Mandalay is located between the Shan Plateau and the Ayeyarwaddy River around 700km away from the north of Yangon, regarded as the centre of Burmese culture, the trading centre of goods and the home of craftsman. If you’ve been planning an escape from stressful work and to get some rest Mandalay should definitely be considered for your upcoming holiday. Even if it didn’t maintain as the “Golden City”, Mandalay still continues to be an important cultural and religious center of Buddhism with its sparkling charming pagodas scattering the landscape and its imposing amount of hundred to thousand monks, whom that have chosen to make this beautiful country their home. Shwenandaw Monastery is an awesome option for ones who coming to Mandalay for meditative relaxation. One special thing about this monastery is it was built up completely from teak (a tropical hardwood species). You would be able to set your mind at peace walking around this astonishing monastery, and you’re going to be mesmerized by refined sculptures.
Maha Muni Pagoda in Madalay is one place you should not skip as a religious traveler. It’s the second most popular spiritual pagoda only ranks behind the Shwedagon in Yangon. A golden Buddla statue which is 4 meters high housed inside an area. If you are female travelers, sorry, you are not allowed entering. Male travelers, lucky you, you will find yourself surprised at the splendid beauty of this structure.
If you are into a little hiking, the Sagaing Hill can always answer your expectation. Lies outside Mandalay city, to reach Sagaing you firstly need to cross the Ayeyarwady River. Especially famous for Sagaing Hill – one of the major Buddhist center in Myanmar, where there are more than 600 monasteries and towers, with approximated 6,000 monks and nuns, you will find yourself completely satisfied with the hike as you enjoy the magnificent view looking down from the top of Sagaing Hill.
if you wish to travel by boat, cruising along the Ayeyarwady River to visit Inwa, Amarapura and Sagaing – the three oldest spectacular cities of Myanmar or visiting impressive Mingun Pahtodawgyi Ruin – the forgotten under-construction building if finished would be the highest bricky Buddhism architecture with estimated 150 meters tall by ferry, your journey will never be more amazing.
Not only the attractions but the unique cuisine of Myanmar will also leave you breathless. The most interesting point travelling around Mandalay is that you can stop anywhere, anytime, to try out its delicious mouthwatering street food. With every dishes you order, you will be severed free cups of tea. Each and every single exotic specialties in Myanmar, including Athouq – light, tart and spicy salads made with raw vegetables or fruit tossed or K’auq sen, the Shan-style rice noodles with curry will absolutely bring you some truly tasty and memorable meals.