Springing from Himalayan glaciers and flowing for almost 2,200 km across the whole country into the Indian Ocean, the Ayeyarwady River is a witness to Myanmar’s history, from ups and downs to the development of this country. Visiting here, tourists can observe the extraordinary timeless quality of this historic river. The kings of medieval Bagan would almost certainly recognize its riverbank life today with its countless tiered pagodas and teak monasteries - almost maintaining their initial shapes.
This 2-Night Bagan to Mandalay itinerary named “Ancient Capitals” is our shortest version of cruising through the cultural and spiritual heart of ancient Burma. Visit the interesting sights along the central Ayeyarwady along the way. (The cruise does not include a visit to Bagan or Mandalay.)
If you want to spend more days visiting more places of interest along the route, you can check out longer itineraries ranging from 3 to 10 nights. Contact Myanmar Private Tour for any requests or questions!
Transfer:
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Near midday, you will board on the Anawrahta docking by the Irrawaddy River on one of the jetties in Bagan. Welcomed by the staffs and enjoy a refreshing cup of juice, you will be escorted to your room.
Enjoy lunch on board as the vessel slowly drift to Pakokku – a former trading hub on the western bank of the Irrawaddy River. Before reaching the town, you will be rewarded with the view of the longest bridge of the country – Pakokku Bridge. Set on your feet on shore, you will be taken to a moderately sized workshop that produces Burmese slippers. Many livelihood of the residents here depend on this footwear. The town is also well known for their tobacco and the famous Burmese cigars. Resume the trip with the visit to Shwegu Temple that are elegantly carved by master artisan. Then we return back on board for the journey upstream. Dinner will be served in the Hintha Restaurant. After dinner, you can enjoy a classic movie night on terrace deck (depending on weather as well as real-time conditions).
Transfer:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
For the early birds, a yoga session will be arranged on board every morning on the terrace deck.
While enjoying the breakfast, the ship will slowly sail from Pakokku to the stop at Yandabo. The place holds a historical milestone which is the signed peace treaty for the first Anglo-Burmese War. Currently, this is a modest village that specializes in water pots. As you walk through the village by foot, the guide will explain to you the special effect of these water pots and the techniques that are displayed by the local residents. Return back on board by the time for lunch.
Before dinner time, you can participate in the demonstration of the two most essentials products of Burmese people – longyi and thanaka. After dinner, you can enjoy a classic movie night on terrace deck (depending on weather as well as real-time conditions).
Transfer:
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, we disembark to start the excursion by horse-cart though the ancient capital of Ava. First stop is the stunning team monastery Bagaya Kyaung then we continue to another monastery which is built by brick – Maha Aung Mye Bon Zan Monastery before going back to the cruise before lunch. As we slowly make our way to Mandalay, we will pass and have the chance to witness the marvelous Sagaing Hills.
Arrive in Mandalay in the early afternoon. Checkout of the cruise after lunch for your onward journey.