Exploring the historical and cultural treasures of Myanmar’s Mandalay region is a captivating experience. This private tour takes visitors through the ancient cities of Amarapura, Sagaing, Mingun, and Innwa/Ava, showcasing the country’s rich heritage. From visiting iconic monasteries and pagodas to experiencing scenic boat rides and traditional modes of transportation, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable day. Whether you’re seeking a deeper understanding of Myanmar’s past or simply wanting to learn about its timeless beauty, this tour offers a compelling glimpse into the heart of this fascinating destination.
Key Points
- This full-day tour takes visitors to the historic cities of Amarapura, Mingun, and Innwa/Ava, showcasing their key attractions and cultural heritage.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, private transportation, entrance fees, and a mix of boat rides, horse-drawn carts, and walking to explore the sites.
- Highlights include the Mahargandaryone Monastery, U Bein Bridge, Pahtodawgyi Pagoda, and the ancient imperial capital of Innwa/Ava.
- The tour is priced at $95 per group (up to 3 participants) and has a flexible schedule with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Participants should be aware of accessibility challenges, dress code requirements, and the need to remove shoes when entering religious sites.
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Tour Overview
The Mandalay: Amarapura, Sagaing, Mingun, and Innwa/Ava Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic and cultural landmarks around Mandalay, Myanmar.
Priced from $95.00 per group (up to 3 participants), the 1-day tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned transportation, and all necessary entrance fees.
Highlights include visits to Amarapura’s monasteries and weaving workshops, Mingun’s pagodas, and Innwa/Ava’s river crossing and horse-drawn cart sightseeing.
Travelers can enjoy flexible scheduling, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and participants should dress appropriately for visits to religious sites.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation at 9:00 AM, allowing you to explore the rich history and culture of the Mandalay region. First, you’ll visit the Amarapura City, home to the Mahargandaryone Monastery and a thriving weaving workshop. Then, you’ll witness the iconic U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest teak bridge, with plans to return for sunset viewing. After crossing the Ayeyarwady River, you’ll discover the Mingun City, including the impressive Pahtodawgyi Pagoda and the Giant Lions. Following a lunch break in Sagaing, you’ll venture to Innwa/Ava City, accessible by a boat ride and horse-drawn cart sightseeing.
| Morning | Midday | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|
| Amarapura City | Mingun City | Innwa/Ava City |
| Mahargandaryone Monastery | Pahtodawgyi Pagoda | Boat ride |
| U Bein Bridge (sunset) | Giant Lions | Horse-drawn cart |
Inclusions
Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off, a private air-conditioned vehicle with a driver, water and towels, parking fees, fuel surcharge, and lunch or dinner.
The tour also includes the following entrance fees:
- Mingun (5000MMK)
- Innwa/Ava (10000MMK)
- Ferry boat (2000MMK)
- Horse-cart (15000MMK)
Visitors are encouraged to bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and have cash on hand.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and participants must remove their shoes when entering pagodas and monasteries.
Important Information
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, as the itinerary may involve some challenges in accessibility.
Participants are advised to bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and cash, as the tour includes visits to pagodas and monasteries where shoes must be removed.
The dress code requires no sleeveless shirts to be worn.
Customer Feedback
According to reviews, customers have largely praised the Mandalay tour, rating it 4.6 out of 5 based on 5 reviews.
Key highlights from customer feedback include:
- Comfortable transportation with good air conditioning
- Positive feedback on the driver’s pace and English proficiency
- Suitability for those seeking light information rather than a fully guided tour
- The tour provides a solid overview of the key sights in and around Mandalay, making it a good option for those with limited time in the region.
Amarapura City
Commencing the tour of Amarapura City, visitors will first venture to the Mahargandaryone Monastery – Myanmar’s largest teaching monastery, founded around 1914.
Home to over a thousand monks, the monastery offers a glimpse into the country’s rich Buddhist traditions.
Next, the group will explore a local weaving workshop, where skilled artisans showcase their intricate textile crafts.
The highlight of Amarapura, however, is the iconic U Bein Bridge – the world’s longest teak bridge.
Though visited during the day, the true magic unfolds later as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the tranquil waters of Taungthaman Lake.
Mingun City
After exploring the sights of Amarapura, the tour continues onwards to Mingun City, located across the Ayeyarwady River.
Upon arrival, guests will:
- Visit the impressive Pahtodawgyi Pagoda, an unfinished stupa that showcases ancient construction techniques.
- See the Giant Lions established by King Bodawpaya in 1790, a unique architectural feature.
- Learn about the history and significance of these Mingun landmarks during the 1-hour exploration.
- Enjoy a brief lunch break in the nearby Sagaing City before continuing the journey to Innwa/Ava.
This segment of the tour offers a glimpse into Mingun’s rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders.
Innwa/Ava City
From Sagaing, the tour continues its journey to Innwa/Ava City, an ancient imperial capital known for its rich history and well-preserved ruins.
Visitors will take a boat ride across the river to access the historical site. Once there, they’ll explore the area by horse-drawn cart, witnessing landmarks like the Bagaya Monastery, known for its impressive teak wood carvings.
The tour also visits the remains of the old royal palace and the Nanmyin Watch Tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
As the day draws to a close, the group will return to Amarapura to witness the sunset at the iconic U Bein Bridge before heading back to their accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour doesn’t seem to offer customization options. However, customers can request modifications or additions to the itinerary when booking, though the provider may charge extra fees for any changes.
Can We Visit Additional Sites Not Listed in the Itinerary?
The tour provider likely allows some customization, but additional sites may incur extra costs. It’s best to check with the provider about modifying the itinerary prior to booking to ensure it meets the traveler’s preferences and budget.
Is There Flexibility in the Tour Start Time?
The tour has a set pickup time of 9:00 AM, but there may be flexibility in the start time if requested in advance. Guests should check with the tour operator for any adjustments to the scheduled itinerary.
What Are the Payment Options Available for the Tour?
The tour offers a "reserve now & pay later" option, allowing customers to book their spot without immediate payment. Customers can also pay in full at the time of booking.
Can the Tour Be Extended to Include More Activities?
Yes, the tour can be extended to include more activities. The tour operator offers customizable tour packages that allow customers to add or remove activities based on their interests and preferences.
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Recap
This Mandalay tour provides an immersive experience, exploring Myanmar’s cultural gems. Travelers will marvel at the Mahargandaryone Monastery, stroll across the iconic U Bein Bridge, and discover the grandeur of Pahtodawgyi Pagoda. The boat ride and horse-drawn cart in Innwa/Ava add a unique touch, culminating in a breathtaking sunset at the U Bein Bridge. With comfortable transportation and flexible scheduling, this tour offers an unforgettable day in Myanmar’s heartland.