interesting places in mandalay essay

17 Awesome Places To Visit In Mandalay, Myanmar (+ Bonus Tips)

There are so many places to visit in Mandalay, but I was surprised to know how travelers often overlook this lovely city.

For many, it is a stopover to move to Bagan , Inle Lake or further up to Lashio, or maybe the starting or the ending city in their Myanmar trip.

It is a shame because I guess this city is so underrated. Beautiful pagodas , the Irrawaddy river, ancient buildings with enriching architecture and history are some of the things to do in Mandalay.  

Mandalay deserves at least a day or two in your Myanmar itinerary. If you don’t believe me, read further to find out everything in this Mandalay travel guide.

Places To Visit In Mandalay

1. mandalay palace.

Among the top Mandalay attractions are the Royal Mandalay Palace or Mya Nan San Kyaw Palace, which was the centre of the seat of the power for many decades.

Most of the Palace area was destroyed in World War II bombing, and have been rebuilt in the 1990s.

There are a lot of things to see and know in Mandalay Palace, including many rooms that now house the collection of the Burmese Royalty.

The combo ticket allows you free entry, and you can reach the premises by walk if you are staying in the downtown area.

2. The Wooden Monastery of Shwenandaw Kyaung

Close to Mandalay Palace is Shwenandaw Kyaung monastery made of teak wood. It is called Golden Palace Monastery as it was a part of the Palace during the 19th century.

It was an important monastery for the royal family and hence is grandly built. Don’t forget to check the intricate carvings on the wooden walls.

Editor’s note: How to reach Inle Lake from Mandalay – Bus or boat?

3. Kuthodaw Pagoda – World’s Largest Book

Do you want to see the world’s largest book? Then head to Kuthodaw Pagoda in Mandalay. It is not an actual book and it is the world’s largest because of the time needed to finish this book!

The book is 729 stone pages or stupas, which contain the Buddhist scriptures. It is estimated that it takes more than a year to read the inscriptions.

The series of stupas arranged to form pages of a book, which look splendid, towering at over two meters in height.  Kuthodaw is surely one of the best places to visit in Mandalay.

No need for an entry fee with Mandalay archaeological zone ticket.

4. Maha Myat Muni Pagoda – Watch The Bathing Ceremony

One of the awesome places to visit in Mandalay is Maha Myat Muni Pagoda. It is not yet another temple in Mandalay. It is the most sacred site for the locals in the city.

Head to  Maha Myat Muni Pagoda  to see Buddha wrapped in golden leaves, which is worshipped every day by people offering gold leaves.

This huge Buddha statue is decorated with at least six inches of gold. 

Sadly, women can not(but why?) but men can offer gold leaf to Buddha. Visit this temple to admire the beautiful statue.

Every morning, monks bathe Buddha an apply Thanaka to his face, a ritual which is witnessed by hundreds. You can join in to see the unique tradition.

Editor’s note: How To Get From Bagan To Mandalay? – Should You Take The Boat?

5. Mingun Pahtodawgyi – The Unfinished Pagoda

Mingun is located about 11km from the city centre of Mandalay on the banks of the Irrawaddy and is home to some attractions.

The most popular of them is Mingun Pahtodawgyi. It is a huge temple, which has an unfinished tower at the top, which would make it the largest at about 500 feet.

The construction of the temple began in 1790 by King Bodawpaya.

It is said that the King stopped the construction of the temple half-way when an astrologer in his court proclaimed that completing the pagoda would bring King’s death.

So it was never finished, and today, the walls bear the cracks that occurred during an earthquake. It is one of those few structures that still sizzles in ruins.

6. Hsinbyume Pagoda – For Instagram Worthy Shots

Close to Mingun Pahtodawgyi is the White Temple, or Hsinbyume Pagoda , which is a must attraction in Mandalay for all Instagram lovers. It is also called Sat Taw Yar Pagoda or Mya Theindan Pagoda.

It is known for the waves like carved walls around the temple, which makes it look splendid.

The stairs leading to the temple will give you some great angles for pictures. You can walk to all the levels through these stairs.

Until a few years ago, it was not that popular among travelers, but thanks to Insta shots, it is one of the must-visit places in Mandalay these days.

Editor’s note: A guide to spending 3 days in Yangon, the Quirky Capital

7. Places to visit in Mandalay – Mingun Bell – Largest Ringing Bell

As you can see, Mandalay city has a handful of attractions with world records.

One of them which makes to the list of places to Visit in Mandalay is The Mingun Bell, which was built to go with the unfinished pagoda or Mingun Pahtodawgyi.

This 13-feet tall bell weighs more than 90 tons and is the world’s second-largest ringing bell, which makes it worth a visit.

8. Sandamuni Pagoda – For World’s Largest Iron Buddha

Close to Mandalay hill is the Sandamuni Pagoda, which makes it ideal to stop before heading to the hill for sunset.

Sandamuni Pagoda houses the largest Iron Buddha statue, which is built from over 40,000 pounds of Iron.

There is a huge stupa, which is surrounded by hundreds of smaller ones, making it a great place to visit in Mandalay for photography lovers. 

Getting to Mingun from Mandalay

You can take a ferry from Mandalay to Mingun, which starts in the morning from Myan Gyan Jetty around 8:30 AM.

The problem is if you miss this, there are no boats, and also, if you want to come back by ferry, you would have to stick to the return ferry timing, which is in the afternoon and plan your day around it.

You will have half a day and is perfect if that’s your ideal time to explore Mingun

So if you don’t want to feel anxious and have time, I would suggest reaching Mingun by renting a motorbike or a tuk-tuk. If you are in a group, you can also get by car, which is economical.

Check with your hostel/hotel for transport options as their prices are slightly better sometimes.

Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket

The most economical way to explore all the places to visit in Mandalay is to go for this.

One of the unique things in Mandalay, there is a combo ticket available for attractions that fall in Mandalay Archaeological Zone. It is valid for one week, and at just 10,000 Kyat, it’s a steal deal. 

What is covered?

You can visit Shwenandaw and Atu Mashi monasteries, The Royal Palace, The Mandalay Cultural Museum and all the sites in Inwa that include Nan Myint Watch Tower, Yandina Sine Pagoda, Mai Nu Monastery and Bagaya Monastery.

What is not covered?

The entry to these places is not covered in the Mandalay archaeological zone ticket.

Mandalay Hill – 1000 Kyat

Mingun and Saigang Hill combo ticket – 5000 Kyat, which covers all attractions.

More Places To Visit In Mandalay

1. hike to mandalay hill for gorgeous views.

One of the top places to visit in Mandalay is Mandalay Hill.

This small hill is famous for its stunning panoramic views of the city, especially during the sunset when hundreds of tourists gather at the top. 

If you want to hike up, it takes about 45 minutes to one hour. You can also go by a tuk-tuk or a cab. There are elevators once you reach the entry point. 

It is best recommended to start before the sunset. It is close to the city centre and is not hard to reach. There is no entry fee, but if you want to use your camera, it costs 1000 Kyat.

2. Take a stroll on the world’s longest wooden bridge

All those wondering what to do in Mandalay should check out the iconic U-Bein Bridge across the Taungthaman Lake in Amarapura. For starters, at over 2km, it is the oldest and longest teak footbridge in the world, which was built in the 1850s.

It is still in use connecting people on two sides of the lake. Witnessing a sunrise or a sunset from this bridge is one of the top things to do in Mandalay.

Many people say sunrise is better here as there are very few people. I, not a morning person at all, went during the sunset and enjoyed the stunning views.

You can also opt for guided sunrise and sunset tours, both private and groups.

You can also take up bike tours to enjoy a bike ride along the lake. I’d recommend these tours if you are traveling in groups for the best value of money and experience.

3. Hike to Sagaing Hill

Sagaing Hill is located on the banks of Irrawaddy close to Mandalay.

It is one of those beautiful places to get away from the city to enjoy these stunning views and serenity overlooking the river. 

You can see over 500 monasteries peeking between greenery, with their golden towers beautifying the view. Sagaing Hill was love at first sight for me. 

You can easily spend half a day or more on this hill visiting these monuments. If you are short on time, you can combine it with Mingun or Inwa (Ava).

If time is not your constraint, the best way to plan your trip is to make this a day trip from Mandalay. Keep at least 6 to 7 hours including the evening for sunset.

Start from the 30 Caves Pagoda or U Min Thoze Caves, which is a lovely crescent-shaped temple.

There are about 45 images of Buddha seated in cave-like structures. The view from the pagoda is equally good.

Later check out Ywahtaung village, where you will see the art of smithing practised by the local community.

Next head to Kaunghmudaw Pagoda, which is inspired by a white temple in Sri Lanka. This egg-shaped temple was once white as well but is now painted gold. Worth stopping for a while.

When it is the time for sunset, head to Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda, which is the most popular of all. A short climb later, you’ll be rewarded with majestic panoramic views and simple architecture of the pagoda. 

Watch the myriad of colours as the sun sets across the river and head back to Mandalay or continue your journey further after a fulfilling day at Sagaing Hill.

Entry Fee: You can buy the entry at 5,000 Kyat, which gives access to attractions in both Sagaing and Mingun.

4. Enjoy a Swim at Dee Doke Waterfalls

Dee Doke is a cascade of waterfalls, with beautiful turquoise pools, and is a perfect option from Mandalay to get away for a relaxed day.

It takes about 1 hour to get to Dee Doke from the city centre of Mandalay, covering a distance of about 50 km. 

The tiered waterfalls have pools in between, which are lovely and best for swimming, making it one of the recommended places to visit in Mandalay.

Take care of the slippery path and the rocks in between as they are dangerous. Avoid diving or jumping in and going out of marked trails. 

Carry modest swimsuits as Myanmar is still conservative. Also, take some snacks and drinks with you for a picnic.

You can get there by hiring a tuk-tuk or a cab. You can also drive if you don’t mind the adventurous roads and distance. 

5. Visit the Gold Leaf Makers of Mandalay

In Mandalay, it is a tradition to offer gold leaves in pagodas. It is a unique tradition practised by people here as Mandalay is the centre of gold leaf industry .   

The gold leaves are carefully carved by hands by hundreds of locals in many factories in the city. 

You can take a tour for free by attending one of these workshops, where you will see the end-to-end process of making a gold leaf, which is quite interesting.

Head to 36th and 78th streets ask for these shops, and you will find many. The locals are more than welcome to show you around. If you like, you can also purchase these as they are perfect for souvenirs. 

6. Hike to the base of Dat Taw Gyaint Waterfall

At 120-meter in height, the sight of Dat Taw Gyaint is one of those to behold. If you want a hike amidst mountains, then this waterfall will be good for a day trip from Mandalay. 

You have to get to the entry point which is about 50km from Mandalay. Take a cab or a tuk-tuk or if you love driving, rent a motorbike, load your map and drive for about an hour.

Start your hike wearing good hiking shoes, a pair of clothes if you want to swim(the possibility of this depends on the season and water levels).

Start your day early because you also have to come back and the trail is not good and would be difficult if it gets dark.

Also, there are some small shops selling snacks and drinks. Pack some food and water, sunscreen, and a spare set of clothes. 

7. Check out local life at  Zegyo Market  

If you are like me who like visiting local markets, you are in luck when in Mandalay because the city boasts of quite a few markets – one each for vegetables, seafood, fish and everything else. 

If you don’t have the time to visit all of these, at least don’t miss checking out the largest market in Mandalay – Zay Cho or Zegyo Market.

You will be astonished to find how wide the range of products is, from seafood to meat to electronics to kitchenware. It is one of those cool places to watch local life go by.

8. Watch the Sunset on the Irrawaddy

Watching a sunset on the Irrawaddy is one of the must-have experiences when in Mandalay.

You can watch the magical sunset from climbing one of the hills as mentioned above, but even better if you can take up a sunset boat tour.

With a beer in hand, quietly watching the sun go down across the river is one of the amazing things to do in Mandalay. Just walk to any of the piers and book a short tour on the spot, it’s that easy.

There are many restaurants along the riverfront offering splendid views. You can plan for an early dinner by going to one of these restaurants where you can enjoy sunset plus roof-top dining.

Where to stay in Mandalay?

Hotels in Mandalay come in all budget ranges. It is also not difficult to find accommodation in Mandalay. The most popular areas are around the city centre.

But unlike other cities, the attractions are far off and hence it which part of the city you choose doesn’t really matter.

Because you will have to use some kind of transport for getting around Mandalay.

Tip: Note that unlike other towns in Myanmar, free early check-in is not a norm in Mandalay.

If you are taking a night bus, you will still have to pay almost a day’s price if you want to check-in during the odd hours of the morning.

You certainly will need a place as you would be dropped off around 3 to 4 AM!

So be ready to pay once you arrive or better, check with your hotel before you reach on whether early check-in is available(at an extra price or complimentary).

Below are some of the best budget hostels that I would recommend. These have rooms as well, in case you want to opt other than dorms.

These are some of the best hotels in Mandalay in the mid-range budget.

If you fancy a luxurious stay, I would recommend these. The reviews are great, and be sure to get pampered.

How to Get to Mandalay?

You can reach Mandalay from all major towns by buses, flight, car, train or boat. Book your bus tickets here .

If you are traveling from Yangon, check this post to find out what are the possible options – Yangon to Mandalay

If you are arriving from Bagan, read how to reach Mandalay here – Bagan to Mandalay

If you want to head from Inle Lake, these are the various way to reach Mandalay – Inle Lake to Mandalay

Getting Around Mandalay

Unlike other cities in Myanmar, a majority of attractions in Mandalay are located far from the city centre. 

You can hire a cab on day-basis if you are traveling in groups or can find passengers to do a trip.

You can negotiate the attractions you want to see and the number of days, and make a deal to get around in Mandalay. It is the best way if you are traveling with kids as well. 

The daily prices vary between 30 to 50 USD, but you can get better prices sometimes if you book through your hotel or guest house.

Check with a few of them before finalizing to compare prices. 

If you are a solo traveler, taking a moto-taxi is the best option IMO. You don’t have to drive and the rates are very cheap, starting at 2000 Kyat per ride.

If you want to drive and feel confident about it, you can rent a motorbike, which is slightly economical at 5 to 6 USD per day. 

That’s it about all the places to visit in Mandalay. Hope you find this Mandalay travel guide useful. Do check out the other posts to plan your Myanmar trip.

OTHER POSTS FROM MYANMAR THAT YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT

7 Best Day Trips From Bagan

17 Best Bagan Pagodas That You Should Visit (Among the 800+temples)

How to get from Yangon to Mandalay –  Bus or Train?

Watching Sunrise & Sunset in Bagan – Here is how to do it in 2019

Ways To Reach Bagan From Yangon in Myanmar

Offbeat Myanmar – 21 Awesome Things to Do in Hpa An

How to get from Mandalay to Inle Lake?

Crossing Thailand-Myanmar By Land – Here is a complete guide to do it

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Home » Travel Guides » Myanmar » 25 Best Things to Do in Mandalay (Myanmar)

25 Best Things to Do in Mandalay (Myanmar)

Picturesque Mandalay is famous for being the old royal capital of Myanmar. In the past, Burmese kings would have lived in the city and you can still see some of their palaces in evidence, and the city still have a royal feel to it which is very different from other spots like Yangon.

Mandalay is also known for its Chinese and Indian immigrants as well as a mix of indigenous groups, and one of the best things to do here is spend time enjoying the varied cuisines on offer.

Many visitors report that you can happily spend your time eating your way around the city on a trip here, as well as take in the majestic sites and some of the mot iconic buildings and monuments in all of Myanmar.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Mandalay …

1. Visit Shwe In Bin Kyaung

Shwe In Bin Kyaung is a monastery in Mandalay but it is quite different from many of the other monasteries in the area which are usually very ornately decorated.

In contrast, Shwe In Bin Kyaung is built from teak which has been carved in intricate patterns which makes it one of the prettiest buildings of its kind in the city.

The monastery was built in 1895 and was commissioned by famous Chinese jade trades and the main building is set on large poles made from tree trunks.

On a visit here, make sure that you also check out the delightful interior balustrades as well as the roof cornices which are covered in detailed engravings.

2. Explore Mandalay Palace

Mandalay Palace is actually not the original building but a reconstruction that was built in the 1990s.

It is also not one building, but actually a series of 40 different houses that were built from wood to closely resemble the originals which would have been built in the 1850s and were sadly razed to the ground by a fire.

One of the highlights of a trip here is the wooden watchtower which is a great place to come if you want to take in the scenic views all over Mandalay.

Also make sure to check out the ornate throne room which features a gilt pyramid and you can see other historical sights like a four poster bed that would have belonged to the king.

3. Climb up Yankin Hill

Looking out over Mandalay is Yankin Hill which is topped by a pretty temple.

The main reason to climb the hill is for the chance to enjoy the sweeping vistas over the rice fields for which Mandalay is famous which also stretch to the foothills of Shan province.

It takes around 10 minutes to climb to the top of the hill using a steep set of stairs and don’t be surprised if you come across the resident deer here as Buddhists believe that they will get good karma if they feed them.

There are a number of walkways between the temple pagodas here and you can also check out the amazing fish statues which are covered in gold leaf.

4. Watch a show at the Mandalay Marionettes

If you want to check out the local culture in Mandalay then there is no better way to do it than with a trip to the Mandalay Marionettes.

Here you will find a small stage and a colorful marionette show which usually tells the story of traditional Burmese legends.

The puppeteers have been working here for years and they will also give you a tour backstage to see how the puppets work.

You can also purchase puppets here if you are looking for a quirky souvenir to take home.

5. Visit Mahamuni Paya

Mahamuni Paya is known for its seated Buddha statue which measures 13 feet tall.

As you would expect, this is also a famous place of pilgrimage in Mandalay and the Buddha is said to date back some 2,000 years.

When male devotees come here they are supped to apply gold leaf to the statue, and you can see the layers which are gently peeling off, and this also means that there is now a layer of gold leaf that is said to be 6 inches thick in places.

If you make it here at 4 o’clock in the morning then you can watch the face of the Buddha statue being polished.

6. Watch a show at Mintha Theater

If you want to see a show in Mandalay then a great choice is the Mintha Theater.

Here you will find dancers wearing elaborate traditional costumes who perform up to 10 different regional dances for spectators.

These usually tell the story of traditional folk tales and legends and this is one of the best ways to learn more about the local culture in Myanmar.

7. Visit Ta Moke Shwe Gu Gyi

Ta Moke Shwe Gu Gyi is a massive temple complex that is also known for being one of the most important archaeological sites in Myanmar aside from Bagan and Mrauk-U. It can take a bit of time to get to the site which is not clearly marked, but once here you will find a two storey temple which is made of bricks and ornate stucco figures.

Some of the figures depict scenes from the life of the Buddha as well as traditional folk tales of animals, plants and deities.

To get to Ta Moke Shwe Gu Gyi you will need to travel around 24 miles to the south of the center of Mandalay but it is more than worth it.

Some other highlights to look out for include what is called the ‘encased’ Buddha which is made up of three Buddha statues which were built one inside the other.

8. Shop at the Jade Market

The best place to come in Mandalay if you want an authentic shopping experience is the Jade Market.

Here you will find the air thick with smoke from cheroots and, as the name suggest, this is one of the best places in Mandalay to pick up some jade pieces.

Note that sometimes you will be asked to pay $1 for entry but it is more than worth it as, even if you don’t want to buy anything, you can watch the artisans at work as they grind, clean and polish the intricate pieces of elegant jade.

9. Explore Pinya Stupa Ruins

Pinya used to be an ancient capital of Myanmar and would have had its heyday in the 1300s.

It was the seat of power of King Thihthu and you can come here and check out the ornate brick stupas that would have been built when this was still part of a royal kingdom.

Much of the complex is now overgrown which lends it a kind of ramshackle charm which in places is similar to the temples of Angkor in Cambodia.

Each building contains a Buddha image inside and this is definitely worth a visit if you want to see a more rustic attraction in Mandalay.

10. Visit Shwekyimyint Paya

Shwekyimyint Paya was founded in 1167 by Prince Minshinzaw and it is said that this temple is actually older than the town of Mandalay itself.

The site is known for the central image of the sitting Buddha that is meant to be built to scale and is covered in gold and sparkling jewels.

The central pagoda also has a number of images which would have been part of the collection of Myanmar kings of old and you can spend an afternoon here exploring dainty alcoves which have hidden murals and more images of Buddha.

11. Check out Kyauktawgyi Paya

Kyauktawgyi Paya dates from the 19th century and its biggest claim to fame is the 900 ton statue of the Buddha that is housed inside and is 26 feet tall.

The Buddha is also unusual as it is clothed in a royal costume and it was also carved from a single block of smooth marble.

According to legend, it took 10,000 workers some 13 days to hoist the marble from a neighboring canal and the site was dedicated in 1865. Make sure not to miss the outer walls which are covered in mirrored tiles and the little shrines in the other courtyards which have alms bowls and pictures of King Mindon who visited in 1865.

12. Walk through the Goldpounders’ District

One of the most important Buddhist practices in Myanmar involves placing sheets of gold leaf on scared statues of the Buddha and with this in mind you can see where these sheets come from at a number of workshops in the city.

These sheets are still pounded by hand and you can walk around the Goldpounders’ District which spans some two blocks in Mandalay.

13. Walk around the Moat and Fortress Walls

The Moat and Fortress Walls in Mandalay would have originally encircled the Mandalay fortress or citadel.

You can only view the walls from the outside but they stretch for some 4 miles and soar to a height of 26 feet.

There is also a 230 foot wide moat here and the site is actually a reconstruction that mimics the original style which would have been built in 1857. Make sure you check out the gate towers that top the walls at regular intervals and which feature intricately carved wooden pyramids.

14. Discover Shwenandaw Kyaung

Shwenandaw Kyaung is a monastery which is known for its pretty carved panels that show Jataka scenes which are basically stories about the past life of the Buddha.

This would once have been part of the Mandalay Palace complex and would also have been the royal residence of King Mindon who is said to have died here in 1878. When King Thibaw came to the throne he was fearful of the ghost of King Mindon and had the building ripped down and rebuilt outside the palace walls where it was then converted into a monastery.

15. Admire the Skinny Buddha

The Skinny Buddha was built in 2011 and stands at a height of 75 feet.

The image is said to show the Buddha in meditation and some people say that it looks more like an anime image than a traditional depiction.

The main reason to come and check out the Buddha is that this image is designed in a modern style which is also very different from many other statues in the region which makes it worth the visit alone.

16. Sample the food

One of the reasons that visitors usually rave about Mandalay is down to the terrific street food on offer here.

This is due to the sheer variety of bites on offer such as the Indian bread stalls that serve roti with dipping sauce.

You will also find a number of Chinese restaurants all over town that sell classic dishes like chicken with cashews and the city is also covered in local tea shops that sell drinks and local iconic plates such as tea leaf salad.

17. Visit Mya Kyauk Kyaung

Close to Yankin Paya is a newly built monastery in Mandalay which is known for its iconic stupa which is made of brass.

Mya Kyauk is known for being the spot of alkaline mineral water which means that it is also a place of worship due to the mineral properties found here.

Apparently the waters around Mya Kyauk can cure ailments such as diabetes and gout and you can sample a glass when you visit this unusual and quirky monastery building.

18. Admire the Peshawar Relics

The Peshawar Relics is basically the name for three small shards of bone which are important items in Buddhism.

They were discovered by the British in 1908 and what would have been found in a grand stupa in Peshawar which is now in modern day Pakistan.

Now you can check out these relics in the U-Khanti Monastery and this is also an important site of pilgrimage for those of the Buddhist faith.

19. Walk around Eindawya Paya

Eindawya Paya consists of a large stupa covered in gold leaf which was built in 1847 in the time of King Pagan Min on the spot of what would have been his palace.

The complex here is known for its serene atmosphere and you can wander around and soak in all the history of this famous spot.

Just make sure to take off your shoes as this became a source of contention in 1919 during the British colonial period and several monks were given prison sentences as a result.

20. Shop at Zegyo

For a more modern side of Mandalay, head to Zegyo which is a 25 storey tower which punctuates the skyline.

Here you will find a huge number of shops which sell everything you could ever want to buy in Myanmar.

Many of the shops sell traditional textiles and there is also an older market just outside that sells towers of local fruit and vegetables as well as snacks like dried fish.

If you want to pick up a souvenir in Mandalay then this is a great place to do it.

21. Check out the San Dha Mukhi Statue

The San Dha Mukhi Statue is a dainty statue that is fashioned in the image of the iconic ogress San Dha Mukhi who is in the middle of offering her severed breast to the Buddha.

This is part of a Buddhist legend which says that he was so pleased by this act of self-mutilation that he made sure that she was reincarnated some 2,4000 years later in the form of King Mindon.

This makes it worth the visit alone as this is one of the more unusual sights in Mandalay.

22. Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral

If you have had enough of looking at temples and stupas then consider a visit to the main Catholic church in Mandalay.

The church was founded in the 19th century and was built in the colonial style which makes it stand out in the rest of the city.

Make sure that you tour the interior and soak in the serene atmosphere and the high vaulted ceilings.

23. Admire Golden Rose Workshop

Mandalay is known for its gold leaf beaters who make sheets of gold leaf which are then used by devotees and pasted to Buddha images.

If you want to know more about this then the best place to come is the Golden Rose Workshop where you can watch the artisans at work and also listen to a free talk in English that will explain the cultural and religious significance of the gold leaf beating process.

24. Climb up Mandalay Hill

If you are looking for a workout in Mandalay then head for Mandalay Hill where you can get out of the city and take in the views.

The hill is 760 feet tall and there is a stairway that will take you up the southern slope to the top.

As you walk along the route you will need to pass several temples and pagodas and it takes around 30 minutes to get to the summit of the hill.

It is more than worth the trek however for the uninterrupted vistas over this pretty city.

If possible try to time your visit to coincide with the sunset for obvious reasons.

25. Walk across U Bein Bridge

U Bein Bridge is probably the most iconic site in all of Myanmar and it stretches from Mandalay to Amarapura.

The bridge is made of wood and is famous for being the longest teak bridge in the world and is reinforced in places so that it doesn’t collapse.

Even with this in mind, it is still rather rickety and a trip across is not for the faint of heart.

If you don’t fancy walking across, then you can also rent a fishing boat here and drive underneath the bridge to see it from a completely different angle.

25 Best Things to Do in Mandalay (Myanmar):

• Visit Shwe In Bin Kyaung
• Explore Mandalay Palace
• Climb up Yankin Hill
• Watch a show at the Mandalay Marionettes
• Visit Mahamuni Paya
• Watch a show at Mintha Theater
• Visit Ta Moke Shwe Gu Gyi
• Shop at the Jade Market
• Explore Pinya Stupa Ruins
• Visit Shwekyimyint Paya
• Check out Kyauktawgyi Paya
• Walk through the Goldpounders’ District
• Walk around the Moat and Fortress Walls
• Discover Shwenandaw Kyaung
• Admire the Skinny Buddha
• Sample the food
• Visit Mya Kyauk Kyaung
• Admire the Peshawar Relics
• Walk around Eindawya Paya
• Shop at Zegyo
• Check out the San Dha Mukhi Statue
• Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral
• Admire Golden Rose Workshop
• Climb up Mandalay Hill
• Walk across U Bein Bridge

Things To Do In Mandalay

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1. U Bein Bridge

1 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

U Bein Bridge is a crossing across Taungthaman Lake near Amarapura, close to Mandalay city in Myanmar. Stretching for about 1.2km, it is the longest teakwood bridge in the world. U Bein is one of the most popular attractions in Mandalay for tourists who come here to witness the magical sunset over the bridge.

2. Mandalay palace

2 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Mandalay Palace is the royal residence of the of the last Burmese kingdom located close to the city of Mandalay in Myanmar. Called as the Great Golden Royal Palace, the building is one of the famous landmarks and among top attractions for tourists visiting the city. The ancient watchtower and the Throne room are among the places of interest in the palace.

3. Kuthodaw pagoda

3 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Kuthodaw Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Mandalay in Myanmar. Situated at the foot of Mandalay Hill, it is home to the most massive book in the world. The pagoda has 57-meters high Golden stupa and is inspired by temples in Bagan. It is one of the must-visit attractions for tourists to witness the book. The book consists of 729 stone pillars, which includes verses from Tripitaka or the scriptures of Theravada Buddhism inscribed on both sides.

4. Jade Market

4 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Jade Market, locally called Mahar Aung Myay Market, is located close to the city centre of Mandalay in Myanmar. It is the oldest centre for Jade trading in the country, where rare hand-made jewellery and other precious stones are sold.

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5. Kandawgyi Lake

5 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Kandawgyi is an artificial Lake located at the city centre of Yangon in Myanmar. It is a popular attraction for locals as well as tourists who come to enjoy a quiet stroll along the walkways and beautiful sunset views across the famous Shwedagon Pagoda, which is located next to the lake.

6. Cultural Museum

6 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

The Cultural Museum in Mandalay is located close to the city centre in Myanmar. It contains exhibits that showcase the history of the city, during the times of Kings Mindon and Thibaw of the Pagan dynasty. Tourists interested in history should visit this museum for witnessing rare collections from the 14th century.

7. Shwenandaw Monastery

7 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Shwenandaw Monastery, also called Golden Palace Monastery, is a Buddhist pagoda located close to Mandalay hill in Myanmar. This teak wood structure was a part of the royal palace at Amarapura. It is one of the major historic attractions for tourists visiting Mandalay.

8. Dee Doke Waterfalls

8 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Dee Doke Waterfalls are located on the outskirts of Mandalay city in Myanmar. It is known for the gorgeous location amidst hills and mineral-rich turquoise blue waters. Dee Doke is a popular picnic spot for the locals and among the top attractions in Mandalay for tourists. The blue lagoon close to the waterfalls is a must-stop for tourists wanting to take a swim.

9. Sandamuni Pagoda

9 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

The Sandamuni Pagoda or Paya is located to the south of Mandalay Hill in Myanmar. It is known for the large image of Buddha made of iron built by King Bodawpaya in the early 18th century. Unlike other pagodas closeby, it is not well known among tourists exploring Mandalay hill, but worth checking out.

10. Irrawaddy River Cruise

10 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Irrawaddy is a prominent river around which the city of Mandalay is located in Myanmar. It runs for over 1300 miles, and the town offers the best ways to experience river life. Irrawaddy river cruise is among the top attractions for tourists where they can spend between a few days to a month on the river.

11. Mahamuni Paya

11 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Mahamuni Paya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the city of Mandalay in Myanmar. Home to the 13-feet-high statue of seated Buddha, it is a major pilgrimage site for the Burmese, known for over 8 tons of gold leaves surrounding the image for about 6 inches. It is among the famous attractions for people visiting the city who come to witness the sacred morning bathing ritual at 4:30 AM every day.

12. Zay Cho Market

12 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Zay Cho, also known as Zego, is a market located in the heart of Mandalay city in Myanmar. A five-storeyed building houses the market, and it is unlike the traditional Burmese outdoor street markets. It is recommended to visit the market if you plan on buying some cheap souvenirs.

13. Pahtodawgyi

13 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Phowintaung is a Buddhist cave complex located close to the town of Monywa in Sagaing Region in Myanmar. It is situated on the banks of the River Chindwin and is a popular attraction among tourists interested in Buddhist caves. Phowintaung is known for the cave architecture and monastery, home to hundreds of young monks from across the country.

14. Atumashi Kyaung

14 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Atumashi Kyaung is a Buddhist monastery located in Mandalay in Myanmar. It is one of the most important monasteries in the country for monks who come here for learning. The monastery is worth checking out for tourists for its architecture and history.

15. Mandalay Marionettes Theater

15 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Mandalay marionettes theatre is the royal puppet theatre in Myanmar. It is one of the must-visit for tourists interested in knowing the Burmese culture. The theatre was a big entertainment during the 18th century when the royalty enjoyed the shows involving puppets depicting traditional stories. Tourists can watch wooden dolls that are decorated with colourful attires during the show, which has various genres of performances.

16. Su Taung Pyi Pagoda

16 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Su Taung Pyi Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located atop Mandalay hill in Myanmar. It is one of the pagodas built by King Anwartha in the 11th century. It is a popular attraction for tourists who visit the pagoda for witnessing beautiful views of the sunset overlooking the Irrawaddy River. Su Taung Pyi was maintained by hermit monk U Khan Dee who spent more than 40 years of his life on the Mandalay hills raising funds for pagodas.

17. Kyauktawgyi Paya

17 out of 17 Things To Do in Mandalay

Kyauktawgyi Paya is a small Buddhist temple located at the foot of Mandalay hill in Myanmar. This 18th-century pagoda is one of the most popular tourist attractions for people visiting Mandalay and is known for the vast white marble image of the seated Buddha Maha Thetkya Mayazein.

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9 Things to do in Mandalay, Myanmar

Mandala is the former royal capital of Myanmar. The city is big and busy but somehow has its charm, making it a great 2-day stop on your Myanmar route . Admire its unique architecture and pagodas, or visit the world-famous U-Bein Bridge. Discover all the best things to do in Mandalay.

About Manadalay

When you travel to Mandalay, you’ll quickly notice the different regions of the area. The outskirts are very poor, with people living in squalor. However, don’t let that discourage you from visiting. People in Myanmar, no matter their living conditions, are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Keep in mind that it can get quite cold at night, so pack a sweater.

Book the popular biking tour around Mandalay

1. Visit Mandalay Hill

Mandalay Hill is a must-do! This 240-meter-high hill gives you an incredible view of the whole surrounding area. Getting up to the top is easier than you would expect, with an elevator and escalator at the foot of the temple. Remember to cover yourself and take off your shoes before entering. The entrance fee to Mandalay Hill is K1000 (0.75 USD).

Don’t be surprised when Myanmese people ask to take a photo with you. They just want to show this to their relatives.

Order your Visa for Myanmar here

2. Back in time at the Mingun Pagoda

One place we wished we would have had more time to see is Mingun Pagoda. This is located across the Irrawaddy River, which is about a 90-minute drive out of town.

The almost square-shaped pagoda is one of a kind. It can be a bit crowded at the entrance, but if you walk around it, you will be the only one there.

When you’re here, have lunch at the relaxed, river-located ‘The Garden Cafe’.

aBook  Myanmar Temples tour

3. In the clouds at Hsinbyume Pagoda

Near the Mingun Pagoda stands the beautiful white Hsinbyume Pagoda. You can walk up the stairs and explore every level of this pagoda. The Pagoda is not big and is a must-see when you visit Mandalay. This is one of the reasons why you must visit Myanmar .

Also see: Best temples in Bagan

4. U-Bein Bridge

One of the main attractions of Mandalay is the U-Bein Bridge. This 1200-meter-long wooden footbridge is known as the longest in the world. When visiting in February, there was almost no water under the bridge, making it a great spot to join a boat tour.

From Mandalay, it is a short 20-minute drive to U-Bein Bridge. Arrive two hours before sunset and see how the locals relax here.

Here are all your hotel options in Mandalay.

Tip: Most of the year, there’s a big sunflower field next to the bridge where locals go take photos.

5. World’s largest book at Kuthodaw Pagoda

The size of this area is impressive. The Kuthodaw Pagoda holds the world’s largest book and is surrounded by an incredible amount of small white pagodas. Take at least 1 hour to look around in this area. The Kuthodaw Pagoda is also included in a Myanmar Temples tour .

6. A morning stroll through Zay Cho Market

This huge, partly covered market is open from 6 AM until 5 PM and offers anything from fresh fruits and fresh spices to kitchen tools. Go here in the early morning, wander around, and see how the locals spend their morning.

7. Mandalay Palace

Mandalay Palace is a huge fortress located near the Hill. It’s a cool area to walk around for some time, but there isn’t really much to do or see.

The entrance costs 10.000 Kyat (7.50 USD). This is a combo ticket that also gives you entry to the Shwenandaw Monastery, Kuthodaw Pagoda, and a few more attractions.

Tip: Rent a bike if you are planning to explore the temples in Mandalay city. Distances are quite long and riding a bicycle makes it more doable. :)

8. Shwenandaw Monastery

The beautiful wooden details in this monastery make it worth a visit. It’s a small building and a quick stop from Mandalay Palace, so you don’t need a lot of time.

Find:  Bus/flight tickets

9. Dinner @ Mingalarbar

Close your trip off by having a Mandalay-style food experience. A dinner at Mingalarbar is highly recommended – they have some of the best dishes.

Where to Stay in Mandalay

Mandalay offers accommodations for every kind of budget, from comfortable hotels in the center of the region to great hostels perfect for meeting other travelers.

Our favorite hotels in Mandalay 😴

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Hpa-An, little hidden Treasure of Myanmar

Discover 7 of the best bagan temples, the ultimate travel guide to bagan, myanmar.

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What to Do in Mandalay: Travel Guide & Essential Info

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Every journey comes to an end. A pity really. Mandalay was the last stop on our four-week journey through Myanmar. And as if we hadn’t already seen enough highlights in the past few weeks, Mandalay still managed to blow us away.

Table of Contents

• Sight and attractions
• Where to stay?
• Getting around
• Day trip to Amarapura, Inwa, and Sagaing
• Day trip to Mingun
• Day trip to Monywa
• Day trip to Pyin Oo Lwin

Our final thoughts

Our time here was full of superlatives: The world’s largest book, the largest bell, the longest wooden bridge, the craziest temple, the most unshapely Buddha.

We spent six full days in Mandalay, not only exploring the city itself, but also the most important destinations in the surrounding area: Monywa, Pyin U Lwin, Mingun, Amarapura, Inwa, Sagaing.

In this post, we show you which sights and attractions Mandalay has to offer and provide tips on worthwhile day trips in the surrounding area.

Read all our posts about Myanmar

Sight and attractions in Mandalay

A full day is generally enough to see all the major sights in Mandalay itself. But only if you’re prepared to go non-stop sightseeing without any time to sit down and take a break. We’ll tell you all about our Mandalay highlights in this section.

Mandalay Hill

Mandalay Hill is a 236-meter-high mountain in the north of the city. From the top, you have a great view over the entire city and the surrounding area, but the ascent and the summit itself are real highlights in and of themselves.

The way up along seemingly endless flights of steps takes you past souvenir stalls, Buddha statues, and cute romantic photo backdrops where you can have your picture taken.

Every time we thought we we’d finally made it, another flight of stairs appeared out of nowhere, leading even further upwards.

If that sounds too exhausting, there’s an easier way: There’s a road leading up the mountain, so you can ride a scooter or take a taxi almost all the way to the summit.

Kuthodaw Pagoda, or the world’s largest book

At the foot of Mandalay Hill lies the Kuthodaw Pagoda. The central golden pagoda is surrounded by 729 smaller white pagodas, each containing a marble tablet inscribed with text.

These texts reflect Buddhist doctrine and are often referred to as the largest book in the world. If they were printed on paper, the texts would fill more than 15,000 pages.

Mahamuni Pagoda

Even if you think you’ve seen all possible iterations of Buddha statues in Myanmar, the Buddha in the Mahamuni Pagoda is still bound to surprise you.

This Buddha statue is the holiest in the entire country. It’s not only richly studded with precious stones, it’s also adorned with gold leaf every day by thousands of visitors.

The superfine leaves have accumulated over the years, giving the Buddha a oddly shapeless look. It’s been estimated that the Buddha is covered with between 3 and 12 metric tons of gold leaf. Crazy!

As it happens, only male devotees are to allowed to approach the Buddha statue and apply the gold leaf.

The gold beaters of Mandalay

Speaking of gold leaf: Mandalay’s gold leaf production still operates on pure manpower. There’s even a dedicated profession, the gold beater.

A gold beater’s daily routine involves pounding a small parcel of gold again and again with a hammer that weighs about three kilograms. It’s an extremely hard job, but it’s also in high demand. A total of 6.5 hours is spent beating a piece of gold in a number of steps until it’s only a few thousandths of a millimeter thin.

Then the gold is cut into small squares and packaged. You can buy a small packet of leaf gold for just 3,000 kyat and apply it to the Mahamuni Buddha yourself.

On 36th Street between 77th and 78th Street, there’s a small showcase workshop where you can watch the gold beaters at work and observe the process of gold beating up until the packing stage.

The Royal Palace

The former Royal Palace encompasses a huge, almost square site of 2×2 kilometers in the middle of downtown Mandalay.

Here once stood the ornate palace of a king that became world-famous as the Glass Palace in the novel by Amitav Ghosh. A novel we can highly recommend if you want to learn more about Myanmar’s history.

Sadly, the palace was completely destroyed and nothing is left of it except for the wall running around the grounds. There have been attempts to rebuild the palace, but they never panned out.

You can probably skip a tour of the palace grounds because there isn’t much to see there.

Where to stay in Mandalay

Hotel rates are generally lower in Mandalay than in the rest of the country. You can get a really nice room for not much money.

We stayed at Hotel 8 and only spent 23 dollars per night. You could easily end up paying 40 dollars or more for a similar room in other parts of the country. The hotel is in a good location and has simple, modern rooms and a relatively good breakfast.

Our hotel: Hotel 8 in Mandalay

Unfortunately, the hotel was fully booked for the final days of our stay, so we moved to the Night Sweet Hotel . It wasn’t quite as good, but not bad either. If you’d like something a bit more luxurious, we’d recommend the Home Hotel .

Getting around in Mandalay and the surrounding area

First the good news: Getting around in Mandalay is really easy, because the streets in the city center are arranged in a grid and have numbers rather than names.

But overall, Mandalay is pretty vast and not much fun to explore on foot. It’s easier to just take one of the ubiquitous taxis to get from A to B.

Exploring Mandalay and the surrounding area by scooter

We rented a scooter and can highly recommend doing the same. That way you’re fast and flexible in Mandalay and have an easy way of going day trips to Amarapura, Inwa, and Sagaing.

Traffic is pretty manageable and since you drive on the right-hand side of the road in Myanmar, it should be easier to get used to than in other Southeast Asian countries – if you’re from continental Europe or another right-hand-driving country that is.

Just ask for the best place to rent a scooter at your hotel, they should be able to hook you up. We were able to hire one directly from the hotel and paid 1,000 kyat per hour. A full day on the road generally came to about 8,000 to 9,000 kyat, which is a very fair price. Gas is really cheap too.

Exploring Mandalay and the surrounding area with a guide

For our trip to Monywa, which we’ll tell you more about below, we hired Zaw Zaw as our driver and guide.

He came highly recommended, and we can definitely pass on that recommendation. Zaw Zaw speaks excellent English and is a pleasure to talk to. You can ask him anything you’ve ever wanted to know about Mandalay and Myanmar. His prices are fair and he’s extremely friendly.

You can get in touch via his e-mail address [email protected] . Zaw Zaw also organizes bicycle tours throughout the country. If that sounds like your kind of thing, then he might just be the right guy for you.

Day trip from Mandalay to Amarapura, Inwa, and Sagaing

There are several highlights in the immediate vicinity of Mandalay. Just to the southwest of the city, there are three great sights that you can visit on a single day trip.

First, let us show you what these three towns have to offer and then we’ll share some tips for your tour.

Sights and attractions in Sagaing

The hills of Sagaing extend to the west of the Irrawaddy River. The enormous bridge leading to the other side of the river offers an amazing view.

The hills are dotted with a total of over 700 temples and pagodas with their golden sheen gleaming out in between the green of the mountains. The pagodas themselves aren’t really major highlights on their own, but taken together, they make Sagaing really special.

But then again, we were pretty spoiled after four weeks in Myanmar and it was hard to get excited about new pagodas anymore. If you start your trip to Myanmar in Mandalay, then Sagaing is sure to impress you.

Sights and attractions in Inwa

Inwa used to be the capital of a series of Burmese kingdoms lasting more than 400 years. Today that seems almost unimaginable as all that remains now are a few ruins surrounded by fields and meadows.

Many travelers take horse-drawn carriages to explore Inwa, which you can hire for around 8,000 kyat per tour. We explored the area with our own scooter.

Unfortunately, it had been raining heavily the day before, so the roads were extremely muddy and we couldn’t get through with our scooter. But we still saw quite a bit, e.g. the leaning tower, which is currently being restored, a pagoda ruin with such scary cracks in its walls that you think it’s about to collapse any minute, or the wooden Shwenandaw Monastery.

Sights and attractions in Amarapura

Just a few kilometers from Inwa, the next royal city awaits you. It also features the crumbling remains of a bygone era. But the U Bein Bridge is an absolute highlight.

At a length of 1,200 meters, it’s believed to be the longest wooden bridge in the world and carries pedestrians across Taungtaman Lake. At sundown, masses of people head to the U Bein Bridge to take pictures of it with the sinking sun in the background.

If you’d prefer it a bit less crowded, you should visit earlier in the day. But the sunset is really a sight to behold. For about 8,000 kyat, you can have someone row you to the best photo spot in front of the bridge, but you’ll have to share the spot with lots of other boats.

Our tips for the tour

We did the tour from Mandalay to the three towns in a single day. First we went to Sagaing, then headed to Inwa, and finally we watched the sunset in Amarapura.

You can easily make the whole trip in a day if you leave early enough in the morning. We started from Mandalay at around 8:30 am.

You have to take a fairly extensive detour on the way from Sagaing to Inwa to cross the bridge of the small Myitnge River. Or you can always take a small boat across at an earlier point in the river.

This costs about 2,000 kyat for 2 people and a scooter, but only do it if it’s sunny and dry out! Because if it’s been raining, there’s no way you’ll get the scooter through the mud and you’ll have to take the boat right back to the other side. We’re speaking from experience here.

You can also do the tour by public transport, but it’s pretty inconvenient and almost impossible to do in a day.

Alternatively, you can also hire a driver or a guide for the tour. We highly recommend our guide Zaw Zaw whom we mentioned above. Or if not, then another option is to book a tour with a private guide and driver online:

Day trip to Sagaing Ava and Amarapura from Mandalay

Final thoughts on the tour: The trip to Amarapura and Inwa is an absolute must-do when you’re in Mandalay that you really shouldn’t miss. Sagaing isn’t quite as exciting as far as we’re concerned, but you can easily fit it in between the other two places.

Day trip from Mandalay to Mingun

Mingun is located to the northwest of Mandalay and is a testament to utter megalomania. A former king wanted to erect a giant temple here. But only the stump of the temple was finished by the time of his death.

When an earthquake shook the region, work on the temple was abandoned and now the temple fragment is left standing around unfinished.

The size of the fragment alone is already enormous though, and it’s hard to imagine how big the temple would have turned out. There are two huge lion statues in front of the temple, which have also largely collapsed.

A huge bell was supposed to ring out from within the temple, and it had even already been completed. Now it hangs a few meters away from the temple ruins and is the largest working bell in the world. The only bigger bell in existence hangs in the Russian Kremlin, but it a crack prevents it from ringing.

As a third attraction, there’s a beautiful white pagoda to see in Mingun.

There’s a ferry going from Mandalay to Mingun at 9 am every day. The boat returns to Mandalay at 12:30 pm. That gives you enough time to see everything. All three sights are within walking distance of the pier.

For a very special experience, you can also hire an ox cart. It’s not much faster than walking, but can say they’ve ever taken an ox cart taxi?

The ferry leaves Mandalay at the end of 26th Street. Just follow the road to the river and it’ll take you right to the pier. You can buy tickets right at the port from a nice older gentleman who speaks very good English.

The ticket costs 5,000 kyat per person (round trip), and you also have to pay 5,000 kyat admission in Mingun.

Our final thoughts on the tour: Mingun is pretty interesting and if you have some time to spare, then go for it. But if you don’t have so much time, we’d recommend exploring Mandalay, or taking a day trip to Amarapura and Inwa instead. But since you return to Mandalay in the early afternoon, that gives you enough time to do something else with the rest of the day.

Day trip from Mandalay to Monywa

To be honest: After four weeks in Myanmar, we started getting a bit tired of temples. We had been in Bagan , in Mrauk-U, in Bago – all places with countless temples and pagodas, one more beautiful than the next.

We really though nothing could beat that. And then we went to Monywa. First, there’s the huge standing Buddha, standing tall at an incredible 116 meters. The only Buddha statue that’s even taller is in China.

There’s another 90-meter-long reclining Buddha lying in front of it, and you’ll find thousands of Buddhas amidst just as many trees at the foot of the mountain.

That’s pretty impressive, but the Thanbodday Pagoda is the craziest shit ever. It already looks completely different from any other pagoda in Myanmar from the outside. It’s very colorful and reminded us a bit of a Hindu temple. But the inside of the pagoda is where things really go off the rails. We’ve never seen so many Buddhist statues.

There are a total of almost 600,000 Buddha statues, large and small, adorning this temple. Yes, you read that right. A six with five zeros. Six hundred thousand! This temple is definitely the most impressive in all of Myanmar!

Monywa is too far to go by scooter. So you’ll have to catch the bus or hire a driver. We went to Monywa with Zaw Zaw, whom we introduced earlier on. We paid 90 dollars for the day trip, including the car. Driving to Monywa takes about 2.5-3 hours.

Alternatively, you can also go by bus, which is considerably cheaper, but it takes 3-4 hours. That’s cutting it a bit close for a day trip because you’ll also need some time to explore when you get there.

Of course, you could also stay the night in Monywa. That’s what we were going to do originally, but then we changed our mind at the last minute. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Monywa, we hear the Jade Royal Hotel Monywa is pretty good.

Our final thoughts on the tour: Monywa is an absolute highlight in Myanmar that many travelers haven’t even heard of for some reason. We really recommend taking this day trip from Mandalay or even staying the night in Monywa. You won’t regret it.

Day trip from Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin

Pyin Oo Lwin is located to the east of Mandalay at an altitude of 1,100 meters and once served the British colonial rulers as a resort during the hot months. Today, it’s once again become a place for recreation seekers. But not for the British this time around, but rather for richer inhabitants of Mandalay.

Pyin Oo Lwin looks quite different from most places in Myanmar. It’s very green and isolated colonial buildings evoke the era of British occupation.

The highlight of Pyin Oo Lwin are the vast Botanical Gardens with well-kept green areas and no garbage to be seen. That’s a very unique sight in Myanmar. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle and heat of Myanmar, then Pyin Oo Lwin is the perfect destination for you.

Our tips for the tour:

This best way to get to Pyin Oo Lwin is by shared taxi, i.e. a taxi you share with up to four people. This costs about 8,000 kyat per person and the journey takes almost two hours. Ask at your hotel in Mandalay if they can arrange this kind of trip for you.

If you want to spend some more time in Pyin Oo Lwin, there are several hotels to choose from. We recommend the Royal Green Hotel .

Our final thoughts on the tour: In Pyin Oo Lwin, you’ll encounter a completely different side of Myanmar. But it isn’t a real must-see for a first trip to Myanmar, especially if time is at a premium.

Mandalay has so much to offer and we were really positively surprised. You can easily spend five days here and discover something new every day. The city itself has enough to keep you occupied for 1-2 days, but the surrounding area is a real treat.

Mandalay is a perfect starting point for excursions and sadly it was also the last stop on our trip. We finally flew from Mandalay to Chiang Mai with Bangkok Airways and had to say “Good bye, Myanmar” after 31 wonderful days.

Have you ever been to Mandalay? Have we forgotten an important tip? Please let us know in the comments below.

15 Awesome Things to do in Mandalay, Myanmar

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Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar and one that often gets overlooked by tourists. Visitors generally fly into Yangon and head straight for the popular tourist areas of Bagan, Inle Lake, and Ngapali Beach. But they really have no idea what they’re missing!

The city of Mandalay and the area surrounding it is filled with gorgeous pagodas, spectacular waterfalls, friendly locals eager to practice their English speaking skills, and delicious food. Make sure you spend at least three days exploring this bustling city and do all 15 of these cool things to do in Mandalay!

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Getting Around Mandalay

There are plenty of taxis for hire around Mandalay both in the form of cars and motorbikes. You can get a car taxi to most sites within Mandalay for around 3,000-5,000 Kyat ($1.50 – $3.00 USD). A mototaxi will rarely cost more than 2,000 Kyat ($1.00 USD).

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of negotiating fares, download the Grab or Oway Ride app on your phone. Both are ride-sharing apps very similar to Uber. Grab’s network covers major cities all over SE Asia whereas Oway Ride is specific to Myanmar.

The advantage of using these apps is you’ll get a fixed price that you know is fair. The downside is you may wind up waiting a while for your driver to show up. Another way to use the app is to simply check the fare to your destination. Then, hail a taxi with a good idea of where to start your haggling.

Many of the major tourist sites are actually located 30 minutes to two hours outside of Mandalay. For these trips, it is best to hire a driver for the day. Or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can rent a motorbike. Daily rates for a car and driver seem to range from 25,000 – 45,000 Kyat ($12 – $25 USD) depending on how long you want the car and how far you’ll be traveling.

Where to Stay in Mandalay

Bagan King Hotel

Bagan King Hotel  is decorated with ornate woodwork and old-world charm. The staff is incredibly welcoming and helpful. They offer each guest a free happy hour drink every day from 5 pm – 6 pm. Also, the oldest tea shop in Mandalay ( Min Thi Ha ) and the best spa ( Innwa ) are right down the street from Bagan King.

Check Prices on Booking.com

The Haven Hotel

The highlight of The Haven Hotel is definitely its rooftop pool with expansive views over Mandalay. That being said, you’ll also find the rooms quite comfortable, the breakfast tasty, and the staff incredibly welcoming.

The Link 78 Boutique Hotel

The Link 78 Boutique Hotel  is a brand new hotel in the central business district of Mandalay with modern rooms and spacious bathrooms.

Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket

Most attractions in the Mandalay area are covered by the Mandalay Archaeological Zone ‘Combo’ Ticket. At the time of writing, it costs 10,000 Kyat (around $5 USD) and is good for one week. It provides entry to the following:

• The Royal Palace
• Shwenandaw Monastery
• Atu Mashi Monastery
• All the sites in Innwa (Bagaya Monastery, Yandana Sine Pagoda, Nan Myint Watch Tower, and Mai Nu Monastery)
• The Mandalay Cultural Museum

Several other places around Mandalay supposedly require the ticket but no one seems to be checking.

What is not included in the Archaeological Zone Ticket? You’ll need to pay an additional fee for entrance to the following locations:

• Mingun/Saigan (5,000 Kyat for both)
• Mandalay Hill (1,000 Kyat)

The 15 Best Things to do in Mandalay

1. chat with the locals at mandalay hill.

Most tourists climb to the top of Mandalay Hill to watch the sunset. But, what may catch you by surprise is the number of locals who have also made the trek in the hopes of chatting with English-speaking foreigners. Dozens of students and young monks arrive at the top of Mandalay Hill every afternoon planning to practice their English skills with you.

You’ll find this to be a symbiotic relationship. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about life in Myanmar and they’ll get to ask questions about your favorite movie or football team. But once you say yes to one, many more will follow. So either expect to have a lengthy conversation with several locals or create an escape plan.

2. Sample Mandalay’s Tea Shops

Anywhere you go in Myanmar, you’ll find quaint little shops serving thick, sugary sweet Myanmar Tea. And around Mandalay, you’ll find dozens of tea shops serving up quick eats in addition to tea and coffee. Our favorites are Unique Mandalay Tea Room, Shwe Pyi Moe, Pan Tha Khin, and Min Thi Ha.

Visiting a tea shop or two is sure to be one of the highlights of your time in Mandalay. Check out our post on the Best Tea Shops of Mandalay for more info on all of them!

3. Stroll Across the U Bein Bridge

The U Bein Bridge spans the three-quarter-mile stretch across the Taung-tha-man Inn Lake in Amarapura and is the longest teak bridge in the world. It was finished in 1851 and has been in constant use in the years since. It’s a bit rickety and the water in the lake is rather polluted (and smelly). You’ll want to watch your step to make sure you don’t step through a hole. But it makes for some beautiful photos and excellent people watching – certainly one of the best things to do in Mandalay.

Most people arrive at U Bein Bridge in the late afternoon to watch the sunset over the reflective waters of the lake. If you want a calmer experience, plan on arriving just before sunrise. You can watch locals exercising on the bridge or walking to work.

The massive Mahagandayon Monastery is nearby and is home to over 1,000 monks. You’ll likely encounter plenty of them wandering along the bridge as well. Tour buses generally show up at the monastery at 11 am so that tourists can watch the monks eat their lunch which seems a bit like visiting a human zoo. If you want to visit the monastery, we recommend going in the afternoon after the tour buses are long gone and the eating has commenced.

4. Wander Through the Teak Monasteries

Shwenandaw Monastery , also known as the Golden Palace Monastery, is decorated inside and out with intricate wood carvings. It was built in the 19th century and has actually been dissembled, moved, and reassembled, twice. Originally a part of the royal palace in Amarapur, it was moved to Mandalay in 1857 where King Mindon used it as his personal living quarters. Then, in 1880, it was once again relocated to its present location and converted into a monastery.

Entrance Fee:  The entrance to Shwenandaw Monastery is included in the Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket (along with Innwa and The Royal Palace).

If you enjoy your visit to the Shwenandaw Monastery then make sure you also visit the  Shwe In Bin Monastery . It’s much less popular with tourists. That means that, aside from a few monks going about their daily chores, you’ll pretty much have it all to yourself.

5. Read the World’s Largest Book

Kuthodaw Pagoda sits in the northeast corner of Mandalay at the base of Mandalay Hill. The centerpiece is the familiar gold pagoda that you’ll find in most temples around Myanmar. However, what makes Kuthodaw noteworthy is the 730 white stupas that surround the central pagoda.

Each stupa contains a marble tablet covered on both sides with a Burmese script. The first 729 tablets comprise the teachings of Buddha and the final (730th) tablet tells of the creation of Kuthodaw Pagoda. Not only is this the largest book in the world, but it is also a surreal place for a photoshoot.

The nearby Sanda Muni Pagoda offers a similar setting – a golden stupa surrounded by 1,774 white stupas that are housing marble slabs inscribed with the teachings of Buddha. At Sanda Muni, the stupas are set closer together and you’re not permitted to roam freely among them as you are at Kuthodaw.

Entrance Fee: Supposedly Kuthodaw and Sanda Muni Pagodas are a part of the Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket but it’s highly unlikely that you’ll be asked to show your ticket.

6. Explore the Strange Pagodas of Mingun

The small town of Mingun sits just across the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay and boasts several impressive archaeological sites. The best-known monument in Mingun is the massive Mingun Pahtodawgyi , aka “The Unfinished Pagoda”. The construction of this massive pagoda began in 1790 by King Bodawpaya. However, the undertaking was so huge and costly that the king’s advisers concocted a prophecy that once the pagoda was finished, the king would die.

This false prophecy had the intended effect and construction slowed and then stopped altogether. The 50-meter tall structure that remains today is only one-third of the pagoda’s intended height. An earthquake in 1839 left the pagoda with numerous cracks and today it is simply an impressive-looking tourist attraction.

While The Unfinished Pagoda is the most famous site in Mingun, the most photogenic site is the wavy white Hsinbyume Pagoda . You’ll find it just a short walk down the road from the Unfinished Pagoda.

Most people choose to travel from Mandalay to Mingun by boat. The ferry leaves from Myan Gyan Jetty in Mandalay at 9 am. It takes an hour to travel the 6.8 miles upriver to Mingun. The return boat leaves Mingun at 1 pm and the return trip takes about 45 minutes.

If you’d rather avoid the crowds, hire your own motorbike or car with a driver and plan to arrive early in the morning. You’re unlikely to see another tourist until 10 am when the ferry arrives.

Entrance Fee:  Foreign visitors must purchase an entry ticket for the entire Mingun/Sagain area. This will either be collected at the boat dock or at a roadside booth if arriving by car or motorbike.

7. Climb Sagain Hill

The town of Sagain sits on the western side of the Irrawaddy River and can easily be combined with a visit to Mingun or Innwa. Its most notable feature is the towering Sagain Hill overlooking the river and covered in monuments and religious buildings.

Most people choose to climb up to the  Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda for stunning views of Mandalay. Walk 10 minutes north and you’ll find the U Min Thonze Caves  which contain a row of 45 Buddha statues. It is a popular photography spot for visitors.

A short drive west of Saigan Hill is the unique egg-shaped  Kaunghmudaw Pagoda . It was once painted white to signify purity but, in a controversial move by the Burmese government, was changed to the same ubiquitous gold as other pagodas in Myanmar.

8. Kiss a Python at the Snake Temple

Yadana Labamuni Hsu-taungpye Paya or as it is more commonly called around Mandalay, “ Hmwe Paya ” (which translates to “Snake Pagoda”), is a modest temple situated in the town of Peleik about 40 minutes south of downtown Mandalay.

One day, many years ago, a large Burmese Python crawled into this temple and settled itself around a statue of Buddha. The monks carried it back out into the jungle only to find that the next day it returned to the same spot. They decided that it was a sacred protector of Buddha (perhaps a reincarnated monk) so they decided to let it stay.

The original snake died years ago but it has been replaced by three new pythons that spend their days lazily sleeping around the Buddha statue. You’ll find many old, fading photos of various Burmese people posing with the original python on the walls of the temple. You can also see the original python which has been poorly taxidermied and displayed in a plexiglass case.

Make sure you arrive at 11 am as that is when the snakes are carried from their perch around the Buddha statue to the snake bathtub for their daily washing. After they’ve had their bath you’ll likely be given the opportunity to take a photo with the largest of the pythons for a small donation to the temple (1,000 – 2,000 Kyat is acceptable).

Even if handling snakes isn’t your thing, it is endlessly entertaining to watch the locals taking photos of the snake draped around their babies. Occasionally you might even see a baby bathing with the snakes!

Entrance Fee: None but making a small donation to temples you visit is always a welcome gesture.

9. Take a Horse Carriage Through Innwa

Innwa , sometimes also referred to as “Ava”, served as the capital of Burma from the 14th to 19th century. It was destroyed and rebuilt numerous times during that period, but was finally abandoned after an earthquake in 1839. It sits about 30 minutes south of Mandalay and it is best combined with a trip to Sagain, U Bein Bridge, or the Snake Pagoda in Peleik. Or with all 3 if you’re short on time.

Arriving at Innwa involves making your way to the river jetty just south of the Inwa Bridge. From there, you’ll take a short ferry ride (1,300 Kyat round-trip) across the Mytinge River. Most of the local economy relies on driving tourists around in horse carriages. You’ll most certainly be approached by a carriage driver the second you get off the boat.

The 2-hour horse carriage tour around the area includes the 4 main sites – Bagaya Monastery , Yandana Sine Pagoda, Nan Myint Watch Tower, and Mai Nu Monastery .

Each horse carriage fits two people in addition to the driver. If your group is larger than two, you’ll need to hire multiple carriages. Make sure you insist on paying your carriage driver at the end of your tour as some unethical drivers have been known to demand more money after you visit the first few sites.

Entrance Fee: The entrance fee to the sites in Innwa is part of the Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket.

10. See a Puppet Show

Mandalay has a long history of puppetry and you’ll likely see puppets for sale all over the country. But sadly, as Myanmar modernizes, the art of puppetry is quickly dying. There is only one location where you can still see a puppet show in Mandalay – at the  Mandalay Marrionettes Theater .

The show is an hour-long and is accompanied by live music on traditional instruments. The puppet dances are immensely entertaining and the show is narrated in English so you can understand the context and history of each performance.

Make sure you arrive early or have your hotel book your seats in advance so you can sit near the front for the best views. And stick around after the show so you can meet the oldest puppet master in Myanmar. He’s over 80 years old and still practicing his craft!

The Moustache Brothers: If a puppet show isn’t your thing, consider checking out the comedy routine of the Moustache Brothers . However, since only one of the three brothers is still performing, the act has lost a bit of its former intrigue.

11. Watch Buddha Get a Facial

Maha Myat Muni Pagoda houses the most important Buddha image in all of Mandalay as the statue was believed to have been cast while Buddha was still alive. The statue is already quite massive but is growing every year due to the amount of gold leaf that is applied by the thousands of religious pilgrims that visit. Some estimate that there are around six inches of additional gold that’s been applied via the thin gold sheets.

Buy a sheet of gold leaf yourself and get in line if you want to get up close to the Buddha. But only if you’re a male. Sadly, as with many other religious sites in Myanmar, females are not allowed to touch this image of Buddha.

Every morning at 4:30 am Buddha is draped in a gold cloth and his face is ceremoniously washed by the resident monks. He even gets his teeth brushed with sandalwood paste. The water that is leftover from Buddha’s bath is then passed among the crowd so they can sprinkle it on their tongues and over their heads.

It’s an interesting, albeit lengthy ceremony that is worth checking out if you don’t mind the early morning wake-up call.

12. Visit the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Mandalay sits just south of Mandalay Hill and it is surrounded by a high wall and an expansive 64-meter wide moat. It was home to the last royal family in Burma before their surrender to the British in 1885. It was then converted into a fort and used to house troops.

The palace grounds later became a supply depot by the Japanese during World War II and subsequently, most of the original palace buildings were destroyed by allied bombing. The only original buildings left are the Royal Mint and the Watch Tower. The teak Shwenandaw Monastery was also once a part of the palace but was disassembled and reconstructed outside of the palace grounds in 1880.

Reconstruction of the palace began in 1989 and much of the grounds remain under construction today. However, the new buildings are made of concrete with corrugated metal roofs and don’t bear much resemblance to the original teak wood structures.

Entrance Fee:  The Royal Palace is included in the Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket so if you’re headed to Innwa or Shwenandaw Monastery it won’t cost you anything extra to stop by here as well.

13. Swim Under Dat Taw Gyaint Waterfall

Getting to Dat Taw Gyaint Waterfall is no easy feat but it’s well worth the trouble! The start of the hike is located about an hour and a half drive northeast of Mandalay, just before you reach the colonial mountain town of Pyin Oo Lwin. From the parking lot, it takes about an hour to walk down the dirt road that snakes its way to the bottom of the valley.

There are a few other waterfalls nearby that numerous local guides will offer to take you to in return for a tip (they’ll request a tip per guide and you’re likely to have four of them following you around). But the real star of the show is Dat Taw Gyaint.

There are several shops selling snacks and drinks at the parking lot, along the walk down, and at the falls themselves. Make sure you leave time for the trip back to the car – it’s a lot harder going up than it is going down!

14. Relax with a Massage

While Thailand reigns supreme for massages in South East Asia, Myanmar is quickly catching up. Especially in the larger cities that have been building their tourism infrastructure. You will find several new spas springing up in Mandalay that offers inexpensive massages in comfortable, air-conditioned settings.

Our favorite is the luxurious  Innwa Spa on 72nd Street!

15. Watch the Sun Set Over The Irrawaddy

Most visitors to Mandalay will watch at least one sunset from Mandalay Hill. We think that sunsets are best enjoyed with a frosty cold adult beverage. But it’s not allowed at the Buddhist pagodas at the top of Mandalay Hill so we’d recommend heading to Sky Bar on the rooftop of the Ayarwaddy River View Hotel.

The hotel is a bit overpriced and the food is nothing special, but the views of the sun setting over the Irrawaddy river can’t be beaten. They even offer a free happy hour drink between 4:30 pm and 6 pm!

That’s it – the 15 best things to do in Mandalay, Myanmar! Did we miss something? Let us know below.

Want more info? Check out our favorite travel guides and books about Myanmar!

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Nick took his first solo trip abroad to Ireland and Scotland when he was just 19. Since then he has visited over 70 countries around the world (plus 45 states in the USA). He coupled his passion for travel photography with Val’s passion for writing and thus Wandering Wheatleys was born. He now lives in Asheville with his two rambunctious kids, Humphrey and Wilhelminha. Besides photography, Nick loves eating the weirdest food he can find in a country (sheep’s brain currently sits in first place) and making Val get up an hour before sunrise to make sure he gets “the good light”.

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14 Places to Visit in Mandalay + Things To Do

Mandalay is the second largest city in Myanmar. It is known primarily for its Buddhism heritage. Among many temples, pagodas, and other traditional structures, the city plays host to the last royal palace of the last monarchy when Myanmar was still Burma. For that alone, people add Mandalay Fort to their itinerary to have the best experience of the country.

Another top attraction in the city is the Shwenandaw Monastery, a 19th Century structure first built as a royal apartment. Everything about the monastery is impressive; the carvings and sculptures on teak wood are exceptional. Like most destinations in Myanmar, Mandalay also boasts several pretty pagodas worth visiting. They include the KuThoDaw Pagoda and Sanda Muni Pagoda, located at the foot of the Mandalay Hill. If the pagodas are attractive enough, Mandalay Hill is drawing interest on its own, especially among pilgrims. It has been serving locals for over two centuries.

Mandalay is a fantastic side trip to add to your Myanmar itinerary. The city is a gateway for tourists who want to get to Myanmar’s best spots. Mandalay International Airport also serves direct flights to Singapore, India, China, and Thailand.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Mandalay travel essentials

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1. Mandalay Hill

Location : Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) . Save on Google Maps .

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Ancient Cities near Mandalay

Location : Myanmar (Burma) . Save on Google Maps .

3. U-Bein Bridge & Amarapura

Location : Amarapura, Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) . Save on Google Maps .

Location : Sagaing, Myanmar (Burma) . Save on Google Maps .

5. Inwa (Ava Old Palace)

Location : Inn Wa, Myanmar (Burma) . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go in Mandalay city center

6. Maha Myat Muni Pagoda

Location : Mahamuni, Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) . Save on Google Maps .

7. Mandalay Palace

8. Kuthodaw Pagoda

9. Shwenandaw Kyaung (Golden Palace Monastery)

10. Sanda Muni Pagoda

Location : Mandalay Hill St, Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) . Save on Google Maps .

11. Atumashi Kyaung

Location : 62 Street, 12×14 Street, Dawna Bwar Ward, Aung Myay Tharsan Tsp, Myanmar (Burma) . Save on Google Maps .

12. Kyauktawgyi Pagoda

13. Shwe In Bin Monastery

Location : Northern Myanmar . Save on Google Maps .

Hsipaw Travel Essentials

Where to stay

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Bagan Travel Essentials

See more : Bagan travel tips

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Yangon Travel Essentials

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Yangon Highlights Private Tour

Yangon and Bagan Bus – VIP Ticket (One Way)

Yangon Full Day Walking Tour

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Mandalay that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Mandalay

Mandalay tourist spots, things to do in Mandalay, where to go in Mandalay & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Mandalay

Click below & search recommended Mandalay hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

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Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Things to do in Mandalay – a Complete Mandalay Travel Guide

Last Updated on: Apr 7, 2019  

Mandalay , the formal royal capital of Myanmar is a city with beautiful pagodas, bustling alleyways and some unique architecture. Given a first look, the city looks like any other Southeast Asian city with upcoming big buildings, busy streets and smiling people. However, there are many interesting and unique things to do at Mandalay. In our recent Myanmar backpacking trip , we had kept 2 nights at Mandalay and the city surprised us with its rustic charm and individual attractions. Here, we have put together a Mandalay Travel Guide for you so that it helps you to find out what to do and places to visit in Mandalay.

Table of Contents

Mandalay – Revisiting Burma’s ancient capitals

Mandalay captures our imagination as Myanmar’s last royal capital before British colonized the country. There is a subtle romanticism about the past that we love to feel and visiting Mandalay was like indulging into it. But what we did not know that when we visited Myanmar that Mandalay was definitely not the oldest and only capital of Burma or even the longest serving capital. Just located around the city absorbed into the suburbs of this famous city are three other ancient royal seats of Burma – Sagaing, Ava (Inwa) and Amarapura. All the three combined had been the seat of power for more than 500 years compared to Mandalay’s 26.

Unique things to do in Mandalay and Places to visit in Mandalay

Marvel at largest iron Buddha at Sandamuni Pagoda

The Sandamuni Pagoda located near the Mandalay Hill and is famous for the largest iron Buddha (also known as Sandamani). The Buddha statue is made up of almost 41000 pounds of iron and is covered by a layer of gold and more gold leaves are added by the believers each day. There are eighty other statues of saint disciples, which are found in mini stupas around the pagoda. There are also 1774 marble slabs inscribed with the teachings of Lord Buddha.

See the World’s largest book at Kuthodaw Pagoda

It is called the World’s largest book! But do not go looking for a large sized book in the temple complex. What catches the eye when you first enter the complex is the striking temple building with a gilded exterior giving it the look of a golden temple. But the spectacle lies somewhere else. There are stark white stupas surrounding the main pagoda in long rows. Beneath the pinnacles and inside the stupas lie 730 marble tablets. 729 tablets contain the body of the Tripitaka . The 730th tablet describes the creation of the entire spectacle.  Kuthodaw Pagoda lies just east of Mandalay Palace and very near to the Sandamuni Pagoda.

It is said that if you read 8 hours a day, it would take a year to complete reading all that is written in the tablets. Little wonder it is called World’s largest book!

Watch the sunrise at U-Bein Bridge

The iconic bridge stretches across Taungthaman Lake in the Amarapura region and is said to be the longest teak wood footbridge. Almost covering 1.2 km across the shallow lake, the slightly curved bridge is supported over 1086 wooden pillars hammered to the bottom of the lake. This long bridge without any rails is one of Myanmar’s most photographed sites.

U-Bein Bridge looks surreally beautiful during the sunrise and after the sunset when the sky plays with colours of golden yellow and orange. The most striking time is perhaps just after the sunset, but that is also the time when you will find maximum visitors there including the locals and the vendors selling trinkets. The affection that U-Bein had received also took a toll on it. Now a few of the thousand pillars have been replaced by concrete pillars and many of the original planks have either been replaced or in dire need of replacement.

Did you know, the planks of the teak making up the bridge had been brought from the old royal palace at Inwa, the former Burmese capital?

Traveller Tip: Try to visit U-Bein Bridge during the sunrise. It is comparatively less crowded.

Amarapura literally means ‘the city of immortality’. Situated only 11 km from Mandalay town, Amarapura is now known for silk weaving and you can visit the workshops to see how these products are made. It had served the capital of Myanmar twice from 1783-1821 and from 1842-1857.

See the sunset from the Mandalay Hill

Head towards the Mandalay Hill to get a panoramic view of the entire city. The 240 metre hill can be seen from many places in Mandalay. We would suggest you to visit during the sunset to get an epic view of the entire city, Mingun and the many pagodas that are sprinkled throughout the area.  There are stairs to climb up to the hilltop. You can also take a taxi to the top and then there is an escalator to the Sutaungpyei P agoda .

Mandalay was the last seat of monarchy in Burma and was founded in northern part of Myanmar in 1857 by King Mingdon as the capital of Konbaug dynasty. Burma remained an independent kingdom until it was conquered by the British colonial forces in 1886. It is the cultural centre of Myanmar and is the home of several beautiful Buddhist pagodas and monasteries. While at Yangon, you can see the remnants of the colonial past, Mandalay will get you a glimpse of the imperial past of Myanmar.

Foreign tourists have to pay the ‘Mandalay Zone Fee’ that costs 10,000 Kyats and gives access to several sites including Mandalay Palace.

Visit the past at Shwenandaw Kyaung Temple or the Teak Pagoda

The Shwenandaw Temple is perhaps the best example of Burmese teak architecture and is also the most significant of Mandalay’s historic buildings. The temple is the sole remaining structure of the former wooden Royal Palace built by King Mindon in mid-nineteenth century. It was originally a part of the Royal Palace at Amarapura, but was later shifted to the new Palace Complex at Mandalay. King Mindon breathed his last inside these chambers. His son, King Thibaw convinced that the place was haunted by his father’s spirits, dismantled it once more in 1878 and reconstructed the teak architecture at the current grounds.

See the last royal residence of Mandalay kings at the Mandalay Palace

Located just in the heart of Mandalay in the middle of a moat, Mandalay Palace tells the story of the last Burmese King who lived here. In 1885 when the British forces marched into Mandalay with very little opposition, they demanded unconditional surrender from the King Thibaw Min and his palace. That is what they got. Later, the king and queen were exiled into India, just as the last Mughal emperor of India, Bahadur Shah Zafar was exiled in Burma. During the Second World War, parts of the palace were destroyed and in 1990 a replica of the palace was built.

Visit the Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda at Sagaing Hilltop

This is one of the oldest and perhaps the richest of the hundreds of pagodas at Sagaing. Located on the top of Nga-pha Hill, one of the hilltops at Sagaing. The main prayer hall has a giant statue of Buddha. From the patio, you will get some breathtaking views of the Irrawaddy River and the surroundings. There is a staircase leading downhill. You can go down the stairs to several other pagodas or even visit the villages. Just outside the entrance of the pagodas, there are a lot of locals selling handicrafts, longyi, clothes and fruits. If you want to buy anything from there, do bargain a bit.

Sagaing is located across the Irrawaddy (Ayeyarwady) River about 21 km from Mandalay. Covered with almost 600 pagodas and monasteries, the Sagaing Hill is still regarded as the centre of Buddhism in Myanmar. Sagaing was the oldest of the ancient capitals. It existed long before Burma did serving as the capital of Sagaing Kingdom from 1315 until 1364.

Marvel at the beauty of Umin Thonse Pagoda – 30 caves Pagoda

Situated on the Sagaing Hills, Umin Thonse Pagoda literally translates into 30 Caves Pagoda. It is said that there are 30 entrances to this pagoda. Inside the pagoda, there are 45 statues of Buddha arranged in a crescent shaped peristyle. From the Sagaing Hills, you will get an amazing view of Mandalay and Irrawaddy River.

Walk amidst the cloud at Hsinbyume Pagoda

This place is one of our personal favourites. Infact, of all the places to visit in Mandalay, we found Mingun very close to heart. This beautiful white structure just looked like clouds against the backdrop of the blue sky. Located near the banks of Irrawaddy just to the north of Mingun Pahtodawgyi. You can climb on top of the white pagoda using the staircase and get a beautiful view of the river and Mingun Pagoda.

The architecture of the Hsinbyume Pagoda is unique, designed to represent Mt. Meru (the centre of universe in Buddhist cosmology).

Mingun Pahtodawgyi (Mingun pagoda) & Mingun Bell

The Mingun Pagoda is one of its kinds. On the first look, it might look like a pile of bricks. In fact, it holds the record for being the biggest pile of bricks in the world. The pagoda was intended to be built to 490 feet high housing Buddhist relics, but it remains as an unfinished structure. Construction of the pagoda was started in 1790 by King Bodawpaya. During the construction, it was prophesied that the completion of the Stupa would cause his death, The King being a superstition man, slowed down the progress of the pagoda, after his death, the construction was completely abandoned.

Even though it is incomplete, the Mingun pagoda strike for an imposing structure at 450 feet dwarfing the surrounding areas. If completed, it would have rivaled the size of the Pyramid of Giza. N earthquake in 1839 had left huge cracks in the entire structure. The cracks actually add to the decrepit look of the Mingun Pagoda. Don’t they say, imperfection is beautiful?

The Mingun Pagoda was not completed, however the construction of the accompanying Mingun bell was completed. The bell weighs almost 90 tonnes and is 12 feet high. Until 2000, Mingun Bell was the largest bell in the world. This day, it has been surpassed by another one in China.

How to reach Mingun?

Mingun can be easily reached from Mandalay by ferry, car or even bike. Ferries are available from Myan Gyan Jetty of Mandalay (at the western end of 26th Street) at 9 AM. The journey takes one hour. The return ferry leaves from Mingun at 1 PM. All the attractions at Mingun are within walking distance so you can simply walk around the place and enjoy. If you are planning for a half-day trip, then availing the ferry is the best way to visit Mingun.

Zone Fees: Mingun-Sagaing Archaeological Fees for foreign visitors that cost 5000 Kyats.

Explore the grand imperial capital now in ruins – Inwa or Ava Heritage Village

For around 360 years and spread across 14th to 19th century, Inwa was the capital of Burma, but not at a stretch, but on five different occasions! Locally also known as Ava or Awa, the city was originally founded in 1365. In classical Pali language, Inwa was known as Ratnapura or the city of gems .  Inwa was built to be the capital of a newly found kingdom that came to be known as the Kingdom of Ava. It not only remained the seat of power, but was also as a centre of a thriving Burmese literature.

Inwa is located at the confluence of the Irrawaddy and Myitynge Rivers on an artificial island formed by a canal connecting the two rivers upstream from their natural point of meeting.

In 1839, the entire region was affected by a devastating earthquake and the capital was badly hit. Although Inwa had been sacked, destroyed and rebuilt for many a times, but this time it could not be done and the capital was shifted to Amarapura in 1842.

The former imperial capital is now a pleasant countryside with farmers raise their crops and livestock graze in the green fields. And in the midst of these modest surroundings, you get a glimpse of the glorious past in the form of ruined pagodas, palace towers, monasteries and huge city walls. The walls reminded us of the Baisgazi Walls of Gour. Infact, Gour was also the erstwhile seat of power in Bengal now lying in ruins. Just see how time changes the dynamics of places.

How to reach Inwa (Ava)?

Inwa can be reached from Mandalay by taking a ferry. Once you reach the island, there are horse carts that will take you across the island. Ferry to Inwa will take 1500 Kyats and a horse cart takes 5000 Kyats per head.

Zone Fees Required: The Ava Heritage Fees cost 10000 Kyats for foreign tourists

Bagaya Monastery is one interesting place in Ava. It is made completely of teak with a 7 tiered spire. Bagaya Monastery seems to have withstood the ravages of earthquake better than its stone neighbours. As you enter inside the dark interior of the monastery, you might get a feel of entering the deck of a ship!

Just a few metres away are the remnants of the Ava Royal Palace . Actually nothing remains of the palace but an 89 feet watchtower, which is leaning precariously. Well, we actually had a plan to climb the tower, but seeing the condition, we decided otherwise.

Another beautiful monastery at Inwa is the Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery . It is a very ornate structure particularly well preserved. The monastery is built by brick which was not the norm of those days. Palaces and monasteries were usually made of wood during those times. Though it was made of bricks, it followed the traditional architecture.

One of our favourite places at Inwa was no doubt the Yadana Hsimi Pagodas . The place is completely in ruins. There are small stupas in a courtyard and a large Buddha statue in ruins and really sorry state.

See how the Gold Leaf is made

The Burmese give gold leafs as an offering to Lord Buddha. They apply these thin gold leaves on the statues of Buddha. So the gold glittering statue you will see at the pagodas probably comes from these gold offerings. There are many workshops around Mandalay where you can see how these gold leafs are made. If you want, you can buy a gold leaf too.

If you have more time, you can visit the Snake Temple and Werawsana Jade Pagoda also.

Getting to and From Mandalay

During our Myanmar Trip, Mandalay was our first and last stop. We entered Myanmar by road crossing the Indo-Burmese border at Tamu and then travelled all the way to Mandalay by car. From Mandalay, we went to Bagan. We had wanted to take a cruise on Irrawaddy to Bagan, but unfortunately cruise was not available on the dates we were travelling. So we took a bus to Bagan.

You can reach Mandalay from any Burmese city by bus, train or private car. Buses are the best option. Mandalay also has an international airport.

Getting around in Mandalay

To get around Mandalay, you will have to hire a taxi. You can also rent a motorcycle to drive yourself around. Motorcycles usually take 10000-12000 Kyats per day.

You can rent a car to take you around the different places. For the first day, we visited the Amarapura region and Inwa in a car and on the second day we explored Mandalay, Sagaing and Mingun.

Here are a few more pictures of Mandalay that might inspire you to visit.

Pin it for a later read!

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Hey! we’re Agni & Amrita.

We have been travelling together since the last 15 years and writing independent and personal travel content since 2014. Travel is one of the best teachers and through this blog, we aim to share our experiences and travel tips. We encourage you to travel more and see the world through your eyes and not through filtered templates.

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22 Comments

I have always longed to visit myanmar ever since I saw my sisters photos of her trip there. I always imagine drehte wouldn’t be much else apart from Bagan. But your post nicely highlights what she missed out in Mandalay. Will bookmark this Thanks for the heads up

Thank you Sreekar. Myanmar is simply beautiful and worth exploring.

The pagodas are such a distinct style, but each one has unique features. I can’t decide if I like the all white or all gold pagodas more. The white pagoda with gold leaf accents are such a beautiful blend of the extremes. And even a leaning pagoda, those are impressive.

That is the beauty of Mandalay. All are so beautiful. Thanks Jen!

I love this! I’m planning a trip to Southeast Asia for my next birthday and Myanmar is on my list. I definitely need to add Mandalay as a stopping point. There’s so much to see and do! I would love to scale Mandalay Hill and watch the sunset. I love how the numerous pagodas seem to just dazzle like stars in the sky!

Thank you Rachelle! Hope you have a lovely travel filled birthday. Enjoy Myanmar. It is a lovely place.

That’s an impeccable, impressive list of things to do in Mandalay. Hsinbyume Pagoda is definitely my fav too. The architecture is just impeccable. That said, I think Away heritage village would be my top priority.

Hsinbyume Pagoda is surely a breathtaking sight! Thank you for appreciating.

Thank you Bhushavali. Glad that you liked the post.

Simply love your images and Mandalay is indeed beautiful. I still remember, talking about your trip with Debs when I was back in the UK, and how we were like, we too need to do this someday ? Kuch bhi bolo, mazza toh road trip mein hi hai ?

Bilkul sahi! We should all plan a road trip soon! I so want to travel with all you guys! 🙂

What a comprehensive guide to everything to see in Mandalay. I’m not familiar with Myanmar or its history but you’ve shown me amazing places. I especially liked tidbits about visiting U-Bein Bridge at sunrise or that it would take over a year to read the great book. Did you get to make some gold leaf? It’s amazing that they use it as an offering.

Thank you Annick. No, we did not get to make some gold leaf! But we saw how they make one.

This is timely since we’re visiting Mandalay late this year. Thank you for sharing this very detailed travel guide. It is very helpful. I am so excited to see the beautiful temples and pagodas.

That is great! Mandalay is a great place. You can have a look at our other posts on Myanmar also. Thanks for the comment.

The Hsinbyume Pagoda looks gorgeous! It really does resemble clouds in the sky. I’d love to visit 🙂

Truly said. Thanks Francesca!

I’m planning to visit Mandalay in June and I’m so glad I came across this article! It answered a lot of the questions I had about the city and it gave me so many good ideas of activities to indulge in. Your post made me even more excited about the trip. Thank you for sharing this lovely article.

Thank you, Daniel. Have a great time in Mandalay. It is beautiful city.

I really appreciate this wonderful post that you have provided for us. A blog is brilliantly written and provides all the necessary information.

Hi Guys! This is very interesting and amazing article for all readers, It is very helpful for all beginners especially for those who are in the field of traveling. I really enjoy the lovely reading of this article. Thanks for sharing this article for us

Thank you Kate for your lovely comment!

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Mandalay Attractions Guide – Places to Visit and Things to Do

Places to Visit and Things to Do in Mandalay

Mandalay, the second-largest city in Myanmar, has so many attractions and things to do. From the Shwenandaw Monastery and the Hsinbyume pagoda to the U Bein Bridge and the colorful Zegyo Market , these are just some of the best places to visit in Mandalay. Among the many attractions, you can also find some things to do for culture lovers like us, so get all the details and tips in our Mandalay Guide!

We arrived to Mandalay at the end of our trip, not expecting much of this large city. We had a few days to spend here and after visiting Bagan and Inle Lake we thought we’d already seen the best of Myanmar’s attractions.  Boy, we were wrong because we LOVED our time here and we couldn’t get enough of the colorful markets and the day trips to nearby villages (not to mention the Indian restaurant we have visited 3 times). Mandalay is located on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River which provides a wonderful setting for many Instagram-worthy  pictures.   Allow for at least 3-4 days to explore Mandalay and its surrounding area if you can include it in your Myanmar itinerary.

Table of Content

Things to do and places to visit in mandalay, mandalay attractions guide - pagodas and monasteries, climb up mandalay hill.

Once you get to Mandalay, you can’t miss Mandalay Hill in what is otherwise a very flat city. Though it is only 240 meters high, Mandalay Hill still provides great panoramic views of the city . It is especially beautiful during the late afternoon and sunset time. The hill is dotted with many pagodas and monasteries and at the top you’ll find the Sutaungpyei Pagoda. You can either use one of the 4 stairways (a climb of about 40-50 minutes which you have to do barefoot of course) or use a taxi to bring you to the lift which will take you all the way up to the Sutaungpyei Pagoda and the wonderful viewpoint.

Visit the Sandamuni Pagoda and Kuthodaw Pagoda

Both the Sandamuni Pagoda and the Kuthodaw Pagoda are located very close to Mandalay Hill. In Sandamuni you will find the largest iron image of Buddha which was cast in 1802 and in Kuthodaw Pagoda you’ll find the world’s largest book . This book is actually comprised from 729 stone tablets (inscribed with Buddhist scriptures) which can be found inside the 729 stupas in this pagoda. Both of these pagodas are very interesting places to visit in Mandalay and since they resemble one another, we chose to only visit The Kuthodaw Pagoda. What we loved about visiting the different pagodas in Myanmar is the fact we always saw people who were praying and so these visits were always very special. 

Explore the Shwenandaw Monastery

The Golden Palace Monastery (Shwenandaw Kyaung)   is a historic Buddhist monastery located near Mandalay Hill and it is the only major original structure of the original Royal Palace. This beautiful monastery is made from teak wood and it is a great example for wooden monasteries that were built in Burma during the 19th century. Both the exterior and interior of the monastery are decorated with intricate wood carvings. It is impossible not the admire the beautiful Shwenandaw Monastery and the craftsmanship required to build it. An interesting fact is that this monastery used to be part of the Royal Palace in Amarapura but after it was moved to Mandalay, the Shwenandaw Monastery was taken apart and rebuilt as part of the new Royal Palace in Mandalay. 

Take a Peek at Mandalay Palace

Mandalay was the last royal royal capital of Burma before the British arrived and the Mandalay Palace was the last royal place of residence of the Konbaung dynasty, the dynasty which ruled Burma from 1752 to 1885. The palace itself was built between 1857 and 1859. When the British arrived, they turned the palace into a fort and later it was almost completely destroyed during World War II.  Mandalay Palace went through renovations during the 1990’s. The palace is one of the main tourist attractions in Mandalay but personally, we preferred exploring the markets, local artist workshops and other attractions in Mandalay. Nevertheless, for history lovers a visit to the palace can be quite interesting and if you do come, don’t forget to climb the tower. 

Visit a Local Monastery in the Evening or Morning Time

From the start we knew we would like to visit one of the local monasteries in the area in the morning or just before sunset and witness the long line of monks who are on their way to the evening pray which is followed by supper. The problem is we’ve heard many mixed reviews about such visits since many times there are so many other tourists around you can’t really enjoy the experience.  Therefore, we asked our guide to take us to a relatively less-known monastery in the afternoon since most tourists arrive in the mornings, and apart from us we saw perhaps 4 other tourists around. An important tip: our recommendation is to come in the afternoon to a smaller monastery if you want to enjoy your visit.

Discover Mandalay Markets

If you are a market person (as we are) Mandalay is blessed with many great markets such as the fish market, flower market and fresh produce market . Our guide was wise enough to understand that just one visit to one of the markets was not going to satisfy our thirst and we came back a few times because markets are a little bit like Disneyland for us… At the largest market in Mandalay (and in this part of Myanmar),  Zegyo Market (or Zay Cho Market) you’ll find everything you are looking for. This amazing market has products from Myanmar, Thailand, China and India. For us the real pleasure was strolling around the open-air markets and capturing the heart and soul of Mandalay.  Before choosing which market to visit, you’d better consult your guide or hotel regarding the best time of day to visit each of the markets . We couldn’t get enough of the sights and sounds (though we could do without the fishy odor of the fish market) of these market. We just strolled around, taking pictures, trying to spot unfamiliar fruits and veggies and basically inhale the richness and liveliness of these markets.

Watch the Sunset on the Banks of the Irrawaddy River

One of the highlights of our visit in Mandalay was watching the sunset on the banks of the Irrawaddy. Our guide, noticed we loved interacting with the locals and we had enough of pagodas, so she took us to the market to buy some snacks and then brought us to a a little park where the locals like to come and watch the sunset at the viewpoint just above the village of the bamboo weavers (where villagers are weaving the bamboo which is used to build everything from roofs and walls to fans). The sunset was spectacular, coloring the scene in golden hues and warm tones and it was a great spot to take some sunset pictures. Another bonus – many couples come to have a romantic evening here and many local kids and families come to enjoy the small park and playground.

Visit the Gold Leaf Makers of Mandalay

If you’ve already visited one of the many temples and pagodas in Myanmar you’ve probably seen local worshipers place these thin golden sheets on images of Buddha. Mandalay is the center of the handmade gold leaf industry and one of the most interesting places to visit in Mandalay must be one of the local gold-leaf workshops. You’ll find many local workshops in an area of about two blocks in the center of Mandalay just near the intersection of 36th and 78th streets. You can visit them for free and see the process for yourself and then you’ll have an opportunity to buy something in the souvenir shop (we didn’t feel any pressure to buy anything but we do suggest leaving a tip for the workers. After seeing how much hard work is involved in this process, we gladly left something for them). After watching so many people piously placing this thin golden foil on Buddha images we were very curious to see how these gold leaves are produced. You can watch the rows of men pounding gold sheets into very thin and delicate pieces that are then cut into squares and sold to believers. The process actually starts with the waxy paper (made out of bamboo) that is used to separate the gold leaves and it takes more than three years altogether. For culture lovers this is a must and for us it was one of the best things we did in Mandalay. 

Places to Visit and Things to Do around Mandalay

Take a ferry to mingun.

Mingun is a small village which is situated on the western bank of the Irrawaddy River . We took a small boat to get there and for a moment felt like trainee pirates because we had to cross long  planks to get on and off the boat. The next couple of hours we spent strolling around Mingun, visiting the many unique places of interests and browsing the numerous souvenir stands. 

Things to Do in Mingun

See the incomplete mingun pahtodawgyi.

The Mingun Pahtodawgyi is an incomplete monument that was built by King Bodawpaya in 1790. The king intended it to be a huge and impressive stupa; however, this ambitious project took its toll on the resources and workforce in the area. Legend has it that a prophecy was created to stop the building of this project. The prophecy predicted that once the  Mingun Pahtodawgyi was completed, Burma would be destroyed and so there were many delays to prevent the fulfillment of the prophecy. Once the king died,  it was never completed. Don’t forget also to have a look at the Lions of Stones located between the Mingun Pagoda and the Irrawaddy River. These two huge statues of lions were built in 1799 and were intended to serve as guardians of the Mingun Pahtodawgyi. 

Visit Sat Taw Yar Pagoda

The Sat Taw Yar Pagoda is another beautiful white pagoda just near Mingun Pahtodawgyi. It is not one of the most famous attractions in Mingun, which means you will probably have the places to yourself. Although it is not as unique as the Hsinbyume Pagoda, it offers a beautiful view of the Irrawaddy River and is still worth visiting if you love Burmese temples.

Check Out Mingun Bell

Initially, the Mingun Bell was built to accompany the Mingun Pahtodawgyi, and though the stupa was never finished the Mingun Bell was completed in 1810. Until the year of 2,000 this 90-ton bell was considered to be the largest ringing bell in the world (until a larger one was built in China). Although it is no longer the largest bell in the world, it is still quite impressive and in very good condition. 

Strike a Pose at Hsinbyume Pagoda

Our favorite attraction in Mingun was without a doubt the Hsinbyume Pagoda (the pagoda of love). Built in 1816, the  Hsinbyume Pagoda is very unique in its bright white color and the design that is similar to waves or as someone else described it – “a great white meringue style pavlova”. Climb up the stairs, get lost among the waves and if you’re lucky, you might even see a monk or two. When we were there, we had the place to ourselves but nowadays, you can find many pictures of this gorgeous pagoda on Instagram, so it might get busier soon. This is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mandalay!

Check out our Guide to the Hsinbyume Temple in Mingun for helpful tips and travel inspiration

Watch the Sunset at U Bein Bridge

The famous U Bein Bridge (the longest wooden bridge in the world) is located in Amarapura (about 30 minutes by car from Mandalay). It is such a beautiful sight to watch the sunset from one of the boats on the river. We arrived here about two hours before the sunset and had some time to cross the bridge and hire a boat to watch the sunset. Since many tourists have this attraction on their Myanmar bucket list, make sure to make a reservation in advance with one of the local boats because sometimes there are no more boats to hire (yep, talking from experience). An important tip – even if there are no more boats available, ask around and perhaps share a boat with someone who has already hired one. For a more romantic experience you can also hire one of the small boats which provide drinks and a bite to eat in this stunning setting. Just before sunset dozens of boats dock in front of the bridge in a long chain-like structure, almost touching one another while waiting for the sunset to color the sky in golden hues. The U Bein Bridge is one of the best places in Mandalay to watch the sunset and relax. 

Best Mandalay Attractions for Art Lovers

Visit the family-owned workshops.

If you have been following our Myanmar itinerary then you already know we love the local family-owned workshops . We really loved the unique small factories/workshops in the villages around Mandalay because it was a great opportunity to experience the every-day life of the villagers. We found out that most of the villages here choose to concentrate on one kind of specialty such as clay or terracotta . Each family makes a different kind of item such as clay candle-holders or vases  and people from all around the area know they can find every clay item they need in this specific village. We strolled around the different workshops with our guide and viewed the various phases involved in making such items. In the first village we learned about the different stages of making clay vases and money boxes for children.

In another workshop just at the outskirts of Mandalay we saw the different stages of making paper mache toys.

One of our most memorable experience form Myanmar is our visit to the hand-made broom workshop . You can see these lovely colorful brooms all over Myanmar. What made this visit so memorable was the fact that we were the main attraction there. After all of the explanations about the production process and spending some time taking pictures, the workers got over their shyness and asked us to pose with them for selfies. By then we were already used to these kind of requests but this time we had to spend about 30 minutes posing with everyone, making videos and joking around.  It was such a fun experience and this small factory has such an old charm to it we just loved our time there. Definitely one of the best places we visited in Mandalay. 

How to Get to Mandalay

Located 716 km north of Yangon on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River, there are numerous ways to get to Mandalay. First and foremost, if you are on a tight schedule but not on a tight budget, you can fly into Mandalay . Mandalay airport serves both domestic and international flights so that would be the easiest option. However if you arrive from Bagan you can take a bus (about 6 hours driving through very boring landscape) or hire a private driver . We preferred hiring a driver since we wanted to stop at the unique villages between Bagan and Mandalay (some of which we’ve already mentioned here). Another interesting option, if you have the time, is to take a cruise on the Irrawaddy River from Bagan to Mandalay (or vice versa). It will take you about 12 hours or longer with stops in the villages along the way, but anyway it is more fun than taking the bus. Since we haven’t done this ourselves we can’t recommend a specific company. From Inle Lake you can either fly to Mandalay, take the bus (about 9 hours) or hire a private driver (4.5 hours). We’ve heard some local agents also arrange for a shared taxi so ask around.

Getting around Mandalay

Mandalay is quite large but it is possible to walk to some of the attractions, depending on your accommodation’s location. In addition, the fact that the streets are organized by a grid system with consecutive numbers, will make your life even easier. However, not all of the attractions are very close to each other and the weather can be very hot, so you can always hire a bike, or better yet order a taxi since their prices are quite cheap. If you are looking to explore the city for the day, arrange for a driver for the whole day, it will save you time and money. 

Where to Stay in Mandalay

First of all, stay in the center of Mandalay. It is fun to walk at night and in the city’s center there are many restaurants to choose from. We stayed in the southern part of the Palace (in a hotel that has been closed recently) where we could find many restaurants for dinner. If you are looking for a budget option , you can try Mansion Hostel Mandalay, Moon Light Hotel, Hotel 8 or Ned Kelly Hotel. For mid-range try the Link 78 Mandalay Boutique Hotel or Mandalay City Hotel and for Luxury you can try the famous Mercure Mandalay Hill Resort (in the North of the Palace – with fewer restaurant options) or the Hotel by the Red Canal.

Where to Eat in Mandalay

There are many restaurants in Mandalay, especially in the Southern part of the Palace. However, we must confess that after craving some Indian food we ate our first dinner at Indian Tadka , and we got hooked. During our three nights in Mandalay we ate at that restaurant and couldn’t get enough of their delicious food. However, if you want to mix things up, Mingalabar Myanmar Restaurant seems like a very good choice and it was always full when we passed it on our way to satisfy our paneer carvings. 

As you can probably tell we really enjoyed our time in Mandalay and it was a great city to finish off our Myanmar adventure.  So if we sparked some wanderlust in your bones, check out our tips to help you plan your perfect Myanmar trip!

More Resources for your Myanmar Itinerary

Myanmar Off the Beaten Path

The Best Beaches In Dawei Myanmar

Inle Lake – Boat Tour and Hidden Gems

Discover Pindaya – Hidden Gems in Myanmar

Visiting the Hill Tribes of KengTung, Myanmar

How to Spend 2 Days in Yangon

Top Things to Do in Bagan

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22 thoughts on “Mandalay Attractions Guide – Places to Visit and Things to Do”

Great post, love your photos! Can’t wait to visit Myanmar one day, it looks incredible. Especially the Hsinbyume Pagoda, so beautiful 😀

Thank you so much Charlotte, you should!

Mandalay is so close to my native land in Northern East India. When I lived in India, Mandalay had not opened up to tourists, like it is now Thanks for sharing this beautiful post- it makes me want to visit this country soon

Thank you so much Mayuri, our pleasure! We’ve always wanted to visit India. Hopefully, we’ll get there soon 🙂

This is so beautiful Place and you captured very well.Your post is so much help,bookmarking it.would love to visit those monastery and craft making sessions

Thank you Mayuri, it is a beautiful place. Hope you’ll get to visit Myanmar soon.

I’m impressed that you found Mandalay worthy of three or four days! I was happy in just a day and a half – one day to visit the surrounding historical towns and major temples, and half a day in the city itself. I think I was able to see all of the sites you mentioned in one day (with a car and driver).

Thanks for commenting Carly. We actually had a driver too but we spent at least 1-2 days driving around Mandalay visiting the small artisan workshops – we just found them so unique and charming. Plus visiting the markets more than just one time. We had maybe a very busy 3-3.5 days itinerary there.

Absolutely stunning photography. You’ve absolutely make me want to visit this unique area. Just wonderful. Someday, I will make it here and hope it hasnt changed too significantly culture-wise.

Thank you so much Jessica, we are thrilled you enjoyed it. Hope you’ll get there soon 🙂

Gorgeous photos and they show such exuberance and charm of Mandalay. As a market person myself, I also love your feature on the colorful markets of Mandalay.

Thank you so much Danial, it’s a pleasure to hear! Mandalay’s markets were just so packed with colors, fresh produce and a commotion of people we just had to spend there a few good hours!

I’ve never heard of Mandalay, but you’ve captured the culture perfectly in your photos (as always!)

Thanks so much Sarah, we really loved it!

What a great post, very comprehensive! And I love your photography! I have so many things on my bucket list I’m not sure when I’ll get to Myanmar but it’s great to dream nonetheless!

Dreamers get to fulfill their dreams at one time or another, and Myanmar is so magical, you definitely need to visit it one day.

I definitely need to make another Asia trip soon. There are so many beautiful countries and Myanmar is one of them. Your post is great and makes me wanna go right away!

Thanks so much, Pia for your kind words. Hope you’ll get there soon rather than later and glad you like our Mandalay Attractions Guide 🙂

Mandalay is so beautiful. And your pictures make it look even prettier. The Hsinbyume pagoda is definitely something one should take a day trip for. What a big Instagram sensation it has become now.

Yes, we know, you see the Hsinbyume Pagoda everywhere. It’s beautiful but Mandalay has so many other attractions to explore as well!

This looks like a beautiful cultural experience. The pottery looks beautiful and the veggies looked so fresh and tasty. Pinned this for later

Thanks so much Allie! It was definitely one of our favorite places in Myanmar, we didn’t expect to love it so much.

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11 Top Things to Do in Mandalay, Myanmar

February 12, 2020 · In: Asia , Destinations , Myanmar , Travel Guides

Mandalay is a popular and bustling city in the Northern part of Myanmar. Full of beautiful pagodas, a rich history and unique architecture these are some of the top things to do in Mandalay, Myanmar.

Nearby Mandalay you can easily visit Bagan and Inle Lake as part of your tour through Myanmar. Starting in Mandalay, head to Inle Lake followed by Bagan and then eventually make your way towards Yangon to end your trip. You could also do the trip in reverse by starting in Yangon and make your way up towards Mandalay.

» MUST READ: A Beginner’s Guide to Myanmar: Travel Tips Before You Go

Traveling to Myanmar?  Don’t leave home without getting travel insurance! You never know when something could go wrong and you’ll definitely want to be covered by insurance! Click HERE to get a quote!

» Follow along on Instagram for all the latest travel and photography tips @thisworldtraveled

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Table of Contents

Top Things to Do & See in Mandalay

Mandalay hill.

Visiting the top of Mandalay Hill is an absolute must for sunset and is one of the top things to do in Mandalay. The 240 meters high hill offers stunning panoramic views of central Mandalay. At the top of the hill you will find many pagodas and beautiful architecture. Plan to spend at least 2 hours here and arrive early if you want a good spot to watch the sunset.

Entrance Fee: 1000 MMK ($0.65 USD) per person. You will be given a sticker to wear after purchasing your ticket. Do not loose this sticker or you may have to pay again while you are walking around at the top.

It costs 300 MMK ($0.20 USD) to park your motorbike at the base of the hill.

Mandalay Palace

Built in the 1850’s Mandalay Palace is the last Burmese palace of its kind. The architecture is beautiful and its a nice area to walk around for a bit. It’s located close to many of the other sights and is worth a visit since it is included in the combo entrance ticket.

Entrance Fee: 10,000 MMK ($6.50 USD) which allows entry to many of the other sights in Mandalay including the Shwenandaw Monastery, Kuthodaw Pagoda and a few more. This is called the Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket. To enter the Mandalay Palace you will need to leave a form of ID at the ticket counter. I recommend leaving a driver’s license or other form of ID and NOT your passport. You will be given a lanyard which you will need to wear for the duration of your time walking around the Palace.

All foreign visitors will need to park outside the main gates at the ticket office and walk about 10 minutes in to reach the entrance. Another option is to pay to have a motorbike or tuk tuk take you to the entrance but we just walked and it wasn’t too bad.

TIP: There is only one entrance for foreign tourists and it is at these GPS coordinates: 21.9926251, 96.1064441. You will be turned away at all other entrances.

Shwenandaw Monastery & Atumashi Monastery

Located just a short drive from the Mandalay Palace is the unique Shwenandaw Monastery and the Atumashi Monastery.

The wooden details of the small Shwenandaw Monastery are so unique and intricate that you will be amazed that they are all hand carved.  Walk around the perimeter and then go upstairs and inside to get a closer look at the carvings and details.

The Atumashi Monastery, previously known as Maha Atulawaiyan Kyaungdawgyi, is located just a 2 minute walk from the Shwenandaw Monastery. Built in 1857, this Buddhist Monastery is a beautiful place to visit. Leave your shoes at the entrance and head up the stairs to the top where you can walk through the grand hall.

Both Monasteries are included in the combined zone ticket with the Mandalay Palace. You just have to show the ticket at the entrance and they will stamp it. You will also need to leave your shoes at the entrance before walking inside the Monastery.

Kuthodaw Pagoda

The Kuthodaw Pagoda is known as the world’s largest book. Within the grounds you will find 729  white stupas, each containing an inscribed marble slab. On both sides of the slab is the text from the Tipitaka which is the Buddhist teachings and scriptures hence why it is called the largest book!

The entrance fee is included in the Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket and will be stamped upon entry.

Hsinbyume Pagoda (Mya Thein Tan Pagoda)

The Hsinbyume Pagoda, Mingun Pagoda and Mingun Bell are all located in a small nearby town called Mingun. You can reach Mingun by driving about 1.5 hours by motorbike or car. You can also reach that side of the Irrawaddy River by taking a boat journey for approximately the same amount of time from the Mandalay Jetty. However, if you want to visit before the crowds then I would recommend hiring a car or renting a motorbike since the boat leaves at a scheduled time.

The Hsinbyume Pagoda is definitely one of the best things to do in Mandalay, Myanmar.

Entrance Fee: There is a 5,000 MMK ($3.30 USD) fee for the Mingun Archaeological Zone Ticket which gives you access to the Hsinbyume Pagoda, Mingun Pagoda and Mingun Bell.

Remember to dress respectfully and remove your shoes.

Mingun Pahtodawgyi (Pagoda)

Built in 1790 by King Bodawpaya in Mingun, this massive pagoda is actually only 1/3 of its intended size. As the story goes, it is said that the King was a strong believer in superstition and the people of the town were burdened by the hard labor that came with the construction of the pagoda.

Today the Mingun Pagoda serves more as an attraction rather than a religious site. There are large cracks that now appear in the structure which were caused by a earthquake from March of 1839.

The fee to enter is included in the Mingun Archaeological Zone Ticket and there is a small fee to park a motorbike.

Mingun Bell

Located in between the Mingun Pagoda and the Hsinbyume Pagoda is the Mingun Bell. The bell was supposed to be used at the Mingun Pagoda but never was since the Pagoda wasn’t ever completed.

Shwe Kyat Yat Pagoda

We actually spotted this beautiful Pagoda while we were driving from Mandalay over to the small town of Mingun across the Irrawaddy River. Perched on top of a hill, the Shwe Kyat Yat Pagoda offers stunning views of the river and the many pagodas nestled along the hillside.

Sanda Muni Pagoda

Located very close to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, this 1874 Buddhist temple is known for its large golden stupa surrounded by many smaller white stupas.

Kyauktawgyi Pagoda

This Pagoda is located near the south entrance to the Mandalay Palace making it an easy stop during your sightseeing tour of Mandalay.

U-Bein Bridge

Located about 30 minutes outside of Mandalay on the Taungthaman Lake is the famous U-Bein bridge. Built around 1850 the teakwood bridge stretches across a span of 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) and is considered to be the oldest and longest in the world.

Photography Tip: Walk along the side of the bridge and in the grassy area below to capture the best angles of the bridge and sunset. It’s even better if you have a zoom lens!

Where to Stay in Mandalay

For the duration of your stay in Mandalay you’ll want to stay somewhere centrally located near many of the main pagodas and sights. Besides the Mingun Pagoda, Hsinbyume Pagoda and the U-Bein Bridge, most of the places you’ll want to visit in Mandalay are quite close to each other.

We stayed at the Ruby Land Hotel, a budget friendly accommodation located in the heart of Mandalay just a few minutes drive from the main sights. The rooms are very large and clean with breakfast included. The staff is friendly and helpful and will make sure that you have a pleasant stay. I would highly recommend this hotel if you are staying in Mandalay and looking for a budget friendly accommodation.

AirBnb is always a great option. With a unique selection of accommodations you’re sure to find something that will suit your needs. We used an AirBnb for part of our stay in KL and it was nice having our own kitchen and a bit more space.

Use this link to save $30 off your first booking with AirBnb!

Where to Eat in Mandalay

Pan Thadin- A delicious and family owned restaurant located directly behind the Shwenandaw Monastery and the Atumashi Monastery. The food was fresh, local and cheap!

Marie Min – A highly reviewed vegetarian restaurant located in the heart of Mandalay. The food was some of the best Indian we’ve had since being in India.

Spring Bakery & Cafe – Using only the freshest ingredients, they have a large selection of yummy baked goods that make the perfect snack on those overnight bus journeys.

Maison de Myat – Situated across the road from the Hsinbyume Pagoda this restaurant offers delicious food and an amazing view!

How to Get Around Mandalay

There are a few different options when it comes to transportation within Mandalay. Which option you choose is up to you based on your comfort level and budget.

1.Motorbike

Depending on your comfort level and confidence on a motorbike you can rent a bike from one of the shops in town. Renting a motorbike in Myanmar was more expensive than most places we rented from in SE Asia. There are two options for rentals: manual and automatic.

The first day we rented a manual motorbike from our hotel, however, the bike seemed to belong to a family member from the staff and wasn’t in the best condition. Therefore, the next day we went to TTBike Motorbike Rental and rented an automatic motorbike for the rest of our time.

The cost to rent an automatic motorbike from TTBike Motorbike Rental is 15K MMK ($10 USD) for 24 hours.

2.Taxi or GRAB

You can use a taxi or the GRAB app to get around the city of Mandalay. Sometimes the cost will be about the same and sometimes it could be less with a taxi. The best thing to do is check the prices on the GRAB app and then ask a taxi to give you a similar price. Don’t be surprised if the taxi drivers all ask their friends for directions or ask you to tell them where to go along the way.

3.Take a Tour

If renting a motorbike isn’t your thing you can easily take a private or group tour. These tours take out all the work of planning and allow you to relax and enjoy at the sights without the stress of figuring it all out. There are a few options available but the most popular ones are either half day or full day tours!

Photography Tips for Mandalay

• Drones are allowed in the country but are NOT allowed to be flown unless you have retained a permit.  They have very strict drone laws as to where you can and cannot fly. Be sure to check online before flying your drone anywhere in the country. I chose not to fly my drone as I didn’t want to have any problems with the government or law.
• Myanmar allows tripods everywhere that we went so we didn’t have any issues.
• At some of the pagodas they will charge a small photography fee. This fee applies to cameras and phones.

Visa for Myanmar: Applying for an E-Visa

Most passport holders from other countries will need to apply online for a visa to Myanmar prior to visiting. You will need to do this about 5 days before your arrival. Sometimes it can take that long and you’ll need to find a place to print out your visa.

To apply, you will need a copy of your passport and a passport sized photo that you can upload. The cost is $50 per person and it is good for 28 days.

NOTE: You CANNOT get a visa on arrival in Myanmar so make sure to apply online. 

» Click HERE to apply for your online (e-visa) to Myanmar!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning if you use these links to purchase a product or service I will receive a small compensation at no additional cost to you. Everything I recommend are products or services that I personally use and have been essential for me as a travel blogger. 

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• Main Camera: Sony A7III
• Wide angle lens: Sony G Master 16-35mm f/2.8
• Zoom lens: Sony 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3
• Secondary Camera: Canon 6D Mark II
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You’ll Also Love

February 15, 2020 at 4:07 pm

You have such lovely photos of Mandalay. I’d love to visit.

February 17, 2020 at 9:01 am

Wow! Thank you so much! You would absolutely love it there!

February 15, 2020 at 5:15 pm

This looks so amazing. I would love to visit Mandalay Hill and see all of the beautiful temples in Myanmar. Thanks for sharing. I will definitely save your post for future reference!

February 17, 2020 at 9:03 am

Thank you Michelle!! You would love it there and be in awe of all the beautiful temples! Let me know if you ever need any help planning your trip!

February 15, 2020 at 5:37 pm

Beautiful photos! Definitely adding it to the list.

February 17, 2020 at 9:02 am

Thank you so much Ashley!! You would not be disappointed with visiting there!

February 15, 2020 at 6:00 pm

I love your photos. Thank you for all your info, we loved Myanmar so much. One of the best countries to visit in SEA.

February 17, 2020 at 9:14 am

Thank you so much Greta! I definitely agree that it was one of the best countries in SE Asia!

February 15, 2020 at 7:30 pm

I only had half a day in Mandalay so I chose to spend it up Mandalay Hill. I definitely think I made the right choice as I loved it up there, but if I’d had longer I would have loved to have made it to Mingun Pagoda and U-Bein Bridge, they both look amazing! So pleased you mentioned Marie-Min Vegetarian Restaurant, I had one of the best tea leaf salads in Myanmar there 🙂

February 29, 2020 at 11:39 am

Oh yes, visiting Mandalay Hill was a right choice! Such a beautiful spot with amazing views of the whole city! And Marie-Min was so good we ate there more than once!

February 15, 2020 at 10:53 pm

Wow amazing pictures! I thought the temples in Thailand were unreal but these are spectacular!

Thank you so much! Yes, these are just as stunning as the ones in Thailand!

February 16, 2020 at 3:29 am

Could not find a lot of blogs on this topic .. looks like you had a great time ..

February 17, 2020 at 9:00 am

I’m so happy to hear that this was helpful then! We had an amazing time!

February 16, 2020 at 8:38 am

I have never heard of Mandalay before, but it looks and sounds incredible! Definitely on my bucket list now!

Wow! I am so glad that I could tell you about a new destination! You should definitely add it to your list!

April 1, 2020 at 3:49 pm

Thank you so much for all the details and your photos are amazing! It really shows how much time you put into this blog! I will definitely save this for our trip to Myanmar. We originally planned to go Winter 2020, so hopefully we can still make that happen!

June 4, 2020 at 3:41 am

Wow, thank you so much for the kind words Rebecca! I hope you will still be able to go like you originally planned! Hopefully things will be a little settled down by then!

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Mandalay Travel Guide

mandalay travel guide

Mandalay is the second largest city in Myanmar and sits on the banks of the famous Irrawaddy River. It is a popular spot in any Myanmar trip. Capture a magic sunset moment over Ubein bridge, take a trek up to Mandalay Hill for a breathtaking view, or take the local ferry to remote villages of Mingun, Mandalay has a lot more to offer than what you think. Our Mandalay Travel Guide will give you full information for your trip to this beautiful city.

Table of Contents

 The best time to visit Mandalay

Taxi / motorcycle taxi, private tours, attractions in mandalay, where to stay in mandalay, what & where to eat in mandalay, nightlife in mandalay, best hospital in mandalay.

Mandalay is located in the central dry zone of Myanmar. So, the weather is little bit hotter and drier than other parts of the country. The best time to visit Mandalay is from November to February when the weather is coolest and dry. During this period, the average temperature in day time is around 29° C and the rainfall is very low (about 3 days of rain per month).

Beautiful sunset over Ubein bridge.

With low travel cost, the rainy season (from May to October) is also good time to visit Mandalay. Due to its location, Mandalay receives less rainfall. In peak months of rainy season, it rains in about 9 days per month while rain falls over half of number of days in the coastal areas as Ngapali or Yangon.

Mandalay experiences very hot climate in March and April. So, you should avoid to come in these two months if you are not familiar with the intense heat.

For more information on Mandalay weather, view on our post: https://myanmartravel.com/mandalay-weather/

How to get to Mandalay?

Mandalay is the second biggest city in Myanmar. It has an international airport which is about 45 km from city centre. Travelers can fly directly to Mandalay from China (Kunning), Thailand (Bangkok & Chiang Mai) and Singapore. You can get a private taxi or public buses into town. Private transfers are also available from most travel agents and hotels.

View more information here: https://myanmartravel.com/mandalay-international-airport/

Except for three above countries, travelers from all over the world need to fly to Yangon, the main gateway to Myanmar. To get in Mandalay from Yangon, you may have some options to choose, by air, train or bus.

Myanmar National Airlines is one of the airlines which operates daily flights between Yangon and Mandalay.

There are many direct flights from Yangon to Mandalay per day. The earliest flight departs at 6.30AM and the latest one departs at 18.00. Flight time is one hour and ten minutes. You can choose to fly with Air KBZ, Air Thanlwin, Golden Myanmar Airlines, Man Yadanarpon Airlines or Myanmar National Airlines. Airfare is about US$ 100 per person.

Travel to Mandalay by JJ Express Bus.

Buses between Yangon and Mandalay takes about 9 hours through Yangon – Naypyitaw –Mandalay Expressway. There are a lot buses running every day since 6.00AM to 10.00PM including JJ Express, Yar Zar Tun, Elite Express and others. They operate both Normal and VIP bus service. If you opt for the Normal service, you’ll get a very affordable ticket (US$ 10) on a comfortable bus that features air conditioning and reclining seats! The VIP service takes the level of service and amenities up a couple of notches, providing you with even more comfortable seats that feature TVs in the seatbacks, plus snacks are served along the way. The only drawback is that the price of a seat on the VIP bus is almost double that of the Normal service (US$ 19). Most of buses depart from Aung Mingalar Bus Station, Yangon and arrive at Kywel Sel Kan Bus station, Mandalay.

Trains from Yangon to Mandalay are a pretty comfortable. If you choose the Upper Class, you will have a comfortable seat and you can easily wander around to stretch your legs whenever you need to – something that you can’t really do on a bus.  The journey lasts about 15 hours but you should expect one or two hours later.

Experience the slow train journey from Yangon to Mandalay over the old British-built colonial railway.

In fact, the train ride is the slowest way to travel but it is a highly recommended experience, over the old British-built colonial railway.  There are 3 trains per day with departing at 5.00, 15.00 & 15.45. There is one more train on Sundays which depart at 19.00.

The trains are affordable, with ticket prices for a seat in Upper Class coming in somewhere between the cost of the Normal and VIP buses mentioned above.

How to get around Mandalay?

To get around Mandalay city and its surrounding, there are many vehicles for you to choose, such as taxis, motorcycle taxis, bicycle or on foot.

People are walking on the street in Mandalay.

Mandalay is a nice city to walk around. The streets in the city center are arranged in a grid and have numbers rather than names. If you are staying at central Mandalay hotel, you can easily walk to most places in the city. However, there are very few traffic signs or controls, so just be careful when you are exploring!

Mandalay is bicycle friendly city thanks to grid layout.

If you wish to see the main sites like Mandalay Hill, Royal Palace or the Kuthodaw Pagoda then a bicycle would be best as these sights are a far walk from the city centre. While some of the main crossroads are a little difficult, overall the city’s grid layout is quite bicycle friendly. You can hire a bike for around 5 USD a day. Most hotels and guesthouses offer bike hire.

A typical taxi in Mandalay in which 3 or 4 people can share.

For day trips such as to Amarapura, Inwa, and Sagaing, taxi is an easy and fast option. You will find plenty of taxis in Mandalay close to hotels or parked on the side of the street. In every touristy place, you will encounter guides touting for business. Expect to pay around 20 USD for a day hire. Taxis from most hotels to a restaurant or the ferry station are 6,000 kyats (4 USD) one way or 10,000 kyats (7 USD) round trip. If you are taking the boat to Bagan from Mandalay, arrange your taxi the night before.

Motorcycle taxis are available throughout Mandalay and can be a cheap option for sightseeing. You can pick up a day sightseeing tour on a motorcycle taxi for 15,000 kyats (10 USD).

Trishaw is the convenient way to watch people and take photos at leisure.

Mandalay is homeland of Myanmar Trishaw. It was invented by Sayar Nyo, a car repairer from Nyaung Bin Market, Mandalay in 1938. It is made of three wheels – a combination of a bicycle and sidecar which has two back to back seats for two passengers on the left side of the driver. Once the main mode of transport in the city of Mandalay, pedal trishaws are not as popular as they once were. It is slow mode of travel but comfortable and very convenient way to watch people and take photos at leisure.

Buses in Mandalay are quite old and no English is shown.

Mandalay does not have public modern buses as ones in Yangon. Public transport in Mandalay consists of pick – up trucks which stop frequently and often don’t move off until they are jam packed. The destination will be displayed in the front window but in local script. If you are interested in local experience, you should try at least once. Cost is 500 kyats (0.3 USD)

Explore architect and history of Mandalay Palace with our private guide.

Actually, you can simply explore Mandalay by yourselves. However, organized tours with private car and guide will bring you more benefits. Local guides with huge knowledge of their region will tell you interesting stories about the people, history, culture of the destination. You can ask him anything you want to know about Mandalay and Myanmar.

Like other cities in Myanmar, Mandalay is home to many pagodas, some of which are impressive in their architectural style and construction. The remarkable ones are Mahamuni Pagoda which houses the most scared Buddha image in Myanmar, Hsinbyume Pagoda – a unique architecture resembles the description of the mythological mountain Mount Meru in white color, Kuthodaw Pagoda – known as “the world’s largest book…

Mandalay is home to many beautiful pagodas.

Mandalay can also be considered as city of royalty. The other attractions in Mandalay are reminders of the time when Burmese kingdoms were still in existence. This is the city where the Royal Palace as well as ancient capitals as Amarapura or Inwa can be found. Last but not least, the best attraction in Mandalay is not made by man. Mandalay Hill is the most famous attraction of the city for a panorama view of the city, a necessary stop for any traveler who arrives in this part of Myanmar.

Find out the best places to visit in Mandalay in below post: https://myanmartravel.com/attractions-in-mandalay/

Pullman Mandalay Mingalar Hotel is the only new hotel in luxury category.

Compared to other tourist attractions such as Yangon or Inle Lake, Mandalay does not have many new hotels, especially luxury ones. In recent 5 years, Mandalay has only new luxury hotel which is Pullman Mandalay Hotel. Most of new hotels are middle – ranged. However, Mandalay still offers enough options for every budget in Mandalay.

You can see our suggestion of the best hotels here: https://myanmartravel.com/best-hotels-in-mandalay/

Mandalay offers many delicious street food which is different from other areas.

Mandalay is a big city so you will find plenty of food options! From delicious local and street food to the international fast food, there is a wide range of restaurants something for everyone. The people who visit Mandalay in the first time should not miss the native food of Mandalay which do not have the same taste as other areas.

Please find out what they are here: https://myanmartravel.com/best-food-in-mandalay/ Then, if you look for the best restaurants for your meals, please view ones we suggest in this post: https://myanmartravel.com/best-restaurants-in-mandalay/

If you want a big night out, Mandalay may make you disappointed with what the city offers. Unlike Yangon, Mandalay has very limited options when it comes to night time. But it does not mean that the city is not alive at night.  The city does not have modern pubs and bars where people can dance or sing. There are just few bars locating in big hotels where you can have some beers or cocktails in live music.

Enjoy comedy with Moustache Brothers.

Instead, Mandalay has satire and puppets. The city has Moustache Brothers, who combine comedy, tradition and political commentary. Theatre arts are also represented at night thanks to the Mandalay Marionettes. The absence of pubs does not mean the absence of beer, which can still be enjoyed in the city with some beer gardens serving both local and foreign beer. There are also KTV where you can sing until midnight.

Get more ideas for what to do at night in Mandalay in below post: https://myanmartravel.com/nightlife-in-mandalay/

If possible, try to get to a health care centre in Yangon. For urgent cases, here are a list of medical centres in Mandalay: https://myanmartravel.com/best-hospitals-in-mandalay/

In conclusion, Mandalay has so much to explore and you should spend at least 3 days here. The city itself has enough to keep you occupied for 1-2 days, but the surrounding area is a real treat. Contact Myanmar Travel for any advice for your trip. Our experienced consultants will help you to build the best itinerary to fit your hobby and budget.

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Mandalay Myanmar – All You Need To Know Before Your Trip

After Yangon , Mandalay is the second largest city of the country of Myanmar. It was the last royal capital of the country from 1860 to 1885 and is situated northwards on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River. Gosh, it was so soothing to walk along that river.

Mandalay kind of faded a bit during British colonial rule, commercially and politically speaking. Yangon took advantage of the situation and became the country’s capital at the time.

Sometimes, travellers prefer to visit Bagan and the Inle Lake when they travel to Myanmar . If you’re only staying there for a few days, I’d advise you to do the same, but if you have more time on your hands, spend a day or two in Mandalay, it’ll be more than worth it.

When I was there, meeting the local people was a magical experience for me. They were too kind to me and sometimes it would literally be embarrassing. I’ll tell you more about it later.

How To Get To Mandalay?

You can take a flight from Yangon to Mandalay and the trip takes around one hour. If you are not in a rush, you can take the bus from Yangon and it takes around 8 hours to reach Mandalay. You can book your bus tickets online here .

Where To Stay In Mandalay?

To book a hotel rom in Mandalay, you really need to plan ahead because high tourist seasons tend to be crowded, especially that there are not many hotels there. I recommend you try the ET hotel ; it’s rather cheap and located near everything you’d possibly want to visit.

But if you want something more confortable and luxurious, go for the The Link 78 . It’s a boutique hotel that opened recently and it offers all you need for a great stay at Mandalay. For your information, the trip for Mandalay airport is covered by the hotel.

And check out this link if you want to discover awesome Resorts in Myanmar .

The 7 Best Things To Do In Mandalay

I can’t wait to share with you my seven favorite places to visit in Mandalay! You’d need a bike to visit the first five attractions and probably a motorbike or a car to visit the last two.

• Mahamuni Pagoda
• Gold Leaf Factories
• Kyautawgyi Pagoda
• Mandalay Hill
• U Bein Bridge

1. Mahamuni Pagoda

If there’s somewhere you need to go right when you land in Mandalay, it’s probably the Mahamuni Pagoda, and when I say pagoda, don’t picture a sad, lonely momnument because this is a huge pilgrimage site! The first temple you’ll find to your right tells the story of Buddha and how he lived his life through beautiful pictures. As you walk through the temple, you will learn about Buddha’s travels from India to other Asian countries, all beautifully mapped out on raised-relief representations.

Here’s a glimpse of what’s waiting for you there!

On your way out of the pagoda, you can walk along the alleys and pass by popular neighborhoods where everyone will smile at you like smiling is the simplest thing in the world.

I remember walking along those alleys and hearing people shouting tea! tea! at me so I stopped -because I wasn’t in a hurry- and ordered a milk tea, a British colonial heritage they were really excited to serve me.

Before I knew it, I was surrounded by a dozen people whose company made my day. They wanted me to try the local dishes – all the local dishes. They would gather the money to pay for the food and just wouldn’t let me pay for myself, and though I did insist, they said I was their guest and guests cannot pay for the food they’re offered.

I was really moved by their kindheartedness because I knew that they were really poor people and yet their generosity was overwhelming. I was determined to thank them for that so the next day, I went back to the café we sat at, left $20 to the owner and said my new friends could get anything they wanted with that money.

2. Gold Leaf Factories

Mandalay is also known for its gold leaf factories. It’s those very leaves that Buddhists decorate their statues with, as a religious offering. Those leaves are traditionally hammered by hand into thin golden sheets.

Artisans would use a wooden hammer to tap on small pieces of gold to crush and refine them. It’s a very long and repetitive process. I can say that because I tried it myself and was quickly out of breath!

If you’d like to see how everything is made, you can go to the Gold Rose factory at the 78th and 36th street crossroads (feels like New York by the way!) or to King Galon which is on the opposite street.

I couldn’t help asking why gold leaf artisans didn’t use more industrial methods and they themselves told me that goldbeating by hand is an ancient tradition they intended to perpetuate and that the repetitiveness of the task was considered a meditation rather than a job to be done. The way they explain it is that repetitive physical effort empties the mind and provides a feeling of comfort and well-being to the worker. Doesn’t it sound interesting?

It’s like the Hindus’ mantras, you know,  those famous  Om sounds. It appears that the repetition of a simple word or movement helps with concentration and letting go of tensions. In preparing for meditation, this is called the object of meditation. If you’re interested in meditation and its different techniques, I’m going to post a complete beginners’ guide to help you start your own practice so stay tuned for that by subscribing to the website’s Facebook page and group and by following me on Instagram .

3. The Palace

Don’t be surprised to find Burmese military soldiers in the Mandalay Palace. By the way, public access to the palace is unauthorized except for one building where entry isn’t free of charge and you’d have to pay something like $10 to get in,  which is quite expensive. As someone who is quite frankly not a big fan of the Burmese military, I decided not to visit the only building left open to the public and enjoyed an exterior view of the palace instead.

Feel free to visit the Palace though; you can do that through the east gate so if you do, make sure to let me know how it was in the comment section below!

4. Kyautawgyi Pagoda

Let’s not climb up Mandalay Hill just yet but you’ll notice that on your way there, you’ll come across many temples; Kyautawgyi is one of them. I really encourage you to visit as many of these temples as you can before you head to the top of the hill.

5. Mandalay Hill

Did you know that Mandalay was named after Mandalay Hill and not the other way round ?

That mountain is the perfect spot to watch the sun set on the entire city. Don’t try to bike your way up there though; I know it’s nearly impossible because I’ve tried it so leave your bike down the hill and walk your way up, like Burmese people do. If you’re too lazy to walk to the top, go ahead and grab a cab, hop on a motorbike or drive there if you wish!

My backpack and I finally made it to the top and what we found up there made our day. How romantic does that sound?

The sun set and I went down Mandalay Hill. On my way back to my hotel, some sort of a street music band was performing in public, on their own truck. Have a look!

They do know how to party in Mandalay, don’t they?

6. U Bein Bridge

15 kilometers south of Mandalay, U Bein Bridge is one of the most visited local attractions. It’s a huge wooden bridge that spans the Taungthaman Lake. It was built in 1850 and is 1.2 kilometers long. It’s even believed to be the oldest and longest wooden bridge in the world -at the time of course. If you happen to be a photography enthusiast, U Bein Bridge will speak to your deepest sense of creativity.

I went to U Bein bridge with a scooter I rented in Mandalay but if you prefer to avoid riding a motor bike in Myanmar, you can book this tour .

Sagaing is a city situated 25 kilometers southwest Manadalay. Two bridges span the Irawaddy River and lead to Sagaing: the Yadanabon Bridge and the Innwa Bridge. I rented a motorbike to go there but let’s be honest, driving in Myanmar is a bit of a mental challenge so grab a cab or ask your travel agency what are the best options to move around the city.

As soon as you get to Sagaing, you will be surprised at the astonishing number of pagodas there are. But if you know that Sagaing was the capital of the Sagaing Kingdom and also the capital of the country of Myanmar for a brief period of time from 1760 to 1763, it might not be as surprising to you.

Just like in Mandalay Hill, Sagaing Hill is the ideal spot to enjoy a terrific view of all the city’s pagodas. Of course, if you get there by sunset, you’re guaranteed a much nicer experience. It almost feels like Bagan!

I hope you enjoyed this post and that it helps you plan your next trip to Mandalay. Please share it around and let me know if you have any questions in the comment section below.

Don’t forget you can always follow me on social media for more blog posts, pictures and travel tips ! Facebook page ,  Instagram  and  Twitter .

Have a nice trip and see you all very soon,

Certainly, a very nice article, thanks – I am travelling to Mandalay tomorrow…. TAKE CARE!! Matej

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Fascinating Facts

• Mandalay is the last royal capital of Myanmar, founded in 1857 by King Mindon based on a dream. The British conquered Mandalay in 1885, marking the end of monarchy in Myanmar.
• Mandalay is the country’s cultural capital. With its amazing wooden palace and pagoda-studded Mandalay Hill, the city will awe you.
• Mandalay is also an important religious centre of the country, housing around 700 Buddhist pagodas.

The Mandalay as seen today is Myanmar’s blooming cultural centre and one of the country’s best religious sites that display astonishing masonry and architecture. The city is Myanmar’s major commercial, education and health centre and has been ranked as the fifth on the ASEAN Smart Cities Network list. Witness the unique blend between modern development and ancient history when you  visit Mandalay .

King Mindon established a new royal capital surrounded by 4 rivers at the foot of Mandalay Hill in February 1857. The construction was intended to fulfil a prophecy in which a Buddhism metropolis was to be built at the exact location where the 2,400th jubilee of Buddhism took place. The city grew as a strong capital city for 26 years before being conquered by the British Empire, establishing the Mandalay we see today as the last royal capital city of the Konbaung Dynasty. Mandalay city was heavily affected by the Second World War but the royal mint and watch tower survived the damages.

HOW TO GET THERE

• Mandalay is well-connected with the rest of the country as well as the world. It has an international airport with connecting flights to major cities in the world. Domestic flights operate from Mandalay to almost all domestic airports in Myanmar.
• It takes up to 6 hours by bus to reach Mandalay from Bagan and 9 hours from Yangon. Bus services are also available from Inle Lake. The travel takes around 7 hours.
• Mandalay is also well-connected with the rest of the country by train. It takes about 8 hours to travel to Mandalay from Bagan by train and 15 hours from Yangon. There are two daily trains from Lashio, Hsipaw and Pyin U Lwin. The train rides from these areas are slow, but you can enjoy the view along the way.
• There are boat rides available from Bagan to Mandalay. In fact, it is highly suggested if you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Myanmar countryside.

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Things to Do in Mandalay That You Shouldn’t Miss

written by local expert Anna Faustino

Anna is a co-founder of Adventure in You and has been traveling the world for the last 9 years. She has spent time living in Thailand, Mexico, Indonesia, and Spain and is our local expert in these areas. Her expertise on travel, gear, and building businesses have been featured on Foundr, Business Insider, Yahoo Travel, and more.

With more and more people venturing towards the rugged and untamed shores of Myanmar, the busy town of Mandalay is slowly becoming a big tourist destination. On the outside, Mandalay looks like every busy city in Asia. With towering concrete buildings and busy streets congested with traffic, it’s enough to throw people off.

However, the more time you spend there, the more you will discover its rustic charm. From colorful walks around the moat, visits to various monasteries and pagodas, and of course, the endless string of teashops, there is so much more to this unassuming town. To help you discover and make the most out of your time in Myanmar, here’s our list of the best things to do in Mandalay that you shouldn’t miss.

View Contents

Getting Around Mandalay

Top things to see and do in mandalay, trending tours in mandalay.

To get around Mandalay and most of its attractions, you will have to get a motorbike taxi/ taxi taking you from one place to the next. You also have an option to rent a motorcycle which you can use to drive around. Motorcycles range from10,000-12,000 kyat/day ($8) and is by far the best way to see this place.

However, if you’re not used to driving in Asia, we recommend you skip this as the traffic and horn honking in Mandalay can be likened to the busy streets in Vietnam. You can also opt for a private tour to take you around some of the main sites. To enter most of the tourist sites, you will need to avail of the tourist pass (payable only in local Kyat at 10,000) but gives you access to the following attractions:

• Atumashi Kyanugdawgi
• Schwenandaw Kyaung

Mandalay Palace

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Climb Mandalay Hill

Naturally, I have to start with the main attraction. While most of Mandalay is flat, this hill offers a stunning elevated view of pretty much everything around you. For those that opt to scale up this hill, you will be rewarded with a bird’s eye view of the city walls, the surrounding moat, and various temples and pagodas with Irrawaddy River gleaming from afar.

If walking up the long staircase isn’t your thing, you can also opt to take a taxi and an elevator to enjoy these view. We personally recommend climbing the staircase which takes around 40 minutes. The entire thing has to be done barefoot up a covered concrete staircase and while the walk up is relatively easy, don’t forget to bring water and a torch if you plan on scaling up during sunset. Mandalay Hill is located outside the downtown area and is a 10-minute drive from the main city.

Sandamuni Pagoda

While you’re in Mandalay Hill, the Sandamuni Pagoda is located nearby. Here, you can see the largest iron Buddha, made up of over 41,000 pounds of iron. Best known for its large golden zedi along with hundreds of shrines containing inscribed marble slabs. The entire area has 1774 shrines, each housing a single marble slab which are inscribed with the teachings of the Buddha.

Kuthodaw Pagoda

Located right across each other, these two pagodas are quite similar. However, Kuthodaw Pagoda is home to the world’s largest book. This “book” is actually made up of  729 standing stone “pages” with individual stupas known as a kyauksa gu .

They span across the vast pagoda grounds in long organized rows to spectacular effect and are well worth a visit. Filled with sacred teachings representing 15 books of Buddha’s teachings, every page of the book is about a meter wide and two meters tall. Overall, it’s a very interesting place to visit and is worth wandering around before you descend up Mandalay Hill.

Editor’s Note: Take a look at our ultimate Myanmar Travel tips page for a complete breakdown on how to travel Myanmar like a boss

Mandalay Palace used to be more than just the royal residence. It was like a little-walled city which had a Glass Palace quarters, an audience hall, and a military area. While most of it was destroyed during World War II, the restoration has been well on their way since the 1990’s.

While you’re there, there is a watch tower which you can climb combined with a few informational signs pertaining to its history. While you’re there, be sure to climb the tower to take in the view of the surrounding moat. If you’re interested in history, the palace is a great place to walk around during the day, however, I wasn’t fussed walking around.

Fee: Part of the $10 tourist ticket | Directions to Mandalay Palace

U-Bein Bridge

Being a lover of the outdoors, I really enjoyed the scenic views of the U-Bein Bridge. Earning its rights as a must visit while in Mandalay, the bridge is the longest teak footbridge in the world and spas around 1300 yards long across the Taungthaman Lake.

Go on A Day Trip in Nearby Areas in Mandalay

After you’ve exhausted going around the city and downtown area of Mandalay, you can also consider going on a day trip around nearby areas. You can book tours with popular tour providers such as Flymya which offers day excursions to Mingun, Ava, and Sagaing.

Go on a Food Trip

Everywhere you go, you will see heaps of street food and local restaurants where you can drop by when you’re not busy sightseeing. While Burmese food doesn’t really stand out compared to its nearby Southeast Asian neighbors, the food is still worth trying out as there are just a wealth of undiscovered flavors.

Best way to enjoy the local life of Mandalay is to sit back in a local restaurant, drink some tea and watch the world go by. If you’re a bit weary of street food, try out  Super 81  has more of a middle range restaurant feel. The food is good, serving the most flavorful chicken cooked in coconut gravy and tea leaf salad.

Related: What to Eat in Myanmar

Shwenandaw Kyaung (Teak Temple)

This teak temple used to be part of the royal palace and is now one of the only original building parks. While it is modest, if you’re interested in art and architecture, the intricate wood carvings are a sight to see showcasing the beautiful teak wood architecture. It is currently going through lots of renovation and restoration, but regardless, it is still considered a point of interest while in Mandalay.

Shwenandaw Kyaung was originally part of the royal palace where King Mindon lived and is the only major original building that remains. The elaborate details of the woodcarvings, symbolizing Buddhist myths, possess incredible depth and character. It’s a true masterpiece in Burmese teak wood architecture.

Fee: Part of the $10 tourist ticket | Directions to Shwenandaw Kyaung

Head to Dee Doke Waterfalls

While exploring the city of Mandalay is fun, we recommend that you get out of the city for a day and explore the nearby Dee Doke Waterfalls, home to the bluest and most beautiful natural pools in Myanmar. Located about 38 miles near Pyin Oo Lwin’s Village, you will find a five-step body of water which glimmers due to the limestone surrounding it.

You can opt to swim in the natural pool but be wary as some steps are slippery. There are a few rocks where you can climb and jump from but it is often frowned upon as accidents have happened before. A trip to the waterfalls is a great escape from the constant heat of Mandalay city and can be done within a day. A trip here takes about 1 hour away from the main city.

Other nearby attractions: Anisakan waterfalls which stand at an impressive 120m tall !

Hopefully, this article has given you an idea on what to do in the city of Mandalay. While Yangon, Bagan, and even Inle Lake are more popular amongst tourists, it doesn’t mean that there isn’t a whole lot to see and enjoy in the area. What about you, what’s your favorite thing to do in Mandalay?

Looking for more inspiration on what to do in Myanmar? Check out our other articles

• Things to Do in Yangon
• What  to Do in Inle Lake
• Bagan Temples Travel Guide

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Plan a Trip to Mandalay - Three Days Itineraries

Mandalay is about 600 kilometers north of Yangon on the Irrawaddy River. It is the second largest city and was the capital of the last independent kingdom of Myanmar, home to several Buddhist monasteries and exquisite examples of Myanmar masonry.

Today, Mandalay is considered to be the cultural center of Myanmar and has the strongest Buddhist atmosphere in the country.

Start Planning

The best time-frame for a first trip to Mandalay is 3 days. First explore Mandalay and the ancient city's authentic Buddhist culture, before going on the third day to Mingun. Alternatively on day 3 you could relax on a boat from Mandalay to Bagan, taking 10 to 14 hours depending on the water levels.

Day 1 City tour

For visitors to Mandalay, some of the famous Buddha temples will be a priority. We recommend seeing the Mahamuni Pagoda and Shwenandaw Monastery to taste the flavor of the country's Buddhist culture; and later enjoying a gorgeous sunset view from Mandalay Hill.

09:00–10:00 Mahamuni Buddha Image

The Mahamuni Buddha image is deified in the Mahamuni Buddha temple. It originally came from Arakan and is highly venerated by the people of Myanmar because they consider it a reflection of the Buddha's life.

The image is cast in bronze and weighs 6.5 tons. It stands on a 1.84-meter high pedestal and reaches a height of 3.82 meters. Among all the stories about the pagoda, there is one which maintains that it was miraculously preserved from a huge fire in 1970s, while Mandalay city was otherwise mostly destroyed.

Today, pilgrims continue to place more and more gold on the statue, which has already added a 6-inch layer of gold over the last century or so.

Tip: Female visitors are not allowed to get close to the Buddha.

10:30-11:00 Shwenandaw Monastery

Shwenandaw Monastery is a historic Buddhist monastery situated near Mandalay Hill. It is a monument with a long history; built by Emperor Mindon in the 1800s.

Shwenandaw is well-known for its teak carvings of Buddhist myths, and its decorated roofs and walls. It is regarded as a masterpiece of wood carving. When Mandalay became the new capital, the building was dismantled and transported to Mandalay. After that, the monastery served as the home of Emperor Mindon.

The Shwenandaw Monastery is the last wooden Royal Palace surviving to the present day.

1. The monastery opens daily at 10 am and closes at 6 pm.

2. Visitors can take a rickshaw or taxi to get to the monastery from downtown Mandalay.

11:30-12:30 Kuthodaw Pagoda and the World's Largest Book

Kuthodaw Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa in Mandalay, containing the world's largest book. In 1857, King Mindon ordered the pagoda to be built as part of the foundation of the new royal city of Mandalay.

For fear the teachings of Gautama Buddha would be lost to posterity with the invasion of the British into the region, King Mindon conceived the idea of preserving the teachings by inscribing texts of the Tipitaka, the entire Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism, on marble slabs.

The slabs are each 1 meter long, 1.5 meters wide and 13 centimeters thick. The pagoda is named after the 730 marble slabs and called "the world's largest book".

If you like taking photos, this is a must-visit destination, with great opportunities for pictures of rows of white stupas.

Tip: The pagoda opens daily from 8 am to 8 pm.

12:30-14:00 Lunchtime

15:00-16:00 Mandalay Palace

Mandalay Palace was the last royal palace of the last Myanmar monarchy. It was built by King Mindon, who moved his capital from Amarapura to Mandalay. Unfortunately, the whole palace complex was destroyed by fire during World War II, but it was rebuilt in 1990s.

Frankly, the palace today is like an empty shell compared with its past glory. But if you have time, you can still go and catch a glimpse there of the local history and culture.

17:30-18:30 Sunset over Mandalay Hill

Mandalay Hill is northeast of the city center. It's famous for its abundance of pagodas and monasteries, and has been a popular pilgrimage site among Myanmar Buddhists for about 200 years.

The Sutaungpyei Pagoda is at the top of the hill. Travelers climb up the steps to get to the summit of the hill for a panoramic scene of Mandalay. If you don't want to climb, there is a one-way road for visitors to drive up, saving time and leading to an escalator and a lift to the top of pagoda.

The best time to visit is at sunset. You will be surprised at the beauty of the temple on top of Mandalay Hill – with glass mosaics of many colors.

Not to be missed

In the early mornings, monks and nuns go around collecting alms-food on the city streets. Some walk in a group while others just walk alone. The food they collect from door to door is their main food for the day or even for a longer period of time. Visitors are advised to witness such solemn moments.

Besides, there is a street downtown which is famous for making stone statues of Buddha, where you can witness how the profile of Buddha is carved. If you go in the morning, you may encounter monks collecting their aims.

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Day 2 Plan an ancient city tour

A tour of the ancient city is a good way for visitors to experience the culture, tradition, and way of life in rural areas. Visitors are recommended to take a ferry or carriage to visit the ancient city and a boat tour to watch the sunset from the U-Bein Bridge. Such experiences will leave you with impressive memories.

09:00-10:30 Maha Ganayon Kyaung

Maha Ganayon Kyaung is about 20 kilometers north of downtown. It is the largest monastery (Buddhist College) in Myanmar, having roughly 2,000 students. Around 10 am, more than 1,000 young monks line up silently for lunch, their last meal of the day.

14:00-16:00 Enjoy a ferry or carriage ride

Amarapura, Ava and Sagaing are three famous ancient cities in Mandalay. Both Ava and Sagaing lie near the Ayarwaddy River. Visitors can either take a ferry or a carriage to see the ancient teak houses and the beautiful countryside. Your experience of the culture and traditions will make your visit more interesting.

17:00-18:00 U-Bein Bridge sunset (with boat trip)

The U-Bein Bridge was built by a king in the mid-1800's to enable people to cross the lake more easily. It is more than one kilometer long.

Sunset from the bridge provides an iconic romantic view, extremely charming and attractive. You can try to capture it on camera.

Day 3 Boat Excursion to Mingun

Mingun is a town in Sagaing Division. It is 11 km up the Ayeyarwaddy River from Mandalay. With a boat excursion to Mingun you can enjoy the fascinating landscapes of the river as well as witness the daily lives of the people living along the Ayeyarwaddy.

The Pahtodawgyi (unfinished pagoda) and the Myatheindan Pagoda are two well-known sites in Mingun.

The Pahtodawgyi is an amazing, gigantic steep-sided red-brick pyramid, highly fractured as part of it collapsed during earthquakes. Visitors can no longer climb all the way to the top, as it is fragile and dangerous, but it is still impressive and worth a visit.

The Myatheindan Pagoda was built in 1816 in distinctive style. It's also called Hsinbyume Pagoda, because Bagyidaw ascended the throne in commemoration of the death of his main queen Hsinbyume. It is a huge white temple, which looks like a giant meringue pavlova base.

By the way, you'd better wear sunglasses to enter, for it is so white. Try to climb to the top and you will see fantastic views all around.

The Mingun Bell is another relic well worth a visit. Located in the village of Mingun, on the west side of the Ayeyarwaddy River, the bell is said to be the largest working bell in the world. It weighs 90 metric tons and is 3.7 meters high.

Standing under the bell and ringing it is a fun thing to do.

Other suggestions for Day 3

1. Enjoy a pleasant meal in the Sky Bar, on top of the Ayarwaddy River View Hotel. Or take a lift to the 10th floor of the Shwe Ingyinn Hotel to see the stunning view across the river to Mingun; also over the city towards Mandalay Hill.

2. Take a bicycle ride to the Ayarwaddy River View Hotel from western Mandalay, and see the church, pagodas, folk houses and U-Bein Bridge during the ride.

3. Visit Mahamuni Buddha Temple around 4 am to attend the face-washing ceremony. During the ceremony, locals respectfully pray out loud. If you visit Mandalay, this is a must-do activity. Male visitors are required to wear trousers and no bags can be taken inside.

4. Take a ferry trip from Mandalay to Bagan. This takes between 10 to 14 hours.

Price: fast ferry $30-40; slow ferry $10

Visit Myanmar with Asia Highlights

We provide tailor-made tours to Myanmar. Tours typically start or end in Yangon or Mandalay and last approximately 9 days; visiting Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and Inle Lake.

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Mandalay Division

It is situated about 600 kilometers north of Yangon on the Ayeyarwaddy river. It is Myanmar’s second largest city and was the royal capital of the last monarchy of Myanmar ( Burma ). It enjoys the splendor of the golden age and still has great importance as a cultural center. The palace was constructed in 1857 in Myanmar traditional architectural styled.

The city was completely damaged in the fierce fighting of World War II, including the royal palace, which has been reconstructed. Mandalay is best known not only for it’s rich traditional, cultural and spiritual splendor but also exquisite handicraft such as hand-woven embroidery in silk and cotton, the incredible process of making gold leaves, wood and stone carving and bronze casting etc. the river jetties at Mandalay are beehive of activity with small boats going up and down the river, bamboo rafts and cargo boats with huge logs from the teak forests upriver. The water buffaloes are the along the riverbank. Mandalay is now Myanmar’s second largest city, with a population of approximately one million. There are several ancient capitals around Mandalay such as Amapura, Sagaing, Ava, Mingun where Kongboung dynasty kings established their capitals respectively.

Mandalay Hill

The hill has for long been a holy mount and the legend says that the Buddha on his visit had prophesied that a great city would be founded at its foot. Mandalay Hill, 230 metres in elevation, commands a magnificent view of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Mandalay Palace

The grand palace complex was reduced to ashes during World War II. Majestic palace walls, city gates superimposed by pavilions and the surrounding moat are standing evidences showing how grand was the former palace. Myanansankyaw Golden Palace, a replica of the old palace, Nanmyint-saung, Cultural Museum and Pyigyimon Floating Restaurant in the moat can be seen within the perimeter of the palace. Admission fee is US $ 5.00.

Shwenandaw Monastery

This monastery is famous for its intricate woodcarvings and is reminiscent of old Mandalay Palace. In reality, the monastery was first located within the precinct of Mandalay palace. It was reconstructed at the present site in 1880 under the orders of King Thibaw.

Mahamuni Pagoda

Mahamuni Pagoda is revered as the holiest shrine in Mandalay. King Bodawpaya built it in 1784. The Mahamuni Image brought from Rakhine State is being housed there. The devotes crowd there to watch early morning ritual of washing the face of the Buddha Image.

Kuthodaw Pagoda

Kuthodaw Pagoda was built by King Mindon in 1857. The shrine is surrounded by 729 upright stone slabs bearing the entire Buddhist scriptures. It is popularly known as ” The world’s Biggest Book ” for its stone scriptures.

Arts And Crafts

The largest repository of Myanmar arts and crafts can be found in Mandalay. Lovers of arts and crafts will certainly enjoy them. It is here that visitors can observe skilled craftsmen make beautiful articles of ivory, wood, marble and stone, silverware and bronze statues, world famous tapestry, silk weaving and gold-leaf making according to the time-honored traditions of their fore-fathers.

Mandalay & Surrounding

Pyin-oo-lwin.

It is located at 69 km (1 1/2 hours drive) east of Mandalay and having over 1,100 metres above sea level. It has a pleasant and cool weather the whole year round. Places to visit include the Botanical Garden (142 hectare), the Chinese temple, Pwekauk Waterfalls and Peik-Chin-Hmyaung Cave.

Inwa ( Ava)

Inwa, Located across Myitnge River about 20 kilometers southwest of Mandalay is the capital of Burmese Kingdom for nearly 400 years. All the major buildings, which were not destroyed during the earthquake of 1838, had been transferred first to Amarapura and then to Mandalay however the 88 feet high watchtower known as the “leaning tower of Ava” and Bargaya teak monastery which is famous for it’s teak pillars amounting to 267 in total are still to be seen today.

Lies on the left bank of the Irrawaddy River. A suburb of Mandalay, there has numerous silk weaving. Founded by King Bodawpaya in 1783 as his new capital. Amarapura means City of Immortality.

Famous with its longest teak bridge take bridge in the world; although a bit rickety in some parts it has withstood the storms and floods of over two centuries. The bridge is named after its donor U Bein, 1.2 km long Wooden Bridge, built since 1782 with over 1700 huge teak pillars. There are five rest houses on the bridge where you can rest for a while and chat or read.

Sagaing lies 21km south-west of Mandalay on the west bank of the Ayeyarwady River. Sagaing became the capital of an independent Shan kingdom around 1315 after the fall of Bagan. Today, Sagaing is known as a meditation center. “A living center of Buddhist faith” lies across Ayeyarwaddy River is an important religious center with some 600 Buddhist pagodas, temples and monasteries. Myanmar’s all over the country would visit Sagaing for the purpose of religious retreat.

Located across majestic Ayeyarwaddy River approximately 12 kilometers north of Mandalay. Mingun today hosts the world second largest ringing Bell of 90 tons in weight and unfinished pagoda to go with it. Mingun payagyi was dedicated to being the world largest monument however which today stood to be the world largest brick pile. It is reached by ferryboats across the river and takes 1 hour for up-river and 40 minutes for down-river. A boat trip to Mingun is pleasant with plenty of life on the river to see.

A picturesque town on the Chindwin River, Monywa is known a typical unspolit Myanmar ( Burma ) town and it is only a three hours drive from Mandalay. On the way to Monywa and before you reach the town there is an unusual Buddhist temple complex on 37 acres of land called Mohnyin Thanboddhay. Monywa also famous for its Po Win Taung ( Mt. Po Win ), Mt. Shwe Ba where the entire mountain was carved into caves, niches, staircases, and Buddha Images. It is similar in architectural design to the Borobodur, a famous ancient pagoda in Indonesia.

Mogok (the Ruby Mine)

Known as Land of Ruby, Mogok is in the Mandalay Division, lies 1170 meters above sea level. Royalty throughout the world has sought Mogok rubies and sapphires for many centuries. Alluvial limestone gravels are the source, and deposits are exploited by means of tunneling, pit digging or panning. Other precious and semi-precious stones found in Mogok District include period, lapis lazuli, moonstone, garnet and chrysoberyl.

Rubies and sapphires are Mogok’s lifeblood, and several markets around dispense the red and blue crystals on a rotating basis depending on the time of day. Mogok is a 3-hour drive from Mandalay. From the main bus center in Mandalay there are departures every half hour from 6 am to 9:30 am. Although it is an interesting place, for every foreign visitors/ traveler need to get the permission well in advance because of restricted area.

“Travel to Mogok is now Temporary closed until further notice. Once the route is open, we will keep all informed”

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The last king of Burma

It’s been more than a hundred years since the last Burmese King lived in the Royal Palace of Mandalay. But now it’s been restored for visitors.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: August 28, 2023

The Royal Palace in Mandalay

It’s been more than a century since the last Burmese King lived in the Mandalay Palace. Now it’s been restored for visitors – and here’s what you need to know!

The year was 1885 and the last Burmese king was standing strong.

The British forces were marching into Mandalay with very little opposition. Their plan to take over the country was succeeding – but capturing the Royal Palace of Mandalay in the centre of the city, was going to be an important symbolic victory.

As it turned out, overtaking the palace – and King Thibaw Min – was even easier than predicted. The British demanded unconditional surrender and that’s what they got.

The king and queen were put on a bullock cart and taken down to the river to be sent into exile in India.

The story goes that when the British soldiers pulled out their guns, the king dropped down to his knees and begged for his life to be spared. His queen, however, walked on her own defiantly towards the steamer on the mighty Irrawaddy.

The history of Mandalay Palace

After the British invasion, the palace was used by the colonialists as a base for troops in Mandalay and many of the royal treasures were looted and sent back to London (many are still on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum).

But it would eventually fall out of British hands again.

Every global aggressor eventually must face a rising challenger. And so it was that during the Second World War, Japanese forces captured the Mandalay Palace and used it as a supply depot for their expansions in the region.

In retaliation, the Allies bombed the compound and most of it was burnt to the ground.

Only one major wooden building survived – the Shwenandaw Monastery, which is built completely of teak and is decorated throughout with detailed and ornate carvings.

The watch tower and royal mint were also undamaged. The rest of the Royal Palace has been rebuilt from scratch.

Visiting Mandalay’s Royal Palace

So, almost everything you walk through from the entrance hall all the way past the throne room and to the residences was constructed in the early 1990s.

Although it is faithful to the original design and some traditional construction techniques were used, modern materials like concrete and corrugated iron were incorporated into the reconstructions.

It doesn’t take away from the experience, though, and the authorities have done a very good job at creating a sense of what the palace would once have been like.

The modern construction materials aren’t obvious and you can easily believe you are in the original buildings. Just a shinier version of what they would have been like if nature had not been usurped by war.

Visiting the palace is one of the best things to do in Mandalay. It doesn’t take too long to walk through the palace but it can take a long time to get in to it. The palace grounds are massive and dominate the cityscape.

They are a huge square of about two kilometres on each side, surrounded by a 64 metre-wide moat. Only one entrance can be used by tourists – the eastern – and it can take a long time to get to it if you happen to be on the other side (where most of the hotels are).

There are some great tours in Mandalay, many of which include the Royal Palace. Have a look at these ones that I would recommend:

The reason for the inconvenience is because the actual restored palace takes up only a small space in the centre of the grounds. The rest of the area is used now as a military base and big signs (and guards) remind you that it’s a restricted zone.

All you can do is walk down the pathway and straight into the palace area. No wandering!

At least it is back in the hands of the local people again, whatever the international view of the Myanmar military is.

After the British control and then the Japanese it seems there is now plenty of protection for this important symbol of Mandalay and Myanmar. Nobody will march unopposed through these gates again.

Where is Mandalay Palace?

Mandalay Palace is in the north of the main city of Mandalay. The entrance for visitors is at the east gate on 66th Street. You can see it on Google Maps here .

How do you get to Mandalay Palace?

A lot of people choose to rent bikes to get around Mandalay and that’s a good option. There is no standard public transport but you can use a taxi, motorbike taxi, or trishaw quite cheaply.

When is Mandalay Palace open?

Mandalay Palace is open every day from 07:30 – 16:30.

How much does it cost to visit Mandalay Palace?

For foreigners, Mandalay has something that’s called the ‘Mandalay Zone Fee’ which is 10,000 kyat (US$6.60) and gives you access to several sites including Mandalay Palace.

You may need to present your passport at the entrance to Mandalay Palace so make sure you bring it with you in case.

26 thoughts on “The last king of Burma”

The more I see of your time in Myanmar, the more I want to visit. This palace looks gorgeous!

Although tourism is increasing, it’s still quite an undiscovered country. I’ve learnt a lot here that I never knew before… whereas other countries are great but quite predictable. I think that’s one of the best reasons to head to Myanmar sooner rather than later.

I’ve learned that Mandalay was the Burmese capital prior to its annexation by the British. But I’d never imagined the palace complex would look so regal and elegant! Your photos really make me think twice of skipping Mandalay on my next visit to Myanmar. Glad you shared them!

Mandalay is definitely worth going to. It hasn’t been my highlight, but there’s a lot to see and it’s such an important part of Myanmar.

Looks like a fabulous place, plus not too many tourists from what I hear.

No, it was pretty quiet when I was there. Mandalay has probably been the busiest place but that was just because of the buses of package tour people coming through. If you don’t get there the same time as then, you’ll have the place almost to yourself.

Love the look of that carved teak! Very interesting post, thanks 🙂

I can only imagine what the whole place would have looked like if it had survived. The teak is so detailed and it just makes it jump out at you!

Mandalay is one of my dream destination…. wha a beautiful pictures, thanks for sharing. Very inspiring & hardly can’t wait to go there 🙂

There’s a kind of romanticism to the idea of Mandalay, isn’t there? The good news is that the sights live up to that idea. The bad news is that much of the ‘ordinary’ city is just dirty, busy and uninspiring.

Wow. Gorgeous!

Yeah, it’s quite a stunning palace. Thanks, Jason!

still i am not visit in myanmar but when i see by this websit i love this palace and its tradional.

I hope you get a chance to visit sometime. It’s a beautiful place and hasn’t lost its traditions at all.

Do you know what is original metarial used to build the roof of Mandalay Palace? The roof of Shwenandaw also uses corrugated iron 🙁

I find a picture taken Glass Palace on 1903 (see in field Website), before it was burnt to the ground by Allied bombing. It’s too difficult to know which metarial used build the roof, metal or teak wood?

I am not 100 per cent sure but my understanding is that corrugated iron was used to build the original roof as well. This photo from the British Library confirms that, I think: http://www.bl.uk/onlinegallery/onlineex/apac/photocoll/c/019pho0001004s1u00039000.html

Your writing about Mandalay is very interesting. Thank you to promoting Myanmar !

Thank you. It is such a beautiful country, it is my pleasure to tell people more about it!

Hey Michael,

What a great post.. was just there a few weeks ago and your post brought back all the fond memories of Myanmar/Burma!

Will be subscribing to your posts!

Looks like an amazing place to visit. I hope to make it over to Myanmar someday.

There are so many interesting places to see in Myanmar. This is definitely one of them!

I would like to recommend you guys to Visit Begu Kanbawzathadi Palace as well.Former Palace of Myanmar by King Bayint Naung 2nd Founder of Burma.And Its look really gorgeous as well.

Thanks for the tip! That sounds really interesting and I would love to check it out. Next time I’m in Myanmar, I’ll be sure to visit. I hope your suggestion sends some readers of this blog that way too!

I visited on Saturday in January. Mostly Burmese people visiting and no crowds. Even though recently rebuilt it feels it’s original age. A popular place on the day I visited for young graduates to have their photos taken. The young ladies in particular looked so pretty with formal longhi, tops, with pearls in their hair just holding their mortar boards so as not to spoil the beautiful hair do and a gown shrugged over their shoulders. Pretty as picture.

I have been to Nepal but could not get a chance to continue further. Hope will do one day

It’s really a amazing place to be visited in Mandaly as well in Myanmar. Hey Michael,

I’m just here to visit. Your post brought back all the memories of Myanmar (Burma).

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Myanmar 101: The city of Mandalay

• December 4, 2017

A brief introduction to Myanmar’s royal city, cultural capital – and city of seconds.

By JARED DOWNING | FRONTIER

IT HAS THE country’s second largest population (just over 1.2 million, according to the 2014 census) and is the second busiest trade hub (linking China and India with Yangon). It has Myanmar’s second oldest university, second busiest airport and second most successful football team.

However, for Myanmar’s conquering kings of yore, Mandalay and its environs were first choice.

Innwa (also known as Ava), about 30 kilometres (19 miles) to the south, on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwady River, was once a formidable city-state when it was the favourite seat for the Taungoo and Konbaung dynasties, the latter of which founded another capital at nearby Amarapura (the site of the famed U Bein Bridge) in 1738.

In 1857, after the British had annexed the lower part of the country, the Konbaung dynasty’s penultimate king, Mindon, moved his capital from Amarapura to the base of Mandalay Hill, constructing the now-iconic moat and fortress walls, and dubbing the city “Yadanarbon” (the city’s football team still bears that name).

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The new city was supposed to shore up Myanmar’s religion, culture and royal tradition at a time when the Konbaung glory was waning, and industrialised European powers were carving out empires in Southeast Asia. In addition to his lavish palace, Mindon filled the city with pagodas and monasteries, and commissioned a comprehensive history of his kingdom (known in English as The Glass Palace Chronicle).

The city remains a bastion of Myanmar cultural heritage, which is why it might surprise one to learn that it was only under royal rule for 30 years before the British sailed up the Ayeyarwady River and exiled Mindon’s son, Thibaw, to India. Shortly after annexing Mandalay, the British moved the capital to Rangoon.

After sustained Allied and Japanese bombing during the Second World War, and two huge fires in the 1980s, the palace walls and some religious sites are more or less all that is left of the old city – today’s royal palace is a replica built in 1989, and much of the space inside the palace walls serves as an army base.

Chinese influence

The economic landscape is also much changed.

In 1988, the military government overturned Ne Win’s isolationist policies and opened up border trade. Investors, mainly from China and particularly Yunnan province, took full advantage and began buying lots that had been left empty by the two fires.

Journalists abroad wrung their hands about a “Chinese takeover” as the military government cut deals with Chinese companies in real estate, logging and mining, and developed its northern infrastructure to funnel this commerce to Mandalay.

The city’s population has doubled since the 1980s. There is some debate as to how much this boom is down to official or unofficial Chinese immigration, and many of Mandalay’s shopping centres, condominiums and hotels are Chinese-owned. Mandalay remains a hub for largely Chinese-traded jade and gemstones as well as smartphones, motorbikes and other imported goods.

In March, U Win Htay, vice president of the Mandalay Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told the Straits Times: “People call this place Yunnan-Mandalay. If you do business, and you don’t want to work with Chinese, you simply can’t make money.”

Culture and education

As well as Mandalay University, which was established in 1925, the city also has institutions for medicine, dentistry, art and technology. However, Mandalay’s real strength is in religious studies; in addition to the Mandalay Theological College, the Phaung Daw Oo school in the city’s outskirts is the largest monastic school in the country, with about 9,000 pupils at the primary, middle, high school and university levels.

Although it has little in the way of contemporary art, Mandalay has thriving traditions of masonry, wood carving and metal-working for pagodas and religious images, as well as traditional painting, textile weaving and jade work.

These traditions go back to the original craftsmen who built Mindon’s splendid new palace and monasteries, and tourists can witness their handiwork in the carved teak Shwenandaw Monastery, the 729 marble slabs bearing the Pali Canon at the Kuthodaw Pagoda, and the mirrored mosaic walls of the Sutaungpyei Pagoda on Mandalay Hill.

And if you climb the hill at sunset, keep an eye out for Mandalay Central Prison to the northwest, visible by its tell-tale semi-circular walls and radial barracks (but lower your expectations before visiting in person; it only has a one-star rating on Google).

Who’s in charge?

Physician U Ye Lwin, 66, was appointed mayor in 2016 by the Mandalay City Development Committee. He presides over the seven-township Mandalay District, which includes the city proper (Chanayethazan Township contains the downtown area) and suburbs, including Amarapura.  

Mandalay’s Yadanarbon Football Club has won four out of the nine Myanmar National League championships to date. Its arch rival Yangon United also has four, but sneaks ahead having played in more championship appearances. Their grudge matches have been dubbed the “Myanmar Derby.”

Previously, Yadanarbon’s most bitter rival was Zeyar Shwe Myay Football Club of neighbouring Sagaing Region. After matches, brawls were known to have broken out near the stadium, as fans in various states of intoxication made their way back home.

However, the fights are (hopefully) a thing of the past, after Zeyar Shwe Myay was disbanded in 2016 over a dispute about its home ground.

Though second in most things, Mandalay ranks first in the number of Burmese roofed turtles. The Mandalay Zoological Gardens is the only zoo in Myanmar to feature the endangered species.

Jared Downing

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Mandalay, is the second largest city in Myanmar, after Yangon. It is located on the east bank of Ayeyarwaddy River, 716km (445 miles) north of Yangon. Mandalay can be considered as the economic center of Upper Myanmar and also ancient cultural center of Myanmar. Despite rising Nay Pyi Taw, it remains the commercial and educational center for Upper Myanmar. Mandalay is one of the cities that has a wealth of attraction historical sites, ancient pagodas and beautiful scenery. If you are a person who is interested in both historical and natural beauty, Mandalay is the best suited place.

Mandalay was founded by King Mindon in 1857 as the new royal capital of the Konbaung dynasty. It was the last Burma’s royal capital before the kingdom’s annexation by the British Empire in 1885. In Colonial era, it remained commercially and culturally important even with the rise of Yangon, the new capital of British Burma. In the Second World War, the city suffered severe destruction from the attack of Japan. In 1948, Mandalay became part of the newly independent Union of Myanmar .

Weather Conditions

Mandalay enjoys a semi-tropical climate, which is characterized by warm to hot summer and mild to cold winters. The average temperature is always high, about 25°C in the summer and 18°C in the winter. The coldest month is January with 14°C and the warmest in April with 38°C. Mandalay receives the less rainfall than other region. The heaviest rainfall occurring in May, June, August, September and October. High humidity can be seen in October with 80%, gradually decreases and reach the driest in March. The best time to take a Mandalay tour is from October to February. In this period, the weather is stable and very suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Transportation:  

Mandalay presents tourists with a number of options with regards to transportation. Those who want to get around with the locals can ride on a bus or on a trishaw. There are also taxis, bicycles and motorcycles to take tourists to their destinations.

Mandalay International Airport

Mandalay International Airport is one of only three international airports in Myanmar, located 35 km south of Mandalay in Tada-U. Its 4267 meter runway is the longest runway in use in Southeast Asia and has the capacity to handle up to 3 million passengers a year. The airport connects 11 domestic and seven international destinations. It is the main operating base of Golden Myanmar Airline.

Tourist can rent motorbikes or bicycles in Mandalay. There are a lot of motorbikes in Mandalay and local people are widely used. But, I don’t want to recommend this because of the traffic problem. You should hire a private driver for a full day to get around the city.

Taxis at the Mandalay airport are reasonably priced and they have a set rate from the airport to Mandalay hotels.

• 4,000K- Shared Taxi
• 12,000K-Private Taxi
• 15,000K-Private Taxi with air conditioning. 

But there is a little flexible.

There are several taxi kiosks and they all spoke English. If you don’t have local currency, you can pay the Mandalay airport taxi in USD.

Another means of transportation found in Mandalay is the trishaw, which still travel along the back roads of the city. The fares are cheaper compared to buses and taxis.

Public buses & Pick-up trucks

The public-transport system uses pick-up truck that make regular lengthy stops , rarely leaving tour jammed full. Different- colored boards sometimes denote variant routings but the entire system seems to get upgraded every few months. The fares are normally MMK500.

From 25th St at 83rd St diagonally opposite Nylon Hotel:

• (၁)1,(၅)5,(၁၉ )19 via 78th St , south to the train station , east on 30th; (၅)5 and (၁၉ )19 then head east on 19th , while 1 heads north at 62nd.
• (၁၆)16 goes to the base of Mandalay hill, blue sign goes via the train station.

From 84th street at 29th street.

• (၈)8 passes Mahamuni Pagoda en route to Amarapura.
• (၁၀)10 heads to the Kwe Se Kan Bus station.

Top Things To Do In Mandalay

• U Bein Bridge to see sunrise
• Get to know about the most famous pagoda, Maha Muni

Walk around the Amarapura Ancient City

Learn about Glory day of Burma’s Dynasty from Mandalay Palace

Unique scenery of Moat & Fortress Wall

Discover the ShweNandaw Kyaung

Explore Handicraft Workshops

View the sunset on Mandalay Hill

• Short day trips from Mandalay

U Bein Bridge To See Sunrise

Built around 1850, the oldest and longest teakwood bridge in the world.It is used as an important passageway for the local people and has also become a tourist attraction. A great thing to do at the bridge is to see the sunrise and after sunrise,when hundreds of villagers and monks commute back and forth across it. It is like the perfect and unique picture then you will get a different feeling that you have never been before.

Get To Know About The Most Famous Pagoda, Maha Muni

In Mandalay, the most famous pagoda is Manha Muni like Shwedagon in Yangon. It is the most revered Buddha image in Mandalay. It is also known as the Maha Myat Muni or Paya Gyi and the most ancient Buddha image in Myanmar. It was cast in the life-span of Lord Buddha in the seated posture of relaxed deportment, namely Bumi Phasa Mudras, symbolic of His Conquest of Mara. It has a very interesting history and unique architecture. If you are in Mandalay, you should go to this place and learn about this Buddha image.

Amarapura is a former capital of Myanmar, and now a township of Mandalay City. Amarapura is bounded by the Ayeyarwaddy river in the west, Chanmyathazi Township in the north and the ancient capital site of Inwa in the south.  It was the capital of Myanmar twice during the Konbaung Period ( 1783-1821 and 1842-1859). The township is known today for its traditional silk and cotton weaving, and bronze casting. It was also home to the famous U Bein bridge when you go to Amarapura, you should take day trips to know widely about this city. There are a lot of historical sites and buildings and you can also learn about Burmese culture.

The Myan Nan San Kyaw,or Royal Palace, was the first palace to be built in Mandalay. Constructed by King Mindon, who moved his capital from Amarapura to Mandalay, the location was chosen because of astronomical calculations and favourable omens. The entire palace complex was destroyed by fire during World War II, but it has been restored. So, everything you walk through from the entrance hall all the way past the throne room and to the residence was constructed in the early 1990s. Visiting Royal Palace is one of the best things to do in Mandalay, it doesn’t take too long to walk through the palace.

The whole palace complex was destroyed by fire during the Second World War. The palace walls , the four gates and the moat still stand today as evidence of the majestic palace city. Viewable only from the outside, a 230-ft wide moat and well over 4 miles of crenellated 26ft- high walls form a vast square around the site of the former Mandalay fortress. Reconstructed in the original 1857 style. While artful photograph can make much of these scenes, the effect isn’t as impressive as you might expect, due to the length and regularity of the walls.

ShweNandaw Monastery is a historic Buddhist monastery located near Mandalay Hill. It is considered one of the most beautiful monasteries in Myanmar, and it is also one of the highest visited tourist sites in the country. Shwenandaw Monastery was built in 1878 by King Thibaw Min.The monastery is known for its teak carvings of Buddhist myths, which adorn its walls and roofs.The monastery is built in the traditional Burmese architectural style. ShweNanDaw is the single remaining major original structure of the original Royal Palace.

Mandalay is known as the heart of Burmese culture and politics for at least 500 years prior to that. Through the balance of power shifted to colonial Yangon in the late 19th century, Mandalay remains one of the most important cities in Myanmar to this day, and maintains a rich tradition of arts and crafts as legacy of its illustrious past. So, you want to know about Burmese traditional arts & crafts, Mandalay is the best option. If you are planning to head to Mandalay, I would like to recommend spending a morning or an afternoon exploring some of the city’s surviving arts and crafts,most of which are carried out using the same techniques and tools that have been employed for generations.

If you are looking for the best place to view sunset, its Mandalay Hill. Mandalay is a 240 meters(760ft)that is located to the northeast of the city centre of Mandalay in Myanmar. The city took its name from the hill. It’s a long way up. It’s humid. For much of it, there’s no sidewalk, so you’ll be sharing the narrow road with cars and buses. And you’ll have to do a good part of it barefoot.The climb takes 30 minutes, but much longer if you allow for stops en route But it’s worth it, especially for the sunset. 

Short Day Trips From Mandalay

There are a lot of attraction sites within Mandalay and also outside the city. Here are the short day trips from Mandalay.

Mandalay Excursions to Amarapura-Ava-Sagaing ( One Day)

This trip takes around one day but you can visit a lot of attraction sites such as:

• Famous Buddhist monastery Mahagandayon
• 200-year-old U Bein teak bridge
• Bagaya Monastery
• Boa trip to former Royal Capital of Inwa
• Horse-drawn carriage experience

This is so amazing. You will get different experiences within one day. So, if you have not decided where to go in Mandalay , you should take this trip.

Biking Tour ( Duration- 8 hours)

Get around the Mandalay by cycling, it will be the best experience. Spend your time to go around the morning market, see the local peace of life then explore the great Burmese architecture at two of the most beautiful monasteries in the city.

Highlights:Zegyo Market, Shwe Inn Bin Monastery, Shwenandaw Monastery, Kuthodaw Pagoda, Mahamuni Temple.

This trip will give you an amazing opportunity to discover the charm of Mandalay on a bicycle.

Short trip to Pyin Oo Lwin ( One Day)

Pyin Oo Lwin is considered as one of the most beautiful towns in Myanmar. It is a scenic hill town in Shan State, with colourful flower, beautiful scenery and cool weather. It is located some 67 kilometers (42 miles) east of Mandalay. 

Highlights:

• Explore British hill station of Pyin Oo Lwin (Maymyo)
• Riding a traditional horse-drawn carriage
• See Peik Khyin Myaung Caves
• Visit Pwe Kyauk Waterfall

This trip is really worth to take, it takes not too much time, you will enjoy this trip.

Two days Ayeyarwaddy Dolphin Tour

This trip will give you a good opportunity to observe the Ayeyarwaddy Dolphin in their natural habitat and the traditional cast-net fishing method by the help dolphins in order to promote the education programs on dolphin conservation and the importance of adopting sustainable fishing practices.

• Explore Myay-zun Village
• Witness the “cooperative fishery” in Mandalay

Mingun Bell

• Visit Mingun Paya – the world’s second largest ringing bell
• Hsinbyume Paya – the dramatic round-shaped white pagoda 

Enjoy your mesmerizing short trip and stay away from the noise you have in your busy life.

Places to visit

Sandamuni Pagoda

Sandamani Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa located southwest of Mandalay Hill. It is best known for its large golden zedi, its hundreds of shrines containing inscribed marble slabs and the Iron Buddha Sandamuni cast by King Bodawpaya of the Konbaung Dynasty in 1802. The cast was brought from Amarapura to its present location in 1874 by King Mindon.Surrounding the central pagoda are 1774 shrines, each housing a single marble slab. The slabs are inscribed with the teachings of the Buddha, consisting of Sutta Pitaka, Vinaya Pitaka and Abhidhamma Pitaka (the three baskets that make up the Tripitaka) so it can be described as one of the world’s largest book.Each slabs is 1.68 meters tall and 1.07 meters wide. If you are interested, you can go and see the slabs yourself. 

Mandalay Hill

The Mandalay Hill is situated to the north-east corner of the Mandalay Royal Palace,it lies from north to south.The landmark of the Mandalay. Almost everyone who visits Mandalay goes to this hill.Like a Tower given by nature, the Mandalay Hill offers a panoramic view over the Golden City of Mandalay. One famous Buddha Image on the Mandalay Hill is the Image of Standing Lord Buddha at the top of the hill where Lord Buddha made a prophecy. It was built by king Mindon. Eight years after the king’s death, the image was damaged by fire, and a new image was restored. The image of standing Lord Buddha is 8.22m high.It will be a memorable experience for the visitor of Mandalay to enjoy the sunset beauty over the blinking, winding Ayeyawaddy and the blue Sagaing Hill and the Min Wun ranges.

Kuthodaw Pagoda

The Kuthodaw pagoda in Mandalay comprises of a gilded pagoda, hundreds of shrines housing inscribed marble slabs and several pavilions. The pagoda is also called “the world’s largest book”, named after the 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist teachings.King Mindon ordered the “book” to be made. The works started in 1860 and took 8 years to complete. Kuthodaw Pagoda lies at the foot of Mandalay Hill and was built during the reign of King Mindon.The Kuthodaw Paya or “Royal merit pagoda” was built by King Mindon Min at the same time the nearby Mandalay Palace was built. Construction started shortly after the founding of Mandalay in 1857. The King built the Kuthodaw to leave a great work of merit for future generations. It is similar to Sandamuni Pagoda.

Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple

Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple is a well-known Buddhisht Temple near the southern entry to Mandalay Hill.The image of the Buddha is officially known as Maha Thetkya Mayazein . The Kyauktawgyi Pagoda was built by King Mindon in 1853 on the model of the Ananda Temple at Bagan. It closely resembles the Ananda in form but it is not as ornate inside.Visitors coming to Kyauktawgyi Pagoda should not miss the chance to enjoy one of the largest festivals in Mandalay usually held in October as the festival of the Kyauktawgyi Paya. This festival attracts a huge number of people both the locals and foreign visitors. This spot is usually crowded during the time the festival is held.

Inwa was the capital of Myanmar for nearly 360 years, on five separate occasions, from 1365 to 1842. Throughout history, it was sacked and rebuilt numerous times. The capital city was finally abandoned after it was completely destroyed by a series of major earthquakes in March 1839. The sights to see in Inwa include Nanmyint Watchtower, Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, Bagaya Monastery, the lacquerware factory and Inwa Bridge spanning the Ayeyarwaddy River.

Mingun is a town located on the western bank of the Ayeyarwaddy river. approximately 7 miles north of Mandalay. It is reached by ferry-boats across the river and takes 1 hour for up-river and 40 minutes for down-river.There are a lot of attractions to visit and if you are in Mingun, you can visit the ruined Migun Pahtodawgyi, the world’s heaviest Migun Bell, ancient Mingun Paya, and interesting Hsinbyume Paya.

Mingun Bell is a bell located in Mingun, Sagaing Region, Myanmar. It is located approximately 11 km (6.8 mi) north of Mandalay on the western bank of the Ayeyarwaddy river. It was the heaviest functioning bell in the world at several times in history. It was also considered as the largest ringing bell in the world until 2000. It was built by the longest reigning monarch of the Konbaung dynasty King Bodawpaya (1782-1819) and weighs 55,555 viss (90.718 kilograms or 199.999 pounds). This number is engraved on the surface of the bell.

Jade Market

Mandalay's jade market is probably the market of most interest to the traveller visiting town.In Mandalay, the main buying and selling point is Mahar Aung Myay Market, more commonly known simply as the jade market where you'll find a mass of jade traders haggling, hawking and polishing their wares. There's a K2500 entry fee (often not collected), but you could always sit outside the market and observe craftspeople cutting and polishing jade in the area around 87th St. It's a fascinating spot, with vendors displaying everything from huge chunks of the green rock to tiny fragments, while in the afternoon session other precious stones and gems also make their appearance. 

Zegyo Market

Zaycho Market (also spelled Zay Cho, Zeigyo, Zaygyo, Zegyo Market) is the largest and the most important market in Mandalay as well as in upper Burma. It is also one of the oldest-market in Myanmar.The market was destroyed by fire in 1897 and rebuilt in 1903 with a masonry structure designed by an Italian, Count Conte Calderari.In the 1990s, the colonial era structure was pulled down and replaced with a Chinese-style shopping centre. It is a local market but you can go and see the local people and their products to know their local culture.

Cultural Museum

Mandalay Cultural Museum is a museum located at the corner of 80th Road and 24th Street, in Mandalay.The museum is also home to coins, palm leaf manuscripts and Bagan-period Buddha images.The museum charges US$2 to foreign visitors. For Burmese people, the charge is 500 Kyats for adults and 250 kyats for children.It is open from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm from Tuesday to Sunday.

Sagaing is one of the religious and monastic centers in Myanmar, with hundreds of white, silver and gold pagodas and monasteries dotted in green tree-covered hills. It is located on the western bank of Ayeyarwaddy River and about 21 kilometers southwest of Mandalay. Sagaing was also the capital of Shan Kingdom in 14th century and once again 18th century. Most of the tourists to Mandalay, across Irrawaddy River, pay a visit to this pretty town. Like any other cities in Myanmar, Sagaing has a lot of places to visit. In Sagaing, you can pay a visit to:

• Soon U Pon Nya Shin Paya
• Tilawkaguru
• Kaunghmudaw Paya
• Sitagu Buddhist Academy
• Sagaing Hill
• Taungthaman Lake

Traditional Handicraft Workshops in Mandalay

As I mentioned above, Mandalay is the heart of Burmese culture. So, I would like to recommend some workshops that shows unique architecture of Myanmar.

Gold Leaf Making Industry

Mandalay is the only place to find Gold Leaf making industry. Total of 2000 very thin gold leaves can be obtained from a tickle of 24 karat pure gold after seven hours of pounding in many different steps during the process. This is the industry not being able to replace with modern machine and tourists have very good interest to this industry. If you are interested, you can go and learn at King Galon Gold Leaf Workshop.( No.143, 36th Street,Between 77th & 78th Street, Myet Parr Yart, Mandalay, Myanmar)

Tapestry Workshop

Throughout Myanmar, Mandalay Shwe-gyi-do Quarter is the best place for embroidery and applique work. Tapestries (shwe-gyi-do) have been known to be a part of Myanmar culture for about 1000 years. Materials used in embroidery and applique workers include, golden silvery thread, sequins (plastic metal) velvet, satin, colored cloth, paper produced in Shan State and glue from sticky rice. In making an embroidery cloth or a tapestry, the cloth has to stretch on a wooden frame, about one foot high above the ground and embroider on it later.

Aung Nan Myanmar Handicrafts Workshop(No 97, 98, 99 Mandalay-Sagaing By Pass Road, Opposite to the Myohaung Warehouse, Pyitawthar Quarter, Chanmyathazi Township)

Marble Carving Workshops

The marble carving workshop is near Mahamuni Pagoda. Marble are from the Sagin quarry about 35 miles (56km) north of Mandalay. Many religious items, mainly Buddha images and stone slabs for inscription, are produced. Other figures such as images of other religions, animal figures are also made by order.Carving workshops in Myanmar began thriving in the early 1990s and their production rate also started to increase due to the use of advanced electric tools. For instance, even a small village in northern Mandalay has now become home to more than 100 workshops, most of which export Buddha statues mainly to China and Thailand.

Wood Carving Workshops

In Mandalay area, wood carving workshops produce many different figures from wood; they not only religious items such as Buddha images but also other items, such as figures and curving of ornamental and decorative flowers. The workshops are near the Mahamuni Pagoda and in Tampawaddy.

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