RV Kalay Pandaw

Launched: 2013   |   Length: 28.70m (94.0ft)   |   Crew Members: 7   |   Staterooms: 05

Inquire about this cruise

Special offers

Book and make the full payment to us right now to receive an exclusive discount offer for selected itinerary. Terms and conditions applied.

Main Deck Staterooms

No of Cabins: 4   |   Area: 17M2   |   Bed: Double/Twins   |   Location: Main Deck

The RV Kalay Pandaw cabins are the most celebrated feature of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. Finished in brass and teak, the main deck premium rooms are spacious, offering a panoramic view through French windows. 

Features +
  • Air-conditioner
  • Mini-safe
  • Luggage storage
  • Wardrobe
  • Hair dryer
  • Kimono and slippers
  • Premium mattresses
  • Unlimited mineral water
  • Mini DVD Players

Upper Deck Owners Suite

No of Cabins: 01   |   Area: 17M2   |   Bed: Double/Twins   |   Location: Upper Deck

The highlight of the RV Kalay Pandaw is without any doubt the enormous Owner’s Suite which has been designed by the owner in collaboration with the well-known Italian designer Alberto Peyre. The result is a design that can meet the most difficult navigational challenges with elegance and style that takes the Pandaw colonial marine tradition to new heights of sophistication. 

Features +
  • Air-conditioner
  • Mini-safe
  • Luggage storage
  • Wardrobe
  • Writing desk
  • Hair dryer
  • Kimono and slippers.

RV KALAY PANDAW DECK PLAN

rv kalay pandaw deck plan

 

Joining a cruise on Pandaw, you will not only have private space in your comfortable cabin, your journey is also filled with a lot of outdoor experience. There are many vantage points on board allows you to get a panoramic views of the river and observe the world go by such as the promenade decks, observation deck or sitting places outside. The special thing of this ship is that you could open window (except port holes on the lower deck) to enjoy spectacular views while the ship sail forward.

rv kalay pandaw 8

RV KALAY PANDAW RESTAURANT

  • Category: Deluxe
  • Capacities: 10 

The restaurant offers a great choice to relish local cuisine and exotic delights while enjoying the beautiful passing scenery. The chief and his team set great importance on fresh products and source the supplies as locally as possible. Breakfast and lunch are provided in buffet style, while the dinner is served a la cart

rv kalay pandaw 14

ACTIVITIES ON BOARD

Sailing on the ship, you have great chance to take part in various activities - an indispensable part of any Pandaw river expedition including cooking, talks on local culture and history, cultural performances, film presentations. In addition, with any expedition, there are a number of social events for passengers such as a welcome dinner, cocktail parties on deck or a farewell dinner.

rv kalay pandaw 2

EXCURSIONS

Excursion ashore is an indispensible part of any Pandaw river cruise. This maybe the most interesting part in your journey on Pandaw because there are varied activities for passengers to take part in. It could be a leisurely cycling tour through beautiful villages and countryside or other more adventurous exploration with speed boat or horse drawn cart.

RV KALAY PANDAW OVERVIEW

The RV Kalay Pandaw is the smallest ship of the Pandaw River Cruises family (Kalay in Burmese means ‘baby’), including just 4 staterooms and 1 lavish Owners Suite.

With a design based on the original river cruisers of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company in 19th century, this beautifully crafted boat was built in 2013 by local craftsmen. They built this boutique ship with colonial style in brass and teak. RV Kalay Pandaw features an observation deck and a promenade deck, designed to offer panoramic views of the destinations.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM RV KALAY PANDAW

The RV Kalay Pandaw cabins don’t feature TV’s or phones, so there’s no distraction from the surrounding scenery, which is visible from all cabins through large windows. And the suites have no mini-bars, thus you’re encouraged to be sociable. The size of RV Kalay Pandaw and the shared experience makes itself to own a convivial atmosphere, especially during meal times when you’re enjoying delicious dishes.

The RV Kalay Pandaw cruise operates on the Chindwin River passing scenery quite different to the Irrawaddy River. Incidentally, Pandaw Cruises was the first company to operate cruises on this river. The ship travels between Monywa and Homalin where very close to the shared border with India; passing through mountain and forest scenery, remote local villages and riverside pagodas. The Chindwin River cruise can operate 9 months of the year and can access more remote and hard-to-reach areas. Shore excursion of RV Kalay Pandaw is a key part of the experience and there will be at least once per day exploring the landscapes, visiting famous sites and local villages.

As most Pandaw River Cruises, there are no hidden extra fees when it comes to price. The cruise offers all meals and drinks (apart from wine and imported spirits), shore excursions and the crew tips. In addition, the RV Kalay Pandaw fare also includes most of lavish services in shore excursions to ensure travellers to have the most comfortable experience in their Myanmar River Cruise.

For these reasons, travellers can enjoy an unforgettable cruise in Burma with most convenient and luxurious services on RV Kalay Pandaw.

7 NIGHT VOYAGE TO NAGALAND: HOMALIN - KALEWA

Destinations: Homalin - Nagaland - Khamti - Toungdoot - Sitthaung - Kindat - Mawlaik - Kalewa

Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details

Day 01 Homalin (L/D)

Land at Homalin and go on board your Pandaw for the next 7-night on cruise.

Day 02 Nagaland (B/L/D)

Sail toward the North into Nagaland, an isolated and interesting tribal place. As we have an honor of becoming the first luxury vessel to set out this far, we will stop by villages that are unfamiliar with foreigners. This will definitely be such a surprising occasion.

Day 03 Khamti (B/l/D)

Khamti, known as “the land full of gold” thanks to the pervasiveness of gold in the nearby side stream of the Chindwin. After that, we head toward the town and let the monastery meet with the local Tai speakers. Later on we sail downstream to Homalin.

Day 04 Toungdoot (B/L/D)

Pre-lunch visit to Toughdoot or Hsawng-hsup in Tai. A primitive Shan enclave who in the time of British invasion still had a Sawbwa reigning done with palace and t. It will be fascinating to witness the remains of the royal family including their place of living.

In 1935, Alistar McCrae paid a trip here and wrote that: ‘I loved the atmosphere of quiet and peaceful living there. At night I could hear greylag geese as they came into the flooded land around us from far away north’.

Day 05 Sitthaung (B/L/D)

Paying full attention as we sail up to Sitthaung, a sanctuary of many steamers owned by Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. Most of the remains of these ships. which results from the invasion of the advancing Japanese, have been here since 1942. As for the people survived from that tragedy, they marched out to Tamu on the India border.

Pantha was a vital oil refining factory owned by the Indo-Burma Petroelum Co (Steel Brothers). Visitors can also signsee Paungpyin village and have a walking tour including a stop in the market and the eye-catching houses made of woods. Our vessel will dock overnight at Yuwa village.

Day 06 Kindat (B/L/D)

Continue the voyage by visiting Kindat, which means a military outpost in Burmese, also its vintage colonial post office (now served as a school). There is also a tiny village called Yuwa to explore, which is famous for friendly and welcoming villagers.

Day 07 Mawlaik (B/L/D)

Stream up to the alluring village of Ma Sein then carry on to Mawlaik, bygone the place owned by the Bombay Burma Corporation, responsible for operating timber extraction for the Chindwin Area.

Visitors can still see the historic Headquaters building remaining here. We continue our journey to Kalewa and discover the area as a gateway to the Chin State. Kalewa also features many exotic wooden architecture. Local market visiting and sigh-seeing over a hill are included in the day.

Day 08 Kalewa (B)

After having breakfast, go offshore and move to the airport in Kalay and ready for your domestic flight.

What's Included

  • Domestic flights Yangon/Mandalay to Kalewa and Homalin to Mandalay
  • Entrance fees
  • Guide services (English language)
  • Gratuities to crew
  • Main meals
  • Local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
  • Quality mountain bikes available for independent exploration.

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Port dues (if levied)
  • Laundry
  • All visa costs
  • Fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions)
  • All beverages except local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
  • Tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cyclo drivers.

Pre - extension

3
days
YANGON - BAGAN 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon - Bagan

2
days
MANDALAY 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay

2
days
YANGON 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon

Post - Extension

3
days
MANDALAY - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Ava - Amarapura - Yangon

4
days
INLE LAKE - 4 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Inle Lake - Yangon

3
days
BAGAN - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Bagan - Yangon

PAGAN AND THE UPPER IRRAWADDY: MANDALAY - KATHA - BAGAN

Destinations: Mandalay - Kyauk Myoung - Khanyat - Katha - Tagaung - Mingun - Ava - Mandalay - Bagan

Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details

Day 01 MANDALAY (L/D)

The first stop you will make is the Mahamuni Pagoda. The Mahamuni Pagoda or Mahamuni Buddha temple is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Burma. The temple houses the Mahamuni Buddha image, the most highly revered Buddha image in the country.

Continue to a gold leaf and tapestry work shop and walk along the marble & stone carver’s street. Take time to visit a silk and cotton weaving work shop to learn more about traditional crafts of the locals.

Afterwards, you will take a bus transfer to “U Bein” bridge-a beautiful 1.2 kilometre structure built from teak planks and said to be the longest of its type in the world. To finish your day of experience, you take a small boat to travel over the Taungthaman Lake and enjoy the sunset.

PLEASE NOTE: The itinerary for this expedition is indicative only. As we travel to remote areas, changes to the itinerary will inevitably occur. A flexible approach is required if you book this cruise.

Day 02 KYAUK - MYOUNG (B/L/D)

In the morning, set sail to visit the spectacular potteries near Kyauk-myoung which you will reach in the afternoon.  Kyauk Myaung is a small town which is famous for its glazed pottery including large Martaban Jars. These jars are used as containers to hold water, cooking oil and rice and are seen throughout Myanmar. Visiting the town, you have chance to observe the making process of potteries.

Then, you continue travel through the third defile of the Irrawaddy. This area is covered with dense teak forest.

Day 03 KHANYAT (B/L/D)

Today, you will make a stop to explore the small village of Khan-nyat for studying history and culture of the region through many Buddhist monasteries. You also visit the former head teacher’s house to chat and see his museum collections.

Afterwards, you transfer to Tigyang and climb the Pagoda Hill to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Irrawaddy River.

Day 04 KATHA (B/L/D)

Today, you will have plenty of time to explore the enchanting colonial town of Katha. Situated on the west bank of the Irrawaddy in northern Sagaing Division, it remains a charming and remote riverside town.

Further afield, the local villages and picturesque countryside make Katha a perfect place to explore. Continue to visit an elephant logging camp at Katha in the lush jungle.

Day 05 SAIL UPSTREAM KYUNT DAW ISLAND (B/L/D)

Today, you will take a local boat to transfer to Kyun Daw village. You will get the opportunity to interact with friendly locals and visit pagodas to learn more about the culture and history of the region.

Day 06 2ND DEFILE OF IRRAWADDY (B/L/D)

In the morning, your cruise will pass by the second Defile. At this place the river banks become a steep cliff. The scenery is amazing and offers beautiful scenery. Continue to sail downstream.

Day 07 TAGAUNG (B/L/D)

Today, you will take a walking tour to discover the ancient city of Tagaung. Tagaung is a town in Mandalay Region and situated on the east bank of the Ayeyarwady River, 127 miles north of Mandalay.  The ruins of Tagoung still exist and there is no reason for doubting that it was the earliest seat of the Burman monarchy. Take your time for sightseeing at Tagaung.

Day 08 MINGUN (B/L/D)

In the morning, continue your journey to Mingun- a little town along the Ayeyarwady River. Here you will visit Mingun Bell. The bell is housed nearby the Paya in a Zayat, an intricate Burmese style pavilion with a multi tiered roof. The bell measuring almost 4 meters high is the largest working bell in the world.

Continue onto Mingun Pagoda. The Mingun Pagoda is a massive unfinished pagoda built at the end of the 18th century, and was the largest pagoda in the country

You will also visit the Mingun Old People’s Home originally established with the assistance of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company in the 1930s.

Take a drive to the hilltop of Sagaing hills to enjoy stunning views of the region and the Irrawaddy River.

Day 09 AVA (B/L/D)

This morning, you will visit Ava- a city in the Mandalay Division of Myanmar, situated just to the south of Amarapura on the Ayeyarwady River. Make a visit to Bagaya Kyaung which was constructed on the model of the old monastery. The monastery decorated with splendid Myanma architectural works is in the ancient city of Innwa. Continue to explore the ancient capital of Amarapura.

Continue onto Amarapura- situated 11 kilometres south of Mandalay. You can find ruins of the city gate, the palace, and tombs of old kings. There are also numerous stupas to be seen in the area.

Day 10 PAGAN (B/L/D)

Spend all day taking a coach to explore the World Heritage Site - Bagan (Pagan) which is located on the banks of the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River, in the Mandalay Region of Burma. The thousands of temples that are spread across the plains of Bagan combine to form one of the richest archaeological sites in Asia and provide views quite unlike anywhere else on earth.

Day 11 PAGAN (B)

Today, you will disembark from the ship.

What's Included

  • Entrance fees
  • Guide services (English language)
  • gratuities to crew
  • Main meals
  • Local mineral water
  • Jugged coffee
  • Teas & tisanes

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Port dues (if levied)
  • Laundry
  • All visa costs
  • Fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions)
  • All beverages except local mineral water
  • Jugged coffee
  • Teas & tisanes and tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cyclo drivers.

Pre - extension

3
days
YANGON - BAGAN 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon - Bagan

2
days
MANDALAY 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay

2
days
YANGON 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon

Post - Extension

3
days
MANDALAY - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Ava - Amarapura - Yangon

4
days
INLE LAKE - 4 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Inle Lake - Yangon

3
days
BAGAN - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Bagan - Yangon

PAGAN AND THE UPPER IRRAWADDY: BAGAN - KATHA – MANDALAY

Destinations: Bagan - Yandabo - Amarapura - Kyauk-Myoung - Khanyat - Katha - Tagaung - Mingun - Mandalay

Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details

Day 01 PAGAN (L/D)

PLEASE NOTE: The itinerary for this expedition is indicative only. As we travel to remote areas, changes to the itinerary will inevitably occur. A flexible approach is required if you book this cruise.

Embark at Pagan (Ayer jetty) by 11:30am. Embark for lunch and followed by exploration of the 3000 plus Pagan monuments by coach. The ship will leave Pagan at 17:30.

Day 02 YANDABO (B/L/D)

Cruise past the confluence with the Chindwin River and arrive at Yandabo village, famous for its production of terracotta pottery from the riverbank clay. Cruise through afternoon upstream towards Mandalay.

Day 03 AMARAPURA (B/L/D)

Morning visit to Ava and explore the ruins, visiting Bagaya Kyaung, a 200-year-old royal monastery made of teak with elaborate woodcarvings. Continue to visit the ancient capital of Amarapura and admire the paintings in a temple.

Day 04 KYAUK-MYOUNG (B/L/D)

Visit the spectacular potteries near Kyauk-myoung where the famous 50-gallon water pots are handmade. We see all stages of manufacture from the throwing of the pots to the weeklong firing in huge kilns. We return to the ship and enter the third defile of Irrawaddy.

Day 05 KHANYAT (B/L/D)

Stop at Khan-nyat village with its many Buddhist monasteries and visit the former head teacher’s house, which also includes his small museum collections. We go ashore and climb the Pagoda Hill at Tigyang with its stunning views of the Upper Irrawaddy River.

Day 06 KATHA (B/L/D)

We reach the enchanting colonial town of Katha, setting for George Orwell’s Burmese Days. Little has changed since then. Of interested are the fire station’s collections of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company’s ship’s bells taken from sunken ships in the Second War. Katha was the final resting place of the old flotilla and here over a hundred ships were scuppered in 1942 in an Act of Denial before the advancing Japanese. We also visit an elephant logging camp at Katha in the hardwood forests of the hills that surround the town and further upstream.

Day 07 SAIL UPSTREAM KYUNT DAW ISLAND (B/L/D)

Transfer by Local boat and visit Kyun Daw village where we will visit countless small Pagodas.

Day 08 2ND DEFILE OF IRRAWADDY (B/L/D)

Cruise through the 2nd Defile, the most dramatic of the three gorges with cliffs towering over the narrow channel. Sail downstream.

Day 09 TAGAUNG (B/L/D)

Walking tour of the ancient city of Tagaung viewing the fortifications, a famous nat or spirit shrine and the archaeological area.

Day 10 MINGUN (B/L/D)

In the morning, continue your journey to Mingun- a little town along the Ayeyarwady River. Here you will visit Mingun Bell. The bell is housed nearby the Paya in a Zayat, an intricate Burmese style pavilion with a multi tiered roof. The bell measuring almost 4 meters high is the largest working bell in the world.

Continue onto Mingun Pagoda. The Mingun Pagoda is a massive unfinished pagoda built at the end of the 18th century, and was the largest pagoda in the country. You will also visit the Mingun Old People’s Home originally established with the assistance of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company in the 1930s. Take a drive to the hilltop of Sagaing hills to enjoy stunning views of the region and the Irrawaddy River.

Day 11 MANDALAY (B)

Disembark after breakfast.

What's Included

  • Entrance fees
  • Guide services (English language)
  • gratuities to crew
  • Main meals
  • Local mineral water
  • Jugged coffee
  • Teas & tisanes

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Port dues (if levied)
  • Laundry
  • All visa costs
  • Fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions)
  • All beverages except local mineral water
  • Jugged coffee
  • Teas & tisanes and tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cyclo drivers.

Pre - extension

3
days
YANGON - BAGAN 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon - Bagan

2
days
MANDALAY 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay

2
days
YANGON 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon

Post - Extension

3
days
MANDALAY - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Ava - Amarapura - Yangon

4
days
INLE LAKE - 4 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Inle Lake - Yangon

3
days
BAGAN - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Bagan - Yangon

07 NIGHT A VOYAGE TO NAGALAND: KALEWA - HOMALIN

Destinations: Kalewa -  Maulaik - Kindat - Sitthaung - Toungdoot -  Khamti - Nagaland - Homalin

Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details

Day 01 KALEWA (L/D)

Fly from Yangon or Mandalay to Kalewa and transfer to the Zawgyi Pandaw. Explore ashore visiting the local market and enjoying panoramic views over the Chindwin from top of a hill.

For flight from Yangon (8:00-9:45): Registration at 6:00am at Sule Shangri-La Hotel.

For flight from Mandalay (11:05-11:55): We will pick you up from your hotel in Mandalay at 8.30am.

Please note that flight times might change.

PLEASE NOTE: The itinerary for this expedition is indicative only and subject to reconnaissance. As we travel to remote areas, changes to the itinerary will inevitably occur. A flexible approach is required if you book this cruise.

Day 02 MAWLAIK (B/L/D)

Set sail to charming Ma Sein Village and continue to Mawlaik, the former seat of the Bombay Burma Corporation’s timber extraction operations for the Chindwin Area. The old Headquarters building still stands here.

Day 03 KINDAT (B/L/D)

Sail to Kindat (translated in Burmese meaning a military outpost), with its old colonial post office (now a school). Also visit the tiny village of Yuwa, where previous Pandaw travellers report a delightful atmosphere from friendly local.

Day 04 SITTHAUNG (B/L/D)

Continuing upstream we sail to Sitthaung, the final resting place of a number of Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers scuppered there in 1942 in an ‘act of denial’ from the advancing Japanese who were a matter of hours behind. Remains of these ships can be found here. It was from here that the survivors of the Japanese invasion marched out to Tamu on the India border. Pantha was an important oil refinery belonging to the Indo-Burma Petroleum Co (Steel Brothers).

We also explore Paungpyin village and take a walking tour including a visit to the market and the attractive wooden houses.

Day 05 TOUNGDOOT (B/L/D)

Morning visit to Toungdoot or Hsawng-hsup in Tai, is an ancient Shan enclave who in British times still had a ruling Sawbwa complete with palace and court.

It will be interesting to see what has become of the royal family and their home and to see these Shan people so far from their Tai-Shan homelands. Alistair McCrae wrote of his visit there 1935 ‘I loved the atmosphere of quiet and peaceful living there. At night I could hear greylag geese as they came in to the flooded land around us from far away north’.

Day 06 KHAMTI (B/L/D)

Scenic explorations upstream into the remote Nagaland. Afternoon arrive at Khamti, known as ‘the land full of gold’ due to the prevalence of gold panning in the nearby tributary of the Chindwin. We visit the town, the monastery meet local Tai speaking peoples.

Day 07 NAGALAND (B/L/D)

Morning visit to Khampti market and sail the Chindwin today towards Homalin stopping at villages not used to western travellers.

Day 08 HOMALIN (B/L/D)

Morning visit Homalin, an interesting town close to the Indian border with attractive forested mountains on either side – some rising to over 9,000 feet. Irrawaddy Flotilla Company used to visit here and during World War II, Homalin was occupied by the Japanese. In the afternoon transfer to the airport for the flight to Yangon (14:25-17:35) or Mandalay (14:25-15:25). Please note that flight times might change.

What's Included

  • Domestic flights Yangon/Mandalay to Kalewa and Homalin to Mandalay
  • Entrance fees
  • Guide services (English language)
  • Gratuities to crew
  • Main meals
  • Local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
  • Quality mountain bikes available for independent exploration.

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Port dues (if levied)
  • Laundry
  • All visa costs
  • Fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions)
  • All beverages except local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
  • Tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cyclo drivers.

Pre - extension

3
days
YANGON - BAGAN 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon - Bagan

2
days
MANDALAY 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay

2
days
YANGON 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon

Post - Extension

3
days
MANDALAY - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Ava - Amarapura - Yangon

4
days
INLE LAKE - 4 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Inle Lake - Yangon

3
days
BAGAN - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Bagan - Yangon

07 NIGHT MANDALAY PAGAN PACKET - DOWNSTREAM

Destinations: Mandalay - Mingun - Sagaing - Amarapura - Yandabo - Pakokku - Ayardaw - Tant Chi Taung - Salay - Bagan

Departure date of itinerary: Contact us for details

Highlights of Itinerary:

  • Explore Mandalay's highlights and handicraft workshops in Amarapura.
  • Take a boat trip on Taungthaman lake watching sunset over U Bein Bridge.
  • Have a walking tour around Yandabo and see pot making process from pottery workshop
  • Discover Pakkoku's town center and visit the local market by Tuk Tuk
  • Exploring Bagan's temple and visit lacquerware workshop.
Day 01 MANDALAY (L/D)

Today, you will be transfered from the airport to the ship and we will explore Mandalay where is the second largest city of Myanmar and religious center of Burmese culture.

Mahamuni Buddha is our first stop where contains a precious Buddha image taken from Arakan Kingdom in 1784. Devotees stick gold leaf onto the surface of the statue to show their respect creating a thich layer of gold leaf. Thus, the Buddha image now look a lot different from the original appreance. Continue our walking tour to the street of marble carving.

Next, we discover Shwe Kyaung Monastery - the only surviving constructions from the Royal Palace.

Then, we move to visit Kuthodaw Pagoda which contains the biggest book in the world. 

After visiting the gold leaf beating workshop, we will stop by the moat which surrounds the Royal Palace for taking photos 

The ship will anchor overnight in Sagaing.

  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw
 
Day 02 MINGUN - SAGAING - AMARAPURA (B/L/D)

This morning, we reach Mingun and take a walking tour exploring the famous unfinished pagoda built in 1790 by Amarapura's King Bodawpaya and the world's second biggest ringing bell.

In the afternoon, proceed to the top of Sagaing Hill and contemplate the panoramic view over the area from Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda. Next, we will learn about the monastic life at a nunnery.

After that, we take a drive to Amarapura - an ancient capital of Burma to learn more about its major businesses of silk and cotton weaving.

When the day comes to an end, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Taungthaman Lake watching the mesmerzing sunset moment over the brige of U Bein.

Anchor overnight at Sagaing.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw
 
Day 03 YANDABO (B/L/D)

Today, we will explore Yandabo - a village specializes in pottery making. Spend time strolling around the village and see the pot making process. You are welcome to try making you own item. Besides, you can also visit the Pandaw supported Yandabo School (not available in the school's day off).

The ship will moor overnight at Shwe Tan Tit Village.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw
 
Day 04 PAKOKKU - AYARDAW (B/L/D)

In the morning, we will discover Pakkoku's town center and visit the local market by Tuk Tuk. Then, the ship will sail to the Ayardaw charity clinic sponsored by Pandaw. Afternoon, explore the village on foot.

Situated 30km from Bagan with the population of about 100,000 people, Pakokku main products are tobacco, cottons, peanut, thanaka and textiles. Stop by a cheroot rolling workshop to see how they made this Burmese exotic cigar.

The ship will anchor overnight at Tant Chi village.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw
 
Day 05 TANT CHI TAUNG - SALAY (B/L/D)

Proceed to the top of Tant Chi Taung mountain to visit a stupa then, before return to the ship, enjoy an interesting elephant dance performed by the local people.

We keep sailing to Salay where used to be a busy trading port but now become a peaceful village with colonial architectures and stunning teak monasteries. Get off the ship for a visit to the beautiful teak monastery of Yoke - Sone Kyaung. On the way back, make a stop at Salay House.

Anchor overnight in Salay.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw
 
Day 06 SALAY - BAGAN (B/L/D)

Morning approach to Bagan and prepare for a temples' exploration.

First, we cannot miss Ananda, one of the most beautiful temples in Bagan whih was built in AD 1105 by King Kyansit Thar. Let's unveil its aesthetic and historical value of this temple through the mural paintings, glazed plaques and Buddha images. 

Next, we will visit Myingabar Gubyaukgyi temple with its well - preserved mural paintings describing the daily life in Bagan.

Our final stop is Phwar Saw village which is located between New Bagan and Nyaung U airport. Its population is only over 500 and the villagers earn their living by growing bean and pea, breeding cattle and making small lacquerware handicraft. A short walking tour around the village will help us learn more about their life including fetching water, directing cattle back home and preparing dinner.

The ship will anchor overnight in Bagan.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw
 
Day 07 PAGAN (B/L/D)

Today, we keep exploring Bagan's temples and visit a lacquerware workshop.

First, climb on Shwe San Daw stupa for a spectacular view over the temple plain. Next, we will visit She Zi Gon pagoda which is believed to hold hair and tooth relic of the Buddha. Khay Min Ga pagoda complex is our next stop where to learn about different architectural styles of Indian, Sri Lankan, Myanmar - Mon hybrid and Myanmar in Bagan's temples.

In the afternoon, we will pay a visit to a lacquerware workshop to experience the traditional making process of this unique handicraft. Our trip continue with Payathonezu temple complex which was built in the late 13th century with unique architecture including three-connected temples and a narrow passage. Next, we will visit the most mysterious and largest temple in Bagan - Dhamayangyi Temple before enjoy the magical sunset monent in Bagan from the top of Taung Guni temple. 

Return to the ship.

Anchor overnight in Bagan.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: RV Kalay Pandaw
 
Day 08 PAGAN (B)

Disembarkation in Pagan at 09.00 am after breakfast.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: N/A

What's Included

  • Airport or hotel transfers to/from ship on DAY 1 and DAY 8
  • Entrance fees
  • Guide services (English language)
  • Gratuities to crew
  • Main meals
  • Local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes.

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Port dues (if levied)
  • Laundry
  • All visa costs
  • Fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions)
  • All beverages except local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
  • Tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cyclo drivers.

Pre - extension

3
days
YANGON - BAGAN 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon - Bagan

2
days
MANDALAY 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay

2
days
YANGON 2 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Yangon

Post - Extension

3
days
MANDALAY - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Ava - Amarapura - Yangon

4
days
INLE LAKE - 4 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Mandalay - Inle Lake - Yangon

3
days
BAGAN - YANGON 3 DAYS

Tour Type: Private Tour

Visit: Bagan - Yangon

RV KALAY PANDAW POLICY

1. Alteration of Schedule and Cruise Itinerary

In spite of the fact that we will do our best to assure that the announced itinerary is followed at the strictest possible level, occasionally, we might have to alter or delay the schedules and itineraries in the last minute due to the uncertainty of local weather and river conditions.

2. Change Point of Embarkation and Disembarkation

If the cruise encounters difficulty in embarking and disembarking passengers at the scheduled points, RV Kalay Pandaw will bear no extra cost of transporting to and from the embarking and disembarking place except for the case that the passengers or their agents have purchased a package tour including our land services. Any reason for altering the place of embarkation and disembarkation will not be considered a reason for terminating this contract. 

3. Fuel Surcharge

The fuel costs, which have been calculated basing on the average market price, are included in the announced ticket price. If the fuel price increases by more than 10%, the company will have the right to collect charge for fuel supplement equal to the amount by which the fuel price exceeds the price stated in the contract.

4. Deposit

If you book more than 65 days in advance of the departure date, you are required to make a 30% non-refundable deposit at the booking time. The remaining amount must be paid at least 65 prior to the departure.

If you book less than 65 days in advance of the departure date, you are required to make full payment of the fare within 48 hours.

*You may be required to make higher non-refundable deposits for certain special offers. Advice for these offers will be shown to you at the time of booking.

5. Cancellation by Us

Under the circumstance that a cruise cannot be operated for passengers with confirmed bookings or departures because the number of occupied cabins is less than 5, RV Kalay Pandaw has the rights to call off the cruise. We will notify all passengers with confirmed booking about the cancellation 30 days in advance. A substitute cruise ship (with parallel itinerary and ship type) or an alternative departure date will be proposed depending on its availability.

RV Kalay Pandaw will bear or compensate any extra or difference in cruise prices. If the passengers do not agree with the alternative ship or departure, we will make full refund of the deposit amounts upon the demand of the passengers. If RV Kalay Pandaw makes cancellation of a cruise after a passenger has cancelled their bookings and paid cancellation charges (and deposit), we will make full refund upon the passenger’s request.

6. Cancellation by Customer

  • If you intend canceling your booking, you must notify us via email or fax. The applicable policy for cancellation charge will be as follows:
  • If you cancel 65 days or more prior to the departure, you will be charged 30% of the total price.
  • If you cancel 64 days or less prior to the departure, or don’t show up, you will be charged 100% of the total price.

 * When calculating the refund for your cancellation, we will deduct the wire fees and credit card commissions.

7. Children Price & Extra Bed

Children under the age of 4 may share cabin with their parent(s) without extra charge. However, RV Kalay Pandaw cannot ensure the availability of cots. Children over the age of 4 up to 18 get:

  • 50% reduction from adult price for 1 adult and 1 child staying in 1 cabin
  • 50% reduction for the child for 2 adults and 1 child staying in 2 cabins (1 cabin has no single supplement)
  • 50% reduction for the children for 2 adults and 2 children staying in 2 cabins.

For larger family groups, the price would be calculated upon request.

8. Insurance

We highly recommend that travelers have their trip cancellation covered. In this case, travelers will be repaid the cost of air ticket and other non-refundable payments for the trip. We also advise the guests to purchase insurance for medical matters, luggage loss and delay of the trip in case of unfavorable situations. RV Kalay Pandaw will not be liable for the loss of personal belongings.

9. Dietary Needs

If the guests have exceptional dietary needs, they should contact with us 30 days in advance of the departure. The cruise crew will exert all possible efforts to satisfy the exceptional dietary needs and demands depending on the availability of the goods.

10. Travelers’ Responsibilities

All the guests stepping on board should be responsible towards their co-travelers and the cruise crew. The guests are advised to analyze the conditions of the trip itinerary and have appropriate social conduct towards their co-travelers and crew members. They should thoroughly check all the safety requirements on board and during the trips.

KathieL

A Wonderful Experience

Nov 2018

The Pandaw Kalay is a very shallow draft ship, designed specifically for the shallow rivers of Burma. With just 5 cabins, the small ship offered an intimate cruising experience. We were in the huge owner's cabin, with windows curving across the front of the cabin. It was a lovely space. 

[More +]

Lindria42

We loved it!

Feb 2018

It was our first visit to Burma and our first river trip and we found the whole experience a delight. There were only 10 passengers – 4 cabins on the first deck and the Owner’s cabin on the second deck which is where we were. Dining was al fresco – a buffet breakfast, part buffet lunch and a full service dinner. The food was excellent and introduced us to some of the hotter flavours of Burmese cuisine. We were well looked after by the boat manager, Win.

[More +]
Inquire about this cruise

Myanmar River Cruise Deals

At Luxury Myanmar River Cruises, our first priority is to provide exceptional value of money with everything we deliver. One of the most effective ways to show our gratefulness to the customers is through our special offers. Every month, we constantly change our deals to include discounts and giveaways for passengers who wish to have an incredible voyage on the charming rivers of the golden land. With these special promotions, travellers will have a chance to enjoy the lavish life onboard of Myanmar River Cruises with a lower rates. We always try to create the most fascinating expeditons for each and every passenger on our ships with excitement and comfort. Luxury Myanmar River Cruise has the power to make a surprise. Let’s check out our exclusive programs and secure a place on our cruises now!

Irrawaddy Explorer

Paukan

Irrawaddy Explorer is a 5-star floating hotel which is a brand-new, deluxe, all-suite river cruiser of Paukan Cruises to ...

More

RV Paukan 2015

Paukan

Launched in 2015, the lovely Paukan Princess (RV Paukan 2015) is a charming floating hotel on the river which is the lat ...

More

RV Paukan 2012

Paukan

The RV Paukan 2012, launched in September of 2012, is one of the latest Paukan Cruises' ships running on Irrawaddy River ...

More
View all last minute deals

Let us help you find your suitable cruise

Thank you for contacting Luxury Myanmar River Cruises. Please fill out the form and advise your departure date, number of participant, length of stay, cruise line...

Send Us Your Request

Our Partners