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.
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.
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.
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’.
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
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.
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.
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.
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. :)
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
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.
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.
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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.
Hi Shawn, Thanks for the update! It’s hard to know what the rules are for sure unless you can get in touch with someone official, but we’re glad you managed to use yours!