Mandalay

Myanmar

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Sunrise

6:01 AM

Sunset

5:41 PM

About

Mandalay is a culturally rich city located in the heart of Myanmar. Known for its royal palaces, temples, and pagodas, it is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Southeast Asian history and culture. From the tranquil Mandalay Hill to the bustling streets of the city center, Mandalay offers visitors an unparalleled experience of Myanmar's vibrant traditions and hospitality.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Mandalay Palace

A magnificent palace built in 1857 and showcases the grandeur of Burmese architecture.
2. Kuthodaw Pagoda

Also called the world's largest book, this pagoda boasts of 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist texts.
3. Sandamuni Pagoda

Houses the largest iron Buddha image and surrounded by 1,774 small white stupas.
4. Atumashi Monastery

Built during King Mindon's reign, this monastery houses a Buddha image carved out of a single piece of marble.
5. Shwenandaw Monastery

Known for its intricate wood carvings and once served as the royal palace of King Mindon.
6. Mandalay Hill

Offers a breathtaking view of the city and is the perfect place to see the sunrise or sunset.
7. Mahamuni Buddha Temple

Home to the revered Mahamuni Buddha image, this temple is a popular pilgrimage site among Buddhists.
8. Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery

Also called Me Nu Ok Kyaung, this monastery is another fine example of Burmese architecture and was built in the early 1800s.
9. Kyauktawgyi Pagoda

Features a giant Buddha image carved out of a single block of marble and stands at 37 feet tall.
10. U Bein Bridge

A 1.2-kilometer-long teak bridge that spans across Taungthaman Lake and offers impressive sunset views.
11. Hsinbyume Pagoda

A stunning, all-white pagoda that symbolizes the seven mountain ranges and seven seas surrounding Mount Meru in Buddhist mythology.
12. Mingun Bell

Weighing in at 90 tons, this giant bell is considered to be one of the largest in the world.
13. Sagaing Hill

Home to numerous monasteries and pagodas, this hill is often referred to as the spiritual center of Myanmar.
14. Kyauktawgyi Cave

A natural limestone cave adorned with intricate Buddha images and rock formations.
15. Inwa (Ava) City

A former royal capital where visitors can explore ruined temples, pagodas, and monasteries.
16. Amarapura City

Known for its silk and cotton weaving industry and is home to famous attractions like the U Bein Bridge and Pahtodawgyi Pagoda.
17. Pyin Oo Lwin City

A former British hill station that offers a cooler climate, botanical gardens, and colonial-style mansions.
18. Mahar Aung Myay Market

A bustling market that sells everything from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs.
19. Zegyo Market

A 100-year-old market that is renowned for its gold, silver, and gemstone jewelry.
20. Mandalay Marionettes Theater

Enjoy a traditional puppet show, and learn more about the art of puppetry in Myanmar.
21. Shwe Kyi Myin Pagoda

An ancient pagoda with a unique history and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
22. Royal Palace Garden

A park situated within the palace walls that features manicured lawns, fountains, and a small palace museum.
23. Nanmyint Watch Tower

A 27-meter-tall watchtower that was once part of the palace and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
24. Ein Daw Yar Pagoda

A peaceful pagoda with a tranquil pond that is teeming with fish and turtles.
25. Jade Market

A market that sells a range of jade products, including jewelry, vases, and figurines.
26. Mahamuni Jade and Gemstone Hall

An exhibition hall that showcases a vast collection of jade and gemstone artifacts.
27. Mandalay Marionettes Museum

A museum that houses a diverse collection of traditional and modern-style puppets that rotate regularly.
28. Mya Nan Nwe Tea House

Serves traditional Burmese tea and snacks and is a great place to relax and people-watch.
29. Pyin Oo Lwin Botanical Garden

A sprawling garden that is home to beautiful flower displays, a butterfly museum, and bird aviaries.
30. Thiri Mandala Bus Terminal

This recently built modern bus terminal that makes it convenient to travel to other parts of Myanmar.