Explore the Charm of Mandalay

Day 1: Arrival & Sightseeing Mandalay

Upon your arrival, your guide will meet and greet at the airport and transfer to your hotel for check in. After a short rest, continue to Mahamuni Pagoda which is home to one of the country’s most revered Buddha images which, over the years, have been covered with gold leaf giving it an almost ‘lumpy’ texture. Mandalay is well known for its skilled craftsmen and as you tour traditional workshops, you will learn more about the city’s cottage industries. Observe the production of wood carvings, kalaga tapestries, and gold-leaf where the techniques remained unchanged from those used centuries ago to craft items for the Royal Court.

Next visit to Kuthodaw Pagoda, whose 729 marble stone slabs of Buddhist scriptures have earned it the title ‘World’s Biggest Book’. Walk onwards to Shwenandaw Monastery, the only remaining building from the 19th century Royal Palace. This grand teak building is known for its exquisite woodcarving.

Head to the top of Mandalay Hill as the sun begins to set to enjoy magnificent views of the city and Irrawaddy River.

Overnight in Mandalay

Day 2: Morning Foodie Tours and evening sunset tour (B,L)

This morning, you will be taken by our driver to start your tour.  You will travel by classic bicycle rickshaw, a leisurely way to take in the passing suburban scenes. Then sample the famous delicacies of Myanmar. Mohinga, noodles, Mandalay pancakes, samosa, palatta, and green tea leaf salad. Stretch your legs at a colourful local market where your guide will give  you  some  unique  insightsinto local customs and culture.

In the afternoon, you will ride along shady trails through the ruins of the ancient capitals of Ava and Amarapura with expert guides who know their history.Ancient traditions still thrive in this area. We will introduce you to a range of timeless crafts, industries and local customs.The best place to catch a sunset is from a boat on Taungthaman Lake, floating beside the longest teak footbridge in the world.

Overnight in Mandalay

Day 3: Day Trip to PyinOoLwin(B)

This morning, leave Mandalay for a scenic two-hour drive to the former British hill station of PyinOoLwin, also known as Maymyo. Pyin Oo Lwin is home to many ethnic tribes as well as a considerable numbers of Nepalese and Hindu who migrated during the British occupation. Many reminders of the colonial era are still present in PyinOoLwin, including brick and timber houses.

Enjoy a horse and carriage ride through town. Stop at the Botanical Gardens, 432 acres of leafy gardens home to a diverse mix of botanical species from around the world. Continue to the local market to see the multicolor flowers and vegetables on sale. After a today tour you will go back to Mandalay.

Overnight in Mandalay

Day 4: Morning Ride Tour & Departure (B, L)

Today, ride through leafy side streets and quiet lanes for a chance to see daily life up close and personal. Stop to chat with locals we meet.We’ll   keep   your   taste   buds entertained along the way with sweet treats. Finish with lunch at one of Mandalay’s tea shops. Your guide will introduce you to bamboo weaving, fan making, basketry and other livelihoods that are part of the local heritage.

Afterwards, you will be brought to the Mandalay airport for your departure flight to next destination.