Mandalay Area

Mandalay
The last capital of independent Burma before the arrival of British colonial rule, Mandalay was founded in 1857 by king Mindon.

Today Mandalay is an important commercial, industrial and religious centre. There are many sites to visit, including the Royal Palace, the Mahamuni Buddha and the Shwenandaw Kyaung.

Monywa 
A commercial centre situated at around 140 kilometres west of Mandalay. Of interest are a series of Pagodas such as the Thanbodhyi pagoda, a reclining Buddha and the famous caves of Po Win Daung.

Mingun 
At around 11 km from Mandalay it is possible to reach by boat an interesting site where the biggest bell of the world is guarded. It is also possible to experience, on a brief tract, transportation by ox-cart.

Lashio 
Lashio is the beginning of the famous “Burma road” that leads up to China. At around a day trip from Mandalay, it is possible to visit one of Burma’s most colourful local markets. 

Every morning tribes from different ethnic groups come to trade. Local highlights include the Quan Yin San Chinese temple, hot springs and New Pyi Lon Chan Tha Paya.

Amarapura 
Ancient capital of the Konbaung dynasty, Amarapura rises at around ten kilometres south of Mandalay. Some points of interest are the Patodawgyi Pagoda, the Maha Gandayon monastery and traditional silk and cotton weaving workshops. 

Pyin U Lwin 
This city used to be a former summer retreat for the British gentry during the period of colonial rule. Pyin U Lwin is placed at about 1070 meters above sea level and is 67 kilometers from Mandalay. The city has a peaceful setting where it is possible to admire the typical colonial architecture and the near Anisakan waterfalls.

Sagaing 
Sagaing is a religious centre which houses numerous monasteries where both monks and nuns go to study Buddhist sacred scriptures. There are various places of interest including Kaunghmudaw Paya, the Thabyedan fort and mount Sagaing itself which offers a beautiful view. 

Ava
Founded by the shan king Thadominbya in 1364, Ava stood as a royal capital for almost five centuries. It is possible to visit the archeological site by horse-drawn pony cart. At Ava the ancient monastery in teak wood of Bagaya, the tower of Nanmyint, and the pagoda of Htilaingshin give an insight of the cities ancient past.