This itinerary covers two of the big four attractions of Myanmar: Mandalay and Bagan. It’s not overstated to call it the breathtaking journey on the “backbone” of the country Irrawaddy River. During 5 days, you will admire some of the country’s most beautiful temples such as Shwezigon and Ananda temple, wander around the lively Nyaung U Market, stroll on the idyllic village of Mandalay, engage with the local unique culture, and learn more about the past, present, and future of Myanmar.
General Information
Duration: 5 days/4 nights
Start/End: Mandalay/Bagan
Tour Category: Myanmar river cruise
Tour Route: Mandalay - Sin Kyun Village - Tan Chi Taung Mountain - Bagan
Cruise Ship: Sanctuary Ananda
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Set sail from Mandalay
Day 2: Sin Kyun Village
Day 3: Tan Chi Taung Mountain
Day 4: Bagan Discovery
Day 5: Bagan Disembarkation
Day 1: Set sail from Mandalay
Mingalabar! Welcome to Mandalay, the city of great cultural heritage.
Today, Check-in on the board which lies at the quay of Mandalay at 12:30.
This morning, if you arrive early, you can choose to take a short excursion in Mandalay with us. We will visit Mahamuni Pagoda to admire one of the most highly revered Buddha images in the country. Then discover the intricated wood architecture of Shwenandaw Pagoda, the finest example of Burmese architecture in the 19th century. Finally, highlight your sightseeing at Kuthodaw Pagoda, the impressive golden temple surrounded by 729 marble slabs carved with Buddhist inscription, making it the world’s largest Buddhist book.
As you get on the ship, set sail to Sagaing, the laid-back town which boasts a huge number of pagodas, monasteries, and meditation centers. On arrival, we will spend time to visit a school and an orphanage in Monastic to learn more about Buddhism teaching. We then also head up the top of the hill to feast your eyes with a panoramic view of the river and beautiful Sagaing Bridge.
After that, we continue our journey to Amarapura, the ancient capital of Burmese, also known as the City of Immortals. Take this chance to discover the traditional weaving village to know more about the local production. Then highlight your trip at U Bein Bridge, the longest and oldest teak bridge in the world. Upon here, you can choose either to walk on the bridge and get on a boat to sail around the lake and slowly enjoy the magical sunset covering it reddish light on everything around you. Don’t forget to bring your camera to save your best shots.
Day 2: Sin Kyun Village
The morning of day 2 gives you a chance to explore the idyllic Sinkyun Village. Take this opportunity to visit the local families to learn more about their way of life and also the traditional hat making. Enjoy a laid-back pace of life as you take a stroll around the village.
Leaving Sinkyun, we return to the board and make your way to Tan Chi Taung. En route, docking to visit the unfinished enormous Mingun Pagoda, which intendedly built as the world largest Buddhist pagoda. However, it has gone through several natural disasters and then was left in abandon. Tourists coming to the site can climb to the top to marvel at the mesmerizing beauty surrounding.
After that, enjoy your leisure time onboard. Why don’t order some wine and sit on your private balcony and enjoy the serene beauty on the riverside?
Day 3: Tan Chi Taung Mountain
Today’s morning join in an interesting taste but test, demonstrated by the Executive Chef. Try your hands to see how much you know about the local dishes.
After that, sail downstream toward Bagan. This time is great for you to enjoy the spa treatment on the luxurious Ananda Sanctuary. Enjoy your delicious lunch before getting off to visit Tan Chi Taung Mountain, which offers us a great panoramic view of over 2000 pagodas in Bagan.
Here you will have a chance to watch an interesting Elephant dance, the traditional entertaining acrobatic dance in Bagan.
After getting back to the board, enjoy the breathtaking sunset from the sundeck with a cocktail from the Kandsi Panorama Lounge.
Day 4: Bagan Discovery
This morning, why don’t you highlight it with a memorable hot air balloon ride? With over 2000 temples scattered on the plain, there is no better way to enjoy the beauty of Bagan than floating on the balloon to see it. If you like to take, please tell us in advance so we can arrange the trip for you.
We then spend the rest of the day to explore the hidden treasure of Bagan. Start at Nyaung U Market, a bustling bazaar where you can get a glimpse at the local life and trading. Proceed to Shwezigon Pagoda, impressive gold plated where the legend said to be home to the sacred Buddha relics.
Following your lunch with a visit to Ananda temple, a man-made masterpiece reflect the traditional Mon style in the 12th century.
In the late afternoon, return to the ship and marvel at the heart-touching beauty of the sunset on the Irrawaddy River.
Day 5: Bagan Disembarkation
Enjoy your breakfast and then check out at the ship and get back to the land. We hope that you would love this 5-day cruise from Mandalay to Bagan. Thank you for making your Burma trip with Go Myanmar Tours!
