What to do in Mandalay, Myanmar

What to do in Mandalay, Myanmar
Nghia Huynh
What to do in Mandalay, Myanmar

Mandalay is the second largest city in Myanmar and one that often gets overlooked by tourists. Visitors generally fly into Yangon and head straight for the popular tourist areas of Bagan, Inle Lake, and Ngapali Beach. But they really have no idea what they are missing! 


The city of Mandalay and the area surrounding it is filled with gorgeous pagodas, spectacular waterfalls, friendly locals eager to practice their English speaking skills, and delicious food.



Explore Mandalay Palace

What to do in Mandalay, Myanmar
Explore Mandalay Palace

Mandalay Palace is actually not the original building but a reconstruction that was built in the 1990s. It is also not one building, but actually a series of 40 different houses that were built from wood to closely resemble the originals which would have been built in the 1850s and were sadly razed to the ground by a fire.


One of the highlights of a trip here is the wooden watchtower which is a great place to come if you want to take in the scenic views all over Mandalay. Also make sure to check out the ornate throne room which features a gilt pyramid and you can see other historical sight like a four poster bed that would have belonged to the king.



Visit U-Bein Bridge

What to do in Mandalay, Myanmar
Visit U-Bein Bridge

U-Bein Bridge is a popular spot for tourists during the day and at sunset. If you want to visit without a ton of other tourists snapping pictures then consider getting up early and heading there for sunrise.


This bridge is a 1.2-kilometer long bridge made of teak wood. It was originally built in the 1850s but has had to be restored many times since then. When we visited at sunrise it was quite fun because a ton of locals were going about their day, using the bridge as a footpath or even doing morning exercises. There is no entrance fee to U-Bein Bridge and it is located about 9 kilometers from Mandalay city center.



Visit the Jade Market

What to do in Mandalay, Myanmar
Visit the Jade Market

As one of Myanmar’s largest exports, the buzzing Jade Market in Mandalay is a must-see attraction. Hardly a tourist is in sight as visitors meander the crowded stalls overflowing with jadeite, otherwise known as jade. It is estimated that some 70% of the world’s jade originated in Myanmar, and the Jade Market seems to house the majority of it. Large blocks of this stunning material are found on the outskirts of the main alleyways winding throughout the market.



Watch a show at the Mandalay Marionettes

What to do in Mandalay, Myanmar
Watch a show at the Mandalay Marionettes

If you want to check out the local culture in Mandalay then there is no better way to do it than with a trip to the Mandalay Marionettes. Here you will find a small stage and a colorful marionette show which usually tells the story of traditional Burmese legends.The puppeteers have been working here for years and they will also give you a tour backstage to see how the puppets work. You can also purchase puppets here if you are looking for a quirky souvenir to take home.



Eat Incredibly Cheap Burmese Food

What to do in Mandalay, Myanmar
Eat Incredibly Cheap Burmese Food

Mandalay is teeming with cheap, street side restaurants. Often, these eateries lack any sort of signs that indicate the name of the restaurant or what it is they are serving, however, the food is likely to be delicious. Visitors can indulge in entire feasts for only 2,000 kyat and sometimes less. Some interesting dishes found in Myanmar that visitors should try include bean paste salad, Shan noodles, and tea leaf salad.


Source Internet


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