The journey to Hsithe begins in the morning as we head north, passing by Mandalay Hill and through vast agricultural lands. Along the way, drive past authentic villages and the marble mountains that provide Amarapura’s carvers.

In Singu, board a boat for a scenic 30-minute downstream journey to Hsithe. This boat ride offers an excellent opportunity to spot various water birds, such as Ruddy shelducks, Chinese spot-billed ducks, Black kites, Ospreys, and Cormorants. Note that most of these birds are migratory, and the best time to observe them is from late November to late March. To help with identification, binoculars and bird identification sheets will be provided on the ferry boat. Upon arrival in Hsithe, take some time to explore and perhaps enjoy some light refreshments at the visitor center.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll in the village with one of the villagers as our guide. You will get to witness the fascinating local village life in all its forms, from the architecture and people to the animals, activities, and monasteries. Hsithe is a village where bullock carts and smiling children abound, and where communities carry on their daily life much as they have for centuries. In the late afternoon, you will bid farewell to this timeless idyll and board a ferry boat upriver back to Singu.

As the sun begins to set, you will be treated to a beautiful view of water birds returning home to roost in the tall trees beyond the Blue Mountains in the East. It’s a great photo opportunity, so be sure to have your camera ready!

Finally, drive back to your hotel, having enjoyed a truly unforgettable day in Hsithe.