Burma (Myanmar) River Cruises

Tales from the riverbank

Also known as ‘The Elephant River’, the Irrawaddy begins high in the snow-capped Himalayas then flows down through the center of Myanmar, before throwing itself into the Andaman Sea. Along the way, hundreds if not thousands of temples, stupas and nats line its banks.

From your floating hotel you will be able to watch the routines and rituals of the communities that live alongside the river. Scenes of livestock being tended, women washing clothes, children collecting water for cooking, men hauling sacks of farm produce onto barges are the norm. And then there are the fishing boats, big and small, bobbing up and down as they seek their quarry and the commercial cargo vessels that tow impossibly long loads along the mighty, snaking river.

It is nothing less than a privilege, and so exciting, to see it all at close quarters.

What do you see? The most magnificent sight of the river waters shifting colour, from blue to turquoise to sandy to brown, lapping at the distant shore while all manner of fascinating boat traffic passes by. If it wasn’t for the vast and scrummy breakfast that awaits, you could lie here forever, transfixed.

Most cruises take in Mingun, home of the world’s largest ringing bell and the ancient kingdom of Ava (sometimes called Inwa); it’s also possible to go further up river, depending on the route taken. Voyages last between three and seven nights.

Luxury onboard lifestyle

Imagine waking up in your air-conditioned cabin, in your king-sized bed, being served tea by your butler and having your curtain drawn back.

Unlike accommodation in Burma generally, which tends to be limited, with river cruises you’ll be spoilt for choice and types of ship available. There are options to suit all budgets but nowhere is the old adage ‘you get what you pay for’ more apt.

Burma is fortunate to have two exceptional companies, Belmond and The Strand Cruise, vying for the top spot each operating luxurious boats where your every need is anticipated and your every whim is attended to. There are other quality options too which we can wholeheartedly recommend.