Mandalay is a city and former royal capital in northern Myanmar (formerly Burma) on the Irrawaddy River. In its center is the restored Mandalay Palace from the Konbaung Dynasty, surrounded by a moat. Mandalay Hill provides views of the city from its summit, which is reached by covered stairway. At its foot, the Kuthodaw Pagoda houses hundreds of Buddhist-scripture-inscribed marble slabs.
Mandalay Hill
To the north of downtown Mandalay is the well known Mandalay hill with a height of 230m above see level. The panoramic view of Mandalay city and the experience of sunrise or sunset are the greatest attractions for visitors to climb up the Mandalay hill.
Mandalay Palace
The Royal Mandalay palace is in the heart of Mandalay, between 12th street and 26th street. Mandalay palace was the first palace to be built in Mandalay, by King Mindon when he shifted his capital from Amarapura in 1861, which was to fulfill and old prophecy.
Maha Myat Muni Pagoda
Maha Myat Muni Pagoda is located southwest of Mandalay. The 4m high seated Maha Myat Muni Pagoda Image, cast in bronze and weighting 6.5 tons has a crown which is decorated with diamond, rubies, and sapphires. The early morning ritual of washing the face of Buddha's image draws a daily crowd of devotees.
Atumashi Monastery
Atumashi Monastery is located at the north eastern part of the Mandalay Palace. it is only about 10 minutes drive from the Royal Palace. It was originally built in 1857 by King Mindon (1853-1879)
Zegyo Market
Zegyo, the central market, is the heart of Mandalay where visitors can get practically everything made in Myanmar here, from everyday consumer good to jewelry and fine fabric. It is a perfect shopping place for souvenirs and local products. The other shopping centers are Diamond plaza, 78 shopping center and Orange Super Market.
U Bein Bridge is a crossing that spans the Taungthaman Lake near Amarapura in Myanmar. The 1.2-kilometre (0.75 mi) bridge was built around 1850 and is believed to be the oldest and longest teakwood bridge in the world. Construction began when the capital of Ava Kingdom moved to Amarapura, and the bridge is named after the mayor who had it built. It is used as an important passageway for the local people and has also become a tourist attraction and therefore a significant source of income for souvenir sellers. It is particularly busy during July and August when the lake is at its highest.
The bridge was built from wood reclaimed from the former royal palace in Inwa. It features 1,086 pillars that stretch out of the water, some of which have been replaced with concrete. Though the bridge largely remains intact, there are fears that an increasing number of the pillars are becoming dangerously decayed. Some have become entirely detached from their bases and only remain in place because of the lateral bars holding them together. Damage to these supports have been caused by flooding as well as a fish breeding program introduced into the lake which has caused the water to become stagnant. The Ministry of Culture’s Department of Archaeology, National Museum and Library plans to carry out repairs when plans for the work are finalised.
From 1 April 2019, eight police force personnel have been deployed to guard the bridge. Their presence is aimed at reducing anti-social behavior and preventing criminal activities, with the first arrest coming in September 2013 when two men were reported for harassing tourists.
Mandalay International Airport
Myanmar Airway, Air Mandalay, Air Bagan, Air KBZ, Asian Wings, Yangon Airways, Golden Myanmar Airway, Mann Yadanarbon Airways.
