Is Mandalay Worth Visiting?

Mandalay is usually the 2nd or 3rd stop for foreign travelers after Yangon or Bagan. Mandalay, the second largest city in Myanmar and former capital, is an ethnically diverse city with a long history. It is also the financial hub of the country, but many travelers often wonder “Is Mandalay worth visiting?”

I visited several places in Myanmar, but truthfully speaking, Mandalay was the least interesting. This isn’t to say it’s not worth visiting; however, if you’re limited on time there is no way you would skip Bagan or Inle Lake for Mandalay.

Mandalay does host some sites that are nice, but nothing here will impress you as much as other tourist sites like the historical temples in Bagan, the tranquil Inle Lake, or Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.

Amarapura

However, one particular place I did enjoy visiting was Amarapura, which is a small city about 30 minutes away from Mandalay by taxi, but still within the Mandalay District. Amarapura is home to U Bein Bridge, the oldest teakwood bridge in the world (built in 1850).

U Bein Bridge is best seen around sunset where you can capture some of the most photogenic shots. The bridge is free of course, but I suggest taking a boat back for a small fee after walking across the bridge to see the best view of it. The U Bein sunset will not disappoint, the views here will stick with you for the remainder of your trip.

There isn’t much to see in the area surrounding the bridge, in fact, there is nothing. Two hours is more than enough time here to see the bridge in its entirety and take a boat ride.

Anyone else visit Mandalay? What are your thoughts? Hidden gem or an overrated city? Drop a comment below!