Pandaw Announces New Myanmar Itinerary

Pandaw has announced the launch of a new seven-night itinerary on Myanmar's Chindwin River, exploring the region of Nagaland, beyond Homalin and close to the Indian border.

The journey is only possible on Pandaw's ultra-low draught Kalay Pandaw in September 2015 when the water levels are high enough to sail in this area, the company said in a release. 

"Our short series of cruises this September are a one-off opportunity for travelers to discover this remote region from the comfort and style of the beautiful 5-stateroom Kalay Pandaw," said Hugh Clayson, Pandaw’s commercial director.

During the voyage, guests will be able to explore the colonial history and architecture of Mawlaik, such as the "Dak Bungalows" set around an old golf course. In Sitthaung, guests will see where the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers were scuppered in 1942 in an ‘act of denial’ from the advancing Japanese who were a matter of hours behind. Homalin will offer the chance to explore the Buddha Lotus Garden. The itinerary will also stops at local villages in Nagaland, with chances to meet the Naga people, and Khamti, known as ‘the land full of gold’ due to the prevalence of gold panning in the nearby tributary of the Chindwin.

The seven-night itinerary departs September 12, 19 and 26. Rates start from $3500 per person sharing a twin main deck stateroom. Cruise price includes domestic flights Yangon or Mandalay-Kalewa and Homalin-Yangon or Mandalay, entrance fees, guide services, main meals, locally made soft drinks, local beer and local spirits, jugged coffee and selection of teas, mineral water, crew gratuities, quality mountain bikes available for independent exploration. Cruise price excludes international flights, port dues (if levied), laundry, all visa costs, fuel surcharges, imported beverages such as wines, premium spirits and liqueurs, fancy soft drinks and tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cyclo drivers.