Mandalay

Mandalay (Burmese: မန္တလေး) is the second largest city (after Yangon), and a former capital of Myanmar. The city is the economic and religious hub of upper Myanmar. The city is centred on the royal palace, and has wide avenues filled with bicycles and motorcycles.

Mandalay is known for its millionaires, its monks (half of the country's monks live in Mandalay and surrounding areas) and its cultural diversity.

The very name Mandalay evokes the splendours of old Burma. But most people will be surprised to learn that Mandalay is not an old city, not even a medieval one, but rather a new city created by King Mingdon Min in 1857 as the new capital of the kingdom of Ava. Only two Burmese kings ruled from there, King Mingdon and King Thibaw, before the British conquest of Upper Burma in 1885. It was a city of splendour between 1858 and 1885, but most of the magnificence has vanished, gone in the fires that consume wooden structures and by intensive Allied bombing during the Second World War. The city, neatly planned with its lettered roads and numbered streets, is a British creation. The once magnificent royal palace and the great Atumashi ("incomparable") pagoda, King Mingdon Min's finest creations, are modern reconstructions. Today, Mandalay lies at the end of the Lashio Rd and it is, by Burmese standards, relatively prosperous as a centre for trade with China and India. Despite the capital having been moved to Naypyidaw, Mandalay remains by far the main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar.

Mandalay is ethnically diverse, with the Bamar (Burmans) forming a slight majority. There has been a major influx of Chinese from mainland China, and the local Chinese (both recent migrants and descendants of colonial-era immigrants) form 30-40% of the population. Their influence is seen in the Chinese-style glass buildings throughout the city. Other ethnic groups include the Shan, who are ethnically and linguistically related to the Thais and Laotians, and the Karen (Kayin). There is also a sizable ethnic Indian population.

Mandalay has a semi-tropical climate. Winter (which is dry and cold) lasts from Nov-Feb, and summer lasts from Mar-May. Because Mandalay is in the central dry zone, it receives far less rain than the more tropical south.

Mandalay has a "Mandalay Zone Fee" of 10,000 kyat that covers most of the central attractions and lasts for about a week. Buy it from the first attraction you visit. The tickets are not always checked at all attractions and you might be able to get individual cheaper tickets for some attractions. Access to the Mandalay hill requires an additional entry fee of 1,000 kyat, and Mingung and Sagaing are 5,000 kyat extra both (not always enforced).

• Jade Market, 87th St. An interesting look at the jade trade in Mandalay. See raw jade being cut, polished and finally sold (sometimes even over smartphones). All foreigners are supposed to pay an entrance fee but it is sporadically enforced. Souvenirs for less than US$1. 2500 kyat.
• Flower Market, 26 and Pulaing Street. A small market with dozens of vendors selling a wide variety of flowers and greenery. Visitors may also venture into the larger market to the north where vegetables, fish, meat and fruit is sold and repacked for distribution.

Jade Market, 87th St. An interesting look at the jade trade in Mandalay. See raw jade being cut, polished and finally sold (sometimes even over smartphones). All foreigners are supposed to pay an entrance fee but it is sporadically enforced. Souvenirs for less than US$1. 2500 kyat.

Flower Market, 26 and Pulaing Street. A small market with dozens of vendors selling a wide variety of flowers and greenery. Visitors may also venture into the larger market to the north where vegetables, fish, meat and fruit is sold and repacked for distribution.

• Maha Myat Muni Paya. Unlike the other main attractions which are mostly located around Mandalay hill, Myanmar's second holiest pilgrimage site is located to the South-west end of the city. It contains a 4 m high Buddha statue, made of gold and decorated with precious jewels. A few inches worth of gold has been pressed onto the statue in the form of gold-leaves, leaving only the face open. Women are not allowed to approach the statue, but men can and also touch the Muni. The statue was brought from Rakhine State, southeast of Mandalay. Nearby the central hall, there is a hall displaying statues stolen from Rakhine state, which were in turn stolen through a string of robberies from Ang Kor Wat via Thailand. The figures may have belonged to Hindu mythological figures Shiva and Airavat, the elephant of Indra. You will see people rubbing the statues as they believes this cures of them of ailments, especially by touching the corresponding body part on the statue. Visit the site around 04:30-05:00 for the amazing ceremony of washing the Buddha's face, which occurs every day and is attended by hundreds of people. 1,000 kyat surcharge for photography.
• Kuthodaw Paya. This is known as the site of the world's largest book. Built by King Mingdon in the 1800s, 729 white stupas within the complex contain the complete text of the Tripitaka, Theravada Buddhism's most sacred text, which are considered to constitute the largest book. The nearby Sandamuni paya contains a similar set of structures
• Sandamuni Paya. Similar to Kuthodaw Paya, and next to it, it also contains a large number of white stupas containing the Tripitika. Sandamuni also contains the world's largest iron Buddha image. Quiet and peaceful, similar to Kuthodaw.
• Shwe Kyi Myin Paya. Built in the 1st century, by Prince Min Shin Saw.
• Shwenandaw Monastery. A monastery made entirely of teak, with beautiful intricate carvings. It was built as part of the royal palace by King Mingdon and moved to its current site by his son, King Thibaw in the late 19th century. It is the only major building from the original wooden royal palace to have survived the bombing of World War II, and thus is the only authentic part of the royal palace which can still be seen today. It was the bedroom in which King Mingdon spent the last of his days. After that, the structure was given to the monks, and became a monastery. The intricate craftwork on the teak pillars, ceilings, roofs and walls, is breathtaking. One can get lost in observing the various animals and mythical creatures, or the thousands of athletic, gracefully twisted and seductive poses and expressions of the dancers seen on the pillars.
• Atumashi Kyaung. Located in front of Shwenandaw, it contains a very large hall, with a cool silent ambience suitable for a meditation. It was built in 1857 by King Mingdon using teak, but after being destroyed in fire, it was reconstructed to form the structure that you see today. The structure consists of five rectangular terraces in a graduated form.

Maha Myat Muni Paya. Unlike the other main attractions which are mostly located around Mandalay hill, Myanmar's second holiest pilgrimage site is located to the South-west end of the city. It contains a 4 m high Buddha statue, made of gold and decorated with precious jewels. A few inches worth of gold has been pressed onto the statue in the form of gold-leaves, leaving only the face open. Women are not allowed to approach the statue, but men can and also touch the Muni. The statue was brought from Rakhine State, southeast of Mandalay. Nearby the central hall, there is a hall displaying statues stolen from Rakhine state, which were in turn stolen through a string of robberies from Ang Kor Wat via Thailand. The figures may have belonged to Hindu mythological figures Shiva and Airavat, the elephant of Indra. You will see people rubbing the statues as they believes this cures of them of ailments, especially by touching the corresponding body part on the statue. Visit the site around 04:30-05:00 for the amazing ceremony of washing the Buddha's face, which occurs every day and is attended by hundreds of people. 1,000 kyat surcharge for photography.

Kuthodaw Paya. This is known as the site of the world's largest book. Built by King Mingdon in the 1800s, 729 white stupas within the complex contain the complete text of the Tripitaka, Theravada Buddhism's most sacred text, which are considered to constitute the largest book. The nearby Sandamuni paya contains a similar set of structures

Sandamuni Paya. Similar to Kuthodaw Paya, and next to it, it also contains a large number of white stupas containing the Tripitika. Sandamuni also contains the world's largest iron Buddha image. Quiet and peaceful, similar to Kuthodaw.

Shwe Kyi Myin Paya. Built in the 1st century, by Prince Min Shin Saw.

Shwenandaw Monastery. A monastery made entirely of teak, with beautiful intricate carvings. It was built as part of the royal palace by King Mingdon and moved to its current site by his son, King Thibaw in the late 19th century. It is the only major building from the original wooden royal palace to have survived the bombing of World War II, and thus is the only authentic part of the royal palace which can still be seen today. It was the bedroom in which King Mingdon spent the last of his days. After that, the structure was given to the monks, and became a monastery. The intricate craftwork on the teak pillars, ceilings, roofs and walls, is breathtaking. One can get lost in observing the various animals and mythical creatures, or the thousands of athletic, gracefully twisted and seductive poses and expressions of the dancers seen on the pillars.

Atumashi Kyaung. Located in front of Shwenandaw, it contains a very large hall, with a cool silent ambience suitable for a meditation. It was built in 1857 by King Mingdon using teak, but after being destroyed in fire, it was reconstructed to form the structure that you see today. The structure consists of five rectangular terraces in a graduated form.

• Royal Palace. A walled city within Mandalay built in 1861 by King Mingdon to fulfill a prophecy. The palace was destroyed in World War II and subsequently rebuilt. It has been renovated; some claim that it was renovated with forced labour. In addition, while the design of the reconstruction was fairly faithful to the original, the materials used were not with metal uses instead of the original teak. The palace contains several pavilions and chambers, most of which are empty. Tourists are only permitted to enter from the East Gate. An almost kilometre walk connects the entry gate to the palace proper. Replicas of throne rooms and chairs and Madame Tussaud-style images of Kings Mingdon and Thibaw with their chief consorts are on display. At the west end is the Palace Museum where palace memorabilia is on display including religious paraphernalia, court ritual implements, court dresses and uniforms, furniture, palanquins and litters, as well as weaponry. There are also photo exhibits. The surrounding area of the island is a military base, which creates a strange atmosphere. Your passport needs to be left with the security hut for the duration of the visit. The palace can also be seen from the summit of the Mandalay Hill. 10,000 kyat for foreigners.
• U Bein Bridge. A historic wooden bridge in the south of Mandalay. Due to the level of cleanliness, it may not look particularly attractive, especially if you are there in the dry season when the water is scarce. But this place allows a great slice view of local life, with locals walking back and forth, stopping for food and shopping, or standing in the water fishing. The stilted thatched huts are the homes of many of the poor in the area, some of whom sell snacks along the bridge.

Royal Palace. A walled city within Mandalay built in 1861 by King Mingdon to fulfill a prophecy. The palace was destroyed in World War II and subsequently rebuilt. It has been renovated; some claim that it was renovated with forced labour. In addition, while the design of the reconstruction was fairly faithful to the original, the materials used were not with metal uses instead of the original teak. The palace contains several pavilions and chambers, most of which are empty. Tourists are only permitted to enter from the East Gate. An almost kilometre walk connects the entry gate to the palace proper. Replicas of throne rooms and chairs and Madame Tussaud-style images of Kings Mingdon and Thibaw with their chief consorts are on display. At the west end is the Palace Museum where palace memorabilia is on display including religious paraphernalia, court ritual implements, court dresses and uniforms, furniture, palanquins and litters, as well as weaponry. There are also photo exhibits. The surrounding area of the island is a military base, which creates a strange atmosphere. Your passport needs to be left with the security hut for the duration of the visit. The palace can also be seen from the summit of the Mandalay Hill. 10,000 kyat for foreigners.

U Bein Bridge. A historic wooden bridge in the south of Mandalay. Due to the level of cleanliness, it may not look particularly attractive, especially if you are there in the dry season when the water is scarce. But this place allows a great slice view of local life, with locals walking back and forth, stopping for food and shopping, or standing in the water fishing. The stilted thatched huts are the homes of many of the poor in the area, some of whom sell snacks along the bridge.

• Mandalay Hill. One of the favourite sunset spots, and a good quarter-day activity. The climb is enjoyable, providing scenic views of several other attractions and Mandalay. From the base of Mandalay Hill you can either climb the stairs or take a pick-up to Sutaungpyei Pagoda at the top, but the walk is probably worth it in order to catch the scenic views along the way. The climb takes about 30-45 min and requires moderate fitness, but is not overly demanding and is in the shade. Has views of Kuthodaw and Sandamuni paya, and the royal palace in the distance. Plenty of stray dogs, shops and other interesting stops (Buddhas, pagodas, viewpoints) line the path, such as the Gothama Buddha shrine. The two main south entrances are guarded by either Nats (spirit figures) or Chinthes (great mythical lions), but there are several other entrances.
  Along the climb from the southern stairs near the place where these pathways merge, you come across a large statue of Buddha and his kneeling disciple Ananda, who climbed this very hill two centuries before Mingdon conquered it. Buddha is seen ominously pointing towards Mandalay, indicating that after two centuries, the capital of this region would shift to Mandalay. It is this prophecy that Mingdon fulfilled.
  Further up, you come across a shrine showing the various stages of a man's life: birth, youth, monk, old age and death. Interestingly, there are similarities between the birth and death stage indicating the cyclical nature of life believed by Buddhism. You can see same set of figures as an image in Shwezigon Pagoda in Bagan.
  At the top, accessed by escalator, is the shrine to the ogress Sandamukhi on the penultimate storey. Sandamukhi is depicted as offering her cut breasts to Buddha in a scary gesture. It is said the ogress took rebirth as King Mingdon.
  Additional 1,000 kyat for foreigners to enter the topmost level and see the pagoda, which can be avoided by watching the sunset from the Ogress storey. However, the open four-directional view from the top storey may be worth it, apart from the access to the toilets in this area. Footwear including socks are prohibited at the pagoda, which offers nice views of Mandalay and the surrounding plains. At sunset, Sutaungpyei Pagoda crowds with tourists, and many monks and other locals climb the stairs with the hope of talking to foreigners and practicing their English. Shared pick-up trucks to the base of Mandalay Hill run along 83rd St, one block from the Clock Tower, and leave every 20 minutes (500-1,000 kyat). Private pick-ups are also available (5,000 kyat). Motorbike taxis from the city centre to and from the base of Mandalay Hill cost 1,000-2,000 kyat. Try not to come down by an obscure entrance to a less crowded area, from where it will be difficult to catch a taxi..
• Jade Market Tour and Lunch at a Monastery. One of the most fascinating attractions in Mandalay that is less visited by tourists is the Maha Aung Myay Jade Market. Each day, thousands gather to buy, sell, grind and polish jade in the chaotic market, the largest in Southeast Asia. A local guide named Soe Paing, who has in the past worked as an apprentice at the market, offers private tours of the jade market and an insider's look at its merchants. 40,000 kyat.
• Gold leaf pressing tour. You can have a free tour to see how gold is pressed into fine gold leaves, that is bought by several thousand devotees all over Myanmar and pressed into several Buddha statues like Maha Myat Muni Paya. There are at least two places where this can be done for free in the city: King Galon and Golden Rose. The staff at both places speak English and guide you through the process, with no pressure to buy. Free.
• Mandalay Marionettes Theatre, 66th St (Between 26th & 27th St, +95 2 34446. daily at 20:30. This is a hard-to-find show, even in Yangon. The show lasts 1h and has a traditional orchestra. Everything will be explained in English. Book in advance during high season. 15,000 kyat.
• Mintha Theater, 27th St (Between 65th & 66th St, +95 9 6803607. Daily, 20:30. Classical court and folkloric dances that include a full 8-piece traditional orchestra. 8,000 kyat.
• Moustache Brothers. 20:30. Formerly a comedy trio who have served 12 years in prison for their political (anti-government) performances and jokes. Now only one of the three performs. About half is comedy and the other half is traditional dancing performed by his family. They are only allowed to perform from their home and for tourists. They perform every night. The admission fee goes towards helping political prisoners. The show lasts for about 1.5 hours and mostly features Burmese dance and some political jokes. Rickshaw drivers will try for a return fee. 10,000 kyat.
• Waterfall Hill. Outdoor sports, especially caving and rock climbing are popular endeavours here. It is not spoiled, not crowded and not far from the city.
• A Glimpse of Mandalay Cooking class and day tour, between 35th & 36th St, between 57th & 58th St, Yoe Yoe Lay Guesthouse (free pick up and drop off is included., +95 944 404 1944. 09:00-18:00. A combination of cooking class and day tour and the first of its kind in Myanmar. The cooking class is located in a local village about 20-min drive from Mandalay. Hands on teaching while enjoying the green paddy fields. After the cooking class, they will take you a bike tour to see the daily life of the village and end the tour by seeing sunset in a historic place. US$30.
• Amaravati Thai Massage, Corner of 62th and 37th (In the east of Mandalay. Get body massage, foot massage and aroma massage. They are very professional and the ambience is nice and relaxing. 8,000 kyat for 1-hr body massage.
• City Park, Myo Patt Rd. A leisure park with swimming pool. Women are requested to wear a t-shirt and shorts. 500 kyat.

A whole day tour to Maha Muni, Innwa and U Bein Bridge. Sagaing Hill can be included as well. You can visit U Bein Bridge twice: Once during the day and once at sunset. Start early at the Clock Tower in Mandalay (26th Street, 84th Street) and cycle south 84th Street till two streets after the 42th street. The road will then split into 2, go left. After the next bend you will see the entrance to Maha Muni Image. Lock your bicycle and take your time to explore the temple and the gardens behind.

Go back to where the 84th Street splits into two and this time go right. Continue further south. Parallel to your street runs another, getting really close to yours after about 3 km, only to then turn right when yours goes gradually left (there is a petrol station, 100 m to your left is a white pagoda). From there continue on the main road. After 400 m the road bends right, then continues straight for about 1km and then bends left. You can stop there to visit the Burkayar Monastery. Afterwards, continue straight and leave the main road. After 500 m the railway tracks cross the street. Continue straight through the neighbourhoods for 500 m more until you reach the Taungthaman Lake. Follow the road anti-clockwise along the lake and after 2 km you will reach the parking area of U Bein Bridge. You might have to pay a small parking fee (100-200 kyat). Cross the Bridge and settle in a teahouse on the other side.

Get back on the bicycle and go west until you hit the main road (Sagaing-Mandalay Expy) and the tracks. From there you can explore the neighbourhoods and stop by any building where you hear the dominant rattling noise of the looms. There are factory-like businesses and private homes with only one or two machines. There are plenty, and you will be warmly welcomed to any of them to have a look.

To go to Innwa follow the main road (Saging-Mandalay Expy) further south for 4.5 km, always straight until you reach a roundabout. Go straight for Innwa, or turn right and cross the bridge to Sagaing. After another kilometre you will reach a crossing. The main road bends right a little and crosses the river to Sagaing, a smaller road bends sharply left to somewhere else. And straight continues a small street of rather poor condition. Take this small street and follow it for another kilometre until you reach the river. You can only cross it by ferry (1 min). 1,000 kyat per person and 200 kyat extra for the bicycle return ticket.

Once you leave the ferry you will want to continue as soon as possible as the horse cart tour touts pester you. Follow the horse tracks.

Mahar Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery: From the jetty follow the road, go left, then right at the T-crossing. When the road turns left follow the small trail straight instead (no horse cart can pass), cross the tiny bridge. And after 50 m you reach the monastery (zone ticket). Right hand side from the main entrance there is a stupa, walled with two doors each having stairs. The stupa is connected to the monastery.

Take 2-3 hr to explore Innwa fully. Then go back the same way to see the sunset at U Bein Bridge. There are street lamps all the way to Mandalay. There are no hills, just flat land.

• Mandalay Clock Tower - Maha Mudi Image: 4 km, 20 min
• Maha Muni Image - U Bein Bridge: 8 km, 40 min
• U Bein Bridge - Innwa: 8 km, 40 min

In case you got lost just ask people for the way. As few cycle in the area, not even locals, they are very curious and will gladly help you. Have your destinations written in Myanma as it's easier for people to understand. Try to get a bicycle with lights.

Costs: 1,500 kyat for bicycle, 1,200 kyat for the ferry. Alternatively you can rent a motorcycle for 10,000 kyat. But only one can fit at a time on the ferry.

Mandalay Hill. One of the favourite sunset spots, and a good quarter-day activity. The climb is enjoyable, providing scenic views of several other attractions and Mandalay. From the base of Mandalay Hill you can either climb the stairs or take a pick-up to Sutaungpyei Pagoda at the top, but the walk is probably worth it in order to catch the scenic views along the way. The climb takes about 30-45 min and requires moderate fitness, but is not overly demanding and is in the shade. Has views of Kuthodaw and Sandamuni paya, and the royal palace in the distance. Plenty of stray dogs, shops and other interesting stops (Buddhas, pagodas, viewpoints) line the path, such as the Gothama Buddha shrine. The two main south entrances are guarded by either Nats (spirit figures) or Chinthes (great mythical lions), but there are several other entrances.
Along the climb from the southern stairs near the place where these pathways merge, you come across a large statue of Buddha and his kneeling disciple Ananda, who climbed this very hill two centuries before Mingdon conquered it. Buddha is seen ominously pointing towards Mandalay, indicating that after two centuries, the capital of this region would shift to Mandalay. It is this prophecy that Mingdon fulfilled.
Further up, you come across a shrine showing the various stages of a man's life: birth, youth, monk, old age and death. Interestingly, there are similarities between the birth and death stage indicating the cyclical nature of life believed by Buddhism. You can see same set of figures as an image in Shwezigon Pagoda in Bagan.
At the top, accessed by escalator, is the shrine to the ogress Sandamukhi on the penultimate storey. Sandamukhi is depicted as offering her cut breasts to Buddha in a scary gesture. It is said the ogress took rebirth as King Mingdon.
Additional 1,000 kyat for foreigners to enter the topmost level and see the pagoda, which can be avoided by watching the sunset from the Ogress storey. However, the open four-directional view from the top storey may be worth it, apart from the access to the toilets in this area. Footwear including socks are prohibited at the pagoda, which offers nice views of Mandalay and the surrounding plains. At sunset, Sutaungpyei Pagoda crowds with tourists, and many monks and other locals climb the stairs with the hope of talking to foreigners and practicing their English. Shared pick-up trucks to the base of Mandalay Hill run along 83rd St, one block from the Clock Tower, and leave every 20 minutes (500-1,000 kyat). Private pick-ups are also available (5,000 kyat). Motorbike taxis from the city centre to and from the base of Mandalay Hill cost 1,000-2,000 kyat. Try not to come down by an obscure entrance to a less crowded area, from where it will be difficult to catch a taxi..

Jade Market Tour and Lunch at a Monastery. One of the most fascinating attractions in Mandalay that is less visited by tourists is the Maha Aung Myay Jade Market. Each day, thousands gather to buy, sell, grind and polish jade in the chaotic market, the largest in Southeast Asia. A local guide named Soe Paing, who has in the past worked as an apprentice at the market, offers private tours of the jade market and an insider's look at its merchants. 40,000 kyat.

Gold leaf pressing tour. You can have a free tour to see how gold is pressed into fine gold leaves, that is bought by several thousand devotees all over Myanmar and pressed into several Buddha statues like Maha Myat Muni Paya. There are at least two places where this can be done for free in the city: King Galon and Golden Rose. The staff at both places speak English and guide you through the process, with no pressure to buy. Free.

Mandalay Marionettes Theatre, 66th St (Between 26th & 27th St, +95 2 34446. daily at 20:30. This is a hard-to-find show, even in Yangon. The show lasts 1h and has a traditional orchestra. Everything will be explained in English. Book in advance during high season. 15,000 kyat.

Mintha Theater, 27th St (Between 65th & 66th St, +95 9 6803607. Daily, 20:30. Classical court and folkloric dances that include a full 8-piece traditional orchestra. 8,000 kyat.

Moustache Brothers. 20:30. Formerly a comedy trio who have served 12 years in prison for their political (anti-government) performances and jokes. Now only one of the three performs. About half is comedy and the other half is traditional dancing performed by his family. They are only allowed to perform from their home and for tourists. They perform every night. The admission fee goes towards helping political prisoners. The show lasts for about 1.5 hours and mostly features Burmese dance and some political jokes. Rickshaw drivers will try for a return fee. 10,000 kyat.

Waterfall Hill. Outdoor sports, especially caving and rock climbing are popular endeavours here. It is not spoiled, not crowded and not far from the city.

A Glimpse of Mandalay Cooking class and day tour, between 35th & 36th St, between 57th & 58th St, Yoe Yoe Lay Guesthouse (free pick up and drop off is included., +95 944 404 1944. 09:00-18:00. A combination of cooking class and day tour and the first of its kind in Myanmar. The cooking class is located in a local village about 20-min drive from Mandalay. Hands on teaching while enjoying the green paddy fields. After the cooking class, they will take you a bike tour to see the daily life of the village and end the tour by seeing sunset in a historic place. US$30.

Amaravati Thai Massage, Corner of 62th and 37th (In the east of Mandalay. Get body massage, foot massage and aroma massage. They are very professional and the ambience is nice and relaxing. 8,000 kyat for 1-hr body massage.

City Park, Myo Patt Rd. A leisure park with swimming pool. Women are requested to wear a t-shirt and shorts. 500 kyat.

• Zegyo Market. A street bazaar near the city centre.

Zegyo Market. A street bazaar near the city centre.

Mandalay is a former capital of Myanmar and a major trading centre between Myanmar and its neighbours, China, India and Bangladesh. As a result, it has a notable array of specialities from various regions in Myanmar and from other countries. Cuisine from the Shan State (usually including fermented pastes, vegetables and meats) is popular in Mandalay which has a sizable Shan minority. Muslim Chinese noodles, pronounced pan-THEI-kao-sweh (flat thin noodles mixed with an array of spices, chili, and chicken), are also famous in Mandalay and the surrounding hills. Regardless of where you eat, try to leave space for Htou moun(to-moh), a traditional Burmese dessert sold only in Mandalay; it contains a lot of oil and is extremely sweet.

• Unique Bar and Restaurant, 66th Street (Nearby Mandalay hill. This bar and restaurant is near the foot of the Mandalay hill, and provides an easily accessible lunch spot during a tour of the nearby monasteries and the hill. The cuisine is a mix of Western, local and South-east Asian options. The curries are worth trying for their variety, and the coffee is good. The bar has an extensive range of cocktails, and provides hookahs. Very popular in the evenings, but less so during lunch hours. main course at around 5,500 kyat.
• Mingalar-bar, corner of 71st and 29th Street. up to 21:30. A good place to try a large variety of local Myanmarese cuisine. Apart from the pun-ny name, the restaurant's dishes are quite creative. The best part about the main course is the large spread of sumptuous appetizers and sauces of different types, served at the beginning of the meal. The local twists on many dishes is great. Don't leave without trying the special dry mango pork curry and mutton curry, and it is also worth attempting the river prawns, and if available, boar. There is a sumptuous dessert platter also available with many local sweets made of unique combinations of glutinous rice, banana, peanut, coconut etc. The service is very friendly. box from 2,000 kyat; 5,000 kyat for a full main course.
• Shop for Htou moun, 78th and 31th Street (left of the train station. They will normally let you try the different types. You can have mixed boxes as well. Eat them within 4-7 days (depends on type) box from 1,800 kyat.
• Indian Street Restaurant, 82nd & 27th. Cheap and delicious Indian food, including chapati (2 curries and 2 rotis, for 300 kyat), birmani, and mutton curries.
• Mann Restaurant, 83rd St (between 25th & 26th St. A Chinese restaurant, frequented by locals, but not so much by foreigners. Has a number of basic Chinese meals, at around 2,000 kyat (meat), 1,500 kyat (vegetarian) a plate. Nothing special. Easily recognised from the street by the abundant yellow and black advertising for a local whisky brand. Sells beer and alcohol, Myanmar Beer at 1,500 kyat a bottle compared to 2,000 kyat in Yangon.
• Street Pancakes, 81st & 26th (in the SW block of 81st & 26th St.; enter the unmarked alley going west, next to Myawaddy Bank. Afternoons you'll find a pleasant Indian lady making savoury and sweet street pancakes in a cast iron frying pan in front of her house. Cheap, delicious and pleasant company.
• Too Too Myanmar Cuisine, 28th St (Between 74th & 75th St. OK, touristified Burmese curries.
• Super 81, 39th Street, between 81st and 82nd, Mandalay. Daily 09:00–23:00. Double-storey restaurant with great barbecued seafood. Air-conditioned second floor. The extensive menu includes Thai, Chinese, Indian and western dishes. Popular with locals. 5,000–7,500 kyat.
• Grand Royal, 69th Street, between 34th and 35th. Nice busy restaurant with two floors. English menu available, but no English spoken. Try Tauk Tauk Kyaw (chicken, veggies and spicy mint 2,500 kyat), Pinsein (chicken pie with veggies, 2,000 kyat). They have hand-mixed-pineapple lassi which means yoghurt and pineapple pieces with ice cubes that you eat (and mix) with your spoon. from 1,500 kyat.
• Nameless Street Stall at corner of 30th and 84th Street. dinnertime. Busy place right at the crossing with more than 10 curries to choose from. The staff just knows enough English to point out what meat (or fish) is in the curry. Choose by the look. The curry traditionally comes with rice, soup and veggy plate. Set meal with one curry 800 kyat.
• Night market, along corner of 76th and 34th Street. best time 18:00-19:00. Choose a shop where there are many people in order to point at the dish you want as there are no English menus. Stalls sell hot pots, dumplings (soup, steamed, salad), Thai noodles, seafood with flat rice noodles, pig feet with noodles, sticky rice and other sweets. A yoghurt dessert with honey or sugar is popular with locals.
• Lashiolay, 23rd St. (between 83rd & 84th St.). Great Shan food. Choose by pointing the main dishes. Always comes with a little salad and rice. Limited English. From 3,000 kyat.
• Twist Potato, 26th street, between 78th & 79th (south of the moat, 200 m from the southwest corner, +959777788820. 10:00-21:30. As a Korean franchise they do serve twist potato (with or without sausage) their trademark, and spicy food for the ones who like it. But they also offer finger foods and Western dishes (fish and chips, burger, spaghetti), along with fried dishes. For dessert ice cream and waffles (both can be combined). Also offer hot and iced coffees, fresh juices, smoothies and yogurts. Very reasonable prices. Menu in English. Air conditioned. 2 floors. Friendly staff, and management speaks English. Extra service offered: one can rent a motorbike from here (and get a discount on the food)

Unique Bar and Restaurant, 66th Street (Nearby Mandalay hill. This bar and restaurant is near the foot of the Mandalay hill, and provides an easily accessible lunch spot during a tour of the nearby monasteries and the hill. The cuisine is a mix of Western, local and South-east Asian options. The curries are worth trying for their variety, and the coffee is good. The bar has an extensive range of cocktails, and provides hookahs. Very popular in the evenings, but less so during lunch hours. main course at around 5,500 kyat.

Mingalar-bar, corner of 71st and 29th Street. up to 21:30. A good place to try a large variety of local Myanmarese cuisine. Apart from the pun-ny name, the restaurant's dishes are quite creative. The best part about the main course is the large spread of sumptuous appetizers and sauces of different types, served at the beginning of the meal. The local twists on many dishes is great. Don't leave without trying the special dry mango pork curry and mutton curry, and it is also worth attempting the river prawns, and if available, boar. There is a sumptuous dessert platter also available with many local sweets made of unique combinations of glutinous rice, banana, peanut, coconut etc. The service is very friendly. box from 2,000 kyat; 5,000 kyat for a full main course.

Shop for Htou moun, 78th and 31th Street (left of the train station. They will normally let you try the different types. You can have mixed boxes as well. Eat them within 4-7 days (depends on type) box from 1,800 kyat.

Indian Street Restaurant, 82nd & 27th. Cheap and delicious Indian food, including chapati (2 curries and 2 rotis, for 300 kyat), birmani, and mutton curries.

Mann Restaurant, 83rd St (between 25th & 26th St. A Chinese restaurant, frequented by locals, but not so much by foreigners. Has a number of basic Chinese meals, at around 2,000 kyat (meat), 1,500 kyat (vegetarian) a plate. Nothing special. Easily recognised from the street by the abundant yellow and black advertising for a local whisky brand. Sells beer and alcohol, Myanmar Beer at 1,500 kyat a bottle compared to 2,000 kyat in Yangon.

Street Pancakes, 81st & 26th (in the SW block of 81st & 26th St.; enter the unmarked alley going west, next to Myawaddy Bank. Afternoons you'll find a pleasant Indian lady making savoury and sweet street pancakes in a cast iron frying pan in front of her house. Cheap, delicious and pleasant company.

Too Too Myanmar Cuisine, 28th St (Between 74th & 75th St. OK, touristified Burmese curries.

Super 81, 39th Street, between 81st and 82nd, Mandalay. Daily 09:00–23:00. Double-storey restaurant with great barbecued seafood. Air-conditioned second floor. The extensive menu includes Thai, Chinese, Indian and western dishes. Popular with locals. 5,000–7,500 kyat.

Grand Royal, 69th Street, between 34th and 35th. Nice busy restaurant with two floors. English menu available, but no English spoken. Try Tauk Tauk Kyaw (chicken, veggies and spicy mint 2,500 kyat), Pinsein (chicken pie with veggies, 2,000 kyat). They have hand-mixed-pineapple lassi which means yoghurt and pineapple pieces with ice cubes that you eat (and mix) with your spoon. from 1,500 kyat.

Nameless Street Stall at corner of 30th and 84th Street. dinnertime. Busy place right at the crossing with more than 10 curries to choose from. The staff just knows enough English to point out what meat (or fish) is in the curry. Choose by the look. The curry traditionally comes with rice, soup and veggy plate. Set meal with one curry 800 kyat.

Night market, along corner of 76th and 34th Street. best time 18:00-19:00. Choose a shop where there are many people in order to point at the dish you want as there are no English menus. Stalls sell hot pots, dumplings (soup, steamed, salad), Thai noodles, seafood with flat rice noodles, pig feet with noodles, sticky rice and other sweets. A yoghurt dessert with honey or sugar is popular with locals.

Lashiolay, 23rd St. (between 83rd & 84th St.). Great Shan food. Choose by pointing the main dishes. Always comes with a little salad and rice. Limited English. From 3,000 kyat.

Twist Potato, 26th street, between 78th & 79th (south of the moat, 200 m from the southwest corner, +959777788820. 10:00-21:30. As a Korean franchise they do serve twist potato (with or without sausage) their trademark, and spicy food for the ones who like it. But they also offer finger foods and Western dishes (fish and chips, burger, spaghetti), along with fried dishes. For dessert ice cream and waffles (both can be combined). Also offer hot and iced coffees, fresh juices, smoothies and yogurts. Very reasonable prices. Menu in English. Air conditioned. 2 floors. Friendly staff, and management speaks English. Extra service offered: one can rent a motorbike from here (and get a discount on the food)

• Golden Coffee Shop, No. 80/4, 35th St (Between 88th and 89th St. Free Wi-Fi. Decently priced fruit shakes and coffees and a good array of snacks. Friendly staff try their best with English, but best take a phrasebook if you want to do more than point at pictures on menus. 500-2,000 kyat for drinks. Similar for food/snacks.
• Shwe Gokai, 35th St (N side of 35th St a few shops W of 68th St. This is a Chinese BBQ restaurant famous for its BBQ beef tongue and rice noodle soup (ba ba si). There is no English sign, but it is easy enough to find as it is the only BBQ restaurant on the north side of 35th St. It is next to a pottery store with many pots in front.
• V Cafe, No 408, Corner of 80th & 25th St (Near Royal Guesthouse, +95 9 6804928. A cool cafe at Mandalay with good food, friendly and attentive service at fair price. A nice escape from the teeming streets for those weary after a tiring day. US$5-10.
• Nylon Ice Cream Bar, Corner of 83rd and 25th Streets. A bit of a novelty, ice cream, milkshakes, fruit juices and beers that you can drink on the side of the bustling street. Flavours are geared towards Asian tastes, there's no food unless street sellers are operating, and there's usually a gaggle of beggars (who seem to be in league with the owners) harassing drinkers.

Golden Coffee Shop, No. 80/4, 35th St (Between 88th and 89th St. Free Wi-Fi. Decently priced fruit shakes and coffees and a good array of snacks. Friendly staff try their best with English, but best take a phrasebook if you want to do more than point at pictures on menus. 500-2,000 kyat for drinks. Similar for food/snacks.

Shwe Gokai, 35th St (N side of 35th St a few shops W of 68th St. This is a Chinese BBQ restaurant famous for its BBQ beef tongue and rice noodle soup (ba ba si). There is no English sign, but it is easy enough to find as it is the only BBQ restaurant on the north side of 35th St. It is next to a pottery store with many pots in front.

V Cafe, No 408, Corner of 80th & 25th St (Near Royal Guesthouse, +95 9 6804928. A cool cafe at Mandalay with good food, friendly and attentive service at fair price. A nice escape from the teeming streets for those weary after a tiring day. US$5-10.

Nylon Ice Cream Bar, Corner of 83rd and 25th Streets. A bit of a novelty, ice cream, milkshakes, fruit juices and beers that you can drink on the side of the bustling street. Flavours are geared towards Asian tastes, there's no food unless street sellers are operating, and there's usually a gaggle of beggars (who seem to be in league with the owners) harassing drinkers.

Mandalay is a haven for drug kingpins and is a main trading centre of illicit drugs. In 2005, an explosion occurred at Zegyo Market. However, Mandalay is generally a very safe city.

• Amarapura (Pyi) – Famous for its ancient sights, and for U Bein bridge, the world's longest teak bridge.
• Hsipaw – Bus leaves at 06:00 and 14:30 (5,000 kyat), 5 hr.
• Mawlamyine – Overnight bus Shwe Mandalar at 18:00 (15,000 kyat), leaves from the Highway Bus Station. Quite luxurious (Swedish) bus, includes a towel, pillow, blanket toothbrushes and water. Arrives at Mawlamyine at 05:00.
• Maymyo (Pyin U Lwin) – A former British hill station in a lush alpine forest. The small town contains a variety of colonial relics, and is most famous for its botanical gardens (modelled on England's Kew Gardens). Also known for the Defence Services Academy, the top-ranked military academy in Myanmar. Shared taxis come pick you up (6,500 kyat, back seat, 7,000 kyat front, 1.5 hr). Pickups leave from the corner of 27th and 82nd (1,500 kyat, 2 hr). Train is highly scenic, and is a must-do train journey if you like trains, but unfortunately leaves Mandalay at 04:00 (US$3 for upper class)
• Mingun – Best known for the Mingun Bell (one of the largest bells in the world), is a boat ride away. Boats leave from the Mingun jetty (all drivers know it) at 09:00 and return at 13:00. 5,000 kyat return.
• Pyin U Lwin – Hill station established by the British. Pick-up trucks run east along 35th street and take about 2 hours and cost 1,500 kyat. Shared taxis leave from 27th and 79th streets (next to the Mother's World Hotel). Depart when full. They will pick-up in Mandalay, and drop off at your desired destination in Pyin U Lwin. Cost was 7000 kyat (May 2019). The train for Pyin U Lwin departs from the railway station each morning at 04:00 (May 2019).
• Sagaing (to the east) – Has many Buddhist temples and monasteries, especially on Sagaing Hill.
• Yangon – Overnight buses at 07:00 and 09:00 (10,500 kyat). Luxury bus for 16,000 kyat. Leaves from the Highway Bus Station.
• Bagan by bus (OK-Bus with pick up and drop off at your hotels) 8,000 kyat. By slow boat (13 hr) on Sundays and Wednesdays at 05:30 for US$15 or express boat (8 hr) daily at 07:00 but only Nov-Feb, US$45. Ticket office for both in 35th Street & Sein Pann Road (kyat not accepted)

[[Mawlamyine]] – Overnight bus Shwe Mandalar at 18:00 (15,000 kyat), leaves from the Highway Bus Station. Quite luxurious (Swedish) bus, includes a towel, pillow, blanket toothbrushes and water. Arrives at [[Mawlamyine]] at 05:00.