Irrawaddy

Irrawaddy, also Irawadi, river, Myanmar (Burma), principal river of the country, formed in the north by the confluence of the Mali and Nmai rivers. From Myitkyina the river flows generally south for about 2,010 km (1,250 mi). Near Henzada it branches into several mouths, forming an extensive delta, and empties into the Andaman Sea. The largest tributary of the river is the Chindwin River; other tributaries include the Mu and Myitnge. In the area of Myitkyina, the Irrawaddy traverses three narrow gorges. The river is navigable by steamers all year as far north as Bhamo, a distance of about 1,400 km (870 mi); shallow-draft launches can navigate the river for another 145 km (90 mi) to Myitkyina during the low-water season from October to February. The Irrawaddy provides the main means of communication between important points in the interior and the southern port cities, especially Rangoon. In addition to Bhamo and Henzada, Irrawaddy ports include Katha, Mandalay, Myingyan, and Pye (Prome).