Meet with the guide at the hotel or airport in the morning then transfer to the jetty to board the MS Hintha, a small cruise boat specialising in river tours around the Mandalay region.

Cruise upstream to the village of Sithe, located in the Irrawaddy River Dolphin Conservation Area. Along the way, enjoy a scrumptious lunch onboard the boat. After arrival, take an evening stroll through the small village here for a look at the charming local life of the area. Dinner is  served on a large sandbank on the side of the river offering supreme views of the scenic surroundings.

After dinner, return to the boat and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure, tucking into accommodation onboard the boat later in the evening.

Overnight onboard MS Hintha

After breakfast, return to Sithe and visit the Harrison Institute, a British NGO focused on environmental issues. The Harrison Institute has developed a great community-based tourism experience that’s as enjoyable for those taking part in it as it is beneficial to locals in the area. 

Spend the morning learning traditional fishing methods from the villagers themselves. With a bit of luck, it’s possible to spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins playing in the waters nearby.

Return to the village for lunch, then head upstream to the town of Kyaikmyaung. Famous for its clay pottery, the local Martaban jars can be found all over Myanmar. See the amazing kilns where two men stand on top of each other. The pottery is not limited to these giant jars, smaller versions can be bought throughout town.

Return to the boat for dinner and overnight.

Overnight on MS Hintha

While enjoying breakfast, the boat will cruise along the river towards Sheinmaga. This beautiful little town and its old-style houses features a wonderful monastery located on a cliff. Stroll through the picturesque town and watch friendly locals doing their daily chores at a leisurely peace.

Leaving Sheinmaga, head downstream to the town of Mingun. Here, pay a visit to the giant Mantara Gyi, destroyed by an earthquake in 1839 together with its guardian lions that measured an incredible 100 feet in height. Miraculously, the bell designed for the pagoda survived the quake and can be seen here to this very day. With a weight of 90 tons it is the largest intact bell in the world. A visit to the snow-white Mya Theindan stupa rounds up the visit. Upon returning to the boat, cruise back to Mandalay.    

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for the conclusion of the tour.