Mandalay Myanmar 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Mandalay’s Rich History

  • Morning: Start your day with a traditional Myanmar breakfast at 37th Street Morning Market where you can enjoy local delicacies like Mohinga (fish soup) and Baguettes. After breakfast, head to the Mandalay Palace to explore the last royal palace of the Burmese monarchy.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Shwenandaw Kyaung (Golden Palace Monastery), a beautiful teakwood building that once served as the Royal Palace’s most revered monastery. Next, head to the nearby Kuthodaw Pagoda, known as the world’s largest book for its 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist scriptures.

  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Mandalay River and witness the sunset at the iconic U Bein Bridge. For dinner, head to Golden Myanmar Restaurant for a variety of Burmese dishes.

  • Lodging: Stay at the centrally located Mandalay Hill Resort, offering comfortable rooms with great views of Mandalay.

Day 2: Temples and Craftsmanship

  • Morning: After breakfast, visit the Atumashi Monastery to observe Buddhist monks’ daily life. Then head to the nearby Mahamuni Pagoda, home to one of the country’s most revered Buddha images.

  • Afternoon: Take a short trip to the pottery village of Maha Aungmye Bonzan and the gold leaf workshop at Layk Yun Village. In the afternoon, visit the famous Mandalay Marionette Show at Yadanabon Zay Park.

  • Evening: For dinner, try the vegetarian dishes at Green Elephant Restaurant. If you’re interested in nightlife, check out 49er Bar & Kitchen for a mix of local and international vibes.

Day 3: Temples of Sagaing and Inle Lake (Optional)

  • Morning: Take an early morning boat ride to the Sagaing Hills, home to hundreds of pagodas, monasteries, and Buddhist universities. Don’t miss the U Min Thone Sae Pagoda for a panoramic view of the valley.

  • Afternoon: After lunch back in Mandalay (try the local fast food at Mingalabar Bar & Restaurant), you can choose to either explore more of Mandalay or plan an optional trip to Inle Lake, one of Myanmar’s must-visit destinations.

  • Things to Know:

    • Mandalay is hot and humid year-round, so pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.
    • Bargaining is common in markets and shops.
    • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas.

Transportation: Taxis and motorbike taxis are widely available. You can also rent a bike or scooter if you prefer self-driving. For longer trips, consider booking a tour or hiring a private car.