18 INTERESTING Things to do in Mandalay

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Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar after Yangon, located on the Irrawaddy River. It’s the former capital and a bustling city filled with beautiful pagodas and rich history. While it may not be as popular as its neighboring city Bagan, there are a lot of things to do in Mandalay.

This post contains all the Mandalay attractions that are culturally rich and some best points of interest. Most people would just spend a day or two to see the famous 5 places here but make sure to spend a few days, preferably 3-4 days to get the feel of this city, and don’t miss out on all these 18 places to visit in Mandalay.

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How to get to/around Mandalay?

Getting to Mandalay

There are 4 major transportation types available to get to Mandalay.

1. By Air – Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar hence it has an international airport. The Mandalay International Airport is situated 40 km from the city and it takes around 45 minutes to reach.

You will have to take a private taxi into town that costs around 18 USD as public transport isn’t available. Most hotels also offer private transfers so you should check the availability beforehand.

2. By Bus – There are a number of buses from almost all the major cities to Mandalay. The type of bus whether VIP or ordinary will depend upon the location you are coming from.

There are no VIP buses from Bagan to Mandalay however there are some buses with air-conditioners. There is a minibus that runs daily from Bagan to Mandalay and takes approximately 5-6 hours (8 USD).

The quality of buses running from Yangon to Mandalay is a lot better. There are many VIPs and ordinary buses. The popular journey is 8.5 – 9 hours and prices range from 10 – 17 USD depending on the class.

3. By Train or Boat – There are trains from popular cities like Yangon and Bagan amongst other cities and boats from Bagan. However, I will not recommend a train or boat journey. They are very time-consuming and probably not hassle-free.

If you still wish to explore these options then click here.

Getting around Mandalay

There are a few options when it comes to transportation in Mandalay. Depending on your budget and comfort level you can choose any.

1. Rent a bike – This is the most popular and easiest option if you are comfortable with driving. It costs 15K MMK ($10 USD) for 24 hours to rent an automatic motorbike.

2. Use a taxi/Tuktuk – This is another most popular option because most people like to do a day trip to Mingun which makes it easy when you have a taxi or a tuk-tuk. Download an app called grab to book taxis and tuk-tuks.

3. Hire a private driver – If you are not comfortable with self-driving and have less time in Mandalay then you should hire a private driver to go around easily.

4. Bicycle – Another option to explore Mandalay is by bicycle. The whole city is quite bicycle-friendly. However, I recommend the trip to Mingun by boat and then cycling back to Mandalay. Most hotels and guesthouses offer bike hire.

5. Rent a Car – This option is only suitable for people who are already doing a road trip in Myanmar or are starting the road trip from Mandalay. You can rent a self-drive car from Yomacarshare but renting a car is pointless if the purpose is only to get around Mandalay.

Mandalay Attractions – Pagodas

Mandalay is home to many pagodas and it’s impossible to see them all. This section of the list contains all the beautiful pagodas that must not be missed when you are coming to explore Mandalay.

All these pagodas and temples are very important for locals so make sure to dress appropriately when visiting them. Be respectful and do not take photographs that include PDA as most of these sites have monks meditating and local people worshipping.

MOST IMPORTANT TIP

Buy a Mandalay Archaeological Zone Ticket for the US $10 which is valid for a week and can be used for visiting Royal Palace, Shwenandaw Monastery, Sandamuni Pagoda, Kuthodaw Pagoda, Maha Atulawaiyan Monastery, and KyauKTaw Gyi Pagoda.

1. Kuthodaw Pagoda

Kuthodaw Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa in Mandalay located at the foot of Mandalay Hill. Known as the world’s largest book, it is surrounded by 729 shrines, each containing a marble slab that is inscribed on both sides with the Tripiṭaka and other Buddhist texts.

The reason it’s called the world’s largest book is that each of these 729 slabs (inside the shrines) represents a page of a book. It is one of the must-visit attractions in Mandalay as visiting this place is a unique experience.

You may also be able to see some locals having their wedding photoshoot here in traditional dress. As this place is huge so you won’t have any trouble feeling the vibe of the place and have your own personal experience without anyone disturbing you.

Entrance Fee and Opening Hours: A ticket for Kuthodaw Pagoda costs US$ 5 and it opens from 8 am – 4:30 pm.

2. Sanda Muni Pagoda

Sanda Muni Pagoda is located in the same vicinity as Kuthodaw Pagoda and is built in a similar style with many white pagodas dotted around the main pagoda. It was authorized by King Mindon in 1874 in memory of his younger brother.

Sanda Muni Pagoda is majorly known for its huge cast-iron gold-colored Buddha but the rows of small all-white pagodas look equally stunning too. There are 1774 shrines, each housing a single marble slab inscribed with the teachings of the Buddha.

Entrance Fee and Opening Hours: A ticket for Sanda Muni Pagoda costs US$ 5 and it opens from 8 am – 8 pm. It is located within the walking distance from the Kuthodaw pagoda.

3. U Min Thonze

Located on Sagaing Hill across the river, U Min Thonze literally means 30 caves temple. Climb the stairs from the main gate with your shoes on past many stalls and take them off as you reach the main entrance of this temple.

It’s a small place that has intricate architecture on the facade and is covered in pastel green and golden colors. It is called 30 caves temple in reference to the 30 entrances to the semicircular gallery that houses 45 Buddha images. These 45 Buddha images look spectacular with a shiny glass wall as the background and amazing tile work.

Also, the wall opposite Budhha images contains a lot of paintings that show the history of this place. If you are a sunset lover then you must visit this place in the evening. In case, you are short on time then a quick visit anytime would be good.

4. Hsinbyume Pagoda

Hsinbyume Pagoda is one of the most amazing and unique pagodas and is a must-see in Mandalay. The thing that makes it different from all other pagodas is its architecture and which is why it’s one of the major Mandalay attractions.

It is a huge circular pagoda located in Mingun, around 10 km from Mandalay city with several wave-like structures. You can climb each level of the pagoda and the only thing to take care of is your feet as the floor has small pebbles and is not concrete.

Walking on the wave structure gives you the impression as if you are walking amongst the clouds and the impressive views of the Irrawaddy river from the top are unmissable.

The best time to visit the Hsinbyume Pagoda is early in the morning or in the evening as the scorching sun in the afternoon can hurt your feet when walking on all-white pavement. It’s a beautiful place that you shouldn’t miss when in Mandalay.

This pagoda along with Mingun Pagoda and Mingun bell are located close to each other in the Mingun region and be seen on the same day.

Entrance Fee: A ticket for the Sagaing – Mingun Archeological Zone costs US$ 4. This ticket is valid for the Mingun Pagoda and Mingun bell along with Hsinbyume pagoda.

How to reach Mingun: You can reach Mingun by car/Motorbike from Mandalay city. Mandalay to Mingun is just 1.5 hrs. You can also take a boat/ferry from the Irrawaddy River but they run at certain times. Remember to carry your passport while booking a ferry.

5. Mingun Pahtodawgyi (Pagoda)

Mingun Pahtodawgyi is an incomplete stupa in Mingun. It was left incomplete intentionally because the construction caused a lot of suffering to the people and the state. In order to stop this project, a prophecy was created (that has 2 variations) because the king was very superstitious.⁣
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One prophecy said that as soon as the building of the pagoda would be completed the country would be gone and the other one said that as soon as the building would be completed, the king would die.⁣
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Even after being incomplete, this pagoda is still huge and it’s just 1/3 rd of the intended height which was 152 meters. An earthquake caused these huge cracks on the pagoda making it look more mysterious. ⁣
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This place isn’t religious, it’s just an attraction.⁣ Be sure to check the backside of this pagoda for pictures as the crack looks cooler on the back and it’s not crowded like the front.

6. Mahamuni Budhha Temple

Often overlooked and not visited by tourists, Mahamuni Budhha Temple is stunning. It’s a Buddhist temple and a major pilgrimage site. This pagoda is special simply because it is coated with gold leaf but the major attraction is the massive gold Budhha statue inside.

Only male devotees are allowed to purchase a gold leaf and enter the room where the Budhha statue is, to place the leaf on the Budhha. However, the gold leaf is totally optional but it costs 2,500 kyats. There are also various shops in the entrance halls selling souvenirs.

Entrance Fee: Entrance is free but they will charge you 1,000 kyats to bring a camera inside.

7. Atumashi Monastery (Maha Atulawaiyan Monastery)

It is a Buddhist monastery built around 1859 by King Mindon in Mandalay. At the time it was considered to be one of the most magnificent buildings in South East Asia. But it burnt down in 1980 and in 1996 the Burmese Archaeological Department rebuilt it using the original plan and layout but with modern materials.

8. Shwenandaw Monastery

Just outside Mandalay Royal Palace, you will find this finely carved teak wooden Monastery. It is also the most significant historic building. The monastery opens daily from 7:30 am until 5 pm.

Famous Places to Visit in Mandalay

9. Mandalay Hill

One of the most famous Mandalay attractions is Mandalay Hill which is visited by everyone who visits Mandalay. Located to the northeast of the city, this 240 meters high hill offers stunning panoramic views and is famous during sunset. Be sure to arrive a few hours before sunset to grab your spot, as it gets crowded.

Entrance Fee:  Once you reach the top using escalators, you will see a ticket counter and the fee is 1000 MMK. You will be provided with a sticker, be sure to wear it and don’t lose it. Otherwise, you will have to purchase the ticket again.

How to reach Mandalay Hill: It is possible to take your car/motorbike to the top parking lot and it will cost you a little toll fee. You can also hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to take you there and bring you back.

Once you reach the parking lot and move towards the entrance, you will see a lift on the right-hand side which was only functioning to bring people down at the time I visited, and a gate on the left-hand side.

You have to take off your shoes at the counter and put them in the cubes provided to you. To reach the top, use the escalators.

10. Mingun Bell

Mingun Bell is located between Hsinbyume pagoda and Mingun pagoda and it was supposed to be used at Mingun Pagoda but since it is incomplete so it never got there. It’s a quick stop to see this bell and its entrance fee is included in the Sagaing – Mingun Archeological Zone Ticket.

11. U-Bein Bridge

If there is one place that is a must-see in Mandalay then it’s the U Bein Bridge. This 1.2 km bridge is believed to be the longest and oldest teakwood bridge in the world and it’s a very popular spot for sunset for all the obvious reasons.

I went there during sunrise and sunset both and loved them equally. Whether you are a morning person or an evening person, this place wouldn’t disappoint you at any time.

Once you are up on the bridge, you cannot get down anywhere as usually there is water below it. There is only one set of stairs halfway that locals have kept but it may or may not be there now.

During sunset, a lot of locals and tourists enjoy walking on the bridge from one end to another or just on the bridge to watch the sunset. At sunrise, a lot of monks and locals will be there to greet you. No matter what time you go and from where you choose to watch the world go by (from up the bridge or below), you sure will be amazed.

How to reach U-Bein Bridge: The bridge is located in Amarapura, 11 km south of Mandalay. If you don’t have your own vehicle to reach, the best is to hire a taxi to take you there and back.

12. Mandalay Palace

Mandalay Palace is the last royal palace built by the Burmese and it’s been more than a century for a king to live here. On this large complex, there are dozens of buildings including audience halls, throne halls, a monastery, a clock tower, a court building, a tooth relic building, and a library where the Buddhist scriptures were kept.

Things to do in Mandalay

If you are feeling burnt out by all the religious places and temple/pagoda hopping then it’s time for a change. There are many other things to do in Mandalay that do not include pagodas.

13. Watch the Sunset over Irrawaddy River

There is nothing more amazing than being by a water body during sunset and what’s best than the river on which this city is located. Irrawaddy river is the largest river in Myanmar flowing from North to South.

Head to the SkyBar restaurant at Ayarwaddy River View Hotel to have a panoramic view of the Irrawaddy river. It’s a popular place to watch the sunset and have drinks at their rooftop bar.

14. Go Shopping at Jade market

Visiting the Jade Market is a fascinating thing to do in Mandalay and a lot of locals say that a trip to Mandalay is not complete if you don’t come here. You can find real authentic Jade here and can watch the craftsmen cutting and polishing the huge chunks of Jade.

There is also a beautiful pagoda that is covered in 10,000 tons of Jade, called Jade Pagoda, and if you hire a private driver for your Mandalay sightseeing they would definitely bring you here.

15. See a Sunflower Field

Almost all the year sunflowers bloom right under the U-Bein bridge at the center. The field size is moderate and it’s someone’s private property so please respect the field and don’t pluck the sunflowers.

Most of the time you will find someone collecting a small fee to take a photo here but in case there is no one then make sure to pay a small amount to the local that lives close to the field.

16. Swim at Dee Doke Waterfall

Dee Doke Waterfall, located in the outskirts of Mandalay is a hidden gem and it takes around 1.5 hrs by bike/car to reach there. Once arrived at the parking lot, the hike/path will take 20 mins to reach.

There are 2 levels of this place, one is the beautiful turquoise lagoon that looks spectacular and the second level is the waterfall. Be sure to reach there early in the morning before locals start coming.

17. Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral

The Sacred Heart Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church right in the city and is built in colonial style. Due to its dark grey color, it has gothic feels which make it stand out in the city.

18. Anisakan Falls (Dat Taw Gyaint Waterfall)

Dat Taw Gyaint Waterfall, also commonly known as Anisakan Falls is a 120 m high beautiful waterfall with a blue swimming hole at the bottom. It is located 1.5 hrs away from Mandalay city and is another best kept hidden gem.

The swimming hole is deep enough to swim but not deep enough for cliff jumping. There is also a small Buddhist temple nearby and it couldn’t have been at a better location.

TRAVEL TIP: It’s best to combine Dee Doke Waterfall and Anisakan falls to be done on the same day as a half-day trip.

Is Mandalay Worth visiting?

This totally depends on how much time you have. If you are really short on time and can’t even take out a day, then you can happily skip it. In all honesty, it’s not better than Inle Lake, Bagan, Yangon, or Hpa-An.

Mandalay is my least favorite city in Myanmar. But visiting Mandalay also provides you with some unique places to see so it’s totally worth taking out a day or two.

Where to stay in Mandalay?

As per my knowledge, there are no Airbnb’s to stay in Mandalay but you have so many options for hotels. I stayed in ‘Gold leaf hotel’ which is a decent hotel with a large enough room for two with a clean washroom.

Mercure Mandalay Hill Resort is a 4-star luxury hotel with great facilities and an outdoor pool and spa. Depending on your budget, you can choose your hotel. I would recommend staying in the city so that you can roam around and have many options for food.

Visit here to have a look at your options and book.

Until next post!

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