Around Mandalay Tour in 2 Days

Exploring Mandalay in Two Days: An Authentic Journey

This Around Mandalay Tour in 2 Days offers a thoughtful glimpse into Myanmar’s second-largest city, blending history, spirituality, and local life. Priced at just $100 per group (up to three people), it’s a budget-friendly way to see some of Mandalay’s most iconic sights, guided by local expert Kyaw Aung Htun of oh Myanmar Travel and Tour. The tour’s flexible schedule and comprehensive itinerary make it an appealing choice for travelers eager to maximize their time and experience.

What truly stands out is how the tour balances culture with logistical convenience—covering highlights like Mingun, Mandalay Royal Palace, and Inwa, all woven into a well-paced two-day adventure. A key perk is the inclusion of ferry rides, horse carts, and scenic viewpoints, which add authenticity and a sense of adventure. Still, some visitors might find the excluded costs—such as entrance fees, food, and transport—adding up if they’re not prepared.

This tour suits those who want an in-depth, guided look at Mandalay’s historic and spiritual sites without the stress of planning every detail. It’s especially ideal for first-timers or travelers with limited time but a curiosity for authentic Myanmar experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural insights and visits to iconic religious sites.
• Comfortable group size of up to three travelers keeps the experience intimate.
• Comprehensive itinerary covering Mingun, Mandalay, Sagaing, and Inwa.
• Transportation methods include ferry rides and horse carts for a local feel.
• Cost-effective at $100 per group, but excludes entrance fees and meals.
• Flexible schedule with 8:00 am start and potential for a 1-2 day experience.

Dive Into Mandalay’s Rich Heritage

If you’ve ever wanted to step into the heart of Myanmar’s history and spiritual life, this tour offers a solid introduction. The fact that it’s run by a local guide, Kyaw Aung Htun, means you’ll gain insights that go beyond the guidebook. His passion for Myanmar’s culture shines through as he shares stories behind each site, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Day 1: Mingun and Mandalay

The adventure begins with a ferry ride across the Irrawaddy River—a peaceful way to start your day and enjoy panoramic views of Mandalay’s skyline. Mingun, the first stop, is home to several remarkable sites, each with its own story. The Pahtodaw Gyi Ruin, intended to be 550 feet tall, is a striking reminder of past ambitions. Although it remains unfinished, it offers a compelling glimpse into the grandeur of Burmese royal projects.

The Mingun Bell, the world’s second-largest ringing bell, is worth a quick stop, especially since it’s still functional and produces a deep, resonant sound. The Hisnbyume White Pagoda, with its stunning white façade, provides a picturesque photo opportunity, while Chintae Gyi adds to the spiritual landscape.

Back in Mandalay, the focus shifts to the Mahamuni Buddha Image, an ancient and revered sculpture with a traditional workshop demonstrating gold leaf making—a fascinating process that many visitors find mesmerizing. From there, you’ll visit the Royal Palace remains—the only surviving structures after wartime destruction—plus the Golden Palace Monastery and Atumashi Monastery, both representing Myanmar’s royal and monastic history.

The day ends at Kuthodaw Pagoda, dubbed the “world’s largest book” because of its 729 stone tablets inscribed with Buddhist scriptures, and Mandalay Hill for sunset views, which provides a perfect culmination of the day’s explorations.

Day 2: Sagaing, Amarapura, and Inwa

Day two immerses you in Myanmar’s spiritual heart. Sagaing is a city of monasteries and nuns, with Sagaing Hill offering sweeping views of the Irrawaddy River. Notable sites include Soon U Ponya Shin and Umin Thozeh, both offering scenic vistas and a chance to observe monastic life.

The Maha Thein Taw Gyi hall, with its vibrant murals, showcases Myanmar’s religious art, while traditional workshops for paper doll making deepen your cultural understanding. Walking through Sagaing’s peaceful streets, you’ll sense the devotion and serenity that permeate this city.

Next, a short ride takes you to Inwa (Ava)—a former royal capital. Instead of walking, you’ll explore the ancient city by horse cart, which adds a charming, old-world vibe. The crumbling pagodas and ancient structures tell stories of Myanmar’s past reigns and royal ambitions, and it’s easy to feel connected to history in this relaxed setting.

In the afternoon, a visit to Amarapura is a must for textile lovers: here, you’ll see traditional silk weaving in action. The famous U Bein Bridge provides a stunning spot for sunset, with its long teakwood structure stretching across the lake, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

The tour starts at 8:00 am in Mandalay, with the group size capped at three, ensuring a personalized experience. Vehicles, ferries, and horse carts are used to navigate the city and its surrounding areas, providing a genuine feel of local transportation. The price of $100 per group covers guiding services, water bottles, and wet towels—small touches that enhance comfort.

However, it’s important to note that entrance fees, ferry costs, horse riding, and meals are not included—these will be additional expenses you need to budget for. The tour is designed for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find some sites challenging due to uneven terrain or the need to manage multiple transportation modes.

Authenticity and Value

The inclusion of ferry rides and horse carts makes the experience memorable, but be prepared for a bit of unpredictability in timing and comfort. The guide’s local knowledge is invaluable, especially when navigating busy sites or explaining complex historical contexts.

Reviews from past travelers emphasize the value of having a knowledgeable guide who can answer detailed questions and reveal stories behind the sights. One reviewer mentioned their guide’s passion for Myanmar’s culture, which added depth to their visit. Others appreciated how the tour balanced history, spirituality, and everyday life, making it a well-rounded experience.

What Travelers Should Know

While the tour is comprehensive, travelers should be prepared for the additional costs involved if they wish to explore more deeply or visit certain attractions. It’s a good idea to carry extra cash for entrance fees and meals.

The tour’s flexible schedule allows you to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The ending point in Mandalay makes it easy to continue exploring or arrange transportation back to your accommodation.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This two-day tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a structured yet immersive introduction to Mandalay’s highlights. History buffs and spiritual seekers will enjoy the varied sites, from ancient pagodas to active monasteries.

Travelers on a budget will find the $100 price point excellent value—especially considering the transportation and expert guidance included. It’s also suited for those who prefer a small-group environment for a more personalized experience.

However, if you’re looking for a fully all-inclusive package with meals and entrance fees bundled, you might need to plan ahead. Also, for those with limited mobility or strict time constraints, some aspects like horse carts in Inwa could be less accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are in the group?
Up to three travelers per booking, ensuring a more intimate experience with personalized attention from your guide.

What is included in the price?
Guide services, water bottles, and wet towels are included. Entrance fees, ferry rides, horse cart rides, and meals are not included and are payable separately.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes for walking, extra cash for entrance fees and meals, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection during outdoor visits.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking and horse cart components.

How long does each day typically last?
The tour starts at 8:00 am; while the exact duration depends on your pace, it generally spans a full day with multiple site visits.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a guided group tour, modifications are limited. However, your guide’s local knowledge can help tailor your experience within the scheduled stops.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can plan to enjoy local restaurants during your free time.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, most families find it engaging, especially with the interactive aspects like gold leaf making and boat rides. Just consider the physical activities involved.

How do I book this tour?
You can book through Viator or contact Oh Myanmar Travel and Tour directly via their email or phone. Confirmations are sent upon booking.

To sum it up, the Around Mandalay Tour in 2 Days offers a carefully curated experience that balances history, spirituality, and local culture. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting an authentic taste of Myanmar’s royal and religious past without breaking the bank. While it requires some additional expenses for entrance fees and meals, the guided insights and varied transportation modes ensure a memorable journey. Perfect for first-timers eager to see the highlights and cultural aficionados wanting a meaningful snapshot of Mandalay’s soul.