About Mandalay, Myanmar

The modern centre of Buddhism and Myanmar arts, the old royal city of Mandalay, 670km north of Yangon, is also the home of traditional artisans - including wood and stone carvers, silversmiths and weavers - and for the production of gold leaf. The former capital, prior to British rule, and the second largest city in the country, it takes its name from the nearby 240-metre Mandalay Hill, and is rich in monasteries and pagodas.


Shwe Nandaw Kyaung Temple Grounds - Within the grounds is the sole remaining building of the once sumptuous moated palace. King Mindun’s former apartment, built mainly of teak, is decorated with beautifully carved panels and a photograph of the Atumashi Kyaung Monastery, destroyed by fire in 1890.
Mahamuni Pagoda - The ’Great Pagoda’ houses the revered Mahumuni image. The image was brought from Rakhine in 1784, and is thickly covered in gold leaf from years of worship by devout Buddhists.
Fort Mandalay - Formerly the grounds of the ancient royal palace, surrounded by a wall and a ditch, it now serves as a military garrison. Visitors require a special permit to enter the Fort.
Eindawya Pagoda - Built in 1847 and covered in gold leaf.
Shwekyimyint Pagoda - Contains the original Buddha image consecrated by Prince Minshinzaw during the Bagan period.
Mandalay Hill - Stairways lead up to temples and a panoramic view.
Shweyattaw Buddha - Close to the hill. The statue’s outstretched finger points towards the city.
Pyin Oo Lwin - The former British hill station of Maymyo, 67 km east of Mandalay, stands about 1,000 meters above sea level. Though the town was damaged during World War II, several of the old English houses were spared. This is also the centre for Myanmar’s small but burgeoning new coffee industry