Mandalay Holidays

It is hard to believe that bustling Mandalay was known as 'the bicycle city' just 25 years ago. Having said that, this fast-developing city is thankfully still relatively void of towering skyscrapers and American chains - for now at least - and is certainly still worth a visit. Mandalay was the last royal capital of Myanmar and the city is home to Kuthodaw Pagoda, 'the world's biggest book', Mahamuni Pagoda - home to the famous 9 tonne 'lumpy Buddha' - and Shwenandaw Monastery, an exquisite teak carved building remaining from the 19th Century Royal Palace. Exploring these with a guide is a great introduction to the country's culture and deep history. From Mandalay, take a boat trip up the Irrawaddy to Mingun, surrounded by golden stupa- studded hillsides. One of the biggest draws to this little village is the famous 'unfinished' 18th century stupa; what would've been the world's biggest stupa was never completed by order of the king, after an astrologer claimed that he would die if it was finished. If time allows, take a cruise from Mandalay down to Bagan, witnessing daily rural life along the river - remote villages, bullock carts, pot-making and ancient temples - a great chance to experience a different side of Myanmar.

What can you find in Mandalay that you won't find anywhere else?

Despite being Myanmar’s second-largest city, Mandalay’s history is relatively short. Created as a royal capital in 1857, the city is nestled at the foot of Mandalay Hill and presided over by pagoda-punctuated hillsides. Explore its glorious markets, splendid temples and historic monasteries alongside an expert guide on one of our Mandalay holidays, before delving into its intriguing teahouse traditions. Head for one of its famed tea houses to sample syrupy, sweet Myanmar Tea accompanied by e kya kway (deep-fried dough) or parathas (crepes). To get a full sense of the city’s sprawl, stroll up Mandalay Hill’s southern slope for summit views which are particularly glorious at sunset.

Mandalay is famous for its local crafts and artistic scene. Explore the numerous workshops here including wood carving, kalaga (embroidered silk appliqué) tapestries and gold leaf bashing, before spending the evening enjoying a local comedy, often conveyed with puppets. A word of advice for the shopaholic – this is a destination well worth taking a spare bag for. Intersperse the cultural activities of Mandalay holidays with a bit of retail therapy and discover colourful jewellery, exquisite longyis (traditional Myanmar costumes) and sand art depicting the country’s scenery and culture. Mandalay’s culinary scene is also worth experiencing with an eclectic blend of dishes influenced by Chinese, Indian and Thai cuisine. Try mont di (a rice noodle dish traditionally served for breakfast), bow see (cloud-like steamed buns) and, if you’re feeling adventurous, lephet thoke (pickled tea leaf salad).