Mandalay and Mingun: Mandalay Hill, Kuthodaw Pagoda and More – Full Day

The former royal capital of Myanmar was originally brought to fame by Rudyard Kipling’s ‘Road to Mandalay’ poem. For those who have been to Vegas, you might be more familiar with the name ‘Mandalay Bay’ as a resort and casino brand. The inspiration behind all that is none other than the original Mandalay: what we’ll find today a charming city filled with religious sites and stunning viewpoints.

That being said, we’ll tour you through this area the right way – making sure not to overlook Mingun, a beautiful town nearby known for its ancient sites and rolling countryside. We’ll take you exploring both destinations, checking in at the following attractions along the way:

Mingun Pahtodawgyi: This unique site is home to the ruins of King Bodawpaya’s unfinished project from 1790. He died before it was completed, and it now holds an unusual title: the world’s largest pile of bricks!

Mingun Bell: At the site above, you’ll also find the second largest ringing bell in the world, weighing a colossal 90 tonnes!

Pondaw Pagoda: This 5-metre high working model represents what the Mingun Pahtodawgyi would look like, had it been finished.

Settawya Pagoda: This stunning white temple is idolised by Instagrammers everywhere. Nestled on the banks of the Irrawaddy River, it was built to represent Buddhists’ sacred Mount Meru and features seven terraces to match the mythical mountain ranges.

Hsinbyume Pagoda: This whitewashed, curved beauty of a temple is meant to be the representation of Sulamani Pagoda, which is said to stand atop Mt. Meru according to Buddhist, Jain and Hindu cosmology. Some have actually called it the “most unique, different and visually appealing pagoda in whole of Myanmar.”

Golden Palace Monastery: Back in Mandalay, the locally-known Shwenandaw Monastery is a historic Buddhist site built in traditional Burmese style. Here you’ll see gilded glass, wood carvings and gold leaf – a real wonder!

Kuthodaw Pagoda: Described as the ‘World’s largest book’, this UNESCO-protected pagoda features 729 stone scriptures, each displaying a marble slab of Buddhist text. While you might be unable to follow the story, it’s certainly a must-see while in Myanmar.

‘’There is so much to see at Kuthodaw Pagoda, it really pays to have a keen eye!’’ – Backpacker Lee

Mandalay Hill: At 240 metres high, there’s no better vantage point in Mandalay to catch the sunset after a busy day exploring. Here you’ll marvel down at the majestic temples you just visited, even as you stare out for miles over the city and verdant countryside.

‘’Mandalay Hill is a must-do!’’ – Salt in Our Hair