Mandalay, Myanmar

Mandalay is Myanmar’s second-largest city and a cultural hub known for its historical and religious significance. Located in the north-central part of the country, Mandalay is rich in heritage with royal palaces, ancient pagodas, and monasteries. It is also a center for traditional Burmese arts, crafts, and puppetry.

 

1. Tourist Attractions

  1. Mandalay Hill
    • Entrance Fee: Free (Donations are welcome)
    • Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    • Highlights: Mandalay Hill offers panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset. The hill is lined with various pagodas and temples such as the Sutaungpyei Pagoda, and at the summit, you’ll find a huge standing Buddha statue.
  2. Mandalay Palace
    • Entrance Fee: MMK 10,000 (USD 6.50) (also covers entrance to several other sites like the Shwenandaw Monastery)
    • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
    • Highlights: The former royal residence of King Mindon, Mandalay Palace is a vast complex enclosed by moats. While much of the palace was destroyed during WWII, it has been partially reconstructed. The watchtower offers great views of the surrounding city.
  3. Shwenandaw Monastery
    • Entrance Fee: Included in the Mandalay Archaeological Zone ticket (MMK 10,000)
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    • Highlights: Known for its teak carvings of Buddhist myths, the Shwenandaw Monastery is one of the few remaining original structures from the royal palace complex.
  4. Kuthodaw Pagoda
    • Entrance Fee: Free
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    • Highlights: Often referred to as the “World’s Largest Book,” Kuthodaw Pagoda houses 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire Buddhist scriptures. The stunning white pagoda surrounded by numerous stupas makes it a serene spot.
  5. U Bein Bridge
    • Entrance Fee: Free
    • Opening Hours: 24 hours (best visited at sunrise or sunset)
    • Highlights: The world’s longest teak bridge, U Bein Bridge stretches 1.2 km across Taungthaman Lake. It’s a great spot for photography, especially during sunset when locals walk across or fish by the bridge.

2. How to Get There

  • By Air: Mandalay International Airport (MDL) is the main gateway to the city, located 35 km south of the city center. Domestic flights connect Mandalay with Yangon, Bagan, and other key cities. International flights also operate from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Kunming, and other nearby cities.

  • By Train: Mandalay is well-connected by train to Yangon and other major cities. The journey from Yangon to Mandalay takes about 16 hours and offers scenic views, but the trains are slow.

  • By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from Yangon, Bagan, and Inle Lake. The ride from Yangon can take 8–12 hours.

  • By Boat: There are ferry services along the Ayeyarwady River between Bagan and Mandalay, offering a scenic route, though travel time can be long (around 12 hours).

3. Getting Around

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available, and it’s common to negotiate a fare before the ride. There are no meters.

  • Motorbike Taxis: For short trips, motorbike taxis are a convenient and inexpensive option.

  • Trishaws: A traditional mode of transport in Mandalay, trishaws are slower but provide a unique way to explore the city.

  • Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to see the city. Many guesthouses and hotels offer bike rentals.

4. Popular Local Food

  • Mandalay Mee Shay: A rice noodle dish mixed with pork, bean sprouts, and flavorful broth, often served with pickled vegetables and a spicy side sauce.

  • Shan Tofu Noodles: This dish includes rice noodles with a sauce made from chickpea flour, garlic, and herbs, offering a light but satisfying meal.

  • Mont Di: A traditional Mandalay noodle dish, Mont Di consists of thin rice noodles served with fish-based broth, herbs, and chili oil.

  • Laphet Thoke (Tea Leaf Salad): A unique Burmese delicacy made from fermented tea leaves, peanuts, sesame seeds, and garlic. It is crunchy, tangy, and perfect for a light snack.

5. Top Nightlife Spots in Mandalay

Mandalay’s nightlife is relatively quiet compared to Yangon or other large cities, but there are some fun spots to visit:

  • Sky Bar at Hotel Yadanarbon

    • How to Get There: Located in the city center, close to Mandalay Palace.
    • Highlights: Offers a relaxed rooftop experience with panoramic views of the city and Mandalay Hill. They serve local and international drinks.
    • Happy Hours: Typically from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

  • Mingalabar Restaurant

    • How to Get There: Located on 66th Street, downtown Mandalay.
    • Highlights: A laid-back restaurant that transforms into a lively spot for drinks in the evening. It’s popular for local Myanmar dishes and offers a good selection of cocktails and beer.
    • Happy Hours: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

  • Shwe Taung Tan Restaurant

    • How to Get There: Located near the Mandalay Palace.
    • Highlights: A cozy atmosphere with traditional Burmese cuisine and a selection of imported wines and cocktails. A great spot for couples or families to relax.
    • Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

  • Karaweik Beer Garden

    • How to Get There: Located along 26th Street.
    • Highlights: A casual outdoor beer garden offering local Myanmar beer and grilled meat skewers. The vibe is lively, especially during weekends with live music.
    • Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

6. Additional Highlights

  • Traditional Puppet Shows: Mandalay is known for its marionette puppet shows, a unique cultural experience that can be found at theaters like the Mandalay Marionettes Theater.

  • Craft Workshops: Visitors can see artisans working on traditional crafts such as gold leaf, wood carving, and stone sculpting.

Mandalay is a blend of historical charm and local traditions, making it a key destination for travelers interested in Myanmar’s cultural heritage.