Mandalay Myanmar 7 Day Itinerary

Mandalay, Myanmar 7-Day Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

  • Arrival at Mandalay International Airport
  • Check-in at your hotel (Recommended: Mandalay Hill Resort or Pandaw River Hotel Mandalay)
  • Visit Mahamyatmuni Pagoda, home to the world’s largest sitting Buddha image
  • Explore the vibrant Zegyo Market for local products and food
  • Evening visit to Shwe Inbin Monastery to witness monk life
  • Dinner at Shan Thadyomese Restaurant for traditional Shan cuisine

Day 2: Mandalay Sightseeing

  • Morning visit to Kuthodaw Pagoda, known as the “World’s Biggest Book”
  • Explore the ancient capital city of Inwa (Ava) by horse-drawn carriage; see sights like the Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery and the Nan Myint Watch Tower
  • Lunch at Hotel Inwa, located inside Inwa
  • Afternoon visit to Mandalay Palace and its surrounding walls, moats, and Royal Compound
  • Dinner at Gourmet Sein Nyun for delicious Burmese cuisine

Day 3: Mingun & Sagaing Hill

  • Morning boat trip to Mingun, visiting the Mingun Bell, Mingun Paya, and Hsinbyume Pagoda
  • Lunch at Mingun Villa Restaurant overlooking the Ayeyarwady River
  • Afternoon visit to Sagaing Hill, a spiritual center with numerous pagodas, monasteries, and stunning views of the river
  • Dinner at Lay Thit Saung Restaurant in Sagaing for local Burmese dishes

Day 4: Amarapura & U Bein Bridge

  • Morning visit to Amarapura, the “City of Immortality”
  • Walk along the famous U Bein Bridge at sunrise and explore the surrounding Taungthaman Lake
  • Visit Mahagandayon Monastery (Silent Zone) for a unique experience of monk life
  • Lunch at Mya Han Myint Restaurant in Amarapura
  • Afternoon at leisure, or optional visit to Monywa (requires separate day trip)
  • Dinner at your hotel or nearby restaurant

Day 5: Sagaing & Monywa Day Trip

  • Early morning departure to Monywa (approximately 3 hours by car)
  • Visit the Thanboddhay Pagoda, home to over 500,000 Buddha images and impressive frescoes
  • Explore the stunning Po Win Taung Cave Temple complex
  • Lunch at a local restaurant in Monywa
  • Return to Mandalay late afternoon
  • Dinner at your hotel or nearby restaurant

Day 6: Excursion to Mingun Hill & Mandalay River Sunset Cruise

  • Morning hike up Mingun Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding area
  • Lunch at a local restaurant in Mandalay
  • Afternoon sunset cruise on the Mandalay River, enjoying traditional Burmese music and snacks aboard a private boat
  • Farewell dinner at 3 Beans Restaurant for Western dishes

Day 7: Departure

  • Free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing
  • Check-out from your hotel and transfer to Mandalay International Airport for departure

Tips & Additional Information

  1. Currency: Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
  2. Electricity: Type D, 230V
  3. Transportation: Taxis and motorbike taxis are widely available in Mandalay; consider downloading the Grab app for easy transportation booking.
  4. Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended when visiting temples and monasteries.
  5. Language: Burmese (Myanmar) is the official language, but English is commonly spoken by younger generations and in tourist areas.
  6. Internet: Mobile data can be expensive; consider purchasing a local SIM card with data for unlimited internet access.
  7. Stay safe: Be cautious of your belongings in crowded places, and always follow the advice of your tour guide or hotel staff.