No river exudes romance and mysticism like the Irrawaddy. Not only does it flow through one of the world’s most mysterious and exotic countries, it also passes through some marvelous towns and cities (both in its nature and in its name) with Bagan and Mandalay as examples. If you really want to discover Myanmar, a journey along the Irrawaddy must not be missed!

The Irrawaddy River, sometimes spelled as Ayeyarwady River is pretty easy to locate on a map.  It practically dissects Myanmar in half and flows on a north to south line, emptying out into the Irrawaddy Delta and the Andaman Sea. The importance of the river to the citizens of Myanmar cannot be stressed. Export goods continually pass through the river and rice grown around the delta uses the river’s water.

The river is also home to a large amount of unique species of animals, the most popular of which are the Irrawaddy Dolphin. These are rare animals, but there are known to be spotted from time to time. Just make sure you have your camera ready, because you many never know!

Exotissimo’s Irrawaddy Exclusive Cruise tour is your ticket to a memorable and exclusive experience on this scenic river. Your Myanmar introduction starts at Yangon, where the old world meets the older world. Colonial buildings blend seamlessly alongside glittering temples and golden pagodas in a classic East meets West scenery.

Jumping cats, leg rowing fishermen – your next stop is Inle Lake. The area is very peaceful and tranquil and you will surely enjoy the lake’s unspoiled environs of floating gardens and old monasteries. This lake is surely like no other you have ever seen or experienced before!

From the lake to the river, start your Irrawaddy Experience at the poetic sounding town of Mandalay. You will arrive at this town from Inle Lake just in time to see the orange glow of the sun as it sets down into the horizon from your vantage point up at Mandalay Hill. Kick start the next day with a sightseeing tour of Myanmar’s second largest city such as a huge Buddha statue that has been plastered with golden leaves throughout the years and several handicraft workshops.

It is then time to board the RV Paukan 2007, a boutique teak boat. The vessel is the epitome of luxury and class as is combines a blend of Burmese heritage, style, comfort and the renowned local hospitality and service that you have experienced throughout your trip so far. Stop by the many riverside villages and ancient Buddha site as you make your way to Bagan.

Welcome to Bagan, without a doubt home to the most Buddhist temples and pagodas in the world. A true gem of a site! Enjoy the sights of these structures on a horse carriage. Absorb a bit of Bagan in you by sampling its food, tea and snacks as well as mural painting and lacquer ware production huts. End the day with the setting sun set against one of Bagan’s temples.

Myanmar is a land of wonder which is sure to enchant you the minute you step into the country. Check out our Myanmar tours page and see what works for you. You can always tweak our tours or create a new one of your own. How? By visiting our tailor made page. Tell us what your interests are and we will incorporate them into your dream holiday.

www.exotissimo.com/