The full-day excursion to Monywa from Mandalay offers a captivating glimpse into Myanmar’s rich Buddhist heritage. Visitors can explore the awe-inspiring Pho Win Taung caves and marvel at the stunning Thanboddhay Pagoda, home to thousands of Buddha statues. With convenient transportation, an experienced guide, and a local lunch included, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience. However, travelers should be mindful of dress codes and note the tour’s unavailability during the Water Festival. This excursion promises an enriching and unforgettable adventure for those eager to uncover the cultural wonders of this mesmerizing region.
Key Points
- Comprehensive full-day excursion from Mandalay to explore the historical and cultural wonders of Monywa, including Pho Win Taung caves, Shwe Ba Taung, and Thanboddhay Pagoda.
- Priced at $230 per person, with round-trip transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and local lunch included in the package.
- Suitable for adults only, with restrictions on pregnant women, pets, and large bags, and a dress code requiring covered shoulders and knees.
- Excursion not available during the Water Festival from April 12th to 18th due to increased crowds and potential disruptions.
- Highly rated by previous customers for its well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable guide, and excellent value offered.
Excursion Overview
This excursion offers visitors a full-day experience exploring the highlights of Monywa from Mandalay.
Priced from $230 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.
The 1-day itinerary covers key attractions like the Pho Win Taung caves, Shwe Ba Taung, Thanboddhay Pagoda, Shwe Thar Lyaung Pagoda, and the world’s tallest standing Buddha at Laykyun Sakkya Yattawmu Pagoda.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and certain restrictions apply regarding dress code and personal items.
Itinerary Highlights
The excursion begins with an early morning pick-up at 07:00 AM from hotels in Mandalay, followed by a 2-hour drive to the city of Monywa.
The first stop is the Pho Win Taung caves, boasting over 100 Buddhist statues and murals. Next, travelers will explore Shwe Ba Taung, known for its unique sandstone pavilions.
After enjoying a local lunch, the group will visit the impressive Thanboddhay Pagoda, home to 845 smaller stupas and over 500,000 Buddha images.
The day concludes with the colossal Laykyun Sakkya Yattawmu Pagoda, which houses the world’s tallest standing Buddha.
- Pho Win Taung caves with over 100 Buddhist statues and murals
- Shwe Ba Taung with unique sandstone pavilions
- Thanboddhay Pagoda with 845 smaller stupas and over 500,000 Buddha images
Inclusions
As part of the excursion, travelers receive sightseeing with an English-speaking guide, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and entry fees to the sites in Monywa.
Lunch at a local restaurant and refreshments like cold towels and purified drinking water are also provided.
The package includes pickup and drop-off from hotels in Mandalay, as well as tips for the guide and driver.
Plus, the excursion offers travel insurance covering cancellation costs and medical expenses.
With these inclusions, the full-day Monywa experience offers a comprehensive and worry-free way to explore the historic sites around this fascinating city.
Important Information
Regarding important information, the excursion isn’t suitable for pregnant women.
Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat, along with a camera to capture the stunning sights.
The dress code requires covering shoulders and knees, and removing shoes and socks when entering pagoda areas.
Pets, luggage, or large bags aren’t allowed on the tour.
Plus, the excursion is unavailable during the Water Festival, which takes place from April 12th to 18th.
Customer Reviews
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Monywa Excursion from Mandalay, as evident from the 5/5 overall rating based on a single verified review.
The lone reviewer, Gerd, found the tour to be an exceptional experience, highlighting the knowledgeable guide and well-organized itinerary.
Visitors can expect to explore Monywa’s rich Buddhist heritage, from the captivating Pho Win Taung caves to the impressive Thanboddhay Pagoda.
The tour also includes visits to unique sandstone pavilions and the world’s tallest standing Buddha statue.
With inclusions like air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, and a local lunch, the Monywa Excursion offers tremendous value for its $230 per person price point.
Pick-up and Drop-off
The excursion begins with a convenient pick-up service from hotels in Mandalay at 7:00 AM.
Guests are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to the historic city of Monywa, located approximately 150 kilometers away, which takes around 2 hours.
At the end of the day, the guide ensures a seamless drop-off at the same hotels, allowing travelers to reflect on the day’s experiences.
- Prompt pick-up from Mandalay hotels at 7:00 AM
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation to Monywa
- Efficient drop-off back at Mandalay hotels after the tour
Dress Code and Restrictions
Visitors to the sites on this Monywa excursion are expected to follow a respectful dress code. Shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting the pagodas and temples. Shoes and socks must be removed before entering these sacred areas.
Pets, large bags, and luggage aren’t allowed on the tour. This is to maintain the sanctity of the religious sites and ensure a comfortable experience for all participants. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women.
Adherence to these guidelines will allow everyone to fully enjoy the historical and cultural wonders of Monywa without incident.
Tour Availability
This excursion from Mandalay to Monywa is unavailable during the Water Festival, which takes place from April 12th to 18th each year.
The tour operator explains that this is due to:
- Increased crowds and traffic during the popular festival
- Potential disruptions to the planned itinerary and sightseeing activities
- Safety concerns for guests, as the festival can be a chaotic time
As such, travelers should plan their Monywa visit for outside of the Water Festival period to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
The tour remains available year-round, except during this annual celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Excursion?
The excursion does not specify a maximum group size. It likely accommodates small to medium-sized groups, though the exact capacity is not mentioned. Travelers should contact the tour operator for more details on group size.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The tour doesn’t specify any age restrictions for participants. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, indicating certain physical limitations may apply. Travelers should check with the tour provider for more details on age and health requirements.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the excursion. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant and bottled water for each traveler. Outside food and drinks are not allowed.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
The tour itinerary is fixed, and there’s no option to customize it. Travelers can’t bring their own food or drinks, but the tour includes lunch at a local restaurant and bottled water.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Many tour providers offer private excursions where you’ll have a personal guide and vehicle, allowing for a more customized experience.
Recap
The full-day excursion to Monywa from Mandalay offers a unique opportunity to explore remarkable Buddhist heritage sites. With round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a local lunch included, the tour provides a seamless and enriching experience. Visitors should be mindful of the dress code and tour availability, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.