Irrawaddy river plays an important part in Burmese culture, history and religious. Moreover, since the country opened its door for tourism, this waterway has served as the main Burma travel route. Due to the shallow water level, all Myanmar river cruises are specially designed to adapt with this condition. Travelling by boat brings a different perspective of the monuments as well as access to some remote areas which can only reach by cruise. Let’s discover some amazing sites along the mighty river of Burma.
Bagan
This ancient capital of Burma features the magnificent plain of red brick Buddhist constructions, making its name aboard for the 2,000 temples and pagodas standing through the test of time. Lies along the bank of the Irrawaddy river, the archeological site carries a poetic but majestic look, charming reflects its shadow on the water. Tourists can catch the spectacular view over the temples plain of Bagan while enjoying your cocktail on the opening sun deck or simply through your cabin’s window.
Mandalay
Mandalay is the home of the last Burmese monarch which contains the marvelous royal palace accompanied with a number of historical sites. The city was first name as Yadanapon which means “city of gem” in Burmese language, then renamed after the famous Mandalay hill – the holy area where all the legends converged. Coming to this riverside city, tourists will have a chance to admire not only the elaborated wood – carving structures of the imperial enclosure but also the outstanding Kuthodaw pagoda and the world’s largest book. From Mandalay, visitors can also go to others famous sites of Burma such as Sagaing Hill, Ava (Inwa), Amarapura and Mingun.
Yangon
Yangon is the largest city of Myanmar where the breath – taking gilded Shwedagon Pagoda locates. This city is also famous for its massive market of Bogyoke Aung San or the shimmering Sule pagoda and the gigantic Buddha statues. Luxury Myanmar River Cruises promise to bring you the exceptional voyage with timeless memories.
Pyay
Pyay is another highlight by the bank of the mighty Irrawaddy river which bears its own charms and beauty. You can see the enormous Buddha statue wearing the sunglasses in the Shwe Myet Hman pagoda or visit the magnificent Shwesandaw pagoda where is said to preserve a tooth and a strand of the Buddha’s hair. What is more, by sailing to the north of Pyay, tourists can have a great opportunity to admire an impressive collection of Buddha images placed in the niches of Akauktaung mountain.
