Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

At around 12:30p.m, embark on Sanctuary Ananda for an exciting 4 - day voyage cruising on Irrawaddy river. 

You will have a chance to join in our Mandalay tour if arriving early in the region.  The trip will take you to the outstanding Mahamuni Pagoda where contains the precious golden Buddha - like image. And then, move to the intricate wooden architecture of Shwenandaw Monastery. Finally, stop at Kuthodaw Pagoda to contemplate its beauty and the surrounding 729 marble slabs inscribed Buddha teachings.

Enjoy you lunch on board while we make our way to Sagaing Hill. The region is known as an important religious center as well as a home of more than 600 monks and nuns. You can see the hill from distance with its white and golden shrines dotted in the greenery area. We will pay a visit to a Monastic School here, and then proceed to Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda situated on the top of the hill to get a fantastic view over the surroundings.  

The ancient “City of Immortals” – Amarapura will be our next stop. The bustling city of the old time is now replaced with the clacking sound of the cotton looms and silk weavers.

At sunset, spend your time at U Bein bridge – the longest and may be oldest teak bridge in the world enjoying the magical moment of the nature.    

Dinner will be served on board of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise. 

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Early this morning, we ply north to the sleepy village of Sin Kyun which is sponsored by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. The area is still pristine and untouched with the population of under 1,000 villagers specializing in hat making and farming. In order to help the locals here to have a better life as well as better education, we raise money to support them. We hope that with the kindness and generous of Sanctuary Ananda’s guest, the project will soon be succeed. 

Afterwards, we continue sailing to Tan Chi Taung Mountain. Enjoy the stunning scenery as we pass through the mystical land of Mingun where you can see the enormous riverine Buddhist construction – Pahtodawgyi Pagoda.   

Take your time relaxing and enjoying the view in Kansi Panorama Lounge while we navigate southwards through dense tamarind jungles and white and golden shrines dotted in the faraway hills.

Lunch will be served on board followed by numerous fascinating activities such as Longyi (sarong) tying, thanaka (natural cosmetic) applying demonstrations, a back of the house tour and a presentation about Myanmar history and culture.    

A gourmet dinner will be a perfect ending for your day.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Savor in a delicious breakfast on board of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise and then our renowned chef will show you how to make some Asian specialties that will surely make you fall in love with. 

As we spend this whole morning sailing towards the ancient city of Bagan, we have plenty of time to enjoy the lavish amenities on board. You can pamper yourself with a wonderful massage, take a refreshing swim or read a good book. 

After a tasty lunch on board, we pay a visit to Tan Chi Taung Mountain where you can have a panoramic view over Bagan. Then, you will have an opportunity to watch an exhilarating elephant dance performance before returning to the ship.

Enjoy the magnificent sunset in Kansi Panorama Lounge with a delicious cocktail. 

Dinner will be served on the sandbank of Irrawaddy river under the amazing candle light. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Optional: Get the bird – eye view of the massive temple plain in the break of dawn with a magical balloon riding (advanced booking and additional charges are required).

Enjoy your breakfast and then we disembark the ship for a visit around Bagan. Our tour starts at Nyaung Oo market – a daily bazaar selling all kind of stuffs. This is a great way to interact with the locals and also get for yourself a nice souvenir. 

We will then proceed to visit the gilded Shwezigon pagoda which is said to contain the relics of Gautama Buddha. This is also a significant architecture built in Burmese style following the Theravada Buddhism and featuring Nat spirit statues in its precinct. 

A horse carriage ride will take you through some highlights of Bagan including Sulamani Pagoda and also make several stops to take photos.

Lunch will be served on board and after that we continues our tour in Bagan. Ananda Temple is our first stop this afternoon. Came into existence in 1091 AD, Ananda is one of the 4 great architectures in the temple plain which is considered as the most beautiful temple in Burma. 

Next, we will visit a lacquerware workshop to learn about this ancient craft and admire the techniques that are still being used since the reign of King Anawrahta. 

Immerse in the magical sunset over more than 2,000 temple when the big red sun shed its glows on the massive area. Enjoy your farewell dinner on board before watching an interesting entertainment of traditional dance. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

We have the final breakfast before our disembarkation from Sanctuary Ananda.

Disembark from Sanctuary Ananda Cruise.

If you leave on a later flight, a tour around Bagan will be arranged including a visit to the local village and a lacquerware workshop. 

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: N/A

A quick Bagan tour will be arranged if you arrive early in the region. At 12:30 pm, embark on Sanctuary Ananda Cruise for a sumptuous lunch. Then, we will visit Kayminga Pagoda complex to admire the great architectures of numerous shrines. Next, proceed to Ananda Temple which is said to be the most beautiful Buddhist construction in the Golden Land.    

Bagan is also an ideal place to watch sunset in Myanmar. Watching the glowing reddish color stretches over the temple plain is one of the most mesmerizing moment in your entire journey.

Our dinner tonight will be served on the sandbank of the Irrawaddy River under the candle light. But before that, we will have a welcoming champagne party in the Kansi Panorama Lounge. 

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

An incredible balloon riding in Bagan is offered with an additional charge and advanced booking. We set off to the bustling market of Nyaung Oo where you can find a variety of products from home – grown items to souvenirs. We move on the gilded Shwezion pagoda which is believed to preserve he Buddha relics of two bones and a tooth copy. 

Our cruise continues to Sagaing. Enjoy the entertainments organized on board of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise including Longyi (sarong - like tube cloth) wearing and Thanaka (natural comestic) applying demonstrations as well as a presentation about Myanmar current affairs.

Dinner is served in Talifoo restaurant.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Today morning, we will spend time on board exploring the ship of Sanctuary Ananda and a cooking demonstration by our renowned chef while we sail on Irrawaddy river.

We approach Sagaing Hill in the afternoon. The site is known for having a great number of temples and monasteries where more than 6, 000 monks and nuns are living. We will pay a visit to a Monastic school to learn more about the teaching of Buddhism here and also to meet with the people. To get a spectacular panoramic view over the area, you can climb on the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda located on the top of the hill.   

Next, we will visit the ancient capital of Myanmar – Amarapura which used to know as the “City of Immortals”. Here also lies the longest teak bridge in the world – U Bein offering the perfect place to watch sunset.

Return to Sanctuary Ananda Cruise. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Enjoy your last breakfast on the ship before check out. 

If possible, we can organize a quick tour around Mandalay including a visit to Mahamuni pagoda – one of the holiest sites in Myanmar containing the precious Buddha image and the world’s largest book – Kuthodaw pagoda.  

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: N/A

Early arrivers will have a chance to take a quick tour around Bagan. 

At 9:00a.m, head off to the colorful Nyaung Oo market where you will see various kind of local products and also have a chance to interact with the people. Then, proceed to the glistering Shwezigon pagoda where preserves the relics of Gautama Buddha. Afterwards, return to Sanctuary Ananda Cruise.  

As we sail upstream towards Sagaing Hill, take your time enjoying the modern facilities on board or relaxing in the Kansi Panorama lounge watching the passing scenery of quaint villages and peaceful landscapes. 

Lunch will be served on board followed by some interesting activities such as Longyi (sarong) tying demonstration, Thanaka (natural cosmetic) applying illustration and a lecture about Myanmar history and culture. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

While sailing to Sagaing, join in the cooking demonstration with our professional chef. He will show you how to make some delicious Burmese dishes that you can try doing at home. 

Upon arrival in Sagaing Hill – a religious center of Mandalay featuring hundreds of temples and monasteries where nuns and monks live and study. To know more about the Buddhist culture and the lifestyle here, we will come to visit a monastic school.

Later, choose a spot at the hill – top Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda to catch the jaw - dropping view of the area as the white and golden stupas rise in the lush vegetation glistering in the sunshine.   

U Bein bridge is our last stop today. Spanning magnificently across the huge lake of Taungthman, U Bein bridge is known as the longest teak bridge in the world. You will see people walking relaxingly on the bridge, children playing around and monks receiving the donations. All creates a one and only backdrop for the breath – taking sunset in the ancient city.  

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Enjoy your last breakfast aboard Sanctuary Ananda Cruise and then say goodbye to the crew.

If possible, we can arrange a quick tour around Mandalay for you. The visit includes the most popular attractions of the city such as Mahamuni pagoda, Shwenandaw Monastery and Kuthodaw Pagoda.

Check in on board at 12:30p.m and settle in your cabin. Early arrivers will have a chance to join in our short tour around Mandalay including a visit to Mahamuni Pagoda, Shwenandaw monastery and Kuthodaw Pagoda.

Enjoy you lunch on board while we make our way to Sagaing Hill. The region is known as an important religious center as well as a home of more than 600 monks and nuns. You can see the hill from distance with its white and golden shrines dotted in the greenery area. We will pay a visit to a Monastic School here, and then proceed to Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda situated on the top of the hill to get a fantastic view over the surroundings.  

The ancient “City of Immortals” – Amarapura will be our next stop. The bustling city of the old time is now replaced with the clacking sound of the cotton looms and silk weavers.

At sunset, spend your time at U Bein bridge – the longest and may be oldest teak bridge in the world enjoying the magical moment of the nature.    

Dinner will be served on board of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise after an interesting local dance performance.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Early this morning, we ply north to the sleepy village of Sin Kyun which is sponsored by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. The area is still pristine and untouched with the population of under 1,000 villagers specializing in hat making and farming. In order to help the locals here to have a better life as well as better education, we raise money to support them. We hope that with the kindness and generous of Sanctuary Ananda’s guest, the project will soon be succeed. 

Afterwards, have breakfast and enjoy the stunning scenery as we pass through the mystical land of Mingun where you can see the enormous riverine Buddhist construction – Pahtodawgyi Pagoda.   

You are free to participate in the numerous activities on board before having a delicious dinner.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Savor in a delicious breakfast on board of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise and then our renowned chef will show you how to make some Asian specialties that will surely make you fall in love with. 

As we spend this whole morning sailing towards the ancient city of Bagan, we have plenty of time to enjoy the lavish amenities on board. You can pamper yourself with a wonderful massage, take a refreshing swim or read a good book. 

After a tasty lunch on board, we pay a visit to Tan Chi Taung Mountain where you can have a panoramic view over Bagan. Then, you will have an opportunity to watch an exhilarating elephant dance performance before returning to the ship.

Enjoy the magnificent sunset in Kansi Panorama Lounge with a delicious cocktail. 

Dinner will be served on the sandbank of Irrawaddy river under the amazing candle light. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Optional: Get the bird – eye view of the massive temple plain in the break of dawn with a magical balloon riding (advanced booking and additional charges are required).

Enjoy your breakfast and then we disembark the ship for a visit around Bagan. Our tour starts at Nyaung Oo market – a daily bazaar selling all kind of stuffs. This is a great way to interact with the locals and also get for yourself a nice souvenir. 

We will then proceed to visit the gilded Shwezigon pagoda which is said to contain the relics of Gautama Buddha. This is also a significant architecture built in Burmese style following the Theravada Buddhism and featuring Nat spirit statues in its precinct. 

A horse carriage ride will take you through some highlights of Bagan including Sulamani Pagoda and also make several stops to take photos.

Lunch will be served on board and after that we continues our tour in Bagan. Ananda Temple is our first stop this afternoon. Came into existence in 1091 AD, Ananda is one of the 4 great architectures in the temple plain which is considered as the most beautiful temple in Burma. 

Next, we will visit a lacquerware workshop to learn about this ancient craft and admire the techniques that are still being used since the reign of King Anawrahta. 

Immerse in the magical sunset over more than 2,000 temple when the big red sun shed its glows on the massive area. Enjoy your farewell dinner on board before watching an interesting entertainment of traditional dance. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda

At 9a.m, we take you to a village situated in the center of the ancient city to get to know about the local lifestyle. Then, enjoy a leisurely horse carriage ride around the temple plain which will stop at some notable sites for you to catch a photo. We will also visit Sulamani Pagoda along the way.

Have your lunch on board and we will continue our journey in Bagan with a visit to a special Buddhist constructions – Kyauk Gu U Min – one of 4 architectures in Bagan built from brick stone. Located on the bank of Irrawaddy river, the temple has a unique design known as the name of “Rock Cave Tunnel” which is perfect for meditation. You can explore the site by strolling pass the subterranean passageway. 

Next, proceed to a village to get an insight into the way of life here which still keeps the traditional lifestyle. Walk around the area to feel the authenticity and tranquility before we come back on board of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise. 

Dinner will be served on board.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accomodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

A Balloon Riding is offered with an additional cost and advanced booking. Breakfast will be served on board after that.

Next, visit a lacquerware workshop to learn more about this traditional handicrafts which derives from the reign of King Anawrahta around 1050AD. The ancient techniques are still in use today.   

Back to the ship and we continue to cruise to Sagaing Hill.

Relax and enjoy the passing scenery as we sail through the alluring background of rich tamarind trees, quaint villages and stupas doted the rolling hills.    

Lunch will be served on board and then a number of interesting activities will be arranged by our professional staffs for your entertainment. 

A day closes with a delicious dinner in Talifoo Restaurant. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Today morning, our chef – Sumet will one more time accompany you in the cooking journey exploring Asian flavors while we cruise through the stunning countryside landscape. 

In the afternoon, you will have a chance to learn about 2 amazing traditional handicrafts of Burma – Gold leaf beating and bronze casting through a visit to their workshops.

And finally, we get on the top of Mandalay Hill on the height of 774ft (236m) to catch the spectacular panoramic view of the whole region from the Shan mountain ranges in the east to the Royal Palace in the south. You can whether climb to the top via the staircases or use the escalator. The outstanding Su Taung Pyai Pagoda can also be found on the summit. 

Dinner will be served on board after guests enjoy a local performance.      

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Enjoy your last breakfast aboard Sanctuary Ananda Cruise and say goodbye to the crew. 

If you depart on a later flight, we will arrange a short tour around Mandalay for you including a visit to the sophisticated teak monastery - Shwenandaw – the only surviving construction in the Royal Palace and Kuthodaw Pagoda – the world’s largest book. 

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: N/A

As soon as setting foot in the land of secret charms called Bagan, you immediately gain a pleasurable sensation by our hearty welcome. After that, checking in at 12:30pm on board and settling into your cabin. 

For early birds, an interesting tour around Bagan will be arranged. Bagan with its all gorgeous landscapes non-stop awaits you to serve as its best. Instead of stopping at a lacquer ware workshop first, our adventure will get started at 9am and come to a regional village which is inherently renowned for typical images of Bagan’s central plain. 

On our journey through the countryside, how nice it will be when you can experience up close not only the locals’ tranquil daily life but also funny conversations with a jolly bulk of craftsmen who have earned their living by lacquer ware. The special thing about this traditional craft is that the technique was used since the reign of King Anawrahta (around 1050AD). 

After replenishing our energy with a healthy lunch on board, wandering around Kayminga Pagoda complex will be the fastest way to get an insight into the architectural history making Bagan special as well as the evolvement of the unique design. 

Ananda Temple, built in 1091 AD, taking pride as one of the most outstanding constructions in the temple plain of Bagan, will be our next stop. 

Closing your afternoon excursion by relishing the sunset moment covering Bagan with attractive colors and marveling at the pagodas that seems to be more antique and mysterious under the magical light changing process. Eventually, let's enjoy the supernatural moment as the Ayeyarwady River reflects the reddish glow of the sky after the sun coming down the hills.

To make your evening unforgettable, fulfill it by romantic sandbank dinner under the backdrop of the twinkling lights in Bagan. Afterwards, a relaxed briefing and champagne party will be held in the Kansi Panorama Lounge.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Your 2nd day tour will be kicked off in cool style with riding hot air balloons over Bagan sunrise in order to seize an elevated view from above.  

Note: Book in advance and pay an additional fee for Balloon tour because it is not included in our journey. Between 1 October and 30 March is the nicest period of time for experiencing this fascinating flight. Noticeably, pay attention to the weather forecast to have a smooth trip.  

Afterwards, also included is a stop at the cruise to have breakfast being optionally eye-catching with local cuisines. Next on the itinerary is an outing to the vibrant local market Nyaung Oo where you are capable of purchasing nearly all Myanmar goods in distinctive sections ranging from the traditional clothes typically Longyi to multiple types of fruits and vegetables as well.

We then carry on our way into the golden Shwezigon Pagoda with an admirable dimension. So, what makes this Burmese pagoda special comparing with others? Actually, it is not only the first major monument built in the Burmese style following the country’s predominant religion -Theravada Buddhism but also the first pagoda to place nat (spirit) statues within the precinct. What is more, significant relics of the Gautama Buddha including two bones and a tooth copy are preserved in this scared site.

Go back the ship to end your half-day experience by having lunch and begin cruising upriver towards Sagaing. Obviously, just plain and tranquil scenes are enough to make Myanmar unique. Along the river, you can easily see some housewives sitting on rocks in group and conversing together during their daily wash. On the bank, there are ox-carts waiting for a ship to get there and unpack its goods. Only when standing on the Kansi Panorama Lounge and contemplating around do you deeply feel this mesmerizing riverine image.

After enjoying a delicious lunch, taking part in numerous activities on board like a longyi wearing (sarong) and thanaka applying (Burmese natural cosmetic) illustration, a tour exploring the ship, and a lecture on amazingly affluent history, more up-to-date and debatable events as well as future prospects of Myanmar will allow you to entirely unwind.

Talifoo Restaurant will offer you gourmet dishes during dinner time.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

While setting sail through peaceful rural areas, our Executive Chef always passionately assists you in a cooking class in the third morning

Then, the afternoon is the time for taking a trip to Sagaing Hill possessing one of the most significant centers in terms of spirit and monastery where accounts for 554 monasteries and 6,000 monks as well as nuns. In this destination, a Monastic school and the orphanage where offer you numerous chances to come across sociable inhabitants along with diverse Buddhist culture are highly recommended to drop by.

Afterwards, choose for yourself an ideal position on the terraces of the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda to contemplate the breathtaking sights from the top of the hill. Fantastically, underneath pagodas in all shapes and sizes are similar to weird dots making surrounding 360-degree scenery stunning than ever.

When it comes to Amarapura, everyone highly honored it with an awesome name ‘The City of Immortals’. Unlike this former capital in the past, its bustle in modern society seems to be substituted by vibrant sounds ‘clack-clack’ from the looms used by skillful cotton and silk weavers.

At the end of your day, let’s take a trip to U Bein Bridge when the sun slips behind vast hills, green trees, and numerous farmlands respectively in the foreground. Stretching across romantic Taungthaman Lake of Mandalay, this long teak bridge allows you to come across monks walking through the bridge to collect food donations every evening. This scene is really worth experience once in your lifetime and you do not want to skip any memorable moment when visiting U Bein Bridge, right? Be quickly snap some photos of the spectacular sunset making Mandalay charming and gorgeous than ever. 

Next, come back the Sanctuary Ananda cruise to indulge with dinner time and finally a local show.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Kick off your day with a memorable tour around Mandalay. During the excursion, you cannot skip Shwenandaw Monastery which is the sole palace building to stay alive after the World War II. Having played an important role as the apartment of King Mindon, this striking steak monastery was moved out of the palace when King Theebaw took over his father's controlling power in 1879.

Then, why don't you come to Kuthodaw Pagoda (Maha Lawka Marazein) constructed in 1857 under the reign of King Mindon? Having the similar style with Shwezigon Pagoda in Bagan, this spiritual site calls to everyone's minds the biggest book in the world surrounded by 729 marble slabs alluring with the Tripitaka texts (Buddhist cannon). After that, go on our journey to Mahamuni Pagoda which is renowned as one of the most holy monuments showing off with the revered Mahamuni Image in Myanmar.

Choose for yourself one of regional restaurants to have lunch.

To relish your afternoon time, stop at a gold leaf beating workshop where offers you interesting methods of making the slight golden leaves covering Buddha statues. Moreover, to get deeper insight into skills for producing impressively - large statues all over the nation, let’s visit a bronze-casting workshop.

Your final destination today is the Mandalay Hill which has the height of 774 foot (236m). Here, we pay a visit to the Su Taung Pyai pagoda located on the top of the hill where you are able to deeply indulge in the 360-degree Mandalay’s sights, typically from the Shan mountain range to the Eastern areas and the Royal Palace in the south as well. The peak can be reach via staircases or escalators.

Reveling in dinner will be an exciting experience.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Early this morning, setting sail northwards Mandalay to reach the tranquil Sin Kyun village. In fact, Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy aims to support this village accommodating just fewer than 1,000 inhabitants that focus on farming and hat making to earn their living.

For first – time comers, an optional tour around the village is offered. You can have a chance to meet with the Chief of the village who requests for a library and an English teacher's house. Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy has raise a large amount of money on starting this new project. In addition, with the assistance of Sanctuary Ananda’s passengers, we hope to generate more funds to make the life here better.

Say goodbye to Sin Kyun village, we then cruise towards Tan Chi Taung. While passing by Mingun, let’s make use of chances to contemplate surrounding vibrant landscapes, especially the spiritual Mingun Pagoda from somewhere on board.

Then, we keep on cruising southwards passing peaceful villages, soft browns, lush tamarind tree ranges and white-golden pagodas gracing faraway.

Enjoy your lunchtime; then participate in exciting activities composing of a back of house tour and finally a tasty dinner on board.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Are you excited to learn how to cook Burmese delicacies? Thanks to participating in the interesting cooking class with our Executive Chef after breakfast, you cannot only check your knowledge of indigenous cuisines but also broaden your culinary horizon with yummy dishes originating from Asia. 

Then, we spend the rest of the morning relaxing on board of the luxurious Sanctuary Ananda while we sail downstream towards our final destination - Bagan. So, why don’t you let the amazing spa treatments lead your body to the well-being or indulge yourself in the open - air pool with our library’s books?

Right in the pagoda sprinkled Bagan, a tasty lunch will be enthusiastically served for your empty belly.

Enjoy your lunch served on board. Next, we will depart for the peak of Tan Chi Taung Mountain with a view to taking your first glance at all tranquil Bagan where allures various tourists by more than 2,000 pagodas and stupas. Reuniting on the beach and admiring an Elephant dance which is famous as a traditional acrobatic dance beloved by Bagan locals will unwind you a lot. As soon as returning our ship, relish the breathtaking sunset moment covering Bagan with attractive colors from the Kansi Panorama Lounge while enjoying some cocktails with typical tastes.

To make your evening unforgettable, fulfill it by a romantic dinner on the Irrawaddy River bank.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Today, start your Bagan tour at 9am, and head to the Htilominlo temple which has three floors constructed during King Htilominlo’s time in power. Located right in the central of Bagan, it will let you get deeper insight into how plain locals’ daily life is. Carry on your trip by a horse-cart, pass every plain corner of Bagan, stop at some picturesque places and come to Sulamani pagoda along the way.  

Enjoy your lunch served on board, then set out to a river-bank temple within four ones made from stone brick in Bagan is Kyauk Gu U Min. Being different from other spiritual sites here, this cave-like temple, inherently renowned as the ‘Rock Cave Tunnel’, offers you numerous opportunities to meditate. While taking a walk through the underground passageways well-lit, you can freely delight in every corner of this wonder.  

Carry on your outing to a plain village where gives you a unique look into Burmese day-to-day lives of indigenous people here before coming back to the cruise. How awesome it will be when you try an exciting sensation of resembling locals when strolling around their houses. Actually, although Bagan is honored as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the daily routines still reflect unique features of locals here.  

Re - boarding and closing your day with a delicious dinner. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Before 9am which is the time of checking-out, your final duty is to make full use of your morning moments to deeply delight in an early breakfast.

It is worth noticing that a fantastic Bagan tour will be arranged to fit your travel itinerary which is a later flight departing at 9am.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Early birds can have an opportunity to join in our amazing tour around Mandalay to some of the most popular sites including Mahamuni Pagoda, Shwenandaw Monatery and Kuthodaw Pagoda. 

At 12:30p.m, embark on Sanctuary Ananda cruise and settle in your cabin.  

Enjoy your splendid lunch on board while we cruise towards the magnificent Sagaing hill.

Upon arrival, we pay a visit to a monastic school to get a glimpse of the local life which is influenced by the Buddhist culture. There are more than 500 monasteries in Sagaing Hill accommodated about 6000 monks and nuns. This area is known as one of the most important religious centers in Myanmar. 

Climb to the top of the hill to Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda for the best view of the surroundings.

Proceed to visit the “City of Immortals” - Amarapura which used to be a bustling capital. Hence, nowadays, we can only hear the “clack – clack” sound of the looms and weavers in the peaceful area instead of the noise of a boisterous city.   

There is no better way to end our tour today than watching the breath – taking sunset in the U Bein bridge. The bridge is believed to be the longest teak bridge in the world offering a great backdrop for the Mother Nature’s splendid moment. 

Enjoy your dinner on board after watching an interesting local performance.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Today, we will spend time navigating to Salingyi. Enjoy your time on board with many amazing facilities and entertainments. 

Have your breakfast and then join in our fascinating cooking class. Our incredible chef will take you on an amazing Asian culinary journey from which you will learn to make delicious Burmese dishes and also take home some of the most exotic recipes.

There are numerous activities you can participate in after lunch such as a tour around the ship, a Longyi (sarong) wearing, Thanaka (cosmetic) applying demonstration and a lecture about Burmese history and the future outlook.

As we continue plying southwards, spend your leisure time on board enjoying the amenities. While the canopy - shaded longue on the sun deck offers gorgeous 360 degree view, the plunge pool is a great place to dip in. If you want to pamper yourself a little bit, come to our extraordinary L’Occitance spa to try some of our signature therapies like “Ananda body scrub” or “Ananda facial”.

We will approach Chindwin river before sunset and start cruising towards Monywa. Chindwin river is a great tributary of Irrawaddy river running in the lesser – known regions. Thus, be ready to immerse in the beauty of vertical cliffs, dense jungles and pristine towns. 

Dinner will be served on board. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Today morning, we will visit 2 incredible cave systems of Po Win Taung and Shwe Ba Taung. Located magnificently on the sandstone hills, these cave complexes are said to exist more than 300 years featuring a great number of Buddha statues and mural paintings from 17th century. The entrances are decorated with vines and flowers in the traditional style as well as the interior paintings and images. After the exploration, we will have a picnic lunch in a nice spot around this area.

Thanboddhay pagoda is our next stop which is surrounded by hundreds of crumbling shrines.  Not only owns the outstanding architecture, the building also features a wide range of Buddha statues carved into the walls. In the late afternoon, we pay a visit to Bodhi Tataung where places 2 gigantic Buddha images. The reclining one has the length of 333ft and the other one stands at the height of 424ft. One of the reason why we take you to these monuments because they look best in the splendid glow of the sinking sun. 

Re - boarding Sanctuary Ananda Cruise for a sumptuous dinner and cocktail party.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Enjoy your breakfast on board before we set off on an interesting visit to the local market in Pakokku with our lovely chefs.

After that, back to the ship for lunch as we keep sailing to Bagan.

A small pagoda complex will be our first stop where to explore its unique architecture.

Then, we head off to the golden stupa of Shwezigon Pagoda. This is an important site in Bagan which is considered to be the first construction to build in the Burmese style following the Theravada Buddhism and also the first one to display the Nat spirits in its precinct. Furthermore, it is also believed to contain two bones and a tooth copy of Gautama Buddha.   

As the day comes to an end, relax and admire the magical sunset over the temple plain of Bagan which is said to be the most beautiful moment in the Golden Land.

Enjoy your dinner on board of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise after having a great time watching the exhilarating local performance. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

A farewell breakfast will be served on board before the check – out time at 9a.m

If you leave on a later flight, we will arrange a short tour around Bagan including a visit to the local village and a lacquerware workshop.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: N/A

At 11:15am, embark on the luxury Sanctuary Ananda Cruise and settle in your cabin. Then, the ship starts to cruise out of the bustling Yangon city to Twante Canal which is the meeting point of Yangon river and Irrawaddy river. 

The landscape is the interesting combination of urban and rural. Twante town is also well – known for the fine ceramics. 

The ship drops the anchor at Nyaung Tong.

Today morning, we pay a visit to the beautiful town of Danuphyu where witnessed the battle in the first Anglo – Burmese war in 1825 between the army of General Maha Bandula and the British. A trishaw ride will take you to the town’s key sites including Tyuakalon Pun pagoda and Maha Bandula monastery.

Dinner will be served on board. 

We will spend this whole day today sailing among the most stunning scenery of Burma. This is a great chance for you to save for your album the most amazing photos of rich tamarind forests, greenery paddy fields, sprinkle pagodas dotted in the far – away hills and so on.

In the afternoon, we cruise pass the incredible Akauk Taung Caves which also creates opportunity to snap great pictures. The name of the mountain site means “Tax Mountain” deriving from the 19th century when the toll – takers who waited for the passing boats carved many Buddha images on the side of the cliff.

The charming port town of Pyay is our destination today where you will pay a visit to its local market and city center. Lunch will be served on board. And in the afternoon, we move to Sri Ksera – the 1st century Pyay’s capital to contemplate its beauty where was recognized as the World Heritage site in 2014.

Today morning, we proceed to Shwe Taung town to visit the pagoda of Shwe Hmyet Hman pagoda where hold a huge Buddha statue wore golden glasses. And then, back to the ship to have lunch and our voyage will continue sailing. 

Afternoon time is perfect to enjoy many interesting activities on board like Longyi (sarong) wearing and Thanaka (Burmese natural cosmetic) applying illustration. 

Moor overnight in Thayet.  

We spend this morning exploring the beautiful pagodas, stunning colonial houses and the 1st golf course in Myanmar in Thayet. 

In the afternoon, we set sail to Minhla. 

Let your day begin with an exciting walk to the extraordinary construction of Minhla Fortress. Built in the 13th century, the fort was renovated by an Italian engineers for the war with the British in the 3rd and the final Anglo – Burmese war. 

Back to the ship as we start cruising to Magwe. During the journey, we make a stop to the gilded Myat Than Lun Paya which constructed in 1929. The site offers a spectacular view over the Irrawaddy river owing to the ideal location on the top of the hill. 

Re – boarding the ship for a delicious dinner.

Enjoy our morning sail with magnificent scenery and daily activities on the bank of the river. We cruise pass the amazing arrangement of the temple’s ruins in Pakan Lay village. Then, we approach Sale. It will be a great idea to exploring this place by a saunter or by trishaw. We will stop at the splendid teak monastery called Yoke Sone Kyaung to contemplate its beautiful hand crafted reliefs. 

Thatana Kyaung temple is our next stop where places a unique bamboo Buddha image. 

Back to the ship for dinner.

We spend this morning cruising to Bagan. 

After lunch, we pay a visit to Myinkaba village to learn more about the beautiful craft of Bagan – lacquer ware whose technique dated back from the ancient time, in the reign of King Anawrahta around 1050 AD. Then, we move to a workshop making Jaggery – a kind of unrefined sugar. 

Ananda temple is our next stop. People said that it is one of the 4 most beautiful constructions in Bagan. Next, the horse carriage will take you to the 2 stories Htilominlo temple. To gain the magnificent appearance today, the building has been through many restorations. 

There is no better way to close you day than enjoying the magical sunset on the terrace of Pyathatgyi temple.

Tonight, you will enjoy your dinner at the sandbank of Irrawaddy river under the romantic candle light.

An incredible balloon riding in Bagan is offered with an additional charge and advanced booking. We set off to the bustling market of Nyaung Oo where you can find a variety of products from home – grown items to souvenirs. We move on the gilded Shwezion pagoda which is believed to preserve he Buddha relics of two bones and a tooth copy. 

Our cruise continues to Sagaing, take your time enjoying the modern facilities on board or relaxing in the Kansi Panorama lounge watching the passing scenery of quaint villages and peaceful landscapes. 

Enjoy the entertainments organized on board of Sanctuary Ananda Cruise including Longyi (sarong - like tube cloth) wearing, Thanaka (natural comestic) applying demonstrations, cheroot (Burmese cigar) and betel nut tasting, a cooking class with our renowned chef as well as a presentation about Myanmar current affairs.

Dinner will be served on board.

We will spend this morning cruising and contemplating the passing scenery on the way to Sagaing. We arrive at the destination in the afternoon. There are more than 500 monasteries in Sagaing Hill accommodated about 6000 monks and nuns. This area is known as one of the most important religious centers in Myanmar. 

Climb to the hill – top Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda to catch the jaw - dropping view of the area as the white and golden stupas rise in the lush vegetation glistering in the sunshine.   

Enjoy the local performance on board which is followed by a delicious dinner. 

Optional: A visit to sin Kyun village.

Early this morning, we cruise to the sleepy village of Sin Kyun which is sponsored by Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy. The area is still pristine and untouched with the population of under 1,000 villagers specializing in hat making and farming. In order to help the locals here to have a better life as well as better education, we raise money to support them. We hope that with the kindness and generous of Sanctuary Ananda’s guest, the project will soon be succeed. 

At 8:30am, we will cruise back to Mandalay for the disembarkation at 9:45am.

If you choose to depart in the later flight, a short tour around Mandalay will be arranged.

Check in the ship before 8:45am and then settle into your room. Enjoy your lunch served on board while sailing to Nwe Nyein village - a charming pottery - making site where the ship’s anchor will be dropped overnight.

Why don’t you give yourself a great pleasure to dive in Ananda cruise’s luxuries while setting sail towards Nwe Nyein? Let’s make use of your leisure time to experience our spa treatments. We definitely provide you a variety of get-ready options with wonderful spa methods right on board.

Afterwards, a welcoming party with champagne and canapés reception will be held in the Kansi Panorama Lounge, followed by a sumptuous dinner.

Overnight in Nwe Nyein

Early this morning, enjoy your breakfast and then we pay a visit to the village of Nwe Nyein. Here, we stop by a pottery-manufacturing factory located on the Irrawaddy River’s western bank. It is very interesting to observe skillful craftsmen making pretty pots when they sit moving horizontal wheels with their legs. 

Check in before 8:45am and settle into your cabin. Enjoy your lunch served on board while sailing to reach where the ship’s anchor will be dropped overnight.

While sailing downstream, lectures and illustrations on customs like useful tips to wear a longyi (sarong) and make up with the thanaka technique (the regional cosmetic prevents harmful rays of sun from skin) will give you an insight into Burmese diverse culture.

Get ready for taking a trip crossing soul-stirring rivers to Kyar Nyet where we anchor overnight.

This morning, get ready for departing from Kyar Nyet to Tagaung early. Right after coming to the antique Tagaung dating from the Pyu Dynasty, recharge your energy with a carefully served breakfast, and then make a discovery of this site. Here, it is worth admiring the original city walls exceedingly well reserved to let tourists stroll around this affluent archeological place. Afterwards, we plan to go sailing upstream to Katha where we will approach in the next morning.

An interesting talk about Myanmar history and current affairs will be arranged in the evening.

First of all, kicking off your day with a religious meditation on the sun deck will provide you much more energy for a long day trip. For those who are eager for finding out how to cook tasty cuisines following culinary art of Asia, our master chef will illustrate and guide you. 

We arrive in Katha in the middle of the morning. This town offers us numerous opportunities to discover its charms.  A well prepared lunch on board will then followed.

Because of being featured in George Orwell’s novel - Burmese Days, Katha will bring you unique experience when discovering it by tuk-tuk. We will pay a visit to the former house of this book's author and finding out what the British Club was.

Back to the ship and we will cruise upriver to Shwe Gu where we’ll drop anchor overnight. Tonight, get ready to be in harmony with one of the most well-known movies about Aung San Suu Kyi – “The Lady” and enjoy the delicious canapés.

No later than 5.30am will the Sanctuary Ananda cruise go sailing from Shwe Gu. While gliding, let’s save your time by participating in the morning and afternoon speech and listening what our resident guide is talking about. A well prepared lunch is available for you on board today.

To fulfill your 40-mile sailing trip towards Bhamo, why don’t you unwind on the sun deck of the ship? Choose for yourself an ideal position on there to contemplate the gorgeous sights and well-known highlights like the parrot head, which leads to the second defile's entry.

To make your night unforgettable, fulfill it by delighting in a Kachin regional performance, and then a delicious dinner. 

At noon, we will reach Bhamo where boasts never-ending impressive scenes along the river to marvel at before our town excursion taken place in the afternoon.

Definitely, your Bhamo itinerary cannot skip some typical destinations such as the Bhamo market and the downtown, Shwe Kyi Na pagoda as well as historic Catholic churches.

Moeda village will be our ending point for the cruise trip just before lunch time. While sailing down the river, we will certainly come across the remarkable ‘spirit rock’ which is formed in a parrot shape.

In this afternoon, it’s nothing but a trip to an Elephant Logging Camp where offers you chances to see the way people work with elephant so smoothly.

To make your evening unforgettable, fulfill it by a cocktail illustration that you can experience up - close to how the Golden Land and Chindwin cocktails are made as well as taste their flavors in the first time.

Start your day with a relaxing meditation on the sun deck or leisurely resting yourself during the cruising time to Kyar Nyat. This will provide you much more energy for a long day trip. Just before lunch time, reunite in the Kansi Panorama Lounge to participate in a lecture about Myanmar’s images in the past, present, and further future.

The last-hour afternoon will be spent for a walking tour enthusiastically guided to the Kyar Nyat village which allows you to search out archaeological valuables and be in authentic harmony with locals’ daily life.

Are you excited to learn how to cook Burmese delicacies? Thanks to participating in the interesting cooking class with our Executive Chef after breakfast, you cannot only check your knowledge of indigenous cuisines but also broaden your culinary horizon with yummy dishes originating from Asia. Besides, let’s make use of chances to contemplate surrounding vibrant landscapes, especially the spiritual Anya Thi Ha Taw Pagoda from somewhere on board cruising in the Irrawaddy. 

In the middle morning, we reach Sin Kyun village. In fact, Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy aims to support this village accommodating just fewer than 1,000 inhabitants that focus on farming and hat making to earn their living.

For first – time comers, an optional tour around the village is offered. You can have a chance to meet with the Chief of the village who requests for a library and an English teacher's house. Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy has raise a large amount of money on starting this new project. In addition, with the assistance of Sanctuary Ananda’s passengers, we hope to generate more funds to make the life here better.

Today, we cruise southwards to Mingun where allures tourists with the uncompleted Pahtodawgyi pagoda and the second biggest ringing bell in the world - Mingun Bell (90 tons).

When it comes to Amarapura, everyone highly honored it with an awesome name ‘The City of Immortals’. Unlike this former capital in the past, its bustle in modern society seems to be substituted by vibrant sounds ‘clack-clack’ from the looms used by skillful cotton and silk weavers.

Textile workshops await us to serve at their best, followed by a trip to U Bein Bridge when the sun slips behind vast hills, green trees, and numerous farmlands respectively in the foreground. Stretching across romantic Taungthaman Lake of Mandalay, this long teak bridge allows you to come across monks walking through the bridge to collect food donations. After the sun going down, embark a ship on the Irrawaddy River and come back the Sanctuary Ananda for dinner.

This evening, let’s make use of opportunity to you indulge and admire a puppet show.

In this morning, apart from coming to Mahamuni Pagoda and Shwenandaw Monastery, you also cannot skip the Kuthodaw Pagoda which evokes everyone's mind of “the world’s largest book”, named after 729 antique marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist teachings.

Then, we spend the rest of the morning relaxing on board of the luxurious Sanctuary Ananda while we sail downstream towards our final destination - Bagan. So, why don’t you let the amazing spa treatments lead your body to the well-being or indulge yourself in the open - air pool with our library’s books?

Being different from the morning, the afternoon will offer you other interesting activities right on Sanctuary Ananda cruise. Here, open your horizons by useful lessons, typically how the ship operates smoothly from the engine control room to the wheel house night and day.

Tonight, get ready to be in harmony with the movie Rangoon and the mouthwatering canapés served in the Kansi Panorama Lounge.

As usual, delight in breakfast time while sailing towards Bagan. After lunch, discover bustling Bagan by bus to one of the most must-visit sites like Nyaung-U regional market and the golden Shwezigon Pagoda with an admirable dimension. Next, we start discovering the awe-inspiring Ananda Temple built in 1091 AD, taking pride as one of the most outstanding constructions in the temple plain of Bagan.

Eventually, indulge in the supernatural moment of sunset on the Pyathatgyi Temple’s terraces watching the changing of the impressive light when the sun coming down behind green hills.

To make your last night unforgettable, fulfill it by a local show on board first, and then romantic sandbank dinner under the backdrop of the twinkling lights in Bagan.

After finishing your breakfast, prepare for checking out at 9am.

If you leave on a later flight, you can have a chance to take part in a short tour around the ancient city. Bagan with its all gorgeous landscapes non-stop awaits you to serve as its best. 

Instead of stopping at a lacquer ware workshop first, our adventure will get started at 9am and come to a regional village which is inherently renowned for typical images of Bagan’s central plain. 

On our journey through the countryside, how nice it will be when you can experience up close not only the locals’ tranquil daily life but also funny conversations with a jolly bulk of craftsmen who have earned their living by lacquer ware. The special thing about this traditional craft is that the technique was used since the reign of King Anawrahta (around 1050AD).

Option 1: Embark on Sanctuary Ananda cruise at 11:00 am at Mandalay’s berth and settle into your cabin. The ship start to navigate to Myin Mu at 11:30am. 

Option 2: Reach the berth of Mandalay by 1.30pm, and you will be transferred to Myin Mu. Embark on Sanctuary Ananda cruise and settle into your room.  

For early birds, taking a short journey around here is highly recommended.

During the cruising time on Chindwin river to Paung Pyin, onboard talks and illustrations about customs like useful tips to wear a longyi (sarong) and make up with the thanaka technique (the regional cosmetic prevents harmful rays of sun from skin), culinary art, or historical events will give you an insight into the Golden Land.

Afterwards, a welcoming party with champagne and canapés reception will be held in the Kansi Panorama Lounge, followed by a sumptuous dinner.

No later than 5:00 am will Sanctuary Ananda begin departing. It is ideal to spend your morning unwinding on our own. As our itinerary, we will come to Monywa in Sagaing Region and explore the wild sceneries rarely approached by tourists at 2:30 pm.

Thanboddhay pagoda is our next stop which is surrounded by hundreds of crumbling shrines.  Not only owns the outstanding architecture, the building also features a wide range of Buddha statues carved into the walls. In the late afternoon, we pay a visit to Bodhi Tataung where places 2 gigantic Buddha images. The reclining one has the length of 333ft and the other one stands at the height of 424ft. One of the reason why we take you to these monuments because they look best in the splendid glow of the sinking sun.

Come back to Sanctuary Ananda cruise at 4:30 pm to enjoy a tasty dinner while we continue sailing to Own Pin Seik.

First of all, kicking off your day with a religious meditation on the sun deck will provide you much more energy for a long day trip. For those who are eager for finding out how to cook tasty cuisines following culinary art of Asia, our master chef will illustrate and guide you. 

We spend time relaxing onboard while we cruise to Maukkadaw Village. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, you will have a chance to explore the place where used to be a major teak port. Now, it is a perfect place to explore and see amazing teak buildings made even more exotic by the tropical jungle that surrounds them. As we walk around the village, we can also spot the brick monastery.

Tonight, get ready to be in harmony with one of the most well-known movies about Aung San Suu Kyi – “The Lady”, and the mouthwatering canapés served in the Kansi Panorama Lounge.

Overnight at Ngar Own.

A lecture will be given in the morning which is followed by an excursion to Kalewa in the afternoon. Indeed, 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 is located at the foot of Western Mountain Ranges towering the town, hill pagoda, and the river appealing with placid waters.

After lunch, we continue our cruise through the green hills, wild forest and riverside villages; all of them create a feeling of a forgotten land. In the afternoon, we also have fascinating discussions onboard. We stay the night at Masein.

We spend the time cruising and reach Mawleik in the mid-morning. Actually, Mawleik used to be Bombay Burma Trading Company’s administrative center. Nowadays, it is a lively town with the bustling market and colonial ambiance. However, very few tourists know about the existence of this town. 

At 11:30 AM, we turn back to Sanctuary Ananda and sail towards the Northern region.

After having lunch, we continue joining in many fascinating lectures on board.

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 for a night there.

First of all, kicking off your day with a relaxing meditation on the sun deck will provide you much more energy for a long day trip. 

Cruise Southwards to Sitthuang, where offers you a wide range of charming emerald paddy fields while going to the village pagoda. Located near the Yu River’s entrance draining the Kubu valley, Sitthaung was also the place where numerous remnants of Irrawaddy Flotilla Company’s steamers were left here since 1942.

After that, we come to Paung Pyin located to the northernmost part of the cruise.

The Uyu River is a main part of the Chindwin; many indigenous people take notice of the sand in this river with the hope that they can find small gold nuggets.

Today, we will spend time sailing to Masein and enjoy onboard various activities and the ship’s services and facilities. 

Join in a cookery demonstration with our renowned chef to test your knowledge of local cuisine and learn how to create some tasty Asian dishes.

At 2:30 pm, we moor at Masein. Near Masein, there are is a row of 28 white-washed pagodas carved in the crest of a sloping hill rising up the surface of the river. This number reflects the 28 Buddhas who enlightened the world.

Tonight, get ready to be in harmony with the movie Rangoon and the mouthwatering canapés served in the Kansi Panorama Lounge.

Get ready to cruise in the early hours of this morning and reach Minkin no later than 11am.

This is an ideal destination where we can admire the oldest wooden monastery of Mahar Minkyaung, famous for its striking combination between Burmese and European architecture; and the Shwe Sagar Buddha carved from one single wood piece of 1,000 year ago. Afterwards, we cruise to Kani and stay overnight there.

After having lunch, we take on an afternoon discussion about the past, present, and future of Myanmar.

In the morning, we pay a visit to the Po Win Taung caves nearby the Shwe Ba Taung ones. This place was carved from the sandstone hills and it is stunning to watch, definitely recommended for any Burma trip. Po Win Taung and Shwe ba Taung cave systems are said to be more than 300 years old, even older than the Thanbodday Pagoda. Throughout almost 1000 caves are the stunning Buddha images and thrones carved beautifully on the rock. The original shape of the caves were kept since the 17th century. Their interior walls feature a great number of gorgeous paintings dated back from the ancient time. 

Immediately once stepping foot in the entrances to these caves, you will catch a sight of almost traditional motifs of vines and flowers either rimmed in high or low relief. A variety of mythical creatures as well as customary styles of design elements are all skillful engraved and painted.

To make your evening unforgettable, fulfill it by a cocktail illustration that you can experience up close to how the Golden Land and Chindwin cocktails are made as well as taste their flavors for the first time.

Today, our itinerary is to cruise from Yesagyo to Pakokku offering chances to observe the techniques of weaving cotton-blanket as well as to visit the local market with our chef. At 11:00 am, we depart to Bagan and enjoy lunch time before setting foot in there. Next, we start discovering the magnificent Ananda Temple built in 1091 AD, taking the pride as one of 4 most outstanding constructions in the temple plain of Bagan.

As our journey is carried on, we will step foot in and make a discovery of a splendid temple called Htilominlo which has undergone many times of restorations since 1211 AD. After that, indulge in the supernatural moment of sunset, when standing in the terrace of Pyathatgyi Temple watching the light changing as the sun sets.

Eventually, let's enjoy this supernatural moment as the Irrawaddy River reflects the reddish color of the sky after the sun coming down behind green hills. To make your last night unforgettable, fulfill it with an interesting regional performance on board, and then a romantic sandbank dinner under the starry sky of Bagan.

After finishing your breakfast, prepare for checking out at 9am.

If you leave on a later flight, you can have a chance to take part in a short tour around the ancient city. Bagan with its all gorgeous landscapes non-stop awaits you to serve as its best. 

Instead of stopping at a lacquer ware workshop first, our adventure will get started at 9am and come to a regional village which is inherently renowned for typical images of Bagan’s central plain. 

On our journey through the countryside, how nice it will be when you can experience up close not only the locals’ tranquil daily life but also funny conversations with a jolly bulk of craftsmen who have earned their living by lacquer ware. The special thing about this traditional craft is that the technique was used since the reign of King Anawrahta (around 1050AD).

Option 1: Before cruising in the direction of Myin Mu at 11.30am, checking in by 11:00 am at Mandalay pier and settling into your room are musts. 

Option 2: Debark at Mandalay pier by 1.30pm, and then take a bus trip to Myin Mu. Get on Sanctuary Ananda ship to check in and get your satisfactory room. 

For those who came to Mandalay early, taking a short journey around here is highly recommended.

While sailing on the Chindwin in the direction of Paung Pyin, onboard talks and illustrations about customs like useful tips to wear a longyi (sarong) and make up with the thanaka technique (the regional cosmetic prevents harmful rays of sun from skin), culinary art, or historical events will give you an insight into the country of Myanmar.

Get ready for taking a trip crossing soul-stirring rivers to Kyar Nyet where you will be welcome to stay overnight.

In the evening, we have a welcoming briefing with champagne and canapés, and then have welcoming dinner onboard.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

At 5am, the Sanctuary Ananda ship will depart. Indulge on board at leisure in this morning. Arrive in Monywa in the Sagaing Region at 2.30pm, when you'll without a doubt continue appreciating what's so very unique about this cruise northwest of Mandalay: we take you to unspoiled scenery that rarely gets exposed to tourists.

After exploring the city, a coach will transport you to a truly spectacular part of the world - the intricately decorated golden Thanboddhay Pagoda. It is truly staggering with its hundreds of crumbling stupas and almost half a million images of Buddha located in the niches around the inner wall. Next you'll visit Bodhi Tataung where you can see the two enormous Buddha statues - the one reclining is about 333 foot long, and the other stands at a record height of 424 feet. The reason we bring you here at this time of day is that it is best appreciated in the afternoon light.

Come back Sanctuary Ananda cruise at 4:30 pm to delight in a tasty dinner while sailing in the direction of Own Pin Seik.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

First of all, kicking off your day with a religious meditation on the sun deck will provide you much more energy for a long day trip. For those who are eager for searching out how to cook yummy cuisines basing on culinary art of Asia; permit our master chef to illustrate and guide you. 

Relax on board as we sail towards the village of Maukkadaw. Arrive at the village in the late afternoon, once an important teak port. Explore the town and its stunning teak buildings made even more exotic by the tropical jungle that surrounds them. Wander around the village and visit the brick monastery.

Tonight, get ready to be in harmony with one of the most well-known movies about Aung San Suu Kyi – “The Lady”, and the mouthwatering canapés served in the Kansi Panorama Lounge. Then, stay overnight at Ngar Own.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Spend your morning to take part in a lecture specially talking about Kalewa, where our ship will stop at in the afternoon. Particularly, Kalewa is the trading post between Myanmar and India, and this town rests at the point where the Myit Tha River with its source in India joins with the Chindwin. When it comes to this destination, everyone tend to think about Kalewa the foot of the Western Mountain Ranges that loom over the town, the pagoda on the hill and the placid waters of the river.

The cruise continues sailing after lunch, aims at taking you through lush gorges, past wild jungle and tiny riverside villages – the scenery here looks like that of a land that time forgot. We’ll also be hosting interesting talks on board the ship during the afternoon. Tonight, the ship will dock at Masein.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Go sailing early and arrive in Mawleik for a first half of this morning. In reality, Mawleik was inherently regarded as the administrative center of the Bombay Burma Trading Company, which is still a sparking town with a vibrant market and colonial charm in this modern society. Nevertheless, seldom do visitors know about that Burmese fact. 

We will reunite in Sanctuary Ananda Cruise no later than 11:30 am, and then go sailing to the North.

It is nice to listen to a fascinating lecture after enjoying lunch time.

How about taking tea in the panoramic lounge as we sail towards the thatched homes of our next rural village stop - Hae Nin? After all, our ship will be casted off here for the night.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

First and foremost, your day will be started with a religious meditation on the sun deck, which offers you more energy to kick off a long trip today.

Today, our Sanctuary Ananda cruise will sail southwards to Sitthaung, where offers us the emerald green paddy fields on your way to the village pagoda. Near the mouth of the Yu River which drains the Kubu valley, Sitthaung, was the final resting place of numerous Irrawaddy Flotilla Company’s steamers scuttled there in 1942.

Later on, let’s visit Paung Pyin, the northernmost point of the cruise.

The Uyu River is a major tributary of the Chindwin River, and the sand in this river part draws a lot of attention from locals. In fact, they non-stop look out for gold here in the hope of finding tiny nuggets.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

As we travel towards Masein, enjoy a restful day on board and take full advantage of Sanctuary Ananda’s extensive services and facilities.

Thanks to participating in our Chef, you are permitted to not only check your comprehension of indigenous cuisines via cooking illustration and but also broaden your culinary horizon with yummy dishes originating from Asia.

Next, cast off right in Masein at 2.30pm. Misty blue and green hills rise high on the horizon, and near the village of Masein, a row of 28 white-washed pagodas line the crest of a sloping hill and file down towards the river. The number signifies the 28 Buddhas that have brought enlightenment to the world.

Tonight, get ready to be in harmony with the movie Rangoon and the mouthwatering canapés served in the Kansi Panorama Lounge.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Go sailing in the early hours of this morning and arrive in Minkin no later than 11am. 

Here, you will be given opportunities to admire an extraordinary blend of European and Burmese architecture of the Mahar Minkyaung Monastery, the most long-lasting wooden Monastery. Indeed, the Shwe Sagar Buddha is especially remarkable because of being carved from a single piece of wood dating from a thousand of year ago. After this outing, the boat will proceed to Kani where we will stay overnight.

After the lunch lime, participate in an afternoon lecture about Myanmar’s images in the past, present, and further future. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

This morning, visit the Po Win Taung caves near Shwe Ba Taung. Carved out of the sandstone hill, this setting is really stunning to behold, and a highlight of any trip in Myanmar. More antique than the Thanbodday pagoda are the two-cave complex of Po win taung and Shwe ba taung, believed to be over 300 years old. There are almost 1000 caves in which both the Buddha images and the thrones were carved out of living rock. The natural shape of the caves was kept, and 17th century wall paintings in exquisite detail cover the interior walls.

Finally, unwind your evening with a cocktail presentation which opens our horizons about how Chindwin and Golden Land cocktails are created.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Today, our itinerary is to cruise from Yesagyo to Pakokku where reunites a wide range of the cotton-blanket weavers as well as pay a visit to the local market with our chef after reaching this region. At 11:00 am, we go on departing to Bagan and enjoy lunch time before setting foot in there. Next, we start discovering the awe-inspiring Ananda Temple built in 1091 AD, always takes a pride as outstanding one containing traditional stories within four million gorgeous temples in Bagan.

As our journey is carried on, we will step foot in and make a discovery of a splendid temple called Htilominlo which has undergone many times of renovation since around 1211 AD. After that, let's enjoy the supernatural moment of sunset, when Pyathatgyi Temple’s terraces change impressive light from a red glow of the sky after the sun coming down behind green hills.

To make your last night here evening unforgettable, fulfill it by delighting in regional entertainment event on board, and then a romantic sandbank dinner under the backdrop of the twinkling lights in Bagan. 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Sanctuary Ananda Cruise

Today, let’s enjoy your last breakfast time offered on board; next debark at 9:00. 

Definitely, Bagan with its all gorgeous landscapes non-stop awaits you to serve as its best. Instead of stopping at a lacquer ware workshop first, our adventure will get started from 9am and come to a regional village which is inherently renowned for typical images of Bagan’s central plain. On our journey through the countryside, how nice it will be when you can experience up close not only the locals’ tranquil daily life but also funny conversations with a jolly bulk of craftsmen who have earned their living with traditional methods dating from King Anawrahta around 1050 AD.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: N/A