Climbing Mandalay Hill is an absolute must for any visitor to the city. Towering above Mandalay, the hill has been a place of pilgrimage and meditation for centuries[2][3][8]. Ascending barefoot along the smooth marble steps, you’ll pass numerous temples, stupas, and stalls selling local snacks and souvenirs. Along the way, you’ll encounter monks and pilgrims, and the spiritual, tranquil atmosphere remains undisturbed—even by crowds of tourists[1][2][3].

From the summit of Mandalay Hill, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the city, the Irrawaddy River, and the reconstructed Royal Palace—the symbol of Myanmar’s last royal dynasty[2][4][5]. The palace, impressive from the outside, is mostly empty inside except for the throne room, where everyday items of the former rulers are displayed. The original palace was almost completely destroyed during World War II, and today’s reconstruction attracts both history enthusiasts and curious travelers[5][7].

Young monks
Young monks in Mandalay

One of Mandalay’s most beautiful monuments is Shwenandaw Kyaung—a monastery built entirely from teak wood in the 19th century. Famous for its intricate carvings and unique atmosphere, it transports visitors back to the golden age of Burmese wooden architecture. Here, you can truly feel the spirit of old Burma and admire the craftsmanship of local artisans[7].

The area around Mandalay is also worth exploring for its former royal capitals: Amarapura and Inwa (Ava). In Amarapura, you’ll find the world’s longest teak bridge—U Bein Bridge, stretching 1.2 kilometers and turning into a photographic icon at sunrise and sunset. Inwa, located on an island, captivates with its many temples and monasteries, many of which are sacred sites. Among the highlights is Bagaya Kyaung, a monastery built entirely from teak in 1834, and one of the best-preserved structures of its kind in Myanmar.

The Buddha
The Buddha, Mandalay

Accommodation in Mandalay cost me $13 USD for a single room. Renting a motorbike with a driver for a full day was 15,000 kyats. A full-day tour of the Mandalay area can be pricey but lets you discover places hard to reach on foot—especially in sprawling, sandy Inwa, where a horse-drawn carriage (15,000 kyats for 2–3 people) is the best option. The boat crossing to the island costs about 1,000 kyats. Mandalay and its surroundings are a true treasure trove of Burmese history, spirituality, and tradition, best discovered at a leisurely pace, soaking up the atmosphere of old Burma.