RV Kalay Pandaw

You will be transferred to Kalewa to embark on your Pandaw cruise ship. Then, we explore on shore, visit the local market, and enjoy the whole sights of the Chindwin from a hilltop.

Fly from Yangon or Mandalay to Kalay is included in the cruise price.
• For a flight from Yangon: Registration at Sule Shangri-La Hotel at 10:30 AM.
• For a flight from Mandalay: You will be picked up from your hotel in Mandalay between 12:30 - 1:00 PM.

» To be noted that, there might be changes to flight times.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We travel to the lovely village of Ma Sein, then move on to Mawlaik, which was formerly the occupied by the Bombay Burma Corporation for timber extraction operations of the Chindwin Area. Here, we can still see the old headquarter standing.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We sail onward to Kindat (roughly translated as “military outpost” in the Burmese language). Here we can see an old post office from the colonial period, which is now has become a school. Next, we come to Yuwa Village where visitors can enjoy a friendly welcome and atmosphere from the locals.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We sail upstream to Sitthaung, where Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers sunk in 1942 in an “Act of Denial” before the Japanese’s march. We’re hoping to recover these remnants as we did at Katha on the Irrawaddy. From here, survivors from the Japanese’s attack fleeing to Tamu on India border. Patha used to be an essential oil refinery of Indo-Burma Petroleum Co (Steel Brothers). In addition, we take a trip around the village of Paungpyin, including the market and the charming wooden houses.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

Toungdoot (or Hsawng-hsup in Tai), is an ancient land of Shan people where a ruling sawbwa still existed with court and palace during the British time. We will be able to find out what happened to the royal family and their homeland and observe these Shan people’s lifes who live far away from their Tai-Shan homelands. In 1935, Alister McCrae once wrote during his visit: “I loved the atmosphere of quiet and peaceful living there. At night I could hear greylag geese as they came into the flooded land around us from far away north”.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We continue upstream to the remote region of Nagaland. In the afternoon, we will be in Khamti. Because of the prevalence of gold panning in the nearby tributary of the Chindwin, the place is also called as “the land full of gold”. We take a tour around the town, including the monastery and interact with the Tai-speaking locals.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

In the morning, we take a look at the Khanpti market. Later on, as we cruise on the Chindwin towards Homalin, we will pass by villages which are not used to the appearance of Westerners.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

In the morning, we arrive at the town of Homalin which is near Indian border with charming forested mountains on both sides. Some have the height of 9,000 feet. Irrawaddy Flotilla Company used to be here, also during the WW II, Homalin was under the control of the Japanese. In the afternoon, we disembark from the cruise ship and transfer to the airport for your flight.

» Flight to Mandalay is included. There can be changes to flight times.

Fly to Homalin and get on your Pandaw ship for your 7-night cruise.

» Fly from Mandalay to Homalin is included in the cruise price. You will be picked up from your hotel in Mandalay between 9:00 - 10:00 AM. To be noted that, there can be changes to flight times.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We sail to the North into the remote and interesting tribal area of Nagaland. We will stop by villages which are not used to the appearance of international visitors.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We arrive at Khamti, which is also called as “the land full of gold” because of the prevalence of gold panning in the nearby tributary of the Chindwin. We take a trip around the town, including the monastery and interact with the Tai-speaking locals. Afterwards, we cruise downstream to Homalin.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We arrive at the town of Homalin which is near Indian border with charming forested mountains on both sides. Some have the height of 9,000 feet. Irrawaddy Flotilla Company used to be here, also during the WW II, Homalin was under the control of the Japanese. 

Later on we come to Toungdoot (or Hsawng-hsup in Tai) - an ancient land of Shan people where a ruling sawbwa still existed with court and palace during the British time. We will be able to find out what happened to the royal family and their homeland, and observe these Shan people’s life who live far away from their Tai-Shan homelands. In 1935, Alister McCrae once wrote during his visit: “I loved the atmosphere of quiet and peaceful living there. At night I could hear greylag geese as they came in to the flooded land around us from far away north”.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We will discover villages which are not visited much as we cruise on the Chindwin River. We take a trip around the village of Paungpyin, including the market and the charming wooden houses. Next, we move on to Sitthaung, where Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers sunk in 1942 in an “Act of Denial” before the Japanese’s march. We’re hoping to recover these remnants as we did at Katha on the Irrawaddy. From here, survivors from the Japanese’s attack fled to Tamu on India border. Patha used to be an essential oil refinery of Indo-Burma Petroleum Co (Steel Brothers). Afterwards, we sail downstream and stay the night at Yuwa Village.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

In the morning, we take a walk around Yuwa Village, then sail onward to Kindat (roughly translated as “military outpost” in Burmese language). Here we can see an old post office from colonial period, which is now has become a school, and interact with the friendly and welcoming locals.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

In the morning, we arrive at Mawlaik, which was formerly the occupied by the Bombay Burma Corporation for timber extration operations of the Chindwin Area. Here, we can still see the old headquarter standing. Later on, we sail to Kalewa – the gateway town to the Chin State. We will get to visit the gorgeous wooden buildings, the local market, then behold the grand sights of  the Chindwin from a hilltop.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We have our last breakfast, then disembark from the ship and get transferred to Kalay airport for your domestic flight to Yangon or Mandalay (cruise price included). To be noted that, there can be changes to the flight times.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: N/A

We get on the ship at Saggai Lay Kyun Man Aung pier by 11:30 AM, then begin the excursion with a tour around Mandalay, including the Mahamuni Pagoda with the most honored Buddha images in Burma. We move on to a gold-leaf and tapestry workshop and then walk along the stone & marble carver’s street. We stop by a silk and cotton workshop. Later on, we go to the well-known U Bein Bridge, built in 1784, via bus. The bridge is 1.2-kilometer long and considered to be the longest teak bridge in the world.  We take a boat ride on Taungthaman Lake and watch the beautiful sunset.

In the morning, we spend the time sailing. In the afternoon, we arrive at Kyauk Myaung famous for its potteries production and the handcrafted 50-gallon-water pots. We will get to see the entire process and how the artisans work. After the tour, we back to the ship and go to the 3rd Defile of Irrawaddy.

We arrive at the village of Khanyat and visit many Buddhist monasteries, and the former head teacher’s house, including his museum collections. Next, we enjoy the spectacular sights of the entire region and the the Upper Irrawaddy on Pagoda Hill at Tigyang.

We visit the colonial town of Katha, setting for George Orwell’s Burmese Days. Not much has changed ever since. One of the interesting point is the fire station’s collection of the bells taken from the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company ships’ remnants in the Second War. Lying in Katha is the remains of the old flotilla and more than hundred ships sunk in 1942 in an “Act of Denial” before the Japanese’s march. Later on, we come to the elephant logging camp at Katha in hardwood jungle of the hills surrounding the town and further upstream.

We get to the village of Kyun Daw via local boat and take a trip around numerous small pagodas.

We pass the 2nd Defile, which is considered to be the most impressive gorge out of the three with high ridges covering the narrow channel. Afterwards, we cruise downstream.

We take on an exploration trip around Tagaung, an ancient city, including forts, a well-known nat (ancestral spirit) shrine and an archaeological area.

In the morning, we arrive at Mingun and see the Mingun Bell – the world’s biggest working bell to date and the massive, yet unfinised Mingun Pagoda. In addition, we get to the Mingun Old People’s Home built during the 1930s with the support from the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. Finally, we enjoy the astonishing views of the entire region and the Irrawaddy on a hilltop of Sagaing Hills.

In the morning, we travel to Ava and discover the area, including the ruins, and Bagaya Kyaung - a 200-year-old royal teak monastery decorated with woodcarvings. In the afternoon, we travel to Yandabo Village where we can see the traditional potteries craftsmanship using the riverbank clay.

We spend the entire day exploring the World Heritage Site of Pagan, including the 3000 plus Pagan monuments via coach.

We have our final breakfast onboard, then disembark from the ship at Pagan Ayer pier at 8:30 AM.

We get on the cruise ship at Ayer pier, Pagan by 11:30 AM, and have lunch on board. After lunch, we take on a trip of the 3000 plus Pagan monuments via coach. At 17:30, we start to set sail.

We cross the junction with the Chindwin River and reach Yandabo Village. Here, we can see and experience the traditional pottery craftsmanship using the river bank clay. Afterwards, we sail upstream towards Mandalay through the afternoon.

In the morning, we travel to Ava and discover the area, including the ruins, and the 200-year-old royal teak monastery decorated with woodcarvings. We move on to Amarapura the ancient capital and behold the fascinating paintings in a temple.

We take a tour around Kyauk Myaung, famous for its potteries production and the handcrafted 50-gallon-water pots. We will get to see the entire process and how the artisans work. After the tour, we back to the cruise ship and go to the 3rd Defile of Irrawaddy.

We arrive at the village of Khanyat and visit many Buddhist monasteries, and the former head teacher’s house, including his museum collections. Next, we enjoy the spectacular sights of the entire region and the the Upper Irrawaddy on Pagoda Hill at Tigyang.

We visit the colonial town of Katha, setting for George Orwell’s Burmese Days. Not much has changed ever since. One of the interesting point is the fire station’s collection of the bells taken from the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company ships’ remnants in the Second War. Lying in Katha is the remains of the old flotilla and more than hundred ships sunk in 1942 in an “Act of Denial” before the Japanese’s march. Later on, we come to the elephant logging camp at Katha in hardwood jungle of the hills surrounding the town and further upstream.

We get to the village of Kyun Daw via local boat and take a trip around numerous small pagodas.

We pass the 2nd Defile, which is considered to be the most impressive gorge out of the three with high ridges covering the narrow channel. Afterwards, we cruise downstream.

We take on an exploration trip around Tagaung, an ancient city, including forts, a well-known nat (ancestral spirit) shrine and an archaeological area.

In the morning, we arrive at Mingun and see the Mingun Bell – the world’s biggest working bell to date and the massive, yet unfinised Mingun Pagoda. In addition, we get to the Mingun Old People’s Home built during the 1930s with the support from the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. Finally, we enjoy the astonishing views of the entire region and the Irrawaddy on a hilltop of Sagaing Hills.

We have our final breakfast onboard, the get off the ship at Saggai Lay Kyun Man Aung pier. End of our excursion.

You will be transfered from the airport/hotel to embark ship at Mandalay Saggai Lay Kyun Man Aung pier around 11:30am. Then, lunch will be served onboard.

In the afternoon, we take on an excursion around Mandalay visiting its most famous highlights. Our first stop is Mahamuni pagoda where to feature the most revered Buddha statue in Myanmar. The image is now covered in a thick layer of gold leaf applied by the male devotees in order to show their respect to the Buddha. Next, our walk continues to the well - known street of marble carving.

Afterwards, we pay a visit to the Golden Palace Monastery - Shwe Kyuang. Constructed in 1857, this monument is the only building of the ancient Royal Palace survived until the present days.  

Proceed to visit the world's biggest book - Kuthodaw Pagoda next with 729 marbles slabs inscribed with Buddha teachings in Pali language. Then, learn how they make the thin gold leaf at the gold leaf beating worshop. Before return to the ship, you will have a chance to catch some gorgeous pictures of the Royal Palace's outer wall with the beautiful setting of the Mandalay Hill. 

The ship drops the anchor at Sagaing.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

This morning, we cruise to Mingun to explore Mingun Bell – the world’s biggest working bell and Mingun Paya – the largest brick stupa in the world, yet left unfinished in 1808 due to a bad prohecy about the King's death and the completion of the building. 

In the afternoon, proceed to visit the hill - top pagoda Soon U Ponnya on Sagaing Hill to catch the panoramic view of the Irrawaddy river and the surrounding areas. Then, visit  a nunnery for a lecture about the monastic life.

Amarapura - an ancient capital of Burma is our next stop. Here, we will pay a visit to the silk and cotton weaving workshop and see the artisans’ work.

The ship docks in Sagaing.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

Today morning, the ship continues to cruise to Yandabo village where you can see the terracotta pottery production from the river bank's clay. The village is also known for the place where the peace treaty was signed in 1826 putting an end to the first Anglo - Burmese war.

In the afternoon, we spend the time exploring the village and observing the working craftsmen. Afterwards, we move to visit the Pandaw sponsored Yandabo School (not available on school holiday).

The ship docks at Shwe Than Tint village.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

Have a day tour in Pakokku, browsing at local markets and downtown on a Tuk Tuk. This city is home for 100,000 people, which located 30 kms from Bagan. Its specialties are tobacco, cotton, peanuts, Thanaka (Burmese traditional cosmetic) and textiles. After a visit to the local market, we head to a cherrot workshop where to learn how they make Burmese cigars.

Next, we set sail to visit Pandaw sponsored Ayardaw charity clinic. Then, we will take a stroll around the village to experience the local life as well.

The ship drops the anchor at Tant Chi village.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

This morning, you will be transferred to Tant - Chi - Taung mountain to visit a gorgeous hill - top stupa. Later, enjoy the dancing show of paper elephants, which is performed by the Tant - Chi people on the way back. Next, we continue cruising to Salay –  a lovely little town which used to be a busy trading port. Although the hustle bustle ambience is no longer exist in this village, the charming colonial buildings still remain as well as the beautiful teak monasteries. 

Next, continue strolling to Yoke - Sone Kyaung where to find the sophisticated teak wood carvings - one of the finest in Myanmar. After that, we will have a short break at Salay House when return to the ship.

Stay overnight at Salay.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

Enjoy the river view as we sail up the river from Salay to Bagan. 

Upon arrival in Bagan, our first place to visit is Ananda temple which is considered to be the finest in the temple plain in term of architecture. Contemplate the outstanding Buddha images at the 4 main entrances of the building as well as mural paintings, glazed plaques and many small Buddha statues placed in the niches of the wall.

Our next stop is the Myingabar Gubyaukgyi temple where to preserve the most beautiful and intact mural paintings in Bagan.

The sightseeing continues to Phwar Saw village located in between New Bagan and Nyaung Oo airport. With just over 500 residents whose life rely on bean and pea growing, breeding cattles and making lacquerware. Take a walk through the village under the last sunshine of the day is the best way to observe the simple life of the locals.

The ship docks in Bagan tonight.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

We spend this entire day exploring Bagan including the visit to the lacquer workshop and experiencing their masterful craftsmanship.

In the morning, we pay a visit to Shwesandaw Pagoda - one of a few constructions in Bagan that still allows tourists to climb on. Up next, we move to visit Shwezigon Pagoda where to preserve the Buddha relics. Khay Min Ga pagoda complex is our last stop this morning. Here, you will have an opportunity to learn about the differences between Indian, Sri Lankan, Myanmar - Mon hybrid and Myanmar styles.

Our afternoon starts with a visit to the lacquerware workshop. This is a great chance for you to observe and learn about the traditional techniques of making lacquer items. We procced to Payathonezu next to contmplate the 13th century temple complex of three buildings via a narrow passage. Then, continue to visit Dhamayangyi temple - the largest constructions in Bagan temple plain. And when the day comes to an end, enjoy the magnificent sunset at Taung guni temple.

Back to Kalay Pandaw. Moor overnight in Bagan.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw

At 9:00am, disembark from the ship at Ayar pier, Pagan. You will be transferred to the airport/ hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: N/A