Sightseeing Mandalay Region

Travel advisory: The US government advises against all travel to Myanmar. The UK government advises against all travel to Sagaing and the area north of Mandalay, and against all but essential travel to the rest of Mandalay Region including the city. Conflict, drone attacks, curfews and internet shutdowns are ongoing, and many sites suffered damage in the March 2025 earthquake. Check the US State Department and UK FCDO before making any plans.

Sightseeing in Mandalay Region

Mandalay Region holds the last royal palace of Burma, a long teak footbridge and several ancient capitals. No attraction can currently be confirmed open, and each place below carries that caveat.

U Bein Bridge

  • A teak footbridge about 1.2 km long across Taungthaman Lake at Amarapura, often described as the longest teak bridge in the world.
  • It was included in post-earthquake surveys, and its current condition and access are unconfirmed.

Mandalay Palace

  • The last royal palace of the Burmese monarchy, built in 1857.
  • The 2025 earthquake damaged its walls and gates, and access is unconfirmed.

Mingun Pahtodawgyi

  • A massive unfinished pagoda begun in 1790, in Sagaing Region, where the UK advises against all travel.
  • It is damaged and closed to climbing. Hsinbyume Pagoda nearby was largely destroyed in the earthquake.

Zegyo Market

  • The city’s main market, historically known for produce, handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Whether it is trading normally is unconfirmed.

Shwenandaw Monastery

  • A wooden monastery known for its carvings and once part of the royal palace.
  • Its current condition and access are unconfirmed since the 2025 earthquake.

Sagaing Hill

  • A hill with numerous pagodas and monasteries, in Sagaing Region, where the UK advises against all travel.
  • The Soon U Ponnya Shin pagoda was damaged in the earthquake.

Practical notes

  • Dress modestly at temples and monasteries.
  • Bring sun protection.