Mandalay Myanmar 4 Day Itinerary

Here’s a 4-day itinerary for traveling in Mandalay, Myanmar:

Day 1: Explore Mandalay Hill and Surroundings

Places to Go

  • Mandalay Hill: Start your day early by climbing Mandalay Hill (230 meters). The best time is at sunrise or sunset. On the hilltop, you’ll find the Mahamuni Temple.
  • Kuthodaw Pagoda: After visiting the hill, proceed to the Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to the world’s largest book, where over 600000 inscriptions on marble are stored.
  • Shwenandaw Monastery: This monastery is famous for its intricate wood carvings and is a must-visit. It’s especially beautiful during sunset.

Activities

  • Climbing Mandalay Hill can be done by walking up or using an electric tramway. The journey takes about 30 minutes on foot or less than that using the tram.
  • Visit the Mahamuni Temple: While at the hill, visit the Mahamuni Temple, which is known for its bronze Buddha image.

Where to Eat

  • For breakfast, try “Myanmar Kitchen” or a local restaurant near Mandalay Hill for some traditional Myanmar dishes. You can also have a Western-style breakfast if that’s what you prefer.
  • For lunch, consider trying the local street food. You can find vendors selling Shan noodles, rice, and other Myanmar delicacies at various points around the city.

Where to Stay

There are several options in Mandalay including hotels and guesthouses near the main attractions like Mandalay Hill. “Hotel Mandalay” or similar hotels offer a comfortable stay. Consider booking ahead of time especially during peak travel seasons.

Transportation

  • Tuk-tuks and motorcycles are common for short trips around Mandalay.
  • For longer distances, taxis or even horse-drawn carts (known as horse carriages) can be used.

Day 2: Royal Palace and Surrounding Areas

Places to Go

  • Royal Palace: Start your day by visiting the former royal palace of the last king of Myanmar. You’ll see several buildings including a throne room, a house where the King lived, and even a prison.
  • Shwe Inthein Pagoda: Another must-visit is the Shwe Inthein Pagoda located within the city. It features a beautiful stupa (a dome-shaped Buddhist monument) surrounded by small temples.

Activities

  • Take your time to explore the Royal Palace area, including its museum which houses a collection of artifacts and royal memorabilia.
  • Explore the surrounding markets: Around the palace, you’ll find various shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and even fresh fruits and snacks.

Where to Eat

  • Try some traditional Myanmar dishes like “Mohinga” for breakfast. You can also visit more restaurants near the palace or in the city.
  • For lunch, consider eating at a local restaurant that serves both traditional and international food.

Day 3: Mingun

Places to Go

  • Mingun: Take a day trip to Mingun (about an hour’s boat ride from Mandalay). It was once meant to be a new royal city but was abandoned.
  • Pahtadaw Pagoda: This pagoda is one of the most famous landmarks in Myanmar and features a 90-ton bronze bell that’s said to make no sound when rung.

Activities

  • Explore Mingun, which includes visiting several ancient buildings including the Pahtadaw Pagoda, the Mingun Market, and Hsin U Yin Paya.
  • Take a boat ride: While at Mingun, take a leisurely boat ride along the Ayeyarwady River to see some of the local villages.

Where to Eat

  • Try eating lunch at one of the restaurants near the dock where you’ll be boarding your boat to Mingun. It offers great views while you eat.
  • For dinner, consider returning to Mandalay and trying some more traditional Myanmar dishes or international food.

Day 4: More Mandalay

Places to Go

  • Atumashi Monastery: Spend your last morning exploring the Atumashi Monastery, also known as “Institute of Law” because it was where judges studied law.
  • Mandalay Central Market: Visit the bustling Mandalay Central Market for a mix of shopping and observing local life.

Activities

  • Take some time to explore Mandalay’s central market and try some fresh fruits or snacks. It’s a great place to people-watch.
  • Last-minute shopping: If you haven’t already, do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs in the city area.

Where to Eat

  • Try eating breakfast at one of your favorite local restaurants before heading out for the day.
  • For lunch, consider visiting a new restaurant that serves traditional Myanmar dishes or international food.

Tips and Things to Know

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples. Remove shoes where required.
  • Try Local Food: Myanmar cuisine is delicious and different from what you may be used to elsewhere.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Mandalay is a big city with a lot of people. Be patient in crowded areas like markets or busier streets.
  • Transportation: Use local transportation such as tuk-tuks, taxis, or ride-sharing apps to get around the city and its surroundings.

This itinerary gives you a good overview of what Mandalay has to offer, from its stunning hills and ancient temples to its bustling marketplaces. Enjoy your journey!