Pandaw
Nagaland

A Voyage to Nagaland: Pandaw Homalin to Kalewa Cruise ( Price & Bookings 2021)

The Pandaw experience is all about exploring remote and often hard-to-navigate rivers in specially designed luxury small ships.

Pandaw are pioneers in river cruise expeditions in Burma and still to this day very few, if any, vessels are able to carry passengers on these rivers.

Discover our itinerary and offer for the  7-night Chindwin cruise from Homalin to  to Kalawe in 2021.

  starting from 400$

Homalin to Kalewa Cruise: Upstream ( 8 days / 7 nights)

 

DAY 1

KALEWA

Transfer to the your Pandaw. Explore ashore visiting the local market and enjoying panoramic views over the Chindwin from top of a hill.

Kalewa is one of the largest ports on the Chindwin River and an important transshipment point for goods going to and coming from nearby India.


DAY 2

MAWLAIK

Set sail to charming Ma Sein Village and continue to Mawlaik, the former seat of the Bombay Burmah Corporation’s timber extraction operations for the Chindwin Area. The old Headquarters building still stands here.

Mawlaik replaced Kindat as the administrative capital. Like other towns of the Upper Chindwin, they can only be reached by boat so cars are few. There are many fine colonial ‘dak’ bungalows set around a golf course.


DAY  3

KINDAT

Sail to Kindat (translated in Burmese meaning a military outpost), with its old colonial post office (now a school). Also visit the tiny village of Yuwa, where previous Pandaw travellers report a delightful atmosphere from friendly locals.

The lack of information about Kindat is one of the things that makes it such an appealing place to visit. It’s so out of the way that you won’t even find it on Google Maps, with the closest marked destination being nearby Mawlaik.

Located in an incredibly sparse part of the Chindwin Valley, Kindat was once the furthest point for IFC steamers outside of monsoon season. The name Kindat translates to ‘military outpost,’ and the Myanmar kings established the destination during ancient times. Now, it’s home to an impressive colonial post office which, as you’ll see on your visit, has been transformed into a local school.

Kindat in itself is all the attraction you’ll need when you visit here. The difference found in the way of life will strike any visitor as soon as they step off the boat. This is, after all, a destination so isolated that river is the only real way to get there. Walking around the secluded streets and shacks couldn’t be further from the busy city living you might be used to in your everyday life. This, paired with the stunning sights on offer, is sure to make your trip here one to remember.

As well as being the furthest point for the IFC steamers of the past, Kindat is famed for (as you can guess by the name), its use as a military outpost.

The remnants of the past are fast fading from this location as can be evidenced by the transformation of the old post office. Mostly untouched by the outside world, Kindat is certainly a destination unlike many modern locations we know today.


DAY 4

SITTHAUNG

Continuing upstream we sail to Sitthaung, the final resting place of a number of Irrawaddy Flotilla Company steamers scuppered there in 1942 in an ‘act of denial’ from the advancing Japanese who were a matter of hours behind. Remains of these ships can be found here.

It was from here that the survivors of the Japanese invasion marched out to Tamu on the India border. Pantha was an important oil refinery belonging to the Indo-Burma Petroleum Co (Steel Brothers). We also explore Paungpyin village and take a walking tour including a visit to the market and the attractive wooden houses.

 


DAY 5

TOUNGDOOT

Morning visit to Toungdoot or Hsawng-hsup in Tai, is an ancient Shan enclave who in British times still had a ruling Sawbwa complete with palace and court. It will be interesting to see what has become of the royal family and their home and to see these Shan people so far from their Tai-Shan homelands.

Alistair McCrae wrote of his visit there 1935 ‘I loved the atmosphere of quiet and peaceful living there. At night I could hear greylag geese as they came into the flooded land around us from far away north.


DAY 6

KHAMTI

Scenic explorations upstream into the remote Nagaland. Afternoon arrive at Khamti, known as ‘the land full of gold’ due to the prevalence of gold panning in the nearby tributary of the Chindwin. We visit the town, the monastery meet local Tai speaking peoples.

Khamti is known as ‘the land full of gold’.


DAY 7

NAGALAND

Morning visit to Khampti market and sail the Chindwin today towards Homalin stopping at villages not used to western travellers.

The State of Nagaland was inaugurated back in 1963, and is the 16th State of the Indian Union. It is surrounded by Assam to the west, Burma (Myanmar) to the east, Arunachal Pradesh to the North and Manipur to the South. Within the state, there are 11 Administrative Districts, which are inhabited by 16 major tribes as well as numerous sub-tribes.

Each tribe has its own distinct culture, customs, language and dress, making Nagaland one of the most wonderfully diverse places in India to visit.

Life in Nagaland is much now as it has been for centuries, slow and relaxed, free of the high-tech encumbrances of the modern world.

Nagaland’s remote and largely unspoilt natural beauty makes it the perfect spot for travellers wanting to see a glimpse of India before it became a thriving hub of industry and commerce. As you explore this state on our river cruises you’ll get the chance to explore a number of villages, many of which are not accustomed to western visitors. And don’t forget to stop by the Khampti market to pick up some totally unique gifts and mementos to commemorate a trip that you’ll never forget.

No trip to Nagaland is complete without a visit to the state museum in Kohima, where you can learn all about this fascinating land and the equally fascinating naga people who inhabit, seeing numerous artefacts of the various naga tribes that call this state home.

 


 

DAY 8

HOMALIN

Morning visit Homalin, an interesting town close to the Indian border with attractive forested mountains on either side – some rising to over 9,000 feet. Irrawaddy Flotilla Company used to visit here and during World War II, Homalin was occupied by the Japanese. Disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight.

 

*This cruise is available Downstream as well (Holomin – Kalewa). Please contact us for more details & bookings.

 

Cabin Prices

SAILINGS

Mandalay – Bagan

Main Deck TwinUpper Deck Twin
Rate per personSingle Suppl.Rate per personSingle Suppl.
(2 people sharing)(2 people sharing)
4 Nights$3915$3915$5017$5017

Departure Dates Pandaw Cruise 2021 / 2022

 

YearJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC
202113 27

6 20

25 

19

20228 22

1 15 29

 

 

 

Upstream (Kalewa to Homalin)

Downstream (Homalin to Kalewa)

*Rates are based per person / on double/twin cabin occupancy, single cabin suppl. apply.

Rates quoted in this agreement are valid from 1st November 2010 to 30th December 2021.

 

WHAT IS INCLUDED

Cruise Price Includes: Transfers to/from ship on DAY 1 and DAY 5 as described. Entrance fees, guide services (English language), gratuities to crew, main meals, local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes. Use of quality mountain bikes for independent exploration.

Cruise Price Excludes: International flights, port dues (if levied), laundry, all visa costs, fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions), all beverages except local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes and tips to tour guides, local guides, bus drivers, boat operators and cycle drivers.

 

Each Pandaw River Cruise Customer will receive

  • Welcome cocktail party
  • Signature hors d’oeuvres at cocktails each evening
  • Afternoon tea with cakes or cookies when cruising
  • Celebration cake and champagne on birthdays and anniversaries
  • Cookery demonstrations and classes using local produce
  • All scheduled excursions
  • At least two cultural performances per cruise
  • Tour of the engine rooms, galley and working parts of the ship
  • Film presentations on local culture and history
  • Local mineral water
  • Cold towels on deck all day
  • Jugged coffee, tea and tisanes on deck from sunrise till sunset
  • Crew gratuities are included in your cruise program price

Other Things Not Included

  • Spa service including foot, head and body massages (Mekong only)
  • Personal laundry service
  • All drinks except local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes

 

TRANSFERS & JOINING

DAY 1 KALEWA
Fly from Yangon or Mandalay to Kalay and transfer to your your ship in Kalewa.

For flight from Yangon: Registration at 10:30am at Sule Shangri-La Hotel.

For flight from Mandalay: We will pick you up from your hotel in Mandalay between 12:30 and 13:00.

Please note that flight times might change.

Yangon – Kalay K7-226 1300-1530 (Via MDL)
Mandalay – Kalay K7-226 1440-1530 (Direct)

DAY 8 HOMALIN
Disembark and transfer to the airport for the flight to Mandalay. Please note that flight times might change.

Homalin – Mandalay UB-586 1610-1720 (Direct) May – Sep

RIVER CONDITIONS WARNING

The rivers you will sail on are subject to seasonal rises and falls of water level, in some places as much as 30 metres. Water levels can change dramatically overnight and a sudden rise can impede our progress upstream considerably and even prevent us from passing under certain bridges. A sudden fall can result in our being unable to get into certain places or go as far upstream as we would hope. Groundings on sandbars are not infrequent and are part of the excitement of any Pandaw expedition.

Published itineraries are indicative only and subject to sudden change. In such events alternative itineraries will be provided and we do our best to ensure that if a stop is missed we make up for it with another stop.

Passengers are thus forewarned and expected to be flexible and patient. River cruising in Asia can be a dramatic and adventurous experience – not like cruising the controlled waterways of Europe or America. Note also that we operate in areas with little or no developed infrastructure and subject to the strictures of local officialdom. Be prepared for this and it is all more the fun!

For itineraries that include flights in the price of the ticket it should be noted that regional airlines can change departure times or cancel flights at very short notice. In such an event we endeavour to arrange alternative flights but note that this can result in delays often resulting in embarking or disembarking on a different day to that indicated in the itinerary. In such an event the company will cover the cost of hotel accommodation and main meals only, but will not be liable for any claims for compensation for missed days on board a ship, drinks or curtailment of the said itinerary.

 

 

 

RV Kalay Pandaw

The Kalay Pandaw was built in Mandalay in 2013 by our own team from within the company. This river yacht was built for private friend and family charters with just six staterooms including once huge ‘Owner’s Suite’ on the upper deck. This is probably our most charming and fun ship. Most passengers prefer to eat on the open deck though when cold up river in winter it is possible to sit everyone down in the little saloon. With her very light draft the Kalay has these past years been on the Upper Chindwin.

 

ACCOMMODATION

  • 1 upper deck owners suite, 4 main deck staterooms
  • 180 square feet (17sqm), finished in teak and brass
  • Panoramic French window
  • Kimonos and slippers
  • Spa-branded amenities
  • Unlimited mineral water
  • Electric mini safe
  • Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows
  • Premium mattresses
  • Convertible bed configuration
  • Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift
  • Mirror
  • Multi-configuration plugs
  • Generous closet space and under-bed storage
  • Hair dryer
  • Daily nightly turndown service
  • 24h laundry service
  • Complimentary evening canapés
  • Yoga mats in all cabins

 

WINING & DINING

  • Local masterchef heading an experienced international culinary team
  • Personalized meal services
  • Daily lean & light menu options
  • Complimentary local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes
  • Extensive wine list with premium wines
  • Welcome drink on arrival
  • Welcome cocktail
  • Farewell reception
  • Theme dinners

 

 

Terms and Conditions

  1. 1. Travel Terms & Conditions

    The purchase of any travel services offered by MyanMarvels Travel and Tours, constitutes a contractual arrangement between you (the Traveler) and MyanMarvels Travel and Tours, based in Yangon, Myanmar, and represents your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand the Terms & Conditions prior to booking.

    Important Notes

    • Cruises departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change
    • A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required for MyanMarvels Travel and Tours to secure the cabin for you.

    The following charges are not included in the river cruise holiday  price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; domestic flights, unless specified in the itinerary; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; port fee, unless specified in the itinerary; guide tips, alcoholic drinks unless specified in the cruise itinerary, Myanmar Visa, Vaccinations, Travel Insurance, Laundry, Telephone.

     

    2. PRICE GUARANTEE Once you have paid in full for your trip, you are safe from any additional charges.

     

    Cruise Price

    The ‘Myanmar Cruises Price’ is the total amount listed on your itinerary. All Tour Prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars. MyanMarvels Travel and Tours reserves the right to vary Cruise Prices at any time to account for any increase in costs, including but not limited to airfares, fuel, government taxes and charges, exchange rate fluctuations or other tour related costs or tariffs. If payment if received received the full amount of the River Cruise from the customer , there will be no increases to your Cruise price, regardless of any increases in the tour costs inside or outside of our control.

    Incoming Taxes. Sales taxes assessed by Myanmar & Local authorities  as identified on your itinerary are included in the Cruise Price.

    3, Booking/Payment.

    Booking / Deposit. You must pay the deposit listed on the itinerary (the “Deposit”) within 5 days of booking your travel. Your Booking will be automatically canceled if your Deposit is not received by MyanMarvels Travel and Tours on or before the due date. A 20% deposit of your total booking value with Pandaw is required upon confirmation and is non-refundable.

    Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable, except as otherwise expressly stated herein.

    Final Payment. The balance of the Tour Price must be paid no later than 90 days prior to the tour departure date. Failure to pay the balance within 90 days of the tour departure date will result in cancellation of your trip and loss of the Deposit.

    Please note that the remitting party must cover their own bank charges.

    Bookings Within 90 Days. If you place a river cruise booking with MyaMarvels Travel and Tours within 90 days or less of your chosen departure date, full payment of the Tour Price is required before we can request and confirm your booking. If the tour is not able to be fully confirmed, then we will refund all funds paid to us, and MyanMarvels Travel and Tours will have no further obligations or liability to you in respect of your booking.

    INFORMATION REQUIRED

    • Full name as in your passport
    • Date of birth
    • Full passport details
    • Email address & Phone Number
    • Disabilities
    • Medical conditions
    • Dietary restrictions you make known to river cruise company
    • Emergency contact (non-participant)

    If any additional information is required, it will be requested from you with your reservation.

    4. CANCELLATIONS Terms for Pandaw River Cruise Ships:

    No OF DAYS’ NOTICE PRIOR TO CRUISE COMMENCEMENT – CANCELLATION CHARGE (per person)

    • 90 days and greater Loss of the  Deposit
    • 89-60 days 35% of Cruise Price
    • 59-30 days 50% of Cruise Price
    • Less than 30 days 100% of Cruise Price

     

    5. Cruise Variation, Cancellation or Delay.

    Itinerary Variations. While MyanMarvels  Travel and Tours & its local cruise partners will make reasonable efforts to operate the tour in accordance with your itinerary, changes or substitutions may be necessary for reasons outside Cruise company control or other Force Majeure Events.

    On tours that include cruises, the ship may be changed due to operational reasons. For departures in early and late season operated in cool weather conditions, itinerary variations may occur and certain activities may not be available due to seasonality or weather conditions. Availability of certain activities may also be limited due to itinerary variations.

    Minimum Required Bookings. Your booking is conditional on Pandaw River Cruise Myanmar receiving a minimum number of bookings to operate the tour and ensure an enjoyable group atmosphere.

    For cruise departures where occupancy is less than 5 cabins the company reserve the right to cancel the departure giving all passengers with confirmed bookings 30 days prior notice of this intention. An alternative departure date will be offered subject to availability. If this alternative date is not acceptable to the passenger any down payments made for the cancelled cruise will be refunded. In the event that a passenger has cancelled and paid cancellation fees and the Company subsequently cancel that departure then any cancellation fees (and down payment) will be refunded in full on the request of the passenger. The company reserves the right to change a cabin allocated without notice and in the event that a passenger is downgraded to a cheaper cabin then the difference in cost between the cabins will be refunded to the passenger or the passenger’s agents.

    MyanMarvels Travel and Tours  will endeavor to notify you of any changes to your tour itinerary in the following  manner: (a) if prior to  your tour departure, we will notify you by telephone, email or mail; and (b) if during your tour, personally by your Cruise Director.

    6. Force Majeure. For the purposes of these terms and conditions, a ‘Force Majeure Event’ means any act of God; war; terrorism; fire; flood or any other extreme weather condition; loss of power; epidemics or pandemics; industrial disputes, slow-downs or other strike activities; riots or civil disturbances; acts of government, semi-government or other authorities; inability to obtain any necessary license or consent; delays caused by subcontractors, suppliers or other third parties (including telecommunications carriers); material shortages; or other any other disruption, delay, damage or loss resulting from any action, omission or event outside the reasonable control of Pandaw River Cruise.

    You hereby acknowledge and agree that Pandaw River Cruise is not liable for any delay or any failure by Pandaw River Cruise to perform its obligations under these Terms and Conditions resulting from or as a consequence of a Force Majeure Event. lf a delay or failure occurs or is anticipated due to Force Majeure Event, Pandaw River Cruise obligations are suspended for the duration of the Force Majeure Event. If the Force Majeure Event delays performance for a period of 7 days or more, calculated from the date MyanMarvels notifies you of the Force Majeure Event, then MyanMarvels may terminate this agreement and, in such event, you will be issued a future travel credit equal to the amount You paid to MyanMarvels hereunder, less any non-refundable third-party costs. Please note that you are limited to the future travel credit and will not be entitled to a cash refund.

    In these circumstances, Pandaw will offer all affected bookings an alternative departure date and itinerary. If no suitable alternative can be offered, a credit for future cruise will be provided for the guests to make a new booking at a later date. In the event of a cruise being cancelled as a result of the above force majeure situations following the commencement of that cruise period then Pandaw is under no obligation to provide any such offer.

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