Mandalay: Excursion to Monywa
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Visit the Thanboddhay Pagoda
Discover the Bodhi Tahtaung Pagoda
Take time to explore the Phowintaung complex
Available options
Mandalay: Excursion to Monywa
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Admission fees
English-speaking guide
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your tour by being picked up early in the morning at your hotel in Mandalay and drive to Monywa. Here, you will visit the Thanboddhay and Bodhi Tahtaung Pagodas. The Thanboddhay pagoda is very different from other sacred buildings as it is surrounded by a wall and its entrance is adorned by giant elephants. The impressive highlight here is the 43 m high pagoda covered by turrets.
The Bodhi Tahtaung pagoda is located in front of a grove of bodhi trees. Its construction was funded by Buddhists from around the world and each of the donor countries is represented in an exhibition of images over the pagoda's 32 floors.
Phowintaung is across Monywa on the other side of the Chindwin River. Although there is a lot to discover, only a few foreign tourists come here. Hundreds of thousands of Buddha statues decorate the sandstone caves of Phowintaung and a variety can be discovered during a visit to the site.
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Meals and drinks
Tips for guide & driver
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Mandalay
Mandalay is a cultural and historical hub in Myanmar, known for its rich heritage as the last royal capital of the Konbaung Dynasty. The city is a treasure trove of ancient temples, monasteries, and traditional crafts, offering a deep dive into Burmese culture and history.
Top Attractions
Mandalay Hill
A sacred hill offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. It's home to numerous pagodas and monasteries.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Mandalay Palace
The former royal palace of the Konbaung Dynasty, now a museum and historical site.
Historical
2-3 hours
5,000 MMK
Kuthodaw Pagoda
Famous for housing the world's largest book, a collection of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the Tipitaka.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mandalay Fried Rice
A flavorful fried rice dish with meat, vegetables, and traditional Burmese spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or with seafood
Mandalay Tea Leaf Salad
A tangy and nutritious salad made with fermented tea leaves, nuts, and seeds.
Snack/Lunch
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Mandalay Hill
Biking around the city
Tea house visits
River cruises
Visiting temples and pagodas
Attending local festivals
Boat rides on the Irrawaddy River
Watching traditional puppet shows
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the cool and dry season, ideal for exploring the city's attractions without the extreme heat or heavy rains.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Burmese
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Burmese Kyat (MMK)
Time Zone
GMT+6:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Mandalay is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
Getting there
By air
- Mandalay International Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Mandalay Central Railway Station
By bus
Mandalay Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable and cover most parts of the city, but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Zaycho
Amarapura
Day trips
Amarapura
10 km • Half day
A former royal capital known for its beautiful U Bein Bridge and serene landscapes.
Festivals
Mandalay Festival • January
Pro tips
- Visit Mandalay Hill for the best sunset views
- Try Mandalay's famous tea leaf salad at a local tea house
- Explore the city's markets for traditional crafts and textiles
- Take a boat ride on the Irrawaddy River for a unique perspective of the city
- Visit U Bein Bridge in Amarapura for stunning sunrise or sunset photos
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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