Most people expect an old Burma when it comes to Mandalay, but end up getting welcomed by sprawling buildings, wide roads filled with motorcycles and cars, pagodas with towering stupas, shopping complexes, tea houses and many lovely buzzing markets.

Spread around the foot of Mandalay Hill, Mandalay functioned as a royal capital of Ava kingdom for a few decades. The magnificent Royal Palace and Atumashi pagoda are some of the monuments of this period, which were reconstructed by the British. Mandalay is famous for trade, the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning.

U Bein Bridge

U Bein Bridge is a crossing across Taungthaman Lake near Amarapura, close to Mandalay city in Myanmar. Stretching for about 1.2km, it is the longest teakwood bridge in the world. U Bein is one of the most popular attractions in Mandalay for tourists who come here to witness the magical sunset over the bridge.

Sunrise time is also the best time to visit U Bein bridge as you can see local fishers heading out across the lake, along with beautiful sunrise views. The bridge was built in 1850 from wood reclaimed from the former Palace in Inwa. It consists of over 1100 wooden pillars across the lake, a few of which have been replaced by concrete posts.

Mandalay palace

Mandalay Palace is the royal residence of the of the last Burmese kingdom located close to the city of Mandalay in Myanmar. Called as the Great Golden Royal Palace, the building is one of the famous landmarks and among top attractions for tourists visiting the city. The ancient watchtower and the Throne room are among the places of interest in the palace.

The massive palace complex is known for its elegant yet straightforward Burmese style of architecture. It consists of many structures built with a wall surrounded by a moat, most of which were administrative buildings. Mandalay Palace was constructed in 1859 and was home to King Mindon and King Thibaw, the last known Burmese monarchs. It was later occupied by the British during their colonial rule and was converted to a heritage site by the government after Myanmar’s independence.

Kuthodaw pagoda

Kuthodaw Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Mandalay in Myanmar. Situated at the foot of Mandalay Hill, it is home to the most massive book in the world. The pagoda has 57-meters high Golden stupa and is inspired by temples in Bagan. It is one of the must-visit attractions for tourists to witness the book. The book consists of 729 stone pillars, which includes verses from Tripitaka or the scriptures of Theravada Buddhism inscribed on both sides.

Earlier known as Mahalawka Marazein, King Mindon Min built the pagoda in 1868 to inscribe the scriptures. Tourists are required to cover their knees and shoulders and visit the temple barefoot.

Dee Doke Waterfalls

Dee Doke Waterfalls are located on the outskirts of Mandalay city in Myanmar. It is known for the gorgeous location amidst hills and mineral-rich turquoise blue waters. Dee Doke is a popular picnic spot for the locals and among the top attractions in Mandalay for tourists. The blue lagoon close to the waterfalls is a must-stop for tourists wanting to take a swim.

According to holidify.com