Mandalay

Mandalay is a good example of the whole of Myanmar (Burma). Previously just a provincial town it is now waking up to be a major metropolis and tourist attraction whilst retaining its old world charm.

It was the last Royal Capital of Burma and sits sereenly on the East bank of the Ayeyarwaddy (Irrawaddy) River. Current polulation is around 1.5 million and it is the economic and cultural center of upper Myanmar.

The rebuilt Royal palace is right in the center of the present city.

Whilst local markets can still be found everywhere, new modern highrise shopping centers are popping up all around Mandalay.

Visitors will have the opportunity to see ancient handicraft centers still in operation including marble, stone & wood carvers, silk and cotton weavers, umbrella makers, gold leaf makers, potters and bronze statue casters.

For something that you won’t see anywhere else in the world make sure you visit the Jade Market where you will see the famous Burmese Jade traded and sold at a lively open market.

Scattered around the city are many ancient and beautiful temples and pagodas including Mahamuni Pagoda (golden Buddha statue), Kuthotaw Pagoda (world’s largest book), Sandamuni & Kuthodaw Pagodas and Shwenandaw and Shwe In Bin Monasteries. A good Pagoda to see at night is Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda with its myirad of lighting effects.

Don’t forget to climb Mandalay Hill for panoramic sunset views.

Mandalay is a perfect base to do lots of day trips to places like Sagaing, Mingun, Monwya, Amarapura, Inwa, Inle Lake, Pyin Oo Lwin, Kyaukse, Hsipaw, Pindaya and Bagan.