THEGREATIRRAWADDYDELTA
Rangoon - Bassein - Rangoon
Overview
The Irrawaddy Delta covers over 1,000 square miles. Originally a vast inhabited wetland and jungle, much of it was cleared and cultivated by the British who annexed Lower Burma in 1855. It subsequently became the rice basket of Asia feeding much of the Indian Raj. During this period of prosperity, a number of rice towns developed in the colonial style. By the 1920s, the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company operated over 100 creek steamers across the Delta connecting these towns and villages at a time when there were neither roads nor bridges.
There are seven main channels forming a complex labyrinth of waterways understood only by the most experienced pilots. In the backwaters, there is the feel of Kerala, on the larger channels it could be New Orleans and the Deep South.
Contrary to expectation these great wetlands are not monotonous at all and there is considerable human interest in the form of pretty towns, markets, temples, churches and mosques. There is also profuse bird life in the less populated areas. Our 10 night programme enables relaxed exploration of this fascinating region, starting and returning to Rangoon with time to explore the rich architectural treasures of the Deltaic capital not to mention the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda and outstanding collection of Buddhist art in the National Museum.
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Expedition Route
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represented by Sayang Holidays
10 NIGHTS from USD 4,950 per person
CHECK AVAILABILITY & BOOK ONLINEYour Journey
RANGOON
Transfer from airport to the Strand Road jetty and embark on your Pandaw. Evening visit to the Shwedagon Pagoda followed by dinner on board.
RANGOON HERITAGE TRAIL
Morning tour of Rangoon’s colonial architectural heritage with the highlight of a private tour of the Secretariat, the heart of government for colonial Burma and post Independence the place where General Aung San and his cabinet were martyred. Visit the RC cathedral, the largest church in Asia. Lunch in one of Rangoon’s smart new ‘tea houses’ followed by a visit to the National Museum.
RANGOON - PYAPON
Early morning departure from Rangoon via the Twante Canal stopping at Twante to view the potteries and on to Pyapon (64miles) a delightful delta town and seaport with lively docks and markets.
PYAPON - BOGALE
Bogale is at the heart of the delta and once a Mon capital and trading port connected to international trading routes between the 15th and 18th centuries. It features the only mangrove ecosystem reserve in the Delta. A visit to the monastery of the town will be organized.
BOGALE - MYAUNGMYA
This will be the most fascinating day’s sailing as we weave through creeks and channels cross-country across the heart of the delta. We will stop for a walk about in a suitable village.
MYAUNGMYA - BASSEIN
Morning cruise across the final section of delta to join the great Bassein River that takes us up to Bassein, the capital of the delta and an important seaport too. Of interest here are the traditional umbrella manufacturies, where the typical monk’s waxed cloth umbrellas are made. On foot we will explore the town, its shrines and vibrant markets.
BASSEIN
Pathein or Bassein is the second largest port in Burma, where the river meets the sea and is full of interest.
BASSEIN - WAKEMA
Morning departure with lunch to follow, taking the more usual upper delta route of the old IFC ‘launch service’ between Rangoon and Bassein. Evening exploration of this attractive river port.
WAKEMA - MAUBIN
On these busier channels there will be a variety of shipping whilst the riverbanks team with life and activity. Maubin is a very pleasant place to enjoy a sunset walk along its colourful strand.
MAUBIN - RANGOON
Morning run crossing the Twante Canal and home to the Rangoon River in time for lunch. Afternoon at leisure for a downtown walkabout or drive to the Scott Market. Farewell dinner with classical musicians on your Pandaw.
DEPARTURES FROM RANGOON
Transfers to airport for outbound flights. Lunch on board for afternoon flyers.
Available
Extensions
What's Included
Included in Your Journey
Cruise Price Includes: Entrance fees, guide services (English language), gratuities to crew, main meals, local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes plus our Burma complimentary drinks package
Not Included
Cruise Price Excludes: 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.
Joining & Transfers
Embarkation & Disembarkation
Day 1 — Embarkation
Day 11 — Disembarkation
More Information
Visa Information
Click here to apply for your Myanmar visa.
Travel Insurance
You can compare and apply for travel insurance at www.insubuy.com
Check Availability & Book Online
or call TOLL FREE 1-877-872-6329
represented by Sayang Holidays
10 NIGHTS from USD 4,950 per person
CHECK AVAILABILITY & BOOK ONLINE