Longneck Karen is one of Karen tribes. They call themselves Padaung. It is believed that originally they came from Yunnan Province, central China. Later in 1000 AD according to the history, they migrated to Salween River Basin in Myanmar.  In 1995, there were approximately 25,000 Padaungs living in Myanmar. They mainly live on traditional agricultural activities. After political incident against the minorities in Myanmar, Padaungs have evacuated from Myanmar and until now cannot fully identify where is the major location they are living in. It is believed that they scattered all over the area and co-live with other minority group that armed so that they can be protected.

Day 1: Arrival in Yangon Upon arriving in Yangon, Myanmar's bustling capital, I was immediately captivated by the city's vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. After checking into my hotel, I set out to explore the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, a breathtaking golden temple that stands as a symbol of Myanmar's spirituality and devotion.

Day 2: Yangon City Tour My second day in Yangon was dedicated to exploring the city's top attractions, including the colonial-era buildings of downtown Yangon, the lively Bogyoke Aung San Market, and the serene Kandawgyi Lake. In the evening, I sampled delicious Burmese cuisine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes like Mohinga and Shan Noodles.

Day 3: Fly to Mandalay I boarded a short flight to Mandalay, the cultural heart of Myanmar, where I spent the day exploring the city's ancient temples, bustling markets, and traditional workshops. Highlights of the day included a visit to the majestic Mandalay Palace, a boat ride along the Irrawaddy River, and a sunset stroll across the iconic U Bein Bridge.

Day 4-5: Discovering Bagan's Temples Next, I embarked on a journey to Bagan, home to thousands of ancient temples and pagodas scattered across the picturesque landscape. Over the course of two days, I explored the awe-inspiring temples of Bagan, marveled at the sunrise and sunset views from elevated viewpoints, and learned about the rich history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 6-7: Inle Lake Adventure Continuing my adventure, I traveled to Inle Lake, a tranquil oasis surrounded by lush green hills and floating gardens. I spent two days exploring the lake's floating villages, vibrant markets, and traditional handicraft workshops. One of the highlights of my time at Inle Lake was discovering the unique culture and lifestyle of the Long Neck Hill Tribe, known for their distinctive brass neck coils.

Day 8-9: Kalaw Trekking Experience Leaving Inle Lake behind, I embarked on a two-day trekking adventure from Kalaw to Inle Lake, traversing scenic trails, lush forests, and picturesque hillside villages. Along the way, I had the opportunity to interact with local villagers, learn about their traditional customs, and immerse myself in the natural beauty of the Shan State countryside.

Day 10-12: Return to Yangon and Departure After an unforgettable journey through Myanmar, I returned to Yangon for my final days in the country. I spent my remaining time exploring more of the city's hidden gems, shopping for souvenirs at local markets, and indulging in delicious Burmese cuisine. As I bid farewell to Myanmar, I reflected on the incredible experiences and memories I had made during my 12-day adventure, knowing that I would cherish them for a lifetime.