Travel advisory: The US advises against all travel to Myanmar. The UK advises against all but essential travel to Mandalay, and against all travel to Sagaing and the districts north of the city. Conflict, drone attacks, curfews and internet cuts are continuing, and the March 2025 earthquake left many monuments damaged. Consult the US State Department and UK FCDO before making any decisions.

Day Trips from Mandalay

Day trips from Mandalay have traditionally covered the old capitals and hill monasteries around the city. Nearly all of them now fall in areas with stricter official warnings than the city itself, and none can be confirmed open.

Places that were visited

• Inwa (Ava): reached by river crossing and horse cart. Most historic structures were damaged, and Maha Aungmye Bonzan is nearly destroyed. The Nanmyin watchtower is damaged and must not be climbed.
• Sagaing Hill: a ridge of monasteries and pagodas. It lies in Sagaing Region, where the UK advises against all travel.
• Mingun: reached by boat upriver, also in Sagaing Region. Hsinbyume Pagoda is largely destroyed, and the giant stupa has been damaged and must not be climbed.
• Monywa: a long drive northwest in Sagaing Region. Its current status is unconfirmed.

Mandalay Hill is within the city and was a common sunset visit, though access is unconfirmed. Mahamuni Pagoda stands in the south of the city and was damaged in the earthquake.