Legend Of The Irrawaddy

Upon arrival at Yangon International Airport, meet your guide and driver. Transfer to your hotel for a short rest. First your guided tour goes to Kandawgyi Park, one of central Yangon’s greenest spots. Here you will see the glittering Karaweik barge, a replica of the royal barge, and the vast lake with views of Shwedagon in the background. Depending on the day of your visit Kandawgyi may be busy with local families who come here on the weekend to relax in the fresh air. Continue to Shwedagon Pagoda in the early evening, the most revered Buddhist temple in Myanmar. Although the origins of the pagoda are unclear, the local legend states that the original structure was built 2500 years ago then renovated several times until taking its current shape in the 15th century. The 8-sided central stupa is 99 meters tall and gilded with gold leaf and is surrounded by 64 smaller stupas and your guide will show you around the massive complex, explaining why this temple is so revered. As the sun begins to set you will be treated to breathtaking views of  illuminated Pagoda and surrounding skyline. Then transfer back to your hotel.Welcome dinner at Le Planteur.

In the morning transfer to hectic Pandsodan jetty to board a local ferry to cross the Yangon River.  Upon reaching Dhala, travel by local trishaw through the town. The scenic town is remarkably different from nearby Yangon, with many trees, local neighborhoods and quiet side streets filling the area. While in Dhala you’ll visit the market and have plenty of opportunities to stop and interact with the friendly locals. After visiting the village and market, proceed to the monastery to learn about monastic life in Myanmar. The monastery also serves as a community centre and is an important part of rural Burmese life. Return by boat to Yangon, observing life along the river and reflecting back on your excursion to Dhala. Begin a walking tour of downtown (note: car at disposal if you wish to do tour by car) The walk takes around one hour and passes by fading colonial buildings such as the Post Office, City Hall, Customs Office and local residences. Visit Victory Monument and Sule Pagoda. Lunch at LinkAge, a non-profit restaurant promoting life skills among Yangon’s street kids. Next walk a few minutes to Bogyoke Market, formerly known as Scott’s Market, where there is time to browse through the dozens of stalls and shops. This is Yangon’s best market for handicrafts and other goods.  (Note: Market is closed on Mondays and public holidays). If you wish take a stroll around colorful Chinatown and visit one of Yangon’s Chinese temples Return to your hotel to enjoy the evening at leisure.

Board the vessel at its moorage in Yangon and enjoy a relaxing lunch as we start our journey to Bagan. Enjoy a full afternoon of sailing and an introductory lecture about Myanmar way of life.

After a leisurely breakfast, visit the small port of Zalon. Explore the streets by trishaw before visiting the Pyaytawpyan Pagoda.

Spend the day relaxing on board as we make our way towards the ancient Myanmar capital Pyay (Prome).  Take in the sights and sounds of the river, or make use of the luxurious ship facilities.

Arrive in Pyay in the morning and disembark for a visit to the impressive Shwesadaw Pagoda.  Return to Orcaella and spend the rest of the afternoon sailing through the stunning scenery.

After a full morning sailing, enjoy an afternoon stop to explore the quaint Gawaechaung village by ox-cart for first-hand experience of the rural lifestyle along the Ayerwaddy River. Orcaella will anchor this evening at Min Hla.

Start the day with a morning visit to the Min Hla Fort, the site of a great battle during the second Anglo Burman war. Continue to the trade port town Magwe and it’s famous Myathalon Pagoda.  Also make a stop at the busy local market to experience the daily hustle and bustle.

Orcaella will set sail early morning for Bagan. Spend the entire afternoon visiting the ancient sites in and around Bagan with our experienced guide and witness sunset over the marvellous Bagan plain. Celebrate your final evening on board at a cocktail party on the Top Deck and say goodbye to your new friends during the Farewell Dinner.

Disembark early morning for your return flight to Yangon. Upon arrival connect with your international flight. A car and guide will be available at your disposal to take in some last minute shopping or exploring Yangon on your own.