Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
Cabins : 21 | Launched : 2014 | Length : 61m (200ft) | Crew Members : 40
CRUISE MORE - SAVE MORE!
⋆ 15% OFF
⇒ Book any schedule of Sanctuary Ananda + land tour with us and save 15%
⇒ Complimentary welcome airport pick - up on your first day arriving Myanmar or drop - off on your last day in Myanmar.
⇒ Not combinable with other offers.
--*--
PREMIUM BENEFITS
⇒ Get 1 complimentary night at a 5 - star hotel
Applied for...
- 2 people and more with the bookings of 3 - 4 Night cruise depart from Oct 2023 - Mar 2024
- Not combinable with other offers.
Check out the video to get a glimpse into the luxury ship of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise. Explore the country of the golden temples and breathtaking natural landscapes in the most interesting and fabulous way. Contact us today for the best offer!
- Phone: 0084.987.975.514
- Email: info@myanmarrivercruises.net
Suites
No of Cabins : 2 | Area : 27m2 (291ft2) | Bed : Double/Twin Beds
Sanctuary Ananda cruise provides 2 Suites with the total area of 27 sqm each featuring Double/Twin beds. Each suite is fully air-conditioned and equiped with high-class facilities, featuring en-suite bathroom with monsoon shower, open balcony with comfortable seats, offering excellent views for passengers.
- Open balcony
- Air-conditioning
- En-suite bathroom
- An iPad with free WiFi
- IPad TV connection
Deluxe Suites
No of Cabins : 14 | Area : 27 - 28m2 (291 - 301ft2) | Bed : Double/Twin Beds
The Sanctuary Ananda provides 14 Deluxe Suites with the area of 27 – 28 sqm each. The suite is designed in modern style with traditional, wooden Myanmar touch. Each suite is also equiped with air-conditioner and modern facilities like en-suite bathroom with monsoon shower, private balcony with seating area. In addition, there are two sets of connected suites so it is best for passengers traveled with friends or families.
- Air-conditioning
- Private balcony with outdoor chairs & table
- Separate en suite bathroom with monsoon shower
- An iPad with free WiFi
- IPad TV connection
Luxury Suites
No of Cabins : 4 | Area : 31 - 33m2 (334 - 356ft2) | Bed : Double/Twin Beds
The Sanctuary Ananda provides 4 Luxury Suites with generous area of 31 – 33 sqm each containing indoor seating area, and a pull-out sofa bed for the 3rd person. What Luxury Suites offer is the comfortable and pleasant feeling of a lavish accomodation, featuring private balcony, en-suite bathroom with monsoon shower, and also the butler service, early morning tea and coffee.
- Air-conditioning
- A pull-out sofa bed
- Private balcony with outdoor chairs & table
- Separate en suite bathroom with monsoon shower
- An iPad with free WiFi
- IPad TV connection
- Indoor sitting areapull-out couch
- Private butler service
- Early morning tea and coffee
- Complimentary laundry
Owner’s Suite
No of Cabins : 1 | Area : 75m2 (334 - 807ft2) | Bed : King-size bed
The Sanctuary Ananda provide only one Owner’s Suite, a true grandeur with the huge area of 75 sqm, king-size bed, individual living and dressing area. As a grand Owner’s Suite, the suite features a big veranda with sun loungers, table, and chairs; spacious private bathroom with freestanding tub and monsoon shower; and especially the private guide, butler service, early morning tea and coffee, complimentary laundry and exclusive dining experiences.
- Air-conditioning
- A pull-out sofa bed
- Big veranda with sun loungers, table and chairs
- Spacious en suite bathroom with monsoon showerand his-and-hers sinks
- An iPad with free WiFi
- IPad TV connection
- Indoor sitting areapull-out couch
- Private guide
- Private butler service
- Early morning tea and coffee
- Complimentary laundry
- Exclusive dining experiences
SANCTUARY ANANDA CRUISE DECK PLAN
Talifoo Restaurant
Kansi Panorama Lounge
Mindoon Al Fresco Dining
Thambyadine Spa
» See more options or use our Cruise Finder for easier and faster searching at >>> Myanmar River Cruises
Mandalay - Bagan - Mandalay 7 Nights
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore Bagan, including the magnificient golden Shwezigon Pagoda fabled to preserve relics of the Gautama Buddha.
- Explore the famed Kyauk Gu U Min Temple perfect for meditation.
- Enjoy a relaxing and pleasant 7-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
- Enjoy various onboard activities like local performance and the cooking class by Executive Chef.
At 12:30 PM, we check in and get to know your suite. Those who arrive early can have a Mandalay tour.
We have lunch onboard as we sail towards Sagaing Hill. In the afternoon, we come to a monastic school and an orphanage and learn about Buddhism teachings. We move on to Sagaing Hill, an important religious center where about 554 monasteries and 6,000 monks and nuns live. We will be able to enjoy the astounding sceneries from the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda on the hilltop.
Next, we get to Amarapura, which used to be called as “City of the Immortals” which had 200,000 citizens during its prime time, then the famed U Bein Bridge which is a splendid location to enjoy the sunset.
We will have a local entertainment event, then have dinner onboard.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we cruise to the intriguing Sin Kyun Village located to the North of Mandalay and funded by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. There are only about 1,000 villagers specialized in farming and hat making. We can also take on additional trip of experiencing the unchanged lifestyle of the locals which is rarely seen by the outsiders.
After the tour and having breakfast, we enjoy the gorgeous sceneries from the ship while cruising towards Pakokku, passing Mingun where we can see the massive, yet unfinished Mingun Pagoda.
We spend the time enjoy ourselves with various onboard activities before having dinner.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
You will enjoy your breakfast on board. After having breakfast, you will join the cooking class. Joining the class, you will have a chance to learn about Burmese dishes and how to cook tasty Asian cuisines.
In the morning, you will have time to relax by going to ship's spa, swimming or reading some books from ship's library while we keep sailing to Bagan.
Lunch will be served on board.
In the afternoon, we will climb up to the top of Tan Chi Taung Mountain to see overview of Bagan where owning thousands of pagodas and stupas.
Next, we will enjoy Myanmar's traditional dance performance, Elephant dance before coming back to the ship and continue our journey.
We will sail back to Bagan's jetty meanwhile you can watch sunset moment frrom the Kansi Panorama Lounge and sip some cocktails.
Dinner will be served on the riverside of the Irrawaddy River.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
This early morning is another chance for optional Hot Air Balloon flight and enjoy the breathtaking views over Bagan, then back to our ship for breakfast.
In the morning, we get to the busy Nyaung U local market where farmers trade various goods from vegetables, fruits to China and lacquerware. Then, we keep on the tour by visiting the gorgeous Shwezigon Pagoda. It is believed to be place to preserved important parts of Gautama Buddha, bones and tooth.
Lunch will be served on board.
In the afternoon, we will pay a visit to one of the most beautiful architecture of Bagan, Ananda Temple. Kayminga Pagoda complex is our next spot. We will have a chance to contemplate the unique first hand architecture.
Finally, let's spend the rest of the day watching magical and glamorous Bagan's sunset
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
This morning, we start taking a tour around Bagan at 9 AM by visiting a local village first. In the village, you will learn more about the local people life and their customs. A horse cart will be your mean of transportation to visit around Bagan. Don't miss a chance to take many beautiful photos. Next, we will visit Sulamani Pagoda.
You will have lunch on board.
In the afternoon, you will move to visit Kyauk Gu U Min Temple built from stone brick and the ideal place to have meditation. Enjoy the visit.
You will visit the local village to see how traditional the local people life is before back to the ship for dinner and relaxation.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
This early morning is another chance for optional Hot Air Balloon flight and enjoy the breathtaking views over Bagan, then back to our ship for breakfast.
After breakfast, let's visit a lacquerware workshop.
Back to the ship for having lunch and we start our journey by sailing to Sagaing.
While we sail pass through villages with brown and luxuriants tamarind trees and stunning golden pagodas from distant hills, you can have relaxation by joining some relaxing activities of the ship like swimming or going to spa before lunch.
In the afternoon, there are some onboard activities for you like a back of house tour. After that, we will have dinner on board.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
This morning, let's join the cooking class and enjoy delicious Asian dishes together while the ship will keep sailing through amazing countryside of Myanmar.
Lunch will be served on board.
After lunch, you will have a chance to visit workshop where is a gold leaf produced to decorate Buddha images and a bronze casting workshop to learn how amazing huge statues you've seen throughout Myanmar are made.
Finally, you will finish the journey by visiting Mandalay Hill. When you reach its top, you will have an opportunity to contemplate the whole Mandalay from above.
Dinner will be served on board and enjoy the local performance after that.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
Bagan - Mandalay - Bagan 7 Nights
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore Bagan, including the magnificient golden Shwezigon Pagoda fabled to preserve relics of the Gautama Buddha.
- Explore the famed Kyauk Gu U Min Temple perfect for meditation.
- Enjoy a relaxing and pleasant 7-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
- Enjoy various onboard activities like local performance and the cooking class by Executive Chef.
At 12:30 PM, we check in and get to know your suite. Those who arrive early can have a Bagan tour.
We will pay a visit to a local village situated in the centre of Bagan. In the village, you will have a chance to see how the life of the local people is ran and then a lacquerware workshop is our next spot where traditional methods are still maintained.
You will have lunch on board.
In the afternoon, we will discover Kayminga pagoda complex and see how unique first hand architecture is. In addition, it is the ideal place to learn about Bagan's history from the olden days and the evolution of Burma's architecture in different stages of history.
Coming up next, we will visit one of the most Bagan's famous temples, Ananda Temple.
Finally, let's spend time watching magical and glamorous Bagan's sunset.
In the evening, you will have a welcome briefing and champagne in the Kansi Panorama Lounge. Then, enjoy your dinner under the starry night of Bagan.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
OPTIONAL: In the early morning, you can choose to take on a Hot Air Balloon flight and enjoy the breathtaking view of Bagan (Available on October - March only, with additional supplement and need advance booking).
Breakfast will be served onboard.
Then, we take a trip to busy Nyaung U market. The daily market is the place where farmers trade various goods from vegetables, fruits to China, and lacquerware. After that, we back to the Sanctuary Ananda to have lunch and enjoy the picturesque sceneries while cruising upstream towards Sagaing.
Afternoon sailing. Spend the time enjoying ourselves with various onboard activities before having dinner in the Talifoo Restaurant.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we enjoy the surrounding sceneries of the countryside as we sail. We also have a back of house tour and cooking class by our Chef.
In the afternoon, we take a trip to the pagoda on top of Sagaing Hill. It is an important religious centre where about 554 monasteries and 6,000 monks and nuns are living. We will get to visit a monastic school and an orphanage, we also have chance to meet the locals and learn about Buddhism teachings.
After that, we enjoy the glorious views on the the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda from the hilltop then move to Amarapura which is also known as “City of the Immortals”. We also come to U Bein Bridge where we can behold astonishing views of the sunset.
Afterwards, we back to the ship and enjoy a local entertainment event, then have dinner onboard.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we explore Mandalay, including the Shwenandaw Monastery, the only palace building has survived from the bombings in WW II, and Kuthodaw Pagoda (or Maha Lawka Marazein) built in 1857 by King Mindon, modeling the Shwezigon Pagoda in Bagan.
We have lunch in a local restaurant, then visit a gold-leaf workshop where this fascinating decoration for Buddha statues is made. Moving on, we have Mahamuni Pagoda, famed for the honored Mahamuni Image,. We also take a trip to a bronze-casting workshop and understand how the impressive statues in Myanmar are created.
Finally, we visit the 774-feet-height Mandalay Hill where the Su Taung Pyai Pagoda resides. As we reach on top (via lengthy staircases or comfortable escalators), we will be able to behold paranomic sights of Mandalay from the Shan mountain range to the Royal Palace.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we cruise to the intriguing Sin Kyun Village located to the North of Mandalay and funded by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. There are only about 1,000 villagers specialized in farming and hat making. We can also take on additional trip of experiencing the unchanged lifestyle of the locals which is rarely seen by the outsiders.
After the tour and having breakfast, we enjoy the gorgeous sceneries from the ship while cruising towards Pakokku, passing Mingun where we can see the massive, yet unfinished Mingun Pagoda.
As we sail to the South, we can enjoy the picturesque surrounding sceneries from the Kansi panorama lounge or your suite’s balcony.
Lunch and dinner are served onboard. Enjoy various activities while cruising.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
Today, you will join the cooking class after having breakfast. In this class, you will have a chance to gain knowledge about Burmese dishes and learn how to cook some Asian cuisines.
In the morning, you will spend time relaxing by using services of the ship including going to spa, wallowing in the pool or reading some books from library meanwhile the ship keeps sailing downstream to Bagan.
Enjoy your lunch on board.
In the afternoon, you will be guided to climb up to Tan Chi Taung Mountain containing thousand of pagodas and stupas. From the top, you can easily contemplate the magnificent beauty of Bagan.
After that, we will enjoy Elephant Dance before coming back to the ship.
While the ship sails back to jetty, let's sip some cocktails and watching beautiful sunset in the Kansi Panorama Lounge.
Dinner will be served on the riverside of the Irrawaddy.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we will starting taking a tour around Bagan at 9am, we will visit Htilominlo Temple built in the era of King Htilominlo. A horse cart will be your mean of transportation to explore Bagan. Don't forget to take photos. Then, we will visit to Sulamani Pagoda.
Lunch will be served on board.
In the afternoon, you will move to visit Kyauk Gu U Min Temple built from stone bricks and the ideal place to have meditation. Enjoy the visit.
You will visit the local village to see how traditional the local people life is before coming back to the ship for dinner and relaxation.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We have our final breakfast onboard then disembark at 9:00 AM.
For those who have later flight, we can have a Bagan trip, starting from 9:00 AM.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: N/A
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
Mandalay to Bagan Cruise 3 Nights
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore Bagan, including a workshop lacquerware, an ancient craftsmanship in Bagan appeared during the reign of King Anawrahta.
- Explore Sagaing Hill and learn about the teachings of Buddhism.
- Explore the ancient city of Amarapura which is also known as “City of the Immortals”.
- Enjoy the relaxing and pleasant 3-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
- Enjoy various onboard activities such as longyi and thanaka demonstration, cooking class by Sanctuary Ananda Executive Chef.
If you arrive early, we will have a trip around Mandalay.
At 12:30 PM, we check in and get to know your suite, then we have lunch onboard as we sail towards Sagaing Hill. We will get to visit a monastic school and an orphanage, we also have a chance to meet the locals and learn about Buddhism teachings. After the visit, we enjoy the glorious views from the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda on the hilltop.
Next, we come to Amarapura which is also known as “City of the Immortals”. During its prime time, the city even has about 200,000 citizens. Here we will take a trip to one of the textile workshops, then the U Bein Bridge where we can enjoy the glorious sunset.
Afterwards, we return to Sanctuary Ananda and have a local entertainment event, then have dinner onboard.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we cruise to the intriguing Sin Kyun village, located to the North of Mandalay funded by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. We can have an option to experience the unchanged lifestyle of the locals, which is rarely seen by the outsiders.
After the trip, we cruise to the South, pass the tranquil Mingun where the massive, yet unfinished pagoda can be seen from Sanctuary Ananda.
We have lunch onboard, then enjoy ourselves with various onboard activities like longyi and thanaka presentation and mixology. After that, dinner will be served.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we can choose to have a Hot Air Balloon flight to behold the breathtaking sceneries of Bagan (with additional supplement, and need advance booking), then have breakfast onboard.
Moving on, we take a tour around the temples of Bagan, including the magnificent Ananda Temple, Burma’s most gorgeous temple.
We have lunch at Popa Mountain Resort while enjoying the astounding sights of Mount Popa. We can choose to take a slow climb and enjoy the surrounding sceneries on the 777 steps, where the pilgrims offer and pray the carved figures.
In the early evening, we back to the Sanctuary Ananda and watch the sunset as we cruise. We will have candlelit dinner on the sandbank with Bagan’s glittering lights.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We have the final breakfast before our disembarkation from Sanctuary Ananda.
For those who have a later flight, we can have a Bagan tour. Start from 9:00 AM, we take a trip to a local village in the Bagan plain center and observe the locals’ lifestyle. Next, we take a trip to a workshop practicing lacquerware, an ancient craftsmanship in Bagan appeared during the reign of King Anawrahta around 1050 AD.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: N/A
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
Mandalay to Bagan Cruise 4 Nights
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore Bagan, including a workshop lacquerware, an ancient craftsmanship in Bagan appeared during the reign of King Anawrahta.
- Explore Sagaing Hill and learn about the teachings of Buddhism.
- Explore the ancient city of Amarapura which is also known as “City of the Immortals”.
- Enjoy the relaxing and pleasant 4-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
- Enjoy various onboard activities such as longyi and thanaka demonstration, cooking class by Sanctuary Ananda Executive Chef.
If you arrive early, we will have a trip around Mandalay.
At 12:30 PM, we check in and get to know your suite, then we have lunch onboard as we sail towards Sagaing Hill. We will get to visit a monastic school and an orphanage, we also have a chance to meet the locals and learn about Buddhism teachings. After the visit, we enjoy the glorious views from the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda on the hilltop.
Next, we come to Amarapura which is also known as “City of the Immortals”. During its prime time, the city even has about 200,000 citizens. Here we will take a trip to one of the textile workshops, then the U Bein Bridge where we can enjoy the glorious sunset.
Afterwards, we return to Sanctuary Ananda and have a local entertainment event, then have dinner onboard.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we cruise to the intriguing Sin Kyun village, located to the North of Mandalay funded by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. We can have an option to experience the unchanged lifestyle of the locals, which is rarely seen by the outsiders.
After the trip, we cruise to the South, pass the tranquil Mingun where the massive, yet unfinished pagoda can be seen from Sanctuary Ananda.
We have lunch onboard, then enjoy ourselves with various onboard activities like longyi and thanaka presentation and mixology. After that, dinner will be served.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
After breakfast, you will have a great opportunity to improve your knowledge about Asian dishes in general and local delicacies in particular by joining in a cooking demonstration under Executive Chef's instruction. Then, we continue sailing downstream towards Bagan. You can spend your morning to enjoy the facilities of our modern Spa or take a dip in a swimming pool to see the wonderful passing scenery.
Your lunch will be served when we enter pagoda sprinkled Bagan. Tan Chi Taung mountain is our next stop. You can choose for yourself a great spot to have an amazing view over Bagan plain which has more than 2000 pagodas and stupas. Next, you will watch an Elephant dance on the shore which used to entertain for ancient Bagan people.
Back to the Sanctuary Ananda Cruise, it is great time for you to drink our signature cocktails while enjoying the breathtaking sunset in a wonderful perspective. A dinner will be served in a romantic atmosphere with golden light.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we can choose to have a Hot Air Balloon flight to behold the breathtaking sceneries of Bagan (with additional supplement, and need advance booking), then have breakfast onboard.
Moving on, we take a tour around the temples of Bagan, including the magnificent Ananda Temple, Burma’s most gorgeous temple.
We have lunch at Popa Mountain Resort while enjoying the astounding sights of Mount Popa. We can choose to take a slow climb and enjoy the surrounding sceneries on the 777 steps, where the pilgrims offer and pray the carved figures.
In the early evening, we back to the Sanctuary Ananda and watch the sunset as we cruise. We will have candlelit dinner on the sandbank with Bagan’s glittering lights.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We have the final breakfast before our disembarkation from Sanctuary Ananda.
For those who have a later flight, we can have a Bagan tour. Start from 9:00 AM, we take a trip to a local village in the Bagan plain center and observe the locals’ lifestyle. Next, we take a trip to a workshop practicing lacquerware, an ancient craftsmanship in Bagan appeared during the reign of King Anawrahta around 1050 AD.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: N/A
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
Bagan to Mandalay Cruise 3 Nights
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore the fabled religious monuments of Bagan such as the magnificient golden Shwezigon Pagoda and Ananda temple.
- Explore Sagaing Hill and learn about the teachings of Buddhism.
- Explore Mandalay including Mahamuni Pagoda which is one of Burma’s most important religious monuments, preserving the honored Mahamuni Image.
- Enjoy the relaxing and pleasant 3-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
- Enjoy various onboard activities such as longyi and thanaka demonstration, cooking class by Sanctuary Ananda Executive Chef.
If you arrive early, we will have a trip around Bagan. At 12:30 AM, we have lunch on board, then we come to Kayminga Pagoda complex and observe the magnificent stupas of the different styles. We move on to the shimmering Shwezigon Pagoda fabled to preserve the bones and tooth relics of the Gautama Buddha.
In the afternoon, we enjoy the beautiful sunset over the plain of Bagan and see the alluring changes of the pagodas. As the sun comes down, forming the red glow in the sky, creating a magical scenery.
We will have a welcoming party and champagne in Kansi Panorama Lounge, then we have candle lit dinner on the sandbank with Bagan’s glittering lights.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we can choose to have a Hot Air Balloon flight (with additional supplement and need advance booking), or a trip around the busy Nyaung U market. The daily market is the place where farmers trade various goods from vegetables, fruits to China, and lacquerware.
After that, we take a tour at the Ananda temple which is said to be one of the most exquisite temples in Myanmar.
We back to Sanctuary Ananda and cruise upstream towards Sagaing while enjoying various activities onboard, including a longyi and thanaka presentation, and a discussion about Myanmar.
In the evening, we have dinner in the Talifoo Restaurant.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We spend time enjoying the cruise and the cooking class by our Chef as we sail on the Irrawaddy.
In the afternoon, we take a trip to the pagoda on top of Sagaing Hill. It is an important religious center where about 554 monasteries and 6,000 monks and nuns are living. We will get to visit a monastic school and an orphanage, we also have a chance to meet the locals and learn about Buddhism teachings. After the visit, we enjoy the glorious views on the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda from the hilltop.
We then visit Amarapura, once known as “City of the Immortals”, and the famous U Bein Bridge to enjoy the astounding sunset. Afterwards, we back to the ship.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we cruise to the intriguing Sin Kyun village, located to the North of Mandalay funded by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. Here we have an opportunity to interact with the locals and explore the life of Burma.
For those who have the later flight, we can have a trip around Mandalay, including Mahamuni Pagoda preserving the honored Mahamuni Image, which is also among the most important religious monuments in Myanmar. We also visit Kuthodaw Pagoda (or Maha Lawka Marazein) built in 1857 by King Mindon.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: N/A
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
11 Nights Mandalay - Yangon
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore the charming stupas, pagodas, and temples in the City of Immortals – Amarapura and be back in time at the world’s longest teak-wood bridge – U bein.
- Dive in the local’s life and admire the magnificent in Mingun, Pakokku.
- Be overwhelmed by the archaeological temples of Bagan and enjoy one of the most beautiful dusks at one ancient temple.
- Learn some old-fashion style of making lacquerware at the villages and respect at the holly pagodas, temples, the royal palace at the region alongside the river flow.
- Enjoy the whole day on board with interesting activities and the luxurious Ananda-services.
Our boat check-in time is 12.30 p.m, but if you arrive early in Mandalay, then we highly suggest you take on an optional trip around the ancient city.
What are there in the Mandalay sightseeing tour? It’s a visit to a series of magnificent religious constructions that widely famous within the country. We will see glamorous Mahamuni Pagoda, which is home for the charming image Mahamunis. The teak Shwenandaw Monastery is so impressive just the way it is. This is the only palace surviving the Second World War's blasts, which make the construction a hub for tourist destinations and precious heritage of the country. Next is the spectacular Kuthodaw Pagoda, which follows the same gorgeous appearance as Bagan's Shwezigon Pagoda. But what makes the stupa famous is the unique title its hold. With hundreds of marble plates engraved in the Buddhist canon, the temple is described as' the most massive book in the globe.'
Now, we shall begin our cruising on the Sanctuary Ananda. Have lunch on board while we are on a trip to the hills Sagaing – a field for numerous beautiful pagodas. Once in the far past, the hills are the home of hundreds of temples, thousands of monks and nuns and top of it all, the hill was a center of the Shan Kingdom. We will tour several region-famous pagodas this evening, and the most exciting activity is a show on Sagaing Hill's Soon U Pon Nya Shin terrace. Now turn to something new, in a silversmith's workshop in Ywataung Village, you will have a chance to observe and hear the authentic sound of divine labor: the work of qualified manufacturers.
At approximately 4.15 p.m, we will start for the time-honored Amarapura – the City of Immortals. At the city's most prosperous ages, there were about 200,000 residents who settle down and form an enormous trading community. But rather than the intense tiredness of the past, today, the city is infused with the clack-clack sound from the looms of cotton weavers and silk weavers. To look closer to the waving way of the Burmese, we will access to some textile workshops, and then, at 5.15 p.m, we will stop at the U Bein Bridge to feel the tranquil atmosphere and observe the old-fashioned style of trading of the genuine local. U Bein Bridge is best known as the world’s longest teak-wood bridge, which connects the two banks of the large Taungthaman Lake. Sunset is the golden time to visit the bridge since the view of the sunshade over the area, and local pour back to their homes is very tranquil. The present is the accomplishment of the past. The bridge was built by a famous mayor in 1847, who pocketed the cash collected and re-use the timber from Ava Palace to form the construction. After catching the glamorous dusk, we will wistfully return to Gawein jetty, and dock in Sin Kyun to enjoy the evening.
Wake up early in the morning to welcome our exciting trip. At 7 am, if you want to freshen up, we will carry a tour of Sin Kyun in a rustic village, which will provide an authentic experience of farming.
It was scheduled for the ship to depart at 8.00 a.m so that we could get to Mingun after half an hour.
The village that we pass through is gorgeous and fresh under the early sunlight. Here, you will be taken to the incomplete Mingun Pagoda by an ox cart. Though the construction began in 1790, the plan of King Bodawpaia couldn’t be finished, so what we are seeing now is the giant pile of bricks that remain. If there weren’t any problems and outside impacts, the pagoda would be stunning at its completion.
The Mingun Bell, which averages 12 meters tall and 16 meters broad, is also worth mentioning. Last but not least, the strange construction of white pagoda, called Myatheindan, is delicate and charming to admire. The temple was built to have a particular means, the grandson of king Bodawpaya – Bagyida erected the temple to memorize his beloved senior wife – Queen Hsinbyumei.
Travel back to the ship at 10.30 a.m to head to the south and crossing untouched landscapes that scarcely visible to visitors. The scenery is highlighted with a vast area of tamarind trees, hillside, and human work – golden pagodas. At the bank of shallow rivers, local women are authentically chatting and do their daily washing, or put our sight in further distant; you will also see ox carts are waiting for a large boat to catch the very fresh goods to serve the trade. Altogether, create a picture that blends perfectly the bond between humans and nature. Notably, the air-conditioned Kansi Panorama Lounge is an ideal location to see these genuine cinematic tableaux.
Early in the evening, at the junction of Sanctuary Ananda, let’s reach the lovely sundowner and enjoy the delicious served meal. At the end of the day, watch the beautiful lanterns flowing down the stream while you have delectable local lunch.
A good day is started with a peaceful moment of meditation or yoga. Warm your body on deck, and at about 6 a.m, we will sail to Pakokku, just north of Ayeyarwady River and Chindwin River junction. Pakokku, known for its tobacco and sugar palm, was the location of a famous battlefield of the WWI ending. At approximately 9:00 a.m, trishaws– three-cycle rickshaws- bring you to the vibrant local market, where colorful, exquisite fish and plants are displayed for sale. Then, we will arrive at the cheroot factory, where the women producing hand-made cigars with fantastic speed and skill make it quite a sight.
After that, at 11:30 a.m. we will travel back to the vessel to get ready for a 25-mile floating trip to Bagan. But before the ride, let’s enjoy the hearty lunch first.
From the hallway of the boat, you can observe in far distant the charming of Ananda Temple. This magnificent human work was erected in 1091 AD, be known as one of the four remarkable shrines of Bagan and is one of the most gorgeous in Myanmar. The Temple, in the form of an ideal Greek cross, grows to about 170 feet in graduated terraces. The Ananda Oakkaung yard conserves numerous precious objects, including the well-preserved remnants of a Monastery where murals portray the mysteries of Burmese lives that dated from 11th to 12th and 13th centuries and the four splendid gilded Buddha statues.
Proceed the tour; we will see a two-story of the redbrick temple that constructed in 1211 AD - the Htilominlo Temple. It has been strongly returned to a splendid building, at 150 feet in height and 140 feet in width. There are four Buddha pictures near the cardinal points, and still, some of the ancient murals, ranges of frescoes and ancient horoscopes painted to against harm.
On the Pyathatgyi temple terraces at dusk, the day's final is a peaceful time. "The light of a' golden hour,' on the edge of the Ayeyarwady River, is fascinating with the red sunset that gradually goes down behind the hills.
Back on the ship, enjoy a traditional Shan dinner with the captain and watch the exciting performance of local.
Register for an additional balloon trip around 5:30 a.m, and in the bright morning sun, you will get to see the fantastic panorama of the Bagan hills. (Subject to climate circumstances on the day of travel, additional fees required. Available from October to March only).
Following breakfast, at 9 a.m, on the bus, we will head to Bagan to join the bustle hustle market - Nyaung-U. This is the gathering point of the local to a large extent. Farmers and traders gather here every day, buying and selling lacquerwares, fruits, and vegetables.
The next trip is to the splendid gilded Pagoda Shwezigon; the construction was completed in 1087 AD, which was begun by King Anawrahta and ended by his son - King Kyanzittha. Shwezigon placed a unique role in the Burmese for two significant reasons: the temple was the first memorial constructed in the fashion of Burma (as separate from the trend of Mon), preceding to worship Theravada Buddhism, and it was the first monastery that obtains the nat (spirit) image. Moreover, it is said that the Shwezigon has significant relics of the Buddha - Gautama: two-piece of bones and a tooth. Then we will leave for the Myinkabah, where you will learn about the old craft of lacquerware from the professional sculptors in the workshops.
At 12:30 p.m, we will head back to the vessel and navigate downstream to Sale, through the Chauk - one of the first oilfields where' oil-well pumps' operate along the shore of the river.
We are about 4.30 p.m in Sale (Salay), roaming around the small community to capture an authentic look of the plain local’s life. Finished, we will set the tour to Yoke Sone Kyaung Monastery, a nicely designed teak structure. Our last halt before coming back for lunch on the ship is Tha-ta-na Kyaung – an intriguing Buddha picture created of bamboo in this modest shrine.
The whole day distributes to the epic adventure. We will be sailing to Magwe in the morning, and crossing the Minbu village at midday. Nga Ka Pwe Taung, implying' Dragon Lake is a distinctive gas and mud bubbling tank, which looks like a lunar landscape. Come to the destination; you are surely a lucky one since not many tourists have a chance to visit this portion of Myanmar.
Time goes by until 2 p.m, we will dock in Magwe, and then hike up to Myat Than Lun Paya - a splendid 1929 pagoda of solid gold brick, which is located on a hilltop, provides a beautiful spot to overlook the river. We're going to continue along the river to Minhla in the afternoon and dock through the night. At Minlhla Fort, you are witnessing the spectacular military building that dates back to the Konbaung period.
In the morning, at 9:00 a.m, we will take a pleasant walk to Minhla Fort. This is one unique building, built by Italian engineers, which is for the King of Burma. The construction was to resist an invasion by the British during the second Anglo-Burmese War.
Afterward, we will head for the charming village of Thawutti at around 10.30 a.m. The day tour is about to end, return on the vessel; we will sail to Thayet, where tonight we will dock.
Today, our trip turns to a different color as we are heading for the mysterious white pagodas, the antique colonial buildings and catch hundreds of epic photos when we are scheming Thayet slowly on foot. If you are keen on golf, then you probably like the first golf yard of Myanmar here, which was built in 1887 by the British.
Pyay is a mysterious pier with a strikingly lovely stupa (pronounced by some as' pyay' and' pyi' by others). After hours of sightseeing, we will have special local dishes for lunch, and then, have a glance around this location previously, known as Prome by the British.
Next to our goal is Shwe Daung Village. Admire the Buddha at Shwe Myet Hman pagoda that considered as the only one carrying golden sunglasses on. Then, with no regret, we will continue the journey on Sanctuary Ananda. It shall be around 6.30 p.m when we arrive.
Today, our morning will start with the tour of numerous captivating stupas. At our first destination, we will explore the Thayekhittata - an ancient Pyu Dynasty city, which is a collection of stupas and be constructed from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Then, we shall go straight to visit the fantastic Pyay.
Shwesandaw Paya - a holy place of pilgrimage, is not just compelling, but also known for holding the so-called Buddha's hairs and a real tooth in the shape of a gilded bell, which only appears during the festival at Full Moon in November. The vision of the 10-meter high Buddha figure from this hilltop pagoda is clear to admire.
Back to the ship on schedule for lunch. After that, spend your afternoon feeling the fresh air while the boat leaves for 29 miles away – Htonbo.
Enjoy your served breakfast before arriving at Akauk Taung. It’s not the destination that makes us happy; it’s the journey we have been through. While cruising, you will have the opportunity to catch the breathtaking pictures from these truly stunning caves.
This peculiar place is named' Tax Mountain,' by the toll-taker in the nineteenth-century, who would spend their minutes to carve hundreds of Buddhas on the high cliff between their ships.
At about 10:00 a.m, we will stop in the town of Kenaung, and if you are fortunate, you can watch local children playing a chinlone match – a traditional sports squad that requires the artisan to master the ballet movements.
Lunch with delectable dishes is served on board. After that, we will execute the 68-miles tour to Zalon in the South. The cruise is pleasing with a gorgeous natural view, which would make your riverboat enjoyable. As the boat heading south, you can relax on your balcony or appreciate the comprehensive services and amenities of the Ananda. Even on the ship that you can find many fascinating activities to do, choose a nice spot to immerse with the ambiance, or make some new friends and talk about the amazing trip that you experience. On Ananda Sanctuary, there is no room for boredom.
Freshen up your body by going through the mediation or yoga practices on board, among the serene air and gentle sunlight. Then, the morning tour shall begin. The first “dish” of the day is a little port town of Zalon. Here, on local rickshaws, we are going to see Buddhas in the notable temple of Pyi Taw Pyan. Though the British Army had controversially overtaken these bronze sculptures, fortunately, it had been given back on the orders of Queen Victoria.
The sailing-to-the-south tour to Danuphyu is over; now we will head straight to the famous regional monastery and the magnificent Maha Bandula memorial that lies at Pali University. Right at this territory, during the Anglo-Burmese war that General Maha Bandula endeavor to defend the British troops.
As this is your last day to enjoy the tour spotlights, let’s create a wonderful day and play hard. The tour today is a review of what we had been through, enjoy the cruise to downstream while you flow the spirit along with the lovely sight, that is dotted with villages, farming plantations, and the shiny gilded pagodas. Or else, you can choose to enjoy the luxurious service on the high-class Ananda boat. Perhaps you can ease with therapy at our L'Occitane Thambyadine Spa or lay back by the swimming pool with our thrilling novels? It is a day free on board, enjoy yourself until the trip overs.
Goodbye meal tonight offers a unique presentation.
In the late morning, the vessel will be arriving at Yangon - the most developed city of Myanmar, formerly recognized as Rangoon.
We are grateful to sail along with you on the Sanctuary Ananda and your decision of relaxing in our country – Myanmar. The tour ends, we hope to see you again in the near future.
What's Included
- Prices are in US$ per person for the duration of the cruise, based on two people sharing.
- Rates include all meals, soft drinks, and local beer during the day, local wine with lunch and dinner, guided excursions, and all port charges.
- Prices exclude international and internal flights, transfers, wine (outside of meals), spirits and gratuities.
- Rates are subject to availability and can be withdrawn without prior notice anytime at the sole discretion of Sanctuary Retreats.
What's Not Included
- Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls and purchases from the gift shop
- Wine and spirits
- Extra optional excursions
- International & domestic flights
- Gratuity to staff
- Medical services travel insurance or visas
Please Note: All timings shown on this website are for your guidance only. Confirmed timings will be supplied with your travel documents. Please ensure you bring your travel documents on the day of your journey.
Bagan to Mandalay Cruise 2 Nights
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore the fabled religious monuments of Bagan such as the magnificient golden Shwezigon Pagoda.
- Explore Sagaing Hill and learn about the teachings of Buddhism.
- Explore Mandalay including Mahamuni Pagoda, Shwenandaw Monastery, U - Bein bridge
- Enjoy the relaxing and pleasant 2-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
- Enjoy various onboard activities such as longyi and thanaka demonstration, cooking class by Sanctuary Ananda Executive Chef.
A short tour in Bagan will be arranged for you if you arrive on a early flight. We will visit the vibrant market - Nyaung U at 9am where you can have a chance to see the locals earn their living by selling a wide range of goods from daily supplies to souvenirs. And before back to our ship - Sanctuary Ananda, we wil visit the magnificent Shwezigon Pagoda.
Spend time relaxing and enjoy the spectacular scenery from the Kansi lounge as we sail towards Sagaing hill - the pictresque landscape by the river bank with hundreds of white and gold stupas dotted in the greenery area.
You will enjoy you lunch onboard. After that, numerous interesting activities will occur with the longyi wearing and thanaka applying demostration, lectures about history and culture of the Golden land, as well as a tour introducing about the vessel.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We will spent this whole morning contemplating the peaceful scenery by the river banks. A cooking class will be set up with the Professional Chef if you want.
In the afternoon, we will pay a visit to the Sagaing Hill - a prestigious centre with 554 monasteries homing for more than 6,000 monks and nuns. We will also visit the Monastery school and an orphanage here to know more about the life of the locals and the teachings of Buddhism.
After that, you will have a opportunity to admire the panoramic view from the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda on top of the Sagaing Hill.
U Bein bridge will be our next stop to enjoy the magical sunset of the Golden Land. The bridge crosses over the Taungthaman Lake and you can see many monks walk here to collect donations.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
A nice breakfast will be served before you leave Mandalay.
We will arrange a Mandalay tour if you catch the later flight. The itinerary will inlude a visit to Mahamuni Pagoda - one of the most religious sites in Burma where hold the sacred Buddha image. The next stop will be the Shwenandaw Monastery - the only surviving construction of the Royal Palace complex standing through the destruction of the WW II. This unique teak buiding was removed from the Mandalay Palace by King Theebaw after his father death - King Mindon in 1879.
Last but not least, we will pay a visit to Kuthodaw Pagoda and the world's largest book. Built by King Mindon in 1857 as a replica of the Shwezigon pagoda in Bagan, the construction is surrounded by 729 white marble slabs inscripted the Buddha teachings.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
Monywa Sailing - 4 Nights
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore Bagan, including a workshop lacquerware, an ancient craftsmanship in Bagan appeared during the reign of King Anawrahta.
- Explore Sagaing Hill and learn about the teachings of Buddhism.
- Explore the ancient city of Amarapura which is also known as “City of the Immortals”.
- Enjoy the relaxing and pleasant 4-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
- Enjoy various onboard activities such as longyi and thanaka demonstration, cooking class by Sanctuary Ananda Executive Chef.
Embark on Sanctuary Ananda Cruise to check in and get your cabin at 12:30pm. If you arrive early, we can set up a tour for you to the highlights of Mandalay. You can have a chance to visit Mahanmuni Pagoda where contains 1 of 5 likeliest Buddha statues in the world; Shwenandaw Monastery – the magnificent teak architecture of the last royal dynasty. Last but not least, we will visit the splendid Kuthodaw pagoda and its 729 white marble slabs inscribed with the Buddha’s teachings which knows as the largest book in the world.
We will have lunch on board while cruising towards the amazing Sagaing Hill – an important center of Buddhism where homes to more than 6,000 monks and nuns as well as 554 monasteries.
In the afternoon, we will pay a visit to the Monastic school and the orphanage located in Sagaing hill to know more about the life here and the teachings of Buddhism.
After that, climb on top of the hill to visit the Soon U Ponya Sin Pagoda and have a panoramic view over the area which is truly impressive.
Amarapura – “The City of Immortals” is our next stop. Was once a glorious capital city of Burma, the bustling town is now dominated by the sound of the looms of the silk weavers.
Finally, what is better to end our sightseeing day by watching the breath – taking sunset on the U Bein Bridge. The longest teak bridge in the world stretches across the tranquil Taungthaman Lake.
Back to the ship to enjoy your dinner with the local performances.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We will spend a whole day today enjoying the comforts and conveniences of the ship as well as a variety of interesting activities.
After breakfast, you may want to take part in a fascinating cooking class with the Executive chef of Sanctuary Ananda cruise. He will introduce to you many delicacies of Burmese cuisine that will bring many cooking inspiration for you.
After lunch, many activities will take place such as the longyi (Burmese traditional costume) wearing and Thanaka (natural cosmetic) applying demonstrations, lecture on Myanmar history.
As the ship sail south, you can enjoy the scenery on the sun deck or spoil yourself in the amazing treatments of the onboard Spa. Another option is to dip yourself in the plunge pool and enjoy a delicious cocktail.
We will enter Chindwin river and start sailing to Monywa as the sun goes down.
A delicious dinner is perfect to end your day.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
Today morning we will visit Po Win Taung Caves near Shwe Ba Taung which are well – known for the ancientness of over 300 years, great location on the sandstone hills and the elaborate decorations of numerous mural paintings as well as stone carvings and Buddha images.
After the excursion, we will have our picnic lunch at a nice place offering the great view over the surrounding area.
Then, we will pay a visit to the golden Thanboddhay Pagoda where hides a great number of Buddha images situated in the niches of the wall and hundreds ruins temples.
When the day comes to and end, you will have a chance to see sun casting it orange glow on the gigantic standing and reclining Buddha statues at Bodhi Tataung. These 2 Buddha images own the record size in which the reclining ones is about 333 feet long and the standing is of 424 feet height.
Return to the ship and have dinner.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
After you finish your breakfast, our chefs will take you to the Pakkoku’s local market where a variety of fresh and colorful vegetable and fruits are selling.
Back to Sanctuary Ananda to have your lunch as we sail on to Bagan
When we arrive in the ancient capital of thousands temples - Bagan, we will visit Shwezigon Pagoda. This is an important religious site of Burmese people for 2 reasons. The first one is that it is the 1st major construction built in the Burmese style following the Theravada Buddhism. The second reason making Shwezigon pagoda special is that it is the 1st monument contains Nat (Burmese spirit) statues in within the structure. Furthermore, people said that there are 2 bones and a copy of a tooth of Gautama Buddha preserved in Shwezigon pagoda.
Enjoy the magical sunset over the temple plain of Bagan is one of the most inspiring moments in your to Burma. So, make sure you have your camera along.
Have your dinner onboard with interesting traditional performances.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
Enjoy your breakfast before check out at 9:00am
We will arrange a tour around Bagan if you depart on a later flight. The tour includes a visit to the local village and the lacquer ware workshop.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: N/A
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
Chindwin River Cruise 10 Nights
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore Masein where 28 white-washed pagodas, reflecting the 28 Buddhas who have enlightened the world.
- Explore the two ancient cave pagoda complexes of Po win taung and Shwe ba taung said to be more than 300 years old.
- Explore Kani, including the Shwe Sagar Buddha carved from one single wood piece 1,000 years ago.
- Enjoy the relaxing and pleasant 10-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
- Enjoy various onboard activities such as longyi and thanaka presentation, Asian delicacies cooking demonstration by Executive Chef.
Option 1: At 11:00 AM, check in at Mandalay pier and get to know your suite, then cruise towards Myin Mu at 11:30 AM.
Option 2: By 1:30 PM, arrive at Mandalay pier and get to Myin Mu via bus. Check in on Sanctuary Ananda and get to know your suite.
Those who arrived early can have a Mandalay trip.
While cruising on the Chindwin towards Paung Pyin, we’ll have the opportunity to understand more about Myanmar with onboard discussions about cultures and traditions, like longyi, thanaka, and the cooking presentations and history lectures.
In the evening, we have a welcoming briefing with champagne and canapés, then have welcoming dinner onboard.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
At 5:00 AM, Sanctuary Ananda starts cruising. We spend the morning enjoying ourselves. At 2:30 PM, we reach Monywa in Sagaing Region and explore the wild sceneries rarely approached by tourists.
After that, we will visit the magnificent golden Thanboddhay Pagoda, preserving numerous Buddha images in the niches around the inner wall, via coach. Next, we come to Bodhi Tataung where the two great Buddha statues reside: one reclining Buddha with 333 foot long, and one standing Buddha with 434-feet-height. The sceneries will be best to watch during the afternoon.
At 4:30 PM, we back to Sanctuary Ananda have dinner on board while cruising towards Own Pin Seik.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We will start this day with a meditation section on the Sundeck, or learn how to make Asian dishes, presented by our chef.
We spend time relaxing onboard as we cruise, and we will reach Maukkadaw Village in the late afternoon. The place used to be an essential teak port, now it is a perfect place to explore and see amazing teak buildings. As we walk around the village, we can also spot the brick monastery.
In the evening, we will enjoy “The Lady”, one of the most famous movies about Aung San Suu Kyi, in Kansi Panorama Lounge with canapés. We stay the night at Ngar Own.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we have a lecture about Kalewa, where we will arrive in the afternoon. Kalewa is a commercial post between India and Burma, located at the junction of the Myit Tha River with its source from India and the Chindwin. The town located at the foot of Western Mountain Ranges towering the town, hill pagoda, and the river.
After the lunch, we continue our cruise through the green hills, wild forest and riverside villages, all create a feeling of a forgotten land. In the afternoon, we also have fascinating discussions onboard. We stay the night at Masein.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We spend the time cruising and reach Mawleik in the mid-morning. Mawleik used to be Bombay Burma Trading Company’s administrative center, nowadays, it is a lively town with the bustling market and colonial ambiance.
At 11:30 AM, we back to Sanctuary Ananda and sail to the North.
After having lunch, we have fascinating lectures.
It will be a nice time to enjoy tea in the panoramic lounge while cruising towards the rural village of Hae Nin. We will stay the night there.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the early morning, we have meditation section on the Sundeck.
Sanctuary Ananda will cruise to the South to Sitthuang, where we can see the charming emerald green paddle fields while going to the village pagoda. Sitthaung was also the place where numerous remnants of Irrawaddy Flotilla Company’s steamers sunk in 1942.
After that, we come to Paung Pyin located to the Northernmost part of the cruise.
The Uyu River is a main source of the Chindwin, many local people take notice the sand in this part with the hope that they can find small gold nuggets.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We spend the day sailing to Masein and enjoy the time onboard with various activities and the ship’s services and facilities.
Join with our chef in the cooking presentation to test our skill with local dishes and learn how to make tasty Asian delicacies.
At 2:30 PM, we moor at Masein. Near Masein, there are is a row of 28 white-washed pagodas along the crest of the sloping hill and down to the river. This number reflects the 28 Buddhas who have enlightened the world.
In the evening, we see the movie Rangoon and have canapés in Kansi Panorama Lounge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we cruise and reach Minkin at 11:00 AM. This is where we can see the oldest wooden monastery of Mahar Minkyaung, famous for its outstanding combination between Burmese and European architecture, and especially the Shwe Sagar Buddha carved from one single wood piece 1,000 years ago. Afterwards, we cruise to Kani and stay the night there.
After having lunch, we take on an afternoon discussion about the past, present, and future of Myanmar.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we come to the Po Win Taung caves near Shwe Ba Taung. The place was carved from the sandstone hills and it is stunning to watch, definitely recommended for any Burma trip. Other special parts are the two ancient cave pagoda complexes of Po Win Taung and Shwe ba Taung said to be more than 300 years old. Throughout the caves are the exquisite Buddha images and paintings dated back to 17th century.
In the evening, we have a cocktail presentation in which we learn how to make Chindwin and Golden Land cocktails.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we set sail from Yesagyo to Pakokku where we have a chance to see the cotton-blanket weavers and the local market, accompanied by our chef. At 11:00 AM, we continue our cruise to Bagan and reach there after lunch. Here, we take a trip to the great Ananda Temple built in 1091 AD and considered to be one of Bagan’s four great temples. The temple is also fabled to be among the most beautiful temples of Burma.
Moving on, we come to Htilominlo Temple built around 1211 AD – an astonishing structure though heavily renovated. Next, we behold the sunset from Pyathatgyi Temple’s terraces and the alluring light changes on the pagodas. As the sun comes down, forming a red glow in the sky, creates a magical scenery.
In the evening, we have local entertainment event onboard, then enjoy our last evening with candlelit dinner on the sandbank with Bagan’s glittering lights.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We have our final breakfast onboard, then disembark at 9:00 AM.
Those who have later flight can have a Bagan tour, starting at 9:00 AM with a visit to the local village located in the Bagan plain center and experiencing the locals’ lifestyle. Then, we come to a workshop practicing lacquerware, an ancient craftsmanship existed in Bagan during the reign of King Anawrahta around 1050 AD.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: N/A
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
11 Night Cruising Bhamo
Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details
Highlights of Itinerary
- Explore Nwe Nyein Village and see the traditional potteries craftsmanship.
- Explore Kuthodaw Pagoda where the largest book in the world resides, inscribed with Buddhist texts.
- Explore Sin Kyun Village, supported by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy.
- Enjoy various onboard activities like evening movie and local performances.
- Enjoy the relaxing and pleasant 11-night cruise with full of exciting excursions.
Embark the ship of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise and check - in your suite before 8:45am. We have lunch onboard as we cruise to the lovely potteries village of Nwe Nyein where we stay the night.
We spend the day cruising to New Nyein while enjoying our leisure time with services and facilities onboard such as the spa treatment with special offers.
We also have welcoming briefing with champagne and canapés at Kansi Panorama Lounge, then a welcoming dinner onboard. We stay the night at Nwe Nyein.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We have a early breakfast, then have a tour around the pottery workshop in Nwe Nyein Village on the Western bank of the Irrawaddy. We’ll get to see the artisans make the gorgeous pots.
As we cruise downstream, we have discussions and presentations about Burmese traditions like the longyi and the thanaka.
We spend the remaining time sailing through the inspiring landscapes to Kyar Nyet where where we stay for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we leave Kyar Nyet early to get to Tagaung. We will have breakfast, then take a trip to the ancient Tagaung, traced back to Pyu Dynasty. This site is ideal for archaeology, the original walls still stand and have been nicely preserved. After the trip, we continue our cruise upstream to Katha where we will arrive in the next morning.
In the evening, we have a discussion about the past, present and future of Myanmar.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We begin our day by practicing meditation on the Sundeck, or learn making Asian dishes with our chef. In the mid-morning, we reach Katha and take a tour around this alluring town after lunch.
Katha was written in the book “Burmese Days” by George Orwell, therefore, we will visit the author’s former house in which was the British Club via tuk-tuk.
After that, we continue cruising upstream to Shwe Gu and stay the night there. In the evening, we will enjoy “The Lady” – one of the most famous movies about Aung San Suu Kyi with canapés in the Kansi Panorama Lounge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
At 5:30 AM, we depart from Shwe Gu and continue our cruise while enjoying the time onboard, including a lecture given by our local guide.
We spend the time relaxing on the Sundeck while cruising on the 40-mile trail to Bhamo. From the deck of Sanctuary Ananda, we can enjoy the fantastic sceneries and pass many famed sites such as the parrot head marking the entrance to the 2nd Defile.
We will enjoy a Kachin traditional dance before having dinner.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We reach Bhamo around lunchtime. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the riversides before the ship docks
We will visit the market and downtown Bhamo, including the Shwe Kyi Na pagoda and historical Catholic churches.
We will cruise to Moeda village before having lunch and as we sail downstream we will see a “spirit rock” in the form of a parrot.
In the afternoon, we also come to an elephant logging camp where we can see how the local work with the elephants peacefully.
In the evening, we have a cocktail presentation in which we learn to make Chindwin and Golden Land cocktails.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we can practice meditation section on the Sundeck, or spend time for our own leisure while sailing to Kyar Nyat. We also have a lecture in Kansi Panorama Lounge.
In the late afternoon, we have trip around the Kyar Nyat Village as we can see archaeological treasures and experience a part of the locals’ life.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accomodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we sail to the South. Meanwhile, we can take part in the cooking presentation with traditional Asian delicacies as our aim. Also, we can admire the sights of riverside pagodas like Anya Thi Ha Taw located on the island of the Irrawaddy. We will reach Sin Kyun around mid-morning.
Sin Kyun Village located to the North of Mandalay and it was funded by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. There are only about 1,000 inhabitants, specialized in hat making and farming. Here we can see the locals’ lifestyle which has remained the same and rarely been seen by the outsiders. Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy had a request from the village chief for a house for an English teacher and a library, necessary fund was provided to establish this new cooperation. We are hoping to improve the villagers’ life further with the support from Sanctuary Ananda guests.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accomodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
Our journey will lead to Mingun where we visit the great temple and the Mingun Bell, the world’s largest working bell.
In the afternoon, we come to Amarapura, used to be called as “City of the Immortals”. Nowadays, we can only hear the sound from the looms of the silk and cotton-weavers instead of the bustling atmosphere in this former capital. We will get to one of the textile workshops, then the U-Bein Bridge which is a outstanding place to admire the sunset. After that, we get back to the Sanctuary Ananda via boat.
In the evening, we have oppurtunity to enjoy a marionette show.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accomodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we take a visit at Mahamuni Pagoda, Shwenandaw Monastery, and the Kuthodaw Pagoda where numerous ancient marble-slabs inscribed in Tripiá¹aka resides, which is considered to be the world’s largest book.
In the afternoon, we cruise downstream to Bagan while enjoying our time onboard. Enjoy the refreshing spa treatment, rest nearby the pool, or choose among our books in the library.
We also have a back of house tour in which we see how the Sanctuary Ananda operates, from the engine room to the wheel house.
We’ll have an evening movie Rangoon with canapés in Kansi Panorama Lounge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accomodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
In the morning, we have breakfast onboard while cruising to Bagan. After having lunch, we get around Bagan via bus, including the bustling Nyaung-U local market and the magnificient golden Shwezigon Pagoda, then the great Ananda Temple built in 1091.
To end the day, we spend time enjoy the astounding sceneries, tranquil atmosphere, and observe the alluring light changes on the pagodas from Pyathatgyi Temple. As the sun comes down, forming a red glow in the sky, creates a magical scenery.
We’ll have a local entertainment event onboard, then have a romantic dinner on the sandbank.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accomodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise
We have our final breakfast onboard, then check out at 9:00 AM.
Those who have later flight can have a Bagan tour, starting at 9:00 AM with a visit to local village located in the Bagan plain center and experiencing the locals’ lifestyle. Then, we come to a workshop practicing lacquerware, an ancient craftsmanship existed in Bagan during the reign of King Anawrahta around 1050 AD.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accomodation: N/A
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on embarkation day until breakfast on disembarkation day
- Water, soft drinks and local beer throughout the day, and local wine with lunch and dinner
- Guided excursions including transport and entrance fees
- Port charges and fees
What's Not Included
- Wines outside lunch and dinner, premium wines and other premium drinks, spirits and cocktails
- International and domestic flights, and transfers
- Travel insurance
- Laundry, boutique purchases
- Gratuities and all other items of a personal nature
SANCTUARY ANANDA CRUISE POLICY
1. Alteration of schedule and cruise itinerary
Though every effort will be made to ensure that the published itinerary is followed as closely as possible, given uncertain river and other local conditions, all schedules and itineraries maybe subject to alterations and delays at short notice.
2. Child policy & third adult rates
- Children aged 6 and over are welcome on board Sanctuary Ananda with accompanying adult(s). Children must be supervised at all times and their safety is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s).
- One child aged up to and including 12 years sharing a Luxury Suite with two adults pays 60% of the adult rate.
- One child aged up to and including 12 years sharing the Owner’s Suite with two adults pays 60% of the adult rate
- One adult sharing the Owner's Suite as the third occupant pays 75% of the per person rate.
- Children over 12 years will need to have their own cabin.
3. Payment Terms
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable at the time of booking.
The remaining balance will be paid 70 days prior to arrival.
If a booking is made 70 days or less before arrival, full fare payment must be made within 48 hours.
Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of the booking with cancellation penalties.
4. Cancellation Terms
Cancellations received between the date of booking and 70 days prior to departure will result in the loss of the deposit.
Cancellations received 69 - 40 days prior to departure will be subject to a cancellation charge of 50% of the tour price.
Cancellations received 39 days or less prior to departure will be subject to a forfeiture of the entire tour price.
The purchase of special event tickets is subject to the refund policy of each individual event.
5. Force majeure
In the case of circumstances beyond normal control that cannot be foreseen or avoided, such as but not limited to war, civil or political unrest, strikes, catastrophes, epidemics, adverse river conditions or disruption to fuel supplies to the vessel, the Company may cancel the cruise and there will be a full refund of all monies paid by the passenger. In the event of a cruise being cancelled as a result of the above force majeure situations following the commencement of that cruise period, the monies will not be refunded and the company will not be held liable for compensation.
6. Insurance
We strongly advise travelers to purchase trip cancellation insurance. In this case, guests will be reimbursed the cost of air tickets and other non-refundable trip payments. We also highly recommend guests to get international medical, baggage loss and delay insurance in the case of bad situations. Sanctuary Ananda will take no responsibility for lost or stolen personal belongings.
7. Dietary needs
For travelers with special dietary needs, they should contact with us at least 30 days prior to embarkation. The cruise liner will make the outmost effort to provide special dietary needs and requests basing on product’s availability.
Katharina S
Hong Kong
4 day river cruise with Sanctuary Ananda
Feb 2016
LeslieW369
Belgium
Sanctuary Ananda - Spectacular Ship & Crew!
Dec 2016
wsxtraveller
Germany
Amazing cruise with Sanctuary Ananda
Dec 2016
sands006
San Francisco, California
Unbelievable Sanctuary Ananda River Cruise
4/2019
Maxime L
Brussels
Sanctuary Ananda: the perfect cruiseship
2/2020
Tom G
Canada
Sanctuary Ananda River Cruise
25 Jan 2019
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