Mandalay: Full Day Mandalay Culture Tour
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Being the last Royal Capital of Myanmar Kingdom, a visit to Mandalay will give you the knowledge of culture, history and the religion of the Myanmar people. It is also worthwhile to visit U Bein Bridge (the world’s longest teak bridge) and the Kuthodaw Pagoda (where the world’s largest book) exit.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Take a stroll and have a nice photo stop at U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest teak bridge nearly 200-years-old
• Visit Mahagandayon Monastery, where you will learn about the daily life of Buddhist monks
• Learn about the generosity of the Myanmar people at Mahamuni Pagoda
• Explore the various workshops and learn about the best fine wood carvings at Shwe Inn Bin and Golden Palace Monastery
• See Kuthodaw Pagoda, where the world’s largest book exists
• Enjoy a sunset from Mandalay Hill
• Complete a visit to Shwe Kyin Monastery to watch the evening prayers of the monks
Available options
Mandalay: Full Day Mandalay Culture Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Lunch at local restaurant,
Private sightseeing with an English speaking guide & air-conditioned vehicle
Pick-up and drop off from/to your Hotel in Mandalay
Snow towel & 1 Bottle of purified drinking water
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
08:00 A.M. Pick up from your hotel in Mandalay and drive to Amarapura, 15 km from Mandalay. Visit to 200-year-old U Bein Teak Bridge, built in 1782 at the time when Amarapura was Royal capital. Visit a traditional hand-woven silk workshop.
2
At 09:30 A.M. visit Maha-Gandayon Monastery, a famous Buddhist monastery, where more than a thousand monks live and study and to watch the monks for their alms round at 10:00 A.M.
Lunch will be served at one of Local Myanmar Restaurants.
3
Stop 3
After lunch, visit one of the most revered religious monuments in the Mahamuni Pagoda. Since Mandalay is also a major crafts center, you can also visit a Kalaga tapestries craftsmen’s shop.
4
Visit Shwe In Bin Monastery. Visit the Golden Palace Monastery (Shwe Nandaw / Shwe Kyaung), a superb example of a traditional wooden building and Kuthodaw Pagoda the world’s largest book made of marble.
5
Visit a superb example of a traditional wooden building and Kuthodaw Pagoda the world’s largest book made of marble.
6
Drive to Mandalay Hill to enjoy the panoramic beauty of Mandalay at sunset. Time permit, you can pay a visit is also made to the Shwe Kyin Monastery to watch the evening prayers of the monks. Return to your hotel.
What's not included
Hotel accommodation, Zone fee in Mandalay (MMK 10,000)
Services not mentioned in our itinerary
Air Tickets to/from Mandalay,
Tips for your guide and driver (USD 8 for guide and USD 3 for driver)
Camera Fee (MMK 1,000), Travel insurance (MMK 10,000)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
As you will be visiting religious sites, please wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, and remember to take off your shoes and socks when entering pagoda areas.
This tour is not available during the Water Festival period between 12 to 18 Apr. During this time, everything in town is closed: restaurants, shops, markets, Museum, etc. Driving through Yangon is extremely difficult if not impossible because people celebrate the famous water-festival. You cannot avoid of getting very wet because everyone throws water at everybody. People drive through the city in open cars and there are stages along the street where people throw water. Everybody going up will get very wet.
Important notes
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
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
Instant confirmation
