Best places to visit in Mandalay
Mandalay, the last royal capital of Myanmar (Burma), is a city steeped in history and culture. The city is a fascinating blend of the past and the present, offering travellers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Burmese life. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, cultural experiences, or just a dash of adventure, Mandalay has something for everyone. And for those wishing to fully immerse themselves in the splendour of this city, our company, Happytripz, offers expertly guided excursions to all the top sites.
First on the list of must-see attractions is the Mandalay Hill. Crowned by the stunning Sutaungpyei Pagoda, the hill provides panoramic views of the city and the flat plains stretching out to the horizon. At sunset, the kaleidoscope of colors that adorn the sky makes for a breathtaking sight. To add to your experience, Happytripz offers a serene sunset tour, which is not to be missed.
Google Maps - Mandalay HillDescending the hill brings you to the heart of the city, where the Royal Palace complex awaits, enclosed by a vast moat. Its impressive wooden pavilions and intricate carvings are a testament to the grandeur of the Konbaung Dynasty. Do not miss the chance to explore this historical treasure trove.
For a brush with spirituality, the Shwenandaw Monastery or Golden Palace Monastery is an absolute must-visit. This historic Buddhist monastery is known for its stunning teak wood carvings, which detail the life stories of Buddha. Happytripz incorporates a visit to this serene location in its guided city tours.
- Kuthodaw Pagoda, famously known as the world’s largest book due to its vast collection of stone tablets inscribed with Buddhist scriptures. The pagoda itself is a mesmerizing white structure, contrasted against rows and rows of white stupas housing the tablets. Wikipedia - Kuthodaw Pagoda
- Mahamuni Buddha Temple is one of the most sacred sites in Mandalay. Pilgrims flock to this temple to pay homage to the Mahamuni Buddha image, which is believed to be over 2,000 years old and covered in a thick layer of gold leaf applied by devotees.
- Mandalay Palace, at the heart of the city, is another icon that you can't miss. The palace was the primary royal residence before colonization and has been carefully reconstructed after being destroyed during World War II.
The vibrancy of Mandalay extends beyond historical landmarks. For a taste of local life, venture into the lively Zay Cho Market, the oldest and most famous market in the city. Here, visitors can find everything from local handicrafts to exotic fruits and spices. Let Happytripz guide you through the bustling alleyways and introduce you to the local vendors.
Finally, no trip to Mandalay would be complete without witnessing the splendor of U Bein Bridge, the world's longest teakwood bridge. Spanning Taungthaman Lake, this 1.2-kilometer bridge offers a peaceful and scenic walk, especially at sunset when locals and tourists alike make the trek across. Happytripz offers a delightful excursion to this picturesque location, ensuring you capture the best moments of your visit.
Google Maps - U Bein BridgeIn summary, Mandalay is a city that wears its history with pride and opens its arms to those willing to delve into its enchanting layers. And who better to lead you through these layers than Happytripz, your friendly guide to the wonders of Mandalay. So come, uncover the charms of this captivating city with us and take back memories that will last a lifetime.
