essay about mandalay

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essay about mandalay

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.

essay about mandalay

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

essay about mandalay

  • 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.

essay about mandalay

Kuthodaw Pagoda,Mandalay

essay about mandalay

Maha Myat Muni Pagoda,Mandalay

essay about mandalay

Mandalay Hill,Mandalay

essay about mandalay

Mandalay Royal Palace,Mandalay

essay about mandalay

U Bein Bridge,Mandalay

essay about mandalay

WALK ON U-BEIN BRIDGE

essay about mandalay

A TRIP TO MANDALAY HILL

essay about mandalay

MANDALAY ROYAL PALACE

essay about mandalay

TASTE THE AMAZING LOCAL FOOD

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Charmed by Mandalay

The stupa in Mingun, (mignun pagoda)at northwest of Mandalay in Sagaing Region in central Myanmar 1669460461

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Peak of Mandalay Hill

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MYANMORE

On the Road to Mandalay Photo Essay

By jack picone.

Mandalay. Even the word is enigmatic. Melodic and sweet sounding as it rolls off the tongue igniting the imagination and inviting wonder. I cast my memory back trawling to find answers to the questions ‘Mandalay’ asks me. My earliest associations with the word began in my formative years as a boy in junior high school in Australia. My English teacher introduced the class to the English poet Rudyard Kipling. In 1890, Kipling had penned a poem titled ‘Mandalay’. I recall at the time not fully understanding the poem fully. Regardless, as a teenage boy I was stirred by the lines I read, including ‘There’s a Burma girl a-settin’, and I know she thinks o’ me’, and the dramatic description, ‘An’ the dawn comes up like thunder outer China ‘crost the Bay”! ‘Mandalay’ (The poem) is largely the reflections of a British soldier (back in England) but still longing for the exoticism of Asia, he experienced while in Burma. Burma contrasted favorably to the dank, cold, and foggy climates and to the banality and social disciplines of the UK. Four of the six stanzas in Kipling’s poem end with the line,  ‘On the road to Mandalay’. Fast forward to 2015 and given the lasting impression Kipling’s poem left on me a road trip from Rangoon to Mandalay was imminent.

JackPicone_Road_To-Mandalay-19

Road trips are exciting. Breaking away and escaping the grinding banalities of everyday life. A putting your foot down on the accelerator and propelling into new territories. The choice of car chosen to escape in is as important as who you decide to drive off into the distance with. The selected car was a jet black 1998 Nissan Cedric Brougham VIP. More of a statement than a car.  A long black ominous looking limousine it cuts an imposing figure on the streets of Yangon which is populated mostly with compact contemporary Japanese cars. Metaphorically, it tends to ask more questions than it answers. It cannot be just anyone you choose to make a road trip with. Saying that it was a fait accompli who my traveling companions would be. I would be taking to the road with a friend and fellow photographer Gerhard Joren and my photography assistant Yani Clarke.

JackPicone_Road_To-Mandalay-36

The soft directional dawn light bathes everything in a pale shade of yellow; our driver hurried us into the Brougham so we could exit Yangon before the streets turned into the world’s biggest parking lot. Rangoon receded behind us as we passed the mornings commuters sounding their horns in frustration and crawling bumper to bumper into Rangoon to work for the day. The open road unfolded in front of us. Windows wound down and the wind in our hair the impossible felt possible, the notion of freedom filled the spacious cabin of the Brougham – the atmosphere was electric. Heading northwest Gerhard estimated it was approximately 390 miles to Mandalay and Yani now sporting a pair of retro Blues Brothers Raybands states the driving time was about 7 to 8 hours, but we all agreed to – it takes – as long as it takes. Our group mantra becomes ‘slow is fast’. We all want to soak up the sense of space and stop for anything or anyone that engages us along the road. I consider Kipling’s poem ‘Mandalay’ and know that things have changed exponentially since he penned it. It is probably the romantic in me, but I secretly hoped that we would still see some visual traces of what Kipling saw in the late 19th century. Even, perhaps find a few traces of the poet himself.

Cruising along the concrete covered Yangon-Mandalay Expressway appears to be a brand new state of the art travel experience. Our driver with a knowing smile suggests that it is not. The expressway built to connect Yangon with the nation’s new capital Naypyidaw, and its second largest city Mandalay did not meet international design and construction standards. He adds that there has been a spate of fatalities on it since it opened in 2010. Consequently, the locals have dubbed it the “Death Highway”. Oh, how reassuring. The landscape neatly framed by the car windows and windscreen appears, unremarkable, flat, baked by the humidity and heat is unforgiving. Supersized green traffic signs with large white arrows point to Naypyidaw and Mandalay. The monotony and regularity of these signs are occasionally punctuated by a sign that broadcasts, ‘Life is a journey’ then below this line in letters capitalized, and twice the size is ordered ‘COMPLETE IT’! Perhaps confirming why the locals call it the “Death Highway.”   

JackPicone-Self-Portrait_RangoonRollei_-LR-51

Babs Hoffman the American writers carefree words, “Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and enjoy the journey” dissolve the drivers disparaging description of the road we are traveling along. I decide the journey is about who you share it with, that you meet on the way and the experiences you have. 115 miles into the journey, we make a stop at the incongruously named Pioneer Food Centre at Ah Myan Lan. I was expecting something else, something more traditional. It was a ubiquitous, formulaic roadside complex that could be found almost anywhere in the world. Constructed of glass and iron, clean and bright, on offer was a mix of basic European dishes and traditional Burmese fare. Given its simplicity, the soup was memorable perhaps the most memorable meal I had the whole time I was in Burma. Odd, to find such great soup in the most ordinary of places. It was one of those meals when an intersection of travel, time and sheer great taste elevated the experience from ordinary to extraordinary. An everyday soup in Burma but the mix of noodles, garlic, tofu, tomatoes, mustard leaves and mint was exotic – to me – and culminated in a culinary climax. I would have given the uninspiring Pioneer Rest Stop at least One Michelin Star just because of the soup!

Back on the road and up ahead a vignette comes into view that could have easily walked off the pages of Kipling’s 19th Century prose and poetry. Farmers wearing their longyis sitting atop of their payload steer a convoy of oxen carts across the highway. Languidly they join a dirt track on the other side trailed by a cloud of dust disappearing into the distance as ethereally as they appeared. In sharp contrast to the time capsule ox carts is the frequency and diversity of Burma’s new petrol stations. Every station representing a different international oil company and different brand. Unlike the west, were a few major oil companies dominate the landscape.

JackPicone_Road_To-Mandalay-26

In some way, I thought that they probably reflected Burma’s new period of openness to foreign investment. Not confined to big international gas stations there were also smaller local entrepreneurs who had set up their businesses anything from traditional pump stands to roadside stalls, selling petrol in plastic bottles. Even at the plastic bottle level it is a barometer that Burma is changing. Not long ago the oil business was strictly regulated now regulation has loosened thus liberating its people to engage in private enterprise.

JackPicone_Road_To-Mandalay-31

The outskirts of Mandalay, come into sight, the landscape is greener than along the way. The small hills dotted with inverted symmetrical cones of pagodas and unlike Rangoon, they are white, rather than gold. White is the predominant color of the Mandalay temples, and the contrast with the green hillsides is stunning and magical. In Mandalay, down at the riverside, a massive red and purple sun sinks slowly into the horizon signaling the end of the day. Walking along the banks weaving between scores of workers as they frantically shovel sand into waiting lorries and sampans, I side – step people boarding and disembarking a hive of commuter boats coming and going on the majestic Ayeyarwady River. In amongst the noise and chaos, there is a beautiful ‘Burma girl a-settin’. She is perched on a stone wall gazing out to the river. I wondered how she would find her way in the brave new Burma that is now more a memory trace of the Burma Kipling experienced in the late 19th century when he wrote, ‘Mandalay.’

JackPicone_Road_To-Mandalay-29

Jack Picone is the recipient of several of photography’s most prestigious international awards. These include the World Press Awards, the U.S. Photographer of The Year Awards (POY) and the Mother Jones/IFDP Grant for Social Documentary Photography. His work has been exhibited and is held in major galleries and venues worldwide, including the prestigious Visa d’Or Reportage Festival in France, Australian War Memorial, State Library of N.S.W and National Portrait Gallery in Australia.

Born in Australia, Picone is currently based in Bangkok and works globally.

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9 Things to do in Mandalay, Myanmar

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

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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.

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essay about mandalay

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.

9 Things to do in Mandalay, Myanmar

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

Things to do Mandalay Myanmar Mingun Pagoda

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

Things to do Mandalay Myanmar Hsinbyume Pagoda

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.

essay about 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 .

Things to do Mandalay Myanmar Kuthodaw Pagoda

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.

essay about mandalay

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. :)

essay about mandalay

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

Things to do Mandalay Myanmar Shwenandaw Monastery

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.

Things to do Mandalay Myanmar Mingalarbar dinner

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.

Hotels in Mandalay 😴

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Myanmar Itinerary: A Travel Guide from Temples to Beaches

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

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Thats an untrue statement, im currently in myanmar with a drone and have flown all over. In the airports, they ask about the drone and where im going, thats it, then they let me go to my flight and move on to the next stop.

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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

More stories.

Labourers construct a pavement in a residential quarter of Nay Pyi Taw in December 2007. (AFP)

Baby elephant bank note shakes property market foundations

Related stories.

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A photo shared on social media in September appears to show Chinese company officials discussing the railway project in a Myanma Railways office. (Weixin / WeChat)

China and Myanmar resume work on Muse-Kyaukphyu railway

A man examining jade at Mandalay's famous Jade and Amber market in 2020. (AFP)

Junta meddling removes shine from domestic gem trade

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History of Mandalay

Mandalay (မန္တလေး), as the center of Myanmar culture, was outstanding in the past, and it will continue to be a place of pride of Myanmar in the future.

It is situated about 600 kilometers north of Yangon on the Ayeyarwaddy river, with a population about half a million, making it Myanmar's second largest city.

Mandalay is the historical old capital, a capital of Myanmar culture, Buddhist Sasana and Myanmar traditional arts and crafts, with the life span of one hundred and forty two years, a city which abounds in historical sites, cultural memorials and Buddhist edifices. Accordingly, it is the richest historical landmark next to Bagan.

Despite the wonderful sound of its name, inviting associations to an archaic fairy tale kingdom, Mandalay is neither very old nor particularly beautiful. But Mandalay was the capital of the last, independent Burmese kingdom, which in 1886 was finally conquered by British colonial forces.

The town had been founded only 29 years earlier in 1857 by King Mindon, making it the capital of an independent kingdom for less than 30 years. In 1857 Mandalay was set up in an empty area, because, according to an ancient prophecy, in that exact place a town would come into existence on occasion of the 2,400th jubilee of Buddhism.

The city was named after the Mandalay Hill, which is situated at the northeast corner of the present city. The hill has for long been a holy mount and it is believed that Lord Buddha prophesied that a great city, metropolis of Buddhism, would be founded at its foot. It was King Mindon who fulfilled the prophecy.

King Mindon decided to fulfill the prophecy and during his reign in the Kingdom of Amarapura he issued a royal order on 13 January, A.D 1857 to establish a new kingdom. The Ceremony of Ascending the Throne was celebrated in July, 1858. The royal city and the kingdom was demarcated. The whole royal city was called Lay Kyun Aung Mye ("Victorious Land over the Four Islands") and the royal palace, the Mya Nan San Kyaw ("The Royal Emerald Palace"). The kingdom was called the Kingdom of Yadanabon, along with other name Ratanapura, mean " The Bejeweled Site ". Later it was called Mandalay after the Mandalay Hill, 2.5km far to the north east of the royal palace, and today the name still exists. The name " Mandalay " is a derivative of the Pali word " Mandala ", which means " a plainsland " and also that of the Pali word " Mandare ", which means " an auspicious land ".

At that time a transfer of the capital not only meant leaving an old town and erecting a new town in a different place. As all secular buildings of that time, including the royal palaces, were built from wood, a transfer of the capital meant the complete dismantling of the houses of the old settlement, which then were loaded on carts and the backs of elephants to be reconstructed at the place chosen for the new town.

But in 1782 the town was packed up and moved about 8 kilometers to the Northeast, to the aforementioned Amaraputra. In 1823 the entire capital was dismantled again and rebuilt 8 kilometers Southwest in Ava. But in 1838 Ava was damaged by an earthquake, and was therefore in 1841 packed up again and once more transferred to Amarapura. But this was not of duration either, as only 16 years later the entire town was moved again this time 12 kilometers to the Northeast to the present Mandalay.

The rhyming couplet easy to memorize the year of building the royal city is " Okkyit-Kyaw Aye / Mandalay " or " Aung Kyaw Chan Aye / Mandalay " ( i.e, M.E 1221 ). The city's layout of the construction is the same at that of the earlier Kingdom of Amarapura, and from the bird's eye-view, it has the structure of geographical squares and rectangular shapes, with streets and roads crossing one another at right angles. There are four parts dividing the city, namely, Ashe-pyin ( East Part ), Anok-pyin (west Part), Taung-pyin (southern part) and Myauk-pyin (Northern Part), with 54 plots.

With the Ground-breaking ceremony, King Mindon laid the foundation of Mandalay on the 6th waning day of Kason, M.E 1221, (A.D 1857). The King simultaneously laid the foundations of seven edifices: the royal city with the battlemented walls, the moat surrounding it, the Maha Lawka Marazein Stupa, the higher ordination hall named the Pahtan-haw Shwe Thein, the Atumashi ( the Incomparable ) monastery, the Thudhama Zayats or public houses for preaching the Doctrine, and the library for the Buddhist scriptures.

At the time of building, the royal moat was 68.58m wide and 3.35m deep, and was fed with water from the Yadana Nadi, now called the Ye Ni Canal. In 1995 the moat was dug anew and the banks were laid neatly and firmly with rocks. There existed 20 gardens, a huge earthen wall and 57 doors palace. There existed 5 bridges spanning over the moat and 12 bridges. At present, there are four spanning bridges, namely the U-hteik Bridge to the east the Kyaw Moe Bridge to the south, the Kye Mon Bridge to the west and the Lay Thein Bridge to the north.

When King Mindon passed away, his son King Thibaw ascended the throne, and in M.E 1247, Myanmar fell under the British colony. It was the old capital ruled by two successive kings the one where the last of Myanmar's monarchs reigned.

After the British had conquered Mandalay in 1886 they turned the royal palaces of Mandalay into their military headquarters and christened the complex Fort Dufferin.

During World War II the Japanese installed a military camp in the same place, which then was bombed by the allies, until nothing was left of the ancient palace buildings.

Mandalay today is a striking phenomenon composed of modern and classic images with the ancient cultural beauty of the royal palace and the moat surrounding it, and the natural impressionistic beauty of the Mandalay Hill, harmoniously added with new architectural phonography of modern houses and brick buildings.

The former palace ground is known by the name of Fort Mandalay. Of the ancient palaces a few concrete replica have been built and further reconstructions are being conducted.

Mandalay is full of variety to do shopping. The new Mandalay Zaycho is the main market place in Mandalay. You can get almost anything from there. Things to shop are Acheik (Mandalay Silk Longyi), Cotton clothing, Hto Moat (greasy cakes), Laphet (Pickled tea leaves), Kadipar slippers (Velvet Slippers), Silverware, Lacquerware, Jewelry, gems and more.

There are daily flights from Yangon to Mandalay via Air KBZ, Air Mandalay, Yangon Airways, and Myanmar Air. Mandalay now has an International Airport, so there are also flights from other countries directly landing to Mandalay.

Bus and Express

There are daily local express from Yangon to Mandalay and many other parts of the country.

Taxi Pickups and vans are available to travel around Mandalay, Amarapura, Inwa, and Sagaing.

Train Mandalay has a new Yadanarbon Central Railway Station in downtown area. It is a seven-storey complex, including two floors devoted to a hotel. The old station is on the further south of the new one. There are daily schedules from Yangon to Mandalay.

Motorbike Motorbikes can be seen everywhere in Mandalay. Travelling by motorbike can be very convenient in local places. So, motorbikes can be rented mostly everywhere in Mandalay.

Boat The Inland Water Transport office is located at the Gawwein Jetty at the western end of 35th Street.

Bicycle There are several places downtown where you can rent bicycles.

Entertainment

Mandalay is a busy city which is the central trade centre of Myanmar. There are cinema halls, beauty salons, spas and karaoke lounge in the most populated part of the city. There are also many well-known astrologers and palmist in this city.

Mandalay is a city with great historical heritage. Many traditional food can be tasted in this city.

Founded at 1857

Founded by King Mindon

Fell under British Colony at 1885

Mandalay being the second largest capital of the State, in accordance with the times of building a peaceful, modernized and well developed new future State, emphasis has been given to enhance the role of information media.

Media The city dwellers can enjoy listening to the radio progammes broadcast by M.B.S and watching the TV channels of MRTV and the Myawaddy. The newspapers the Light of Myanmar and Kye Mon are published and distributed by the presses of Mandalay for Upper Myanmar.

City Development Mandalay City Development Committee has organized Public Relations and Information Department, and has been increasing the momentum for the progress of the information media. Mandalay Daily is published as the Mandalay-centred, Upper Myanmar supporting media and representative media of the State. The Mandalay Daily Press is situated on 29th road between 73rd road and 74th road. Through this press media, the State Policies, and feature articles, as well as the objectives, performances, activities, information and feature articles about M.C.D.C, are presented to the public unfailingly and in time.

The Mandalay City Development Committee has published the pamphlets, namely, Mandalay City Profile, Mandalay City Map and Welcome to the Golden Palace City, which will inform the foreign visitors about interesting facts and functions of Mandalay. It is a press media which will send good news through foreign visitors to the World. Moreover, Mandalay Directory is published in both Myanmar and English Versions annually, which contain information about Mandalay City Map, offices, departments, organizations, factories and industries, companies, stores, markets and hospitals and clinics, businesses, location and phone numbers.

ICT Development

Mandalay ICT Development Corporation Ltd is located at Third Floor, Yadanarbon Zay in Mandalay. Mandalay ICT Development Corporation, a consortium of (50) local companies with the full support from the Government of the Union of Myanmar, initiated the Mandalay ICT Park project with the aim of creating an ICT hub for upper Myanmar.

It is part of the ICT master plan of Myanmar to stimulate the development of Myanmar ICT industry by attracting local and international partners to form a cluster of ICT - Related Business, supported by world-class infrastructure and technologies.

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Mandalay Travel Guide

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).

Ubein bridge

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

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.

JJ Express

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.

Train Yangon - Mandalay

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.

Walking in Mandalay

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!

Cycling in Mandalay

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.

Mandalay taxi

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

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

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)

 Mandalay Palace

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…

Pagodas in Mandalay

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

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/

Food 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.

Moustache Brothers

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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Things To Do In Mandalay

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1. U Bein Bridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Military officers march during a parade to commemorate Myanmar's 78th Armed Forces Day in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, 27 March 2023.

‘They have lists of everyone’s names’: Myanmar conscription law unleashes wave of fear

Potential conscripts fear they could be forced to carry out atrocities or be used as human shields by the military

P assport offices and embassies in Myanmar have been flooded with applications, with a queue of more than a thousand people on a single day trying to secure a visa for neighbouring Thailand. Helplines offering advice on ways to leave the country – how to manage checkpoints, what documents are needed – have been inundated.

Across Myanmar, the young and middle aged, both men and women, are desperately searching for ways to flee their homes, after it was announced the military junta will impose a mandatory conscription law from mid-April. The law, which would force people to serve a military many despise, has sent a wave of terror across the country.

“If I joined the military, I would have to fight my own people. I do not want to do that,” says Thura, who spoke under a fake name, from Shan State. “The military is infamous – they are killing people, arresting people, doing so many unjust things.”

People queue for visas at the embassy of Thailand in Yangon on 16 February 2024.

His wife, he added, had urged him to leave her and their eight-year-old daughter behind.

UN special rapporteur for Myanmar Tom Andrews warned last week the number of people fleeing across borders to escape conscription “will surely skyrocket”.

In Thura’s area, streets are now empty by early evening. “It’s very unusual to see any people, any young people, on the road,” he says. “All the shops and cafes – they are closed by 6pm.”

Even before the conscription was announced, there were reports of people being snatched on the streets and forcibly recruited. Young people are terrified they might be kidnapped by the military.

Activists fear conscripts will be used as porters to carry supplies on the frontline. In the past, the military has used porters as human shields, sending them out in front to trip landmines and shield soldiers from gunfire.

Junta facing mounting losses on the battlefield

Under the 2010 People’s Military Service Law, to be enacted next month, men aged 18 up to 35, or women aged 18 to 27, will be conscripted for up to five years in an emergency situation. For men and women who are considered professionals, a vaguely defined category that includes medical doctors, engineers, or others professional groups, the age cut-off is higher – 35 for women, and 45 for men.

The junta recently clarified its initial announcement, saying that women will not be conscripted for now. This claim has been treated with scepticism by the public, however, and many women are still trying to flee.

The military, which seized power in a coup in February 2021 , a move that has been strongly opposed by the public, has been unable to control an armed opposition to its rule, which includes citizens who have taken up arms as well as older ethnic armed organisations that have long fought against the military. The junta’s decision to impose conscription reflects the recent devastating losses it has faced on the battlefield , in which entire battalions have surrendered, and key territory lost along the border with China.

“There’s already a refugee crisis and it’s going to get worse,” says Debbie Stothard, founder of the regional human rights group Altsean.

“Even low-ranking civil servants are sneaking away and disappearing because they know they are likely to be drafted if push comes to shove,” she adds.

Myanmar’s military chief and junta leader Min Aung Hlaing stands in a car as he oversees a military display at a parade ground to mark the country’s Independence Day in Naypyidaw on 4 January 2023.

Until now, for many in military-controlled areas, there was a sense that, as long as they were not associating with anti-junta activists or doing anything remotely political, they could remain somewhat safe, she says. “All they had to do was focus on survival,” says Stothard. The conscription law changes this. “Now they are at risk of being forced to join the army that’s committing these atrocities.”

Options for fleeing Myanmar are limited and fraught with danger: cross legally or illegally into a neighbouring country, or travel to an area that’s controlled by anti-coup groups, and hope that you do not get stopped by junta officials along the way.

Getting the correct papers takes time and money, a luxury most don’t have. Appointments for the passport office are booked until August, according to media reports, and some have been so overwhelmed that overcrowding has proved deadly. In Mandalay, two women were crushed as huge crowds gathered at a passport office last week.

For people who belong to ethnic minorities, which have long been oppressed in Buddhist-majority Myanmar, there are even fewer options. Thura, a Rohingya Muslim, has been unable to get a new passport because officials say his national ID card lists him as being Bengali – a racial slur used to imply that Rohingya people are not true citizens.

In the eyes of the military he does not belong in Myanmar; this means he is unable to leave the country legally.

Myanmar’s nationals who crossed the Bangladesh-Myanmar border to seek shelter in Bangladesh are put on to ships to be taken back to Myanmar at Cox’s Bazar on 15 February.

Activists have reported several cases in which Rohingya have been arrested from villages or a refugee camp in Rakhine state over the past week, alleging they have been forcibly enlisted in the military.

The military is facing a genocide case in The Hague over its previous violence against Rohingya.

‘The military does whatever it wants’

Naung Yoe, of the civil society group People’s Goal, which supports people who want to defect from the military and join the pro-democracy resistance, told a recent press conference that he fears new conscripts could be used as human shields. They could also, based on accounts of other defectors, likely be “cut off entirely from their families and their communities. Their mobile phones and their computers will be taken or removed and they will have no access to the outside world,” he says.

In Mandalay city, junta officials toured townships last week, using loudspeakers to try to reassure people and dispel reports that people were being kidnapped and forcibly recruited, according to a report by Myanmar Now . In Tanintharyi region, in the south, pamphlets with similar messages, denying there had been arrests and saying there were no barriers to leaving the country, were also distributed, according to Dawei Watch.

Kyaw Gyi, an activist who supports workers, including garment workers, who are mostly women, and who spoke under a fake name, says they do not feel safe returning from work in the evening. Even at home, they are afraid.

“The military has already collected a list of names for each household in our township. We thought it was just for the census but then they unexpectedly announced conscription. It’s made us more worried – they have lists of everyone’s names,” Kyaw Gyi says.

He is 36 and not a professional, he adds, so he should be exempt, but he is hardly reassured. “The military does whatever it wants,” he says.

Thura fears he will be required to serve, even though he is 38, because he is a lawyer and therefore a professional. Fleeing to a resistance-controlled area isn’t an option because he does not know how he would be able to work there, he says, and he needs to support his family. But he worries about making the journey to the border, where roads are restricted and junta soldiers are likely to interrogate anyone passing through.

Even if he manages to cross, he faces the risk of being sent back by the Thai authorities. Thai prime minister Srettha Thavisin has warned people from Myanmar not to enter the country illegally. Authorities in the Thai border town of Mae Sot have told people to comply with a law that requires them to register any foreigner visitors staying at their home.

Thura dreads having to leave his wife and eight-year-old daughter behind. “It would be very difficult for them,” he says. “They would be on their own. But if there’s no option left, I would have to go.”

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

places to visit in Mandalay

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. It is located in the city centre and hard to miss. The palace is huge, surrounded by a moat and walls on all sides.

places to visit in Mandalay

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!

places to visit in Mandalay

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.

places to visit in Mandalay

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.

places to visit in Mandalay

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. 

Sagaing Hill

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

U-bein bridge sunset

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).

temple in Mandalay

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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  1. 17 Awesome Places To Visit In Mandalay, Myanmar (+ Bonus Tips)

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  2. Mandalay Palace Mandalay: Travel Information 2024

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  3. TOP Things to Do in Mandalay, Destinations in Mandalay

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  4. Visit Mandalay, Myanmar

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  6. History of Mandalay Region

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VIDEO

  1. Mandalay

  2. The Solid Mandala by Patrick White

  3. 2 PART THE MANDALAY JADE MARKET MAY 2011

  4. My favorite Mandalay style BBQ shop in YGN

  5. Mandalay Khit Thit သတင်းဌာန၏ ဖေဖော်ဝါရီ ၁၁ရက် ညပိုင်း သတင်းအစီအစဉ်

  6. Mandalay Khit Thit သတင်းဌာန၏ ဖေဖော်ဝါရီ ၁၅ရက် ညပိုင်း သတင်းအစီအစဉ်

COMMENTS

  1. Mandalay

    Jan. 30, 2024, 5:12 AM ET (Taipei Times) From placards to guns: Myanmar's democracy protesters battle junta Mandalay, city, north-central Myanmar (Burma), the second largest in the country (after Yangon [Rangoon]).

  2. Mandalay

    Mandalay ( / ˌmændəˈleɪ / or / ˈmændəleɪ /; Burmese: မန္တလေး; MLCTS: manta.le: [mándəlé]) is the second-largest city in Myanmar, after Yangon. Located on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River, 631 km (392 miles; road distance) north of Yangon, the city has a population of 1,225,553 (2014 census).

  3. Discovering the Charm of Mandalay: A Journey through Myanmar's Cultural

    Anna Carneiro Cities Last Updated: 9 January 2024 The seat of the last king, the second-largest city in Myanmar, the place of Frank Sinatra's song "On the Road to Mandalay," and great spiritual significance - there are a lot of impressive things to say about Mandalay.

  4. My Trip To Mandalay Essay

    6. Mandalay Hill It was still raining when we got up there but the view was still great. This is one Monastery where you don't have to climb up anywhere as usual but Mue could actually drive us all the way, where an escalator was waiting.

  5. Mandalay Hill

    Mandalay Hill ( Burmese: မန္တလေးတောင်; MLCTS: manta. le: taung [màɰ̃dəlé tàʊɰ̃]) is a 240 metres (790 ft) hill that is located to the northeast of the city centre of Mandalay in Myanmar. The city took its name from the hill.

  6. Mandalay

    Mandalay ( / ˌmændəˈleɪ / or / ˈmændəleɪ /; Burmese: ᝫᝨᝧᝮᝡ; MLCTS: manta.le: [màɴdəlé]) is a city in Myanmar. There is only one city in Myanmar that has more people than Mandalay. It is 716 km (445 mi) north of Yangon. Mandalay is on the east side of the Irrawaddy River. In 2014, there were 1,225,553 people living there. Name

  7. Mandalay

    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.

  8. Mandalay

    History 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.

  9. On the Road to Mandalay Photo Essay

    'Mandalay' (The poem) is largely the reflections of a British soldier (back in England) but still longing for the exoticism of Asia, he experienced while in Burma. Burma contrasted favorably to the dank, cold, and foggy climates and to the banality and social disciplines of the UK.

  10. Mandalay: City of the future?

    Mandalay is the site of the palace of the last king of Burma and it may seem surprising that a city so closely associated with the country's royal past aspires to be a flag bearer for "smart" urban development in Myanmar. It is more surprising, however, that a pioneering role is being played by the Mandalay City Development Committee, the ...

  11. 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.

  12. Myanmar 101: The city of Mandalay

    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 ...

  13. My Native Town Essay Example (300 Words)

    My native town is the second-largest city and the last royal capital of Myanmar. King Mindon founded Mandalay and the royal palace, Mya Nan San Kyaw as a new capital at the foot of Mandalay Hill in 1857. When it was founded in 1857, the royal city was officially named Yadanabon which means "The City of Gems".

  14. Mandalay

    Mandalay (မန္တလေး), as the center of Myanmar culture, was outstanding in the past, and it will continue to be a place of pride of Myanmar in the future. It is situated about 600 kilometers north of Yangon on the Ayeyarwaddy river, with a population about half a million, making it Myanmar's second largest city. Mandalay Vacation ...

  15. 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.

  16. 17 Things to do in Mandalay Myanmar 2024

    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.

  17. Living in Mandalay, Myanmar: Tips for Moving and Visiting

    We asked one person living in Mandalay what someone who is considering moving to or visiting there should know. Here are their pros and cons, tips, and advice: Random City. Mandalay is the most beautiful city in Myanmar. We have the very ancient palace where our kingdom lived years ago called "MOTE". people here are really kind and helpful ...

  18. Pyin Oo Lwin

    Pyin Oo Lwin or Pyin U Lwin (Burmese: ပြင်ဦးလွင်မြို့; MLCTS: prang u: lwang mrui., pronounced [pjɪ̀ɰ̃ ʔú lwɪ̀ɰ̃]; Shan: ဝဵင်းပၢင်ႇဢူႈ), formerly and colloquially referred to as Maymyo (Burmese: မေမြို့; MLCTS: me mrui.), is a scenic hill town in the Mandalay Region, Myanmar, some 67 kilometers (42 mi) east of ...

  19. 'They have lists of everyone's names': Myanmar conscription law

    In Mandalay, two women were crushed as huge crowds gathered at a passport office last week. For people who belong to ethnic minorities, which have long been oppressed in Buddhist-majority Myanmar ...

  20. 17 Awesome Places To Visit In Mandalay, Myanmar (+ Bonus Tips)

    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.

  21. Essay About Mandala

    Essay About Mandala. 715 Words3 Pages. Mandala Essay Growth is a very important part of our life. We can succeed or fail in life, but we try to accomplish our goals. The thorns on a rose are the obstacles we want to pass by as we accomplish our goals in life. A tree can mean growth and a new beginning.

  22. Reflective Essay About Mandala

    Essay on The Dhammapada. The Dhammapada is a Pali version of one of the most popular text of the Buddhist canon. The Dhammapada, or "sayings of the Buddha", is a collection of 423 verses that tell about the ideals and teachings of the Buddha. When taken together, these verses provide a structured form of teaching within the Buddhist religion.

  23. Essay About My Mandala

    1212 Words5 Pages I have always been described as a loving, friendly, and quiet person. These characteristics may be due to the fact of what I value most in life. What I value most gives me a reason to do the things I do or act the way I do. Furthermore, they are the sole purpose as to why I continue with my life and why I am the person I am today.

  24. Essay On Mandala

    Mandala is defined by a Buddhist as a circle of blessings and in Sanskrit it means sacred circle. Since Asians hold many beliefs, they also recognize it as a circle in communicating with God. Others use it for meditating and examining oneself (The Mandala Lady, "What are Mandalas?").