Solo Activities Mandalay
Travel advisory: Both the US and UK governments warn against visiting. The US advises against all travel to Myanmar; the UK advises against all but essential travel to Mandalay and against all travel to Sagaing and the area north of the city. Fighting, drone attacks, curfews and internet shutdowns continue, and the March 2025 earthquake damaged many sites. Check the US State Department and UK FCDO before making any plans.
Solo Travel in Mandalay
Under current official advice Mandalay is not a place to plan solo travel. A solo traveller has no one to share risk with at checkpoints, during curfews or when internet and banking are cut. No attraction can be confirmed open.
Places the city is known for
- Mandalay Hill is a sacred hill surrounded by stupas and shrines, and it was a popular spot at sunrise. Access is unconfirmed since the March 2025 earthquake.
- The old city walls and moat surround the former royal palace. Their condition is unconfirmed after the earthquake.
- Zegyo Market and Man Myo Market were the city’s main markets. Their trading status is unconfirmed.
- Mingun lies in Sagaing Region, where the UK advises against all travel. Hsinbyume Pagoda was largely destroyed in the earthquake, and the Pahtodawgyi is damaged and closed to climbing.
Practical notes
- Respect local customs at sacred sites.
- Carry a passport, since checkpoints are common.