I love everything in Mandalay except the heat. We went there in the month of June, which is the hottest season in Myanmar. Anywhere under the shades, I felt as if I was in an Air-Con room. Welcome to Mandalay, the most cultural city in Myanmar.
Nestled in the heart of Myanmar, Mandalay is a city that beckons travellers with its rich history, cultural heritage, and captivating sights. Renowned as the last royal capital of the country, Mandalay has a distinctive allure that emanates from its regal past and the vibrant pulse of its present-day life. From majestic pagodas to bustling markets, this city offers a tapestry of experiences that will leave visitors spellbound. Join me on a photo journey as we explore the enchanting charms of Mandalay and unravel its hidden treasures.
Top Things To See and Do in Mandalay:
1. U Bein Bridge
U Bein Bridge is a historic teakwood bridge that spans across Taungthaman Lake and stretches for approximately 1.2 kilometre in Amarapura, Mandalay Region. It is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in the country and is considered the longest and oldest teakwood bridge in the world. It serves as a vital transportation route for the local communities, connecting the villages on either side of the lake. U Bein Bridge is a must-see attraction that offers a unique glimpse into the country's past and present.
Location: Click Here for Map
2. Taungthaman Lake
The lake is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can also take a boat ride on the lake, or walk or bike along the U Bein Bridge. The best time to visit Taungthaman Lake is during the morning or evening, when the weather is cooler. The sunsets over the lake are particularly beautiful.
Locaion: Click Here for Map
3. Shwenandaw Monastery
Shwenandaw Monastery is renowned for its exquisite teakwood carvings and traditional Burmese architectural style. The entire structure of the monastery, including its walls, pillars, and roofs, is elaborately adorned with intricate wooden carvings depicting various Buddhist mythological scenes, floral motifs, and symbolic elements. The carvings are incredibly detailed and reflect the artistry and craftsmanship of Burmese artisans of that era.
Location: Click Here for Map
Mandalay Palace is the last royal palace of the last Burmese monarchy. It was built between 1857 and 1859 as part of King Mindon's founding of the new royal capital city of Mandalay. The palace is located in the heart of Mandalay and it has over 100 buildings on a walled compound surrounded by a moat.
Kuthodaw Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa located in Mandalay, Myanmar. It is also known as the "world's largest book" because it contains 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism. The slabs are arranged in 64 rows of 11, and each slab is 18 inches (46 cm) tall and 12 inches (30 cm) wide. It was built during the reign of King Mindon and lies at the foot of Mandalay Hill. Today, Kuthodaw Pagoda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Location: Click Here for Map
Sandamuni Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa located southwest of Mandalay Hill. It was commissioned by King Mindon Min in 1874 as a memorial to his younger brother, Kanaung Mintha, who was assassinated along with 3 princes, Malun, Saku, and Maingpyin, during the 1866 Myingun Prince rebellion. The Sandamuni Buddha image is the largest iron Buddha image in Myanmar.
Location: Click Here for Map
7. Mandalay Hill
Mandalay Hill is a 240-metres hill located in Mandalay, Myanmar. It is a popular tourist destination and is considered to be a sacred site by Buddhists. The hill is home to a number of pagodas, monasteries, and shrines. There are a number of ways to reach the top of Mandalay Hill. You can either climb the 1,729 steps that lead to the summit or take an elevator. The views from the top of Mandalay Hill are breath taking. On a clear day, you can see the entire city of Mandalay, as well as the surrounding countryside. The best time to visit is during the sunrise and sunset. The views at these times are truly stunning.
Location: Click Here for Map
8. Su Taung Pyae Pagoda
Su Taung Pyae Pagoda is an ancient hilltop pagoda offering sweeping views of the surrounding town. The pagoda is said to enshrine a strand of the Buddha's hair, and it is believed to have been built in the 18th century. The pagoda is a five-tiered structure, and it is topped with a gilded stupa. The pagoda is surrounded by a number of smaller shrines, and it is a popular place for pilgrims and tourists to visit. The pagoda is also a popular place to visit during the Buddhist festivals of Thingyan (the Burmese New Year) and Thadingyut (the Festival of Lights).
Location: Click Here for Map
The Monastery was burnt down in 1890 after a fire in the city and it was rebuilt in the 1990s. The monastery was originally built to house a 30-foot-tall Buddha image that contained a massive diamond. The diamond was lost during the British takeover of Mandalay in 1885.
Location: Click Here for Map
Bonus 1. Wander Through The Streets
The streets of Mandalay are a great place to simply wander and get lost. You'll find a mix of old and new, traditional and modern, as you explore the city's many neighborhoods. Be sure to stop and admire the architecture, and don't be afraid to chat with the locals.
Bonus 2. Savouring The Best of Mandalay
Mandalay is a city with a rich culinary tradition, and its food is a delicious blend of Burmese, Chinese, and Indian influences. Some of the most popular foods to try in Mandalay include Mohinga (rice noodle and fish soup), Kyay Oh (pork and egg noodle soup), Mont Di (noodle salad), Mee Shay (Burmese rice noodle dish), Htoe Moat and La Mote (two types of Burmese pastries), and Tea Leaf Salad. No matter what your taste buds are craving, you're sure to find something to your liking in Mandalay. So next time you're in this beautiful city, be sure to explore its delicious food scene.
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| Burmese Curries and Mix Dishes |
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| Burmese Chili Egg Noodles |
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| Burmese Egg Toast |
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| Burmese Dry Flat Noodles |
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| Mee Shay - Burmese Rice Noodles |
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| Burmese Paratha |
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| Burmese Egg Noodles |
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| Pe Byouk - Boiled Peas (served with Burmese flat bread) |
Where To Stay in Mandalay
1. Hotel Yadanarbon (Our Choice)
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| Photo Credit: www.agoda.com |
Hotel Yadanarbon is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Mandalay, close to many of the city's most popular attractions, such as the Mandalay Palace, the Mahamuni Pagoda, and the Kuthodaw Pagoda. The hotel has a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city, a restaurant serving traditional Burmese cuisine, and a bar with live music. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and they all have air conditioning, a TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom. We stayed here for 2 nights; the staff is friendly and their service is exceptional. I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone who is visiting Mandalay.
Rate & Reservation: Click Here
Mandalay, with its regal history, spiritual sites, bustling markets, and breathtaking views, is a city that will enchant and inspire every traveler. Its ancient charm, coupled with the warmth and hospitality of its people, create an irresistible allure that draws visitors from around the world. Whether you're exploring the grandeur of the palace, marveling at the sacred pagodas, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Mandalay promises an unforgettable journey filled with moments that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. Prepare to be captivated by Mandalay's timeless beauty and embark on an adventure of a lifetime.
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