santosh and here starts the actual conversation.

We are given accounts of the 1962 Sino- Indian war and how situations changed post-war. I ask about the current situation to which the officer replies in positive. There are 6 Border Personnel Meets (BPM) conducted every year, out of which 4 are organized by India and 2 by the Chinese army. The "Heap of Stones Monument" is the symbolism of the BPM meets as after every meet, one stone is colored and the date or occasion of the meet is written with white paint on the colored stone. The visitors are allowed to place a pebble or stone on the heap as a tribute to the Indian army. Similarly, the "Rock of Peace" also stands strong at the LAC. "How many visitors come to Bumla pass on an average?" I ask. To which the officer replies "150 visitors on an average.  Every day." 

There are 4 BPM points as agreed officially between Indian Army and People's Liberation Army of China for regular consultations and interactions to keep faceoffs at bay. The four BPM points are Chushul in Ladakh, Nathu La in Sikkim, Bum La Pass in Tawang and Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand close to Chang La.

There is a jawan posted at the LAC who keeps a watch on activities on another side of the border. We are informed that the watch is on for 24/7x365 days irrespective of weather conditions. The Chinese watchpoint is 2 km away from LAC and the first Chinese city from this side of the border is Songjung, at a distance of 27 km. We are allowed to prowl on the China land approximately up to 50 meters.

My exhilaration knew no bounds as I step into China without any Visa.

By the time we are done with the briefing, the sun seems to have peeped out a little more. Looking at the sun, the major says, “It is going to snow tonight.” 

As it transpired, his words turned out to be true. It snowed that night. But, I did sleep well, unlike the previous night.

QUICK GUIDE AND HACKS:

Getting Here: Bumla Pass is 37 km away from Tawang town. You will need to hire a local vehicle from Tawang to get here. Cost – INR 4,500 to 5,000 for the entire day. You may also club your visit to Shungetser Lake along with Bumla Pass on the same day. You can also book Tawang in one day sightseeing tour from Navigers.

Permits for Visit: Visit to Bumla pass needs a special permit from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Tawang, with permit stamps from Indian army cantonment of Tawang. It takes one entire day to receive the permit so you may schedule accordingly since, without the army stamp, you will not be allowed through the several checkpoints on the way.

Requisite documents for the permit: Photocopies of your Inner Line Permit, Photocopies of your ID and address proof, duly filled permit form.

The fees for the permit: INR 100 per form (If the applicant isn’t personally present). INR 50 per form (If one of the applicants is present).

Number of applicants that can be named in one permit form: 4

**Note: The entry to Bumla Pass may be restricted under many circumstances like extreme weather conditions or political situations. So do not be disheartened.

~ Dipanwita Chakraborty

@Dipanwiita

Lakshadweep, India’s smallest Union Territory is an archipelago consisting of 36 islands with an area of 32 sq km forming 12 atolls three reefs, five submerged banks and ten inhabited islands known for its exotic beaches and lush green landscape. The name Lakshadweep in Malayalam and Sanskrit means ‘a hundred thousand islands’.

All Islands are 220 to 440 km away from the coastal city Kochi in Kerala.

What are the main islands of Lakshadweep –Agatti, Amini, Andrott, Bangaram, Bitra, Chetlat, Kadmat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kiltan and Minicoy (southern-most island of Lakshadweep). These are inhibited islands and based on the drinking water availability.

Telecommunication - Only BSNL and Airtel provides telecommunication services to Lakshadweep Islands. BSNL provides connectivity in all 10 inhabited islands whereas Airtel provides connectivity to Kavaratti and Agatti islands.

The amazing history of Lakshadweep full of stories

Early history of Lakshadweep is unwritten. Local traditions attribute the first settlement on these islands to the period of Cheraman Perumal, the last king of Kerala. It is believed that after his conversion to Islam, at the behest of some Arab merchants, he slipped out of his capital Cranganore, the present day Kodungallor – an old harbor town Kochi, for Mecca. When his disappearance was discovered, search parties went after him in sailing boats and left for the shores of Mecca, in search of the king from different places. It is believed that one of these sailing boats of Raja of Cannanore was struck by a fierce storm and they were shipwrecked on the island now known as Bangaram. From there they went to the nearby island of Agatti. Finally the weather improved and they returned to the mainland sighting other islands on their way. It is said that after their return another party of sailors and soldiers discovered the island of Amini and started living there. It is believed that the people sent there were Hindus. Even now unmistakable Hindu Social stratification exists in these islands despite Islam. Legends say that small settlements started in the Islands of Amini, Kavaratti, Andrott and Kalpeni first and later people from these islands moved to the other islands of Agatti, Kiltan, Chetlat and Kadmat.

Another story –

The advent of Islam dates back to the 7th century around the year 41 Hijra. It is universally believed that one St.Ubaidullah(r) while praying at Mecca fell asleep. He dreamt that Prophet Mohammed(s) wanted him to go to Jeddah and take a ship from there to go to distant places. Thus, he left Jeddah but after sailing for months, a storm wrecked his ship near these small Islands. Floating on a plank he was swept ashore on the island of Amini. He fell asleep there but again dreamt of the Prophet asking him to propagate Islam in that Island. Ubaidullah started doing so. But this enraged the headman of the island and he ordered his exit at once. St. Ubaidullah(r) stood firm. Meanwhile, a young woman fell in love with him. He gave her the name Hameedat Beebi and married her. This further offended the headman and he decided to kill him. It is said that the headman and his henchmen surrounded Ubaidullah(r) and his wife to kill them. At once St.Ubaidullah(r) called up on the Almighty and the people were struck blind. At this time St.Ubaidullah(r) and his wife disappeared and as soon as they left the island people regained their eye sight.From Amini St.Ubaidullah(r) arrived at Andrott where he met with similar opposition but he succeeded finally in converting the people to Islam. He next went to other islands and successfully propagated Islam and returned to Andrott where he died, and was buried. The grave of St.Ubaidullah(r) is today a sacred place. Preachers from Androttare respected deeply in far off lands like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Burma etc. It is a marabout or Mukbara.

Another story of Laccadives–

The Arrival of the Portuguese in India again made Laccadives an important place for seafarers. It was also the beginning of years of plunder for the islands. The finely spun coir was much sought after for ships. So the Portuguese started looting island vessels. They forcibly landed at Amini to procure coir sometime in the early 16th century, but it is said that the people killed all the invaders by poisoning, ending the Portuguese invasion.

Even after the conversion of the entire islands to Islam, sovereignty remained in the hands of the Hindu Rajah of Chirakkal for some years. From the hands of the Chirakkal Raja, the Administration of the island passed on to the Muslim house of Arakkal of Cannanore around the middle of the 16th century. The Arakkal rule was oppressive and unbearable. So sometime in the year 1783 some islanders from Amini took courage and went to Tipu Sultan at Mangalore and requested him to take over the Administration of Amini group of islands. Tipu Sultan at that time was on friendly terms with Beebi of Arakkel and after deliberations, the islands of Amini group were handed over to him. Thus the islands suzerainty came to be divided as five came under the rule of Tipu Sultan and the rest continued under Arakkal house. After the battle of Seringapattom in 1799 the islands were annexed to the British East India Company and were administered from Mangalore. In 1847, a severe cyclone hit the island of Andrott and Raja of Chirakkal decided to visit the island in order to assess the damages and for distributing relief. ANOTHER BRITISH GAME An officer of the East India Company Sir William Robinson volunteered to accompany him. On reaching Andrott, the Rajah found it difficult to meet all the demands of the people. Sir William then offered the Rajah help in the form of a loan. This was accepted. This arrangement continued for about four years but when the interest started mounting, the English asked the Rajah to repay them which he could not. In 1854 all the remaining islands were handed over to the East India Company for Administration. so, came the British rule.

The Union Territory was formed in 1956 and it was named Lakshadweep in 1973.

Lakshadweep Permit - The entry to Lakshadweep islands is restricted. One requires an entry permit issued by Lakshadweep Administration to visit these islands.

Foreigners are restricted to the islands of Agatti, Bangaram and Kadmat, plus transit only (maximum of 12 hours) in Kavaratti. Indians may visit the other islands as well, but accommodation is very limited

How to get around on Lakshadweep island

Boat and helicopter transfers are available from Agatti to Bangaram and Kadmat. The helicopter (USD 150 return) may be the only option in monsoon season from May to September.

By boats/ferries: These can be used for getting around from one island to the other but are very costly.

Once on an island, there aren't too many options as the islands themselves are very small: most of them are less than 10 km in length and less than a kilometer in breadth between their extremes. You can travel by foot or hire a bicycle.

Where to stay

There are three full-service resorts in Lakshadweep (though one of them, the Bangaram Island Resort, is currently not operating), which are also the only places where foreigners can stay. All prices listed below are for double rooms and include all meals.

• Agatti Island Beach Resort Privately owned, but quite run down; although apparently new cottages are planned. The main attraction is diving, which is better than at Bangaram. 20 beds. edit
• Kadmat Island Resort The choice of scuba divers, this is home to Lakshadweep's first scuba facility. 22 executive huts, 26 family huts. Government-run and basic.₹3000/4000 fan/air-con. edit

In addition, basic government resorts open to Indian citizens only are available at Minicoy, Kavaratti and Kalpeni. Some packages offered by sports include accommodation on board the ship, with only day visits to the islands.

How to reach Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep Island can be reached by ships and flights operated from Kochi. For all tourist purposes Kochi is the gate way to Lakshadweep. Agatti and Bangaram islands can be reached by flight from Kochi. Indian Airlines operate flights from Kochi. Onward flights from Kochi are available to most of the airports in India and abroad. Airstrip is there in Agatti island only. From Agatti boats are available to Kavaratti and Kadmat during fair season October to May. Helicopter transfer is available from Agatti to Bangaram Island Resort during monsoon and to Kavaratti throughout the year. The flight from Cochin to Agatti takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes.

Six passenger ships - MV Kavaratti, MV Arabian Sea, MV Lakshadweep Sea, MV Amindivi and MV Minicoy operate between Cochin and Lakshadweep. The passage takes 14 to 18 hours depending on island chosen for journey. The ships offer different classes of accommodation: A/C First Class with two berth cabins, A/C Second Class with four berth cabins and push back/Bunk Class with A/C seating. A doctor is available on call on board. MV Amindivi and MV Minicoy also offer comfortable A/C seating ideal for a night’s journey.

For Lakshadweep holiday call Navigers on +91-9880-240-988

or click this to see the holidays available https://www.navigers.com/package_trips/search_results?country=India&pickup_location=Lakshadweep&days=

The water festival called Thingyan

For visitors, Myanmar New Year or known as water festival is one of the most amazing times to experience the long reserved tradition of the country as well having fun with the local national wide.

In the Burmese language, the new year is called ‘Thingyan’ means “moving from one year to another”.

According to the ancient tradition, a human has committed sins the whole year and these sins could be only washed away by the water that thrown on others with Thingyan water.  People believe that their mind will be purified after this important festival.

During 2 weeks of Thingyan which often takes place from 12 to 17th April, Buddhist’s religious activities are held to bless pilgrimage as well local villagers. 

The water festival is also celebrated as Songkran in Thailand and Laos, ChaulChnamThmey in Cambodia. A similar festival is played in India with water and color and is called Holi

Go mad in water fest with water everywhere. You will be drenched in water, fun, and love. Enjoy with the locals, it's amazingly safe. People splash water on everyone including animals

Kids use water guns to drench their friends, and everyone in the range - only monks and the olds are safe.

During the festival, do not miss the chance to fill your stomach with special sweet foods: rice balls with jiggery topped with grated coconut, assorted jelly, bread and sticky rice in coconut milk and many other delicious curries that you will not taste in a normal day.

PhaungDawOo Pagoda Festival

Every year once, by end of October, pagoda festival is celebrated during which the 5 Buddha images are rowed around the Lake in a colorful barge.

It is held on a large scale for 18 days, usually in October (sometimes in September). 4 Buddha Images out of 5 from Phaung-Daw-oo Pagoda are carried on the royal barge and conveyed around 14 villages on the Lake.

The barge is towed by the boats of leg-rowers and hundreds of boats follow the procession. The large crowd gathers on the lake-shores to celebrate this festival. It is really an amazing sight.

Among the dance shows and fun-fairs, the most interesting event of the festival, especially for foreigners, is their boat race - due to their unique leg rowing. It is the one and only place in the world that one can see such marvelous act.

The Buddha images were believed to have been brought by King Alaungsithu of Bagan. King Alaungsithu or Mani Sithu reigned from A.D 1112-1167, one of the longest rulers of Bagan Dynasty. The King was a great builder of pagodas and monasteries and an avid traveler. He spent much of his time on water journeys. Legend has it that the Barge he used was built of the wood that contained a philosopher’s stone. This stone gave the Barge the supernatural power of turning into the water any place the king pointed at. So once, during one of his journeys, he came to the Inle Lake and the royal barge stopped at a place. That place was marked as a sacred place and a pagoda was built. That pagoda is now known as PhaungDaw U Pagoda. Some local tribes from Dawei requested the King for their stay at the lake, due to their liking of the pleasant lake, and also for looking after the pagoda. The King granted their stay and now, there is mysterious Inle Lake.

The PhaungDaw U Pagoda Festival isheld annually for 18 days. It is one of the most famous festivals in Myanmar. Both locals and foreign visitors come to visit this traditional festival in Inle Lake, Shan State. Annually, during the Myanmar Month of Thadingyut, usually between September and October, the 18-days festival is held. The festival is held with the dates according to the Lunar Calendar of Myanmar. It begins on the first Waxing Moon day of Thadingyut and ends a couple of days after the Full Moon. (For 2015, 14 October to 31 October)

A large boat with a Golden Hintha (Hamsa) Bird creation is built. The Buddha Images tour around the Inle Lake from village to village taking the whole 18 days on the way. During the festival, only four of the Buddha Images are moved onto the royal barge. One image always remains at the temple. The decorated royal barge is towed by several boats moving by leg-rowers of Inle. The barge is towed from village to village along the shores of the lake in a clockwise fashion, and the four images reside at the main monastery in each village for the night. The high point of the festival is on the day when the images arrive at the main town of NyaungShwe, where most pilgrims from the surrounding region come to pay their respects and veneration by boats. There are hundreds of floating boats from near and far.

According to Myanmar law, you are not allowed to rent the car without driver so it has to be the best invention ever – it’s a motorbike

The road should be kicked off from Mandalay, the biggest city in north Myanmar going down south to capital Yangon. It is more than just an ordinary sightseeing since you are not only to visit Myanmar Heritage sites but also see the different villages in the remote area. It usually takes 12 to 13 days depending how many days you are adding to explore Yangon and other major places like Inle lake
 

Mandalay - PyinOoLwin - Shwe Bo - Monywa - Bagan - Magwe - Pyu - Yangon - Naypyidaw - Inle Lake – Mandalay

1. Mandalay to PyinOoLwin = 66 km
2. PyinOoLwin to Shwe Bo = 167 km
3. Shwebo to Monywa = 101 km
4. Monywa to Bagan = 153 km
5. Bagan to Magway = 152 km
6. Magway to Phyu = 313 km
7. Phyu to Yangon = 235 km
8. Yangon to Naypyitaw = 367 km
9. Naypyitaw to Inle Lake = 230 km
10. Inle Lake to Mandalay = 261 km

Essential South Myanmar
Follow the ancient trail of Mon Kingdom, exploring the authenticity of Yangon, Hpa An, Golden Rock and Mawlamyine. The experience focuses on the cultural interaction which varies beautifully from vibrant cities to monasteries, Shampoo island to famous Golden Rock.  It usually takes 7 to 8 days depending how many days you are adding to explore Yangoon and other places

Brief itinerary: Yangon - Bago - Kyaikhtiyo - Mawlamyine - Hpa An - Yangon

1. Yangon - Bago = 119 km
2. Bago – Kyaikhtiyo = 107 km
3. Kyaikhtiyo – Mawlamyine = 153 km
4. Mawlamyine - Hpa An = 57 km
5. Hpa An to Yangon = 287 km

Myanmar larger circuit –

Option 1 - Min. 15 days circuit

1. Mandalay to PyinOoLwin = 66 km
2. PyinOoLwin to Shwe Bo = 167 km
3. Shwebo to Monywa = 101 km
4. Monywa to Bagan = 153 km
5. Bagan to Magway = 152 km
6. Magway via Naypyitawto Phyu = 313 km
7. Phyu to Yangon = 235 km
8. Yangon - Bago = 119 km
9. Bago – Kyaikhtiyo = 107 km
10. Kyaikhtiyo – Mawlamyine = 153 km
11. Mawlamyine - Hpa An = 57 km
12. Hpa An to Taungoo = 383 km
13. Taungooto Naypyitaw = 115 km
14. Naypyitaw to Inle Lake = 230 km
15. Inle Lake to Mandalay = 261 km

Option 2 – Min. 14 days circuit

1. Mandalay to PyinOoLwin = 66 km
2. PyinOoLwin to Shwe Bo = 167 km
3. Shwebo to Monywa = 101 km
4. Monywa to Bagan = 153 km
5. Bagan to Magway = 152 km
6. Magway via Naypyitawto Phyu = 313 km
7. Phyu to Yangon = 235 km
8. Yangon - Bago = 119 km
9. Bago – Kyaikhtiyo = 107 km
10. Kyaikhtiyo – Mawlamyine = 153 km
11. Mawlamyine - Hpa An = 57 km
12. Hpa An to Naypyitaw = 473 km
13. Naypyitaw to Inle Lake = 230 km
14. Inle Lake to Mandalay = 261 km

Happy BiKing.!!

For Any help on Myanmar Holiday, you can reach us @ travel@Navigers.com / navigers@gmail.com

How to cross India Myanmar border

Since Myanmar opens its door to the world, more official borders are opening for travellers who wish
to do overland journeys from neighbouring countries to Myanmar. At the present, you can travel from
Myanmar to Thailand, China and India with certain border gates. Up to 2016, there are no international
border checkpoints to enter Myanmar from Laos or Bangladesh.

India Myanmar Border

In the remote north west of Myanmar, a crossing exists between Moreh (India, Manipur state) and
Tamu (Myanmar, Sagaing Division). If you want to enter or leave Myanmar here, you will need to book a
special travel package by filling out this form (you must apply at least one month in advance of your
travel date).

Although permits are required for border crossing, foreigners can now travel in these parts of Sagaing
Division (Myanmar) and Manipur State (India) freely.
The India-Myanmar border in the far north of Kachin State at Pangsau Pass is currently shut to
foreigners.

We offer a range of overland tours to Myanmar, but please note that we are not able to issue border
crossing permits as a stand-alone item - if you book through us you must take a guided tour for at least
part of your journey; this is mandated for tour companies by the Myanmar government and we must
always ensure the safety of our clients.

How to cross-border from Thailand to Myanmar

Thailand Myanmar Borders
If you are planning to cross the border by land, to check that there have been no closures before
commencing your journey. Also, make sure that you have the relevant visas arranged (or are eligible for
a visa exemption if crossing from Myanmar into Thailand).
These are the crossing between Thailand and Myanmar:

1. Mae Sot / Myawaddy
One of the most popular crossing points, Mae Sot is located in the Thai province of Tak. It is
well-connected by bus on the Thai side, and onward transportation when in Myanmar is also
relatively straight-forward. Mawlamyine and Yangon are easy to reach, allowing you to connect
to other parts of the country.

2. Ranong / Kawthoung

This is the most convenient crossing for people who are continuing to Myanmar from Southern
Thailand. Ideal for beach lovers, you can catch onward boats to some of Myanmar’s dazzling
beaches and islands. The boat crossing between the two countries takes around 20 minutes, and
there are regular boat services.

3. Mae Sai / Tachilek
Mae Sai is within Thailand’s province of Chiang Rai. Whilst foreign tourists can easily cross the
border into Myanmar, there are still limitations as to onward transportation.

4. Phu Nam Ron / Htee Khee
Ban Nam Phu, located in Thailand’s province of Kanchanaburi, is a remote town with a border
crossing into Myanmar. Crossing to Htee Khee, the nearest major town on the Myanmar side is
Dawei, which is about a five-hour drive from the border. Arranging onward transportation may be difficult, particularly during the rainy season.

A Great country with multicultural diversity, well you can see lot variety mix   like European ,Asian and not to forget about  indigenous Australians referred as Aborigines , first immigrants to Australia dating many century ago . I was mesmerized about the culture, art and belief they carried. if you are lucky enough you can find some street music  with unique  instrument  called didgeridoo,  I got literally  carried away by  captivating  unusual sound. Their Art is entirely different from regular nevertheless very fascinating must visit Art Gallery in Sydney. I factually spent almost a day in gallery. 

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Darling Harbor 

Darling harbor  is an ideal  place to hang around .my sister had invited couple of her friends  we all ended up in an Italian restaurant for lunch .it’s quite an amazing place to party out , surrounded by beautiful restaurants. Huge bay to walk around and walkable distance to the Sydney aquarium. Definitely place for sea lovers ,be it adults or children’s and very closer view to  sea life from glass tunnels one can see  variety  of underwater  species  like sharks, octopuses, dugongs, turtles  etc. For very first time have seen penguins in real and was totally surprised to see their size as I had always imagined penguins are bigger creature.

Another pleasant place came across was Chinese garden of friendship, beautiful landscape with theme, handpicked tree, plants and miniature mountain. Manmade marvel ponds with connecting small bridge feel serene. Exquisite Chinese pavilions with connecting   Path way around the garden are very soothing for any Strollers.

Queen Victoria building is very iconic and spectacular monument turned to be splendid shopping mall with restored Beautiful stained glass ,old fashioned metal stairs  and  also  the display of Great Australian Clock  was  very mighty ,well designed and functional . 

Most awaiting place and always been looking forward to visit was Sydney opera house and Sydney Harbor Bridge. As these both landmarks were representing Australia .Majestic architecture of opera house worthwhile to visit .Glad we visited on right time during sunset it was truly romantic.  It can’t be anything more fabulous than watching glorified illuminating lotus petal monument from restaurants while dinning. There were plenty of enjoyable restaurants around. Also I found good time to see night life in city as well.