Today’s tour starts with a short walk along the southern edge of Mandalay’s former Royal Palace. On one side of the outer walkway is the wide moat and brick structure which serve as a reminder of the past. On the other is the Mandalay of today with its buzzing motorbikes. As you reach the east gate of the Royal Palace trishaws will be waiting to take you to the next stop.
These traditional pedal-powered vehicles are a unique way of getting around the city and a brilliant way of putting money directly into the hands of their drivers who are seeing a reduction in business as motorbike ownership becomes more widespread. The trishaw will slowly meander through the maze of tiny lanes of eastern Mandalay before arriving at the foot of Mandalay Hill. Here, ascend to the top at a height of 790 feet for a magnificent view over Myanmar’s second-largest city and former capital.
Afterward, it is a short journey to the Golden Palace Monastery, the beautiful wooden structure that is the last remaining part of the original Royal Palace construction. After admiring the architecture head to Kuthodaw Pagoda, a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site, renowned for being home to the world’s largest book. Spend some time here learning about the story and scriptures from your knowledgeable guide.
Afternoon:
Learn ancient Architecture and Local life
Our private car will then be waiting to take you for a taste of local life at lunchtime with a simple meal at a tea shop where Mandalay residents often come for a bite to eat.
Having absorbed the local culture, the afternoon takes on a spiritual note with visits to two distinctive Mandalay monasteries. Begin with Shwe In Bin Monastery, the construction of which conforms to the traditional style of Myanmar monastic architecture with its multi-roofed pavilion. Then visit Kinn Wun Min Gyi Monastery which is completely different in style. The main building here is an excellent example of European-style architecture in Myanmar. Not many travelers have the opportunity to explore these two relatively unknown, but well-maintained sites.
End the day by discovering Shan Kalay Khun village on the banks of the Irrawaddy River to learn first-hand about the lives of local people here. Visit workshops producing wood carvings and casting bronze before relaxing by the river for a magnificent sunset with views over the Irrawaddy to Sagaing and Mingun Hill on the west bank.
