Duration: 3 days/2 nights
Start/End: Bagan/Mandalay
Tour Category: Irrawaddy river cruise
Cruise Ship: Sanctuary Ananda
Tour Highlights:
- Indulge in the hustle and bustle atmosphere of Nyaung U Market – the authentic local market in Bagan
- Enjoy 2 nights stay in the luxurious Sanctuary Ananda
- Unlock the hidden treasure of Bagan, the second World Heritage site in Bagan with a visit to magnificent temples
- Behold the majestic sunset over Irrawaddy River from the sundeck on board
- Discover the religious center of Myanmar – Sagaing Hill
Brief Itinerary:
Day 1: Bagan (L, D)
Day 2: Mandalay (B, L, D)
Day 3: Mandalay Disembarkation (B)
Day 1: Bagan (L, D)
Mingalabar! Welcome to Bagan, one of the greatest wonders of the world that was recognized as a UNESCO Heritage Site in July 2019. Today, we check-in on the board at 12:30 pm.
For early arrivers, we arrange a short excursion at 9 am. Visit the colorful Nyaung U Market to taste the local flavor and see the daily life and trade of the Burmese people. Take your time around the market area, you will catch the image of a variety of local staples and the smiling faces of women in which covered with traditional Thanaka (Burmese makeup). Proceed to Shwezigon Pagoda, one of the most well-known attractions in Bagan. Here you will have the opportunity to marvel at the impressive golden paya of the pagoda where is said to be home to the sacred hair of the Buddha. Listen to your guide to know more about the legend and nine wonders of the pagoda.
Then, follow your guide to the jetty to embark on the board. We set sailing upstream to Sagaing. Enjoy your welcome lunch on the board while beholding the stunning beauty along the way. Followed your lunch is an interesting cultural demonstration. You will learn how to wear Longyi – the traditional dress of Burmese people and put on Thanaka, the traditional make-up powder. Take this chance to gain more insights into the rich culture and history of the country.
Day 2: Mandalay (B, L, D)
This morning, to know more about Burmese cuisine, why don’t take part in a cooking class with the renowned chef on the board to learn a simple way to make Burmese dish.
In the afternoon, we arrive in Sagaing Hill, an important religious and monastic center of Myanmar where hundreds of golden and white stupas dotted the green hill. Make your way to a monastic school and orphanage to learn more about Buddhist education in Myanmar. Next up, climb to the hilltop Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda to marvel at the giant Buddha image and gain a panoramic view to the charming river.
Later on, drive toward Sagaing Bridge to reach Amarapura, the former capital of Burma, also well-known as the City of Immortality. Then we visit U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest and oldest teak bridge where providing the perfect viewpoint to watch the sunset over the serene Taungthaman Lake. Take your time to enjoy the view and observe the current of local people crossing the lake.
Day 3: Mandalay Disembarkation (B)
This morning, enjoy your last breakfast on board and then say goodbye to the crew to get back to the land. Your Myanmar trip ends. Thank you for making your Irrawaddy River cruise with Go Myanmar Tours!
