Burma & the Gorges of the Bhamo

Board the Sanctuary Ananda this morning. While most river ships head south, our captain will point the bow in a northerly direction. We spend the day acquainting ourselves with life on the Irrawaddy. Later, there will be a reception of drinks and canapes followed by a lavish Welcome Dinner on board.

In the charming pottery village of Nwe Nyein, watch craftsmen create beautiful pots as they work potters’ wheels with their legs. Back on board, we learn about Burmese traditions such as sarong tying and make-up techniques. The remainder of the day is spent travelling through soul-stirring riverscapes to Kyar Nyat, where the Sanctuary Ananda will dock for the night.

Arriving in the ancient walled town of Tagaung, fascinating archaeological sites dating back to the Pyu Dynasty await our discovery. We continue our voyage upriver toward the town of Katha, aiming for an early morning arrival. An evening lecture, held on board, on Myanmar’s history is sure to be an enlightening affair.

The languid current guiding our path, a morning meditation session is held on the Sun Deck. At the same time, intricacies of Burmese cuisine are enlightened by our chef. In Katha, tuk tuks ferry us to the colonial splendour of the former British Club, which was used as a literary retreat by George Orwell when writing Burmese Days.