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Pakistan Karakoram Highway Expedition
Pakistan
RV Paukan cruises the Irrawaddy River between Myanmar’s prominent cities of Bagan and Mandalay. The kingdom of Bagan dates back to the early 2nd-century BC, when more than thirteen thousand temples, pagodas and other religious structures were built. Mandalay, in comparison is fairly modern as it was created in the mid-19th-century. Its magnificent Royal Palace and great pagodas still shine with brilliance of the past. The best way to experience these two cities is on RV Paukan.
The teak-walled cabins are in colonial style while the doors and ceiling is traditional Myanmar. The modern facilities are mixed with local furniture style and fabric. The single or double beds for 55 passengers are comfortable with fine linen. For luxury-living, Paukan has deluxe and superior cabins with a French balcony and sliding windows for spectacular views of the river. But for ultimate luxury, take the beautiful suites at the bow.
The Paukan fleet, operated by Ayravata Cruises, takes its name from Paukan Rarma - a city dating back to 846 AD, which later became Bagan, the capital of the first Burmese Empire founded by King Anawrahta in the 11th century. With 29 en suite cabins spanning three decks, the boat offers a comfortable and relaxing means of experiencing life on the Irrawaddy River.
Amenities
Bar/PubConciergeRestaurantStay RV Paukan accommodates 55 passengers in 29 en-suite cabins. There are three single cabins and ten standard cabins located on the main deck that have twin beds. We recommend the Deluxe Cabins which come with a French balcony and sliding windows for spectacular views of the river, or splash out on one of the beautiful Suites at the bow. Room amenities include split air-condition, mini-bar, hot tea and coffee and electronic safe. Room size ranges between 16-21 sqm.
ChildCare Children are welcome to come on board the RV Paukan, but there are no specific facilities available.
Dine Meals on the RV Paukan, include both local and western cuisine. Vegetarian meals can be prepared when requested. Breakfast and lunch are buffet. Dinner is in the spacious dining room that serves Myanmar, Asian and European cuisine. The spacious Dining room can accommodate all 55 guests. Breakfast and Lunch are buffet while dinners are sit-down table d'hôte. The set menu offers a choice of Myanmar, spicy Asian, European cuisine and some “fusion” dishes.
Relax There is enough space on the RV Paukan to rest and relax. The teakwood sundeck partly covered by an awning is furnished with Sun Beds, Steamer Chairs and coffee table sets to allow our guests to feel the silence and the relaxing atmosphere of the great river. A wooden carved counter offers bar service with complimentary Coffee, Tea and homemade cookies from dawn to dusk. There are two massage rooms on the lower deck offering traditional Myanmar massage.
Experience In the morning, we sit outside and witness the villages coming to life as RV Paukan casts off for the cruise down to Bagan. The cultural tour of the temples can be intimidating. There are thousands to explore and only with the help of an intelligent guide can one begin to comprehend its history and purpose. The ride on a hot air balloon can provide a different perspective to an otherwise jumbled world and more importantly, great photographs for your facebook page.
Location RV Paukan is a charming boutique hotel on the Irrawaddy river that cruises between Bagan & Mandalay. It also heads north through forested gorges to Bhamo near the Chinese border. This modern but characterful vessel is beautifully furnished with a unique combination of modern and traditional motifs.
Getting There Yangon airport has undergone a major renovation and facilitates both international and domestic terminals. Cruises on the RV Paukan begin at either Bagan Aye Yar jetty in Bagan or Sagaing jetty in Mandalay. Bagan and Mandalay airports are easily accessible by air from Yangon.
When to go The best time to visit Myanmar is between October and April when the weather is dry and not so hot. At this time the warm and sunny days are ideal for sightseeing throughout the country. The temperatures start to rise in March and May to September is best avoided as this is the rainy season when sightseeing can become difficult.
Destination
Central, Myanmar
Discover sides of Asia you never knew existed, revealed by people who know every facet.
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May 04 - 19, May 19, 2025
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