Burmese Empires & Khmer Kingdoms

This tour will focus on the historical, ethnographic and religious aspects of these exotic lands. We begin in Myanmar (Burma), closed to foreigners from 1961 until recent years; its glittering pagodas, golden temples and saffron-robed monks create a wondrous atmosphere of vibrant color. We will have the unique opportunity to see this picturesque and gentle land on the threshold of transformation. Our visits will include ancient royal capitals, deserted royal cities as well as some of the thousands of pagodas and temples. We will study Bagan, the Buddhist capital of the first Burmese kingdom, and spend three days exploring the sites along the shores of Inle Lake. We will visit sites that reveal the Mon and other cultural traditions that lay at the foundation of Burmese civilization, even before the arrival of the Burmese themselves. It will afford us a chance to study the role of Buddhism in Burmese culture, especially the traditions of Buddhist temple building and iconography. Cambodia is a country of contrasts; active Buddhist monasteries, teeming markets, spectacular palaces and, of course, the incomparable complex of Angkor Wat. Our time will be divided between bustling Phnom Penh and serene Siem Reap, where our five days will provide ample time to explore the Angkor ruins from every perspective. As we travel through these wonderful places, we will have the opportunity to experience traditional music and dance, sample the local foods, examine crafts and explore lively markets.