Workshops Mandalay Region

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.

Traditional Crafts in Mandalay Region

Mandalay Region has long been known for traditional crafts, including wood carving, marionette making, weaving and gold leaf beating. No workshop in the region can currently be confirmed open, and conditions have changed since the March 2025 earthquake.

Wood carving

Wood carving workshops produced statues, furniture and decorative panels using techniques passed down through generations.

Marionettes

Marionettes were made as part of Myanmar’s traditional puppetry. No workshop can currently be confirmed.

Weaving and textiles

Silk and cotton weaving on traditional looms was a craft of the Amarapura and Inwa area. Inwa lost most of its historic structures in the earthquake, and access is unconfirmed.

Gold leaf

Gold leaf is used to gild temples and Buddha images across Myanmar. Beating the leaf by hand was a labour-intensive craft in Mandalay.

Practical notes

• Remove shoes when entering workshops and dress modestly.
• Do not touch sacred objects.
• Few artisans speak English, and a local guide or phrasebook was historically useful.