Mandalay, Myanmar-day-trips

Discover the Hidden Gems of Mandalay: Top Day Trips to Explore

Mandalay, the last royal capital of Burma, is a treasure trove of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. While the city itself has plenty to offer, there are several day trips that can enhance your travel experience in Myanmar. Here are the best day trips from Mandalay to explore:

1. Mingun and the World’s Largest Unfinished Pagoda

  • Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles), 30-minute drive
  • Highlights: Mingun Pahtodawgyi, Mingun Bell, and stunning river views

Visit the quaint village of Mingun, situated on the west bank of the Irrawaddy River. Explore the massive unfinished pagoda, Mingun Pahtodawgyi, which was intended to be one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.

2. Sagaing Hill and its Stunning Views

  • Distance: 21 km (13 miles), 45-minute drive
  • Highlights: Sagaing Hill, Umin Thonze Pagoda, and panoramic views of Mandalay

Cross the Irrawaddy River to reach Sagaing Hill, a revered Buddhist site with numerous pagodas and monasteries. The hill offers breathtaking views of Mandalay, making it an ideal spot for sunrise or sunset.

3. Amarapura: The Ancient City of Immortality

  • Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles), 30-minute drive
  • Highlights: Mahagandayon Monastery, U Bein Bridge, and traditional weaving villages

Step back in time and visit Amarapura, the ancient city of immortality. Explore the magnificent Mahagandayon Monastery, famous for its thousand monks, and stroll across the iconic U Bein Bridge.

4. Innwa (Ava) and its Ancient Ruins

  • Distance: 45 km (28 miles), 1-hour drive
  • Highlights: Innwa’s ancient city walls, Bagaya Monastery, and Me Nu Brick Monastery

Travel to Innwa, the ancient capital of the Burmese kingdom, and discover its rich history. Explore the remnants of the old city walls, visit the beautiful Bagaya Monastery, and admire the intricate carvings at Me Nu Brick Monastery.

5. Pyin Oo Lwin (Maymyo): A Hill Station Retreat

  • Distance: 67 km (42 miles), 2-hour drive
  • Highlights: Pyin Oo Lwin’s colonial architecture, National Kandawgyi Botanical Gardens, and scenic hiking trails

Escape the heat of Mandalay and head to Pyin Oo Lwin, a charming hill station with a rich colonial history. Stroll through the town’s picturesque streets, visit the beautiful botanical gardens, and hike through the scenic trails.

Each of these day trips offers a unique glimpse into Myanmar’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and fascinating history. So, take a break from Mandalay’s bustling streets and explore these hidden gems!