Mandalay, Myanmar-4-day-itinerary

Mandalay Itinerary: 4 Days in the Golden City

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Mandalay International Airport
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel (approximately 1 hour, $10-$20)
  • Check-in at Hotel Yadanar Palace or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit the Mandalay Palace (entry fee: $10), a majestic structure built in 1857
  • Explore the nearby Atumashi Kyaung, a beautiful monastery with intricate carvings

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Myanmar cuisine at Lashio Lay, try their famous Shan noodles and tea leaf salad
  • Take a stroll along the Ayeyarwady River and watch the sunset

Day 2: Ancient Cities and Craftsmanship

Morning

  • Visit the ancient city of Inwa (entry fee: $10), accessible by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle (approximately 1 hour, $10-$20)
  • Explore the ruins of Bagaya Monastery, a beautiful example of Myanmar’s rich history

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Mandalay Marionettes, a traditional puppet show
  • Visit the Shwe In Bin Kyaung, a stunning monastery with intricate carvings and ornate decorations

Evening

  • Dine at Green Elephant, offering a range of international dishes
  • Take a walk around the Night Market, a bustling hub of local vendors selling everything from souvenirs to snacks

Day 3: U Bein Bridge and Amarapura

Morning

  • Visit the iconic U Bein Bridge (entry fee: free), a 1.2 km long teakwood bridge
  • Explore the nearby Amarapura, a historic town with ancient pagodas and monasteries

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Mahagandayon Monastery, home to over 1,000 monks
  • Take a boat ride on the Taungthaman Lake (approximately $10-$20)

Evening

Day 4: Mingun and Departure

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Mingun (approximately 1 hour, $10-$20), home to the famous Mingun Pahtodawgyi, a massive unfinished pagoda
  • Visit the nearby Hsinbyume Pagoda, a beautiful white pagoda with stunning views of the Irrawaddy River

Afternoon

  • Return to Mandalay and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city
  • Depart from Mandalay International Airport

Things to Know

  • Myanmar is a cash-based economy, so bring sufficient local currency (Kyat) and USD
  • Respect local customs and traditions by dressing modestly and removing shoes when entering temples or monasteries
  • Be prepared for crowds and heat during peak season (March to May)

Transportation

  • Taxi: available at the airport and around the city (approximately $10-$20)
  • Bicycle: a great way to explore Mandalay, rent one for approximately $5-$10 per day
  • Horse-drawn carriage: a unique way to explore Inwa and other ancient cities

Tips

  • Learn some basic Myanmar phrases, such as “mingalaba” (hello) and “kyay zu” (thank you)
  • Be respectful of monks and nuns by not touching or sitting on their seats
  • Bargain politely when shopping at local markets

Other Things of Interest

  • Take a day trip to the ancient city of Sagaing (approximately 1.5 hours, $20-$30)
  • Visit the Mandalay Hill, offering stunning views of the city
  • Explore the Zegyo Market, a bustling hub of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts