How to Plan an Incredible Family Trip to Japan in 2023/2024. Learn more.
Top 9 Attractions in Mandalay - Peruse the World's Largest Book

Top 9 Attractions in Mandalay - Peruse the World's Largest Book

By Wendy Updated Oct. 26, 2022

Mandalay is an enchanting city, replete with horse-drawn-carriage taxis and with stupas dotting the horizon.

You can climb to the top of many of the ruins, and a few of the larger structures provide amazing views of the landscape. You might feel as if you are looking at an ethereal sepia photograph, unsure where nature ends and the work of man begins.

Every year, many make the pilgrimage to see Mandalay’s wonders. Here are some of our favorite sites:

Recommended Articles

Mahamuni Pagoda - Radiant Buddha Likeness

Located in the southern region of Mandalay, the Maharani Pagoda is home to one of the most popular Buddhist statues in the world. Having made a journey itself back to Mandalay in 1784, the idol is a beloved stop along the pilgrim’s road.

Both tourists and devotees are drawn to this 3.82-meter statue. It is layered in gold, patiently washed by monks each morning, and one of only five sculptures made of the Buddha while he was alive. The shining likeness wears a crown of diamonds, rubies and sapphires and is a majestic sight.

Recommended Itinerary

98.8% Positive Customer reviews among 10,000+

Shwenandaw Monastery - Embossed Teakwood Beauty

Shwenandaw means “Golden Palace” because it was once part of the Royal Palace. No longer plated in gold, this monastery still exhibits intricately carved 19th-century architecture.

As you walk through, you will see stories told in the beautiful relief carvings. All around the walls and roofs are shapes or designs etched into the beautiful teak. The main shrine houses a gilt statue of the Buddha.

Kuthodaw Pagoda - Peruse the World's Largest Book

Built in 1857, the exterior of this temple is completely covered in gold. The real treasure, however, is in the 730 marble structures that comprise the ‘book’ containing the whole of the Buddhist canon.

As you meander through these rows of stupas, you will see that each tablet contains approximately 100 lines. When completed in 1868, the words on each stone were plated with gold. The gold was looted several decades later, but the tablets remained and are recognized as the world’s largest book.

Recommended Itinerary

Mandalay Hill - Sunset Sanctuary

For a breath-taking view of the sunset, Mandalay Hill is the place to go. The climb on this pilgrim’s route is an easy one and well worth it for the resulting panoramic view of the countryside. If you prefer a more leisurely time, there is an elevator to take you to the top, but you will miss some of the sights along the way.

En route you will see a giant standing-Buddha and a statue of Sanda Muhki, both of whom help depict prophecies of the holy man.

Once you reach the top of the hill, there are two temples, the Sandamuni and Sutaungpyei Pagodas. Here, at this tranquil site, pilgrims often present offerings and pray.

Mandalay Palace - A Regal Piece of History

Mandalay Palace sits nestled safely inside a walled perimeter and is surrounded by a beautiful moat. The original palace was destroyed during WWII, but this is a replica of the home of King Mindon and his family in the late 19th century.

Stroll the extensive grounds and enjoy the shady, ancient gardens, playgrounds, and swimming pools. For those interested in its military aspects, security ports for soldiers, horses, and archers can be viewed.

You will also encounter sheds for the royal animals, audience halls and a monastery. Royal clothing is on display and can even be worn for photos.

Recommended Itinerary

U-Bein Bridge in Amarapura - Splendor from Dawn to Dusk

For a nice change of pace, stroll across Taungthaman Lake on the longest teak bridge in the world. The water levels vary according to the season, but the lake will always give you a sense of serenity.

If you rise early, you might see local monks and villagers beginning their day with a journey to the opposite side. You can shop on the bridge for handicrafts and other souvenirs. At sunset, the lake takes on an orange hue, silhouetting both the bridge and pedestrians against a magical backdrop.

The Ancient City of Inwa - Travel to the Past on a Horse and Buggy

Go back in time on a horse-drawn carriage to this ancient city. The enchantment here is the glimpse of history you get from a city which was destroyed by invasions and earthquakes, and later rebuilt.

This is the former capital of the country, and its oldest buildings date back to the 14th century; but each renovation brought a new style of architecture. The splendor of the past can be seen in the huge fort walls, standing ever-vigilant around the old buildings.

Here you can also see the Maha Aung Mye Bonzan monastery. Unlike its counterparts, this marvel was made of brick. The entrance is guarded by stone chinthes and its ornate design makes it a must-see for any traveler.

Recommended Itinerary

Sagaing - Dazzling Pagodas Shining Amidst Verdant Hillsides

Sagaing is situated on lush, green hills just opposite Inwa. It boasts numerous monasteries and pagodas, ranging from gold to silver and white. Their gold spires can best be seen from Sagaing Hill.

There is an annual festival in November that draws both locals and tourists alike, and includes marionette shows and other cultural delights.

The Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda, built in the 14th century, is located here as well. It once housed Buddhist relics and is rumored to grant 14 wishes.

Mingun - Immense Temple with Spectacular Views

This temple is located on the Ayeyarwady River. At nearly 150 meters, its awe-inspiring size is truly a wonder, giving it spectacular panoramic views of the countryside.

What differentiates this superstructure from others is that it was never finished. An astrologer predicted that King Bodawpaya would die upon its completion, so the project was abandoned. Had it been finished, the stupa atop the behemoth would have been the largest in the world.

Today, a model of this stupa is located nearby, and contains the Mingun Bell. Originally commissioned for the temple, it is now said to be the largest unflawed bell in the world.

Experience the Wonders of Myanmar with Asia Highlights

Let Asia Highlights take the worry out of your travel. When you choose one of our tour packages, you get an authentic experience in one of the most pristine and undiscovered countries in Asia. We will arrange all of your travel needs and can customize your trip to ensure you have the best experience possible. Begin your carefree getaway by clicking on the link below!

Recommended Tours

Visit Myanmar with Asia Highlights

We provide tailor-made tours to Myanmar. Tours typically start or end in Yangon or Mandalay and last approximately 9 days; visiting Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and Inle Lake.

You might like:

9-Day Myanmar Highlights Tour

14-Day Myanmar and Thailand Essence Tour

16-Day Myanmar Tour in Depth

You might like to read

Plan a Trip to Mandalay

Best Time to Visit Mandalay

Top 7 Things to Do in Mandalay

How to Get Around Mandalay

Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)

  • Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
  • Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
  • Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

We are here to help you...
Start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our travel advisors. Create My Trip
4.9 ExcellentTrustPilot rating TrustPilot Logo

Sign up to Our Newsletter

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

The Asia Highlights Experience

1-to-1 Expert Planning

1-to-1 Expert Planning

Your tour will be tailor-made to suit you by a destination expert. Your personal travel advisor will always reply within 24 hours.

Personal Journeys

Personal Journeys

Enjoy having your own personal local guide and ride. Explore destinations at your own pace. Have as much flexibility as possible.

Authentic Experiences

Authentic Experiences

Go beyond the sightseeing. Understand the destinations by practicing the local culture and interacting with local people.

One-Stop Service

One-Stop Service

Leave all the booking work to us, including international and internal transportation, visas, hotels, meals, and activities.

Where Can We Take You Today?

About Us
At Asia Highlights, we are committed to providing you a premium, quality private tour, whether it's a milestone trip, family trip, or bucketlist trip — your planning will be made easy with just one specialist throughout. Know more ...
Rated 4.9 out of 5 | Excellent
China Highlights International Travel Service Co., LTD
Corporate Number: 914503003486045699
Featured on
Medias