Mandalay Myanmar 7 Day Itinerary

Mandalay 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive in Mandalay and check-in at Hotel Yadanarpon or similar
  • Visit the famous Mahamuni Pagoda, a significant Buddhist site housing a revered Buddha image
  • Explore the nearby Mandalay Market for a glimpse into local life

Afternoon

  • Head to Mingun, a historic town located on the west bank of the Irrawaddy River (take a ferry from Mandalay)
  • Visit the impressive Mingun Pahtodawgyi, a massive unfinished pagoda
  • Watch the sunset at Mingun Jetty with stunning views of the river

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Myanmar cuisine at Lashio Lay Restaurant
  • Take a stroll around the city, exploring the night market and trying some street food

Day 2: Mandalay Hill and Surroundings

Morning

  • Hike up Mandalay Hill, offering panoramic views of the city
  • Visit the Sutaungpyai Pagoda, also known as the “Wish-Granting Pagoda”
  • Explore the nearby Kuthodaw Pagoda, home to the world’s largest book, inscribed on marble slabs

Afternoon

  • Head to Amarapura, a historic town located 11 km south of Mandalay
  • Visit the famous U Bein Bridge, a teak bridge built in 1850 and the longest of its kind in the world
  • Explore the nearby Mahagandhayon Monastery, a tranquil oasis

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Green Elephant Restaurant, serving delicious Myanmar dishes
  • Take a leisurely walk around the city, enjoying the evening atmosphere

Day 3: Inwa (Ava) and Sagaing

Morning

  • Visit Inwa (Ava), an ancient capital city located on an island in the Irrawaddy River (take a ferry from Mandalay)
  • Explore the Bagaya Monastery, a beautiful wooden monastery
  • Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city

Afternoon

  • Head to Sagaing, a historic town located 20 km southwest of Mandalay
  • Visit the Sagaing Hill, offering stunning views of the Irrawaddy River and surrounding countryside
  • Explore the nearby Tilawkaguru Cave Temple, a unique Buddhist site

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Beach Bistro, serving international cuisine with a focus on seafood
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife

Day 4: Mingalazedi Pagoda and Local Life

Morning

  • Visit the stunning Mingalazedi Pagoda, located on a hill overlooking Mandalay
  • Explore the nearby Shwenandaw Monastery, a historic monastery with intricate carvings

Afternoon

  • Take a cooking class at Myanmar Cooking School and learn how to prepare traditional dishes
  • Visit a local tea shop, such as Yadanarbon Tea Shop, to experience Myanmar’s tea culture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Garden Cafe, serving international cuisine in a peaceful setting
  • Explore the city’s night market or take a leisurely walk around the city

Day 5: Day Trip to Pyin Oo Lwin

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Pyin Oo Lwin, a scenic hill station located 67 km east of Mandalay (approximately 2 hours by car)
  • Visit the National Botanical Gardens, a beautiful and peaceful oasis
  • Explore the nearby Pwe Kauk Falls, a stunning waterfall

Afternoon

  • Head to the Pyin Oo Lwin Market, selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional snacks
  • Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the town

Evening

  • Return to Mandalay in the evening and enjoy dinner at The Viewpoint Restaurant, serving international cuisine with stunning views of the city
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife

Day 6: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Attend a traditional Myanmar Puppet Show at the Mandalay Marionettes Theatre
  • Visit the Shwe Inbin Monastery, a beautiful monastery with intricate carvings and ornate decorations

Afternoon

  • Take a Burmese massage at one of the local spas, such as Mandalay Spa
  • Explore the nearby Zegyo Market, selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional snacks

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Golden Duck Restaurant, serving traditional Myanmar cuisine
  • Take a leisurely walk around the city, enjoying the evening atmosphere

Day 7: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring the city
  • Check-out of your hotel and depart for the airport or your next destination

Transportation

  • Taxi: available at the airport and around the city (approximately 5,000 - 10,000 MMK per ride)
  • Horse-drawn carriage: a fun way to explore the city (approximately 15,000 - 20,000 MMK per day)
  • Ferry: available from Mandalay to Mingun and Inwa (Ava) (approximately 1,500 - 2,500 MMK per person, one way)

Tips and Essentials

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries
  • Remove your shoes when entering temples and monasteries
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak sun hours (11am - 3pm)
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
  • Learn some basic Myanmar phrases, such as “mingalaba” (hello) and “kyay zu” (thank you)

Accommodation

  • Hotel Yadanarpon: a comfortable hotel with traditional Myanmar architecture (approximately 100,000 - 200,000 MMK per night)
  • Other options available, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts

Food and Drink

  • Try traditional Myanmar dishes, such as laphet (tea leaf salad), mohinga (national dish), and shan noodles
  • Be sure to try some fresh fruit, such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas
  • Wash your hands frequently and avoid eating undercooked meat or raw vegetables

Safety

  • Take necessary precautions to protect yourself from the sun and heat
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and markets
  • Avoid traveling alone at night and use reputable transportation services