Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar and holds many ancient cultural values. If you are looking for an escape from the noisy and busy cities of neighboring countries, Mandalay is a perfect option. Here, we will provide you with critical information on where to go and what to do in Mandalay, Myanmar.
General Information
Used to be the capital of the Burmese empire in 1861 and then taken by the British in 1885, Mandalay saw the last days of Burmese Kings. The town continues to thrive thanks to Chinese investment and, so the story goes, from the red, green, and white trades – rubies, jade, and heroin. Beneath this bustling vibe, there is another calm and quiet side, as it’s home to three in five of Myanmar’s Buddhist monks. When planning your Myanmar tour, this city is a destination that you should add to your bucket list.
Mandalay Map
Weather And Best Time to Visit Mandalay
Mandalay is located in central Myanmar and enjoys a dry, hot, and humid tropical climate with 3 seasons per year.
- Dry season (November-February): The weather at this time is pleasant, with little rainfall and cool temperatures. Therefore, the dry season has become the most important tourist season in Mandalay, and it is a wonderful time to visit.
- Hot season (March-April): Scorching heat dominates and rainfall is less abundant. When it is very hot, from 12 to 4 p.m., during the time mentioned, it’s best to stay inside.
- The rainy season (May-October): The southwest monsoon kicks in May, bringing downpours to the region. Heavy rains can affect tourism, in particular by delaying flights, making roads difficult to pass, and spoiling certain panoramas. The costs will be lower than in the high season.
Mandalay Climate
Getting to Mandalay
By plane
Nowadays, Mandalay International Airport has increased the number of international flights. Some of the direct international flights currently serving Mandalay include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Kunming, Gaya, and Singapore.
You can reach Mandalay from various domestic destinations in Myanmar through internal flights. From Yangon, Bagan Nyang U, Heho (the airport for accessing Inle Lake, Kalaw, and Taunggyi, offers flights to Mandalay as well). Other cities and destinations such as Kalaymyo, Kyaing Tong, Myitkyina, Tachileik, Putao, Monywa, Lashio, Homalin, and Bhamo also have flights connecting them to Mandalay.
Mandalay International Airport is located just about a 1-hour drive from the city’s center.
By train
You can also take the train to Mandalay, but you will need to be patient! The trains are very slow in Burma; takes maybe around 10 hours of travel depending on the destination point. However, the stunning landscapes that lie on both sides of the road will be worth your time.
Train to Mandalay
By bus
Kwe Se Kan Station is the primary bus station, situated about 10 km south of the city center. The trip often takes 9–11 hours from Yangon, 5–6 hours from Bagan, and 8–9 hours from Shwenyaung (Inle Lake).
On Boat
From Bagan, there are boat services to offer many levels of luxury. The speed boat is the fastest and most comfortable way to get from Bagan to Mandalay by the river. The trip takes about 12 hours and costs about $40. During April, May, and June, when the river level is low, ferry services between Mandalay and Bagan will be interrupted, except for the slow ferry (available only on certain days of the week).
Boats from Bagan to Mandalay
Getting around Mandalay
By taxi
Taxis are a common mode of transportation in Mandalay. However, it’s important to note that taxis may not always be cheap, and many cars in Myanmar do not have air conditioning. This can make taxi travel uncomfortable, particularly considering the high temperatures that persist in Mandalay throughout the year. You should negotiate before hopping on for the best price.
By bike, motorbike
In Mandalay, there are bicycle and motorbike rental companies that offer guided tours of the area, but they would be rather expensive. Furthermore, the congested streets and heavy traffic in Mandalay make traveling by motorbike or bicycle a stressful and potentially dangerous experience. Instead, you can hire a private driver or a private guide who will accompany you throughout your visit.
By bus
While buses and trucks are available as options for transportation in Mandalay, I wouldn’t recommend using them. These vehicles often operate on irregular schedules and tend to wait until they are fully filled with passengers before departing. Due to these factors, using buses and trucks as a means of getting around Mandalay may not be the most efficient or comfortable choice for travelers.
By private car
Renting a private car in Mandalay can indeed provide a high level of comfort, flexibility, and convenience for travelers. With a private car, you have the freedom to plan your own itinerary, visit multiple destinations in a day, and explore at your own pace. IDC Travels offers a car rental service with a personal driver if you are interested, please contact us for more information
Accommodation in Mandalay
In Mandalay, there are numerous options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses to luxurious resorts and boutique hotels. It is recommended to choose accommodation located in the city center or near popular areas with restaurants, markets, and attractions. Staying in these areas allows for easy access to amenities, local cuisine, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Mercure Mandalay Hill Resort
Must-Try Activities in Mandalay
The former royal capital holds significant cultural importance in the country. It is known for its rich history, Buddhist heritage, and traditional arts and crafts. Exploring Mandalay offers a glimpse into Myanmar’s cultural traditions and architectural marvels. Mandalay is famous for Buddhist monasteries, and the exceptional stonework, particularly marble.
Attend an almsgiving ceremony
In Mandalay, one of the must-do activities is attending an almsgiving ceremony, this sacred ritual takes place early in the morning when devotees gather along the sidewalks, waiting to offer food and other essentials to the Buddhist monastic community. When the first light shines, the procession begins. A line of monks and nuns dressed in their distinctive robes walked silently in single file. It is customary to offer food or other items to the monks and nuns as they pass by. You can join the locals in this act of giving and receive blessings in return.
Early Morning Alms Giving Ceremony
It is important to approach the almsgiving ceremony with respect and follow local customs and etiquette. Dress modestly, remain quiet, and observe from a respectful distance. Avoid disturbing the procession or taking photos without permission.
Visit unique Buddhist monasteries and pagodas
Mahamuni Pagoda
The Mahamuni Pagoda is home to a revered Buddha image that is believed to have been cast during the lifetime of Gautama Buddha. At the entrance of the pagoda complex, visitors can purchase a gold leaf, which is a customary offering made by devotees. It is a tradition for male devotees to apply gold leaf to the Buddha image as an act of veneration and merit-making.
Mahamuni Pagoda
Only men are traditionally allowed to approach the Buddha image and lay down the gold leaf. Female visitors can still observe and pay their respects from a respectful distance.
Shwenandaw Monastery
The Shwenandaw Monastery, also known as the Golden Palace Monastery, is known for its stunning teak wood architecture and intricate carvings, it holds great historical and cultural significance.
Shwenandaw Monastery
Originally part of the Mandalay Palace complex, the monastery was later relocated to its current site. The exterior of the building is adorned with intricate teak wood carvings depicting various mythological and religious scenes. The ceiling of the main prayer hall is gilded, creating a warm and ethereal ambiance. The soft lighting enhances the beauty of the teak wood carvings that cover the walls, columns, and panels. Each carving tells a story or represents a symbolic element from Buddhist teachings.
Kuthodaw Pagoda and the largest book in the world
The Kuthodaw Pagoda, also known as the “World’s Largest Book,” is a significant cultural and religious site and one of the most popular temples in Myanmar. Built-in the 19th century, it holds great importance for Buddhists and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What makes the Kuthodaw Pagoda unique is its collection of marble tablets. The complex houses 729 individual tablets, each inscribed with Buddhist scriptures, each tablet is housed in its own small shrine, creating rows upon rows of these sacred monuments.
Kuthodaw Pagoda
Walking through the pagoda grounds, visitors are surrounded by the sight of these beautifully carved marble slabs. The entire collection is considered to be the largest book in the world.
Discover Inwa, Sagaing and Mingun
The Ancient Cities Tour in Mandalay, Myanmar, offers a fascinating journey through the region’s rich past. The tour encompasses visits to Inwa, Sagaing, and Mingun, each with its own unique historical significance and attractions.
Mingun Pagoda
Inwa, also known as Ava, was once the capital of Myanmar and is now an archaeological site. A visit to the Yedanasini Pagoda is highly recommended, where you can admire its architectural beauty and serene surroundings. The Bagaya Kyaung, a magnificent teak monastery, is another must-see attraction in Inwa. Its intricate woodwork and historical importance make it a significant cultural site.
Sagaing is another stop on the Ancient Cities Tour, known for its picturesque hills and numerous temples. Sagaing Hill is a prominent landmark, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding rolling jungle and the stupa-dotted landscape. The hill is adorned with magnificent temples, showcasing the strong Buddhist culture that thrives in the area.
Sagaing Hill
Mingun, accessible by boat from Mandalay, is the final destination on the Ancient Cities Tour. Mingun boasts attractions such as the Mingun Pahtodawgyi, a massive unfinished stupa that stands as a testament to the grand ambitions of the past. The Mingun Bell, one of the world’s largest functioning bells, is another notable sight to behold.
Watch the sunrise and sunset over Mandalay Hill
If you visit Mandalay when the weather is nice, you should go and watch the sunrise and sunset at Mandalay Hill, the highest elevation in the city. It is a superb experience to see the foggy city in the light of the morning sun or to see the pagodas changing their colors as the sunset.
Take a boat to watch the sunset over U Bein Bridge
U Bein Bridge is the longest teak bridge in the world, made from 984 teak poles. As the sun sets over the horizon, you can see the best moment of U Bein Bridge.
Sunset over U Bein Bridge
What to Eat in Mandalay
Not just famous for its craftsmanship and history, Mandalay is also a paradise for food lovers. Here are some delicious dishes that you can’t find anywhere else.
Mont Di (Noodle salad)
Mont Di is a famous breakfast in all of Myanmar. These are thick rice noodles mixed with chicken, fish balls, onions, and a few other ingredients. The dish gets its unique appearance from the addition of chicken pea flour, red chili paste, and oil, which transforms the white rice noodles into a vibrant yellow color. There are two variations of Mont Di: Nan Lat, which is medium-sized noodles, and Nan Gyi, which features larger-sized noodles. While Nan Lat is popular in Yangon and other regions of Myanmar, Nan Gyi is specific to Mandalay, making it a distinct local specialty.
Mont Di
When you visit Mandalay, make sure to try Mont Di for breakfast. Its delicious taste and combination of flavors will surely delight your palate.
Mee Shay
Mandalay Mee Shay is a specialty of Mandalay. It is a rice noodle dish served with a flavorful meat sauce and a variety of toppings, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. The dish is typically garnished with ingredients such as sliced pork, boiled eggs, fried garlic, toasted chickpea flour, crispy fried onions, and a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness and tanginess.
Mee Shay
The combination of tender rice noodles, savory meat sauce, and a multitude of toppings create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Mandalay Mee Shay is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of the unique culinary heritage of Mandalay.
Man Myo Daw
Man Myo Daw is a delightful culinary treat that should not be overlooked when exploring the food scene in Mandalay. These steamed buns are known for their fluffy and soft texture, freshly baked, and available daily. There are many fillings, ranging from meat to vegetables. The fillings can include minced pork, chicken, shrimp, or a combination of vegetables, providing options for different dietary preferences. The overall experience of enjoying Man Myo Daw is reminiscent of Chinese Xiao Long Bao, with the steamed bun encasing the flavorful filling.
Man Myo Daw
Mandalay is a destination anyone should add to their list. We believe this travel guide will give you the inspiration to come here. Feel free to contact us and plan your visit.