Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Mandalay, Burma

1. Monywa

Ancient temples and a giant Buddha statue await at this tranquil city, offering a peaceful escape from Mandalay.

Historical Sites: Home to over a thousand temples and monasteries.
Giant Buddha Statue: The world's second tallest seated Buddha statue is found here.
Accessibility: A convenient day trip from Mandalay, about 3.5 hours by car.

Relax at this spiritual hub with a panoramic view of the Irrawaddy River and countless Buddhist pagodas.

Spiritual Center: A popular destination for meditation and spiritual retreat.
Natural Beauty: Offers stunning sunsets over the Irrawaddy River.
Historical Significance: Home to more than 500 pagodas and monasteries.

Discover thousands of ancient temples in this sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ancient Temples: One of the largest and densest concentrations of Buddhist temples in the world.
Scenic Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a breathtaking hot air balloon ride at sunrise for an unforgettable experience.
Accessibility: Just a short flight or bus ride from Mandalay.

Escape the heat in this colonial hill station with its charming British architecture and botanical gardens.

Colonial Architecture: Beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings.
Botanical Gardens: Home to a diverse collection of flowers and trees from around the world.
Cooler Climate: Located at a higher elevation, providing a cooler climate compared to Mandalay.

Climb the sacred hill for panoramic views of Mandalay and explore the Mahamuni Buddha Temple.

Historical Significance: A sacred site for Buddhists since the 16th century.
Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Mandalay and its surrounding areas.
Mahamuni Buddha Temple: One of the most revered Buddha images in Myanmar.

Experience the unique floating villages and lush landscapes of Inle Lake.

Floating Villages: Homes built on stilts above the water.
Traditional Crafts: Witness local artisans producing silk, lotus weaving, and blacksmithing.
Scenic Boat Rides: Take a leisurely boat ride around the lake to explore its beauty.

Relax at this peaceful hot spring resort nestled in the mountains.

Climb the steep steps to reach the unique Taung Kalat Monastery on top of this volcanic plug.

Unusual Architecture: The monastery's unique circular design and architecture.
Spiritual Significance: Home to one of Myanmar's most revered Buddha images.
Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains and hills.

Explore the massive Mingun Bell and the unfinished Mingun Paya.

Giant Mingun Bell: One of the largest bells in the world, weighing over 90 metric tons.
Unfinished Pagoda: An enormous brick structure left unfinished due to an astrologer's prediction.
Accessibility: Easily accessible by boat from Mandalay.

Visit this small town known for its vibrant market selling jade and rubies.

Jade and Ruby Market: One of the largest jade and ruby markets in Myanmar.
Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush mountains and valleys.
Cultural Exchange: Opportunities to learn about the local Pa-O ethnic minority.

Climb Kanthaka Hill for a panoramic view of Pyin Oo Lwin and its surrounding countryside.

Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of Pyin Oo Lwin and its surroundings.
Historical Significance: Site of an important British military post in the colonial era.
Accessibility: Easily accessible from Pyin Oo Lwin town center.

Explore the charming town of Hsipaw and venture out to its surrounding hill tribes and trekking opportunities.

Charming Town: Well-preserved colonial architecture and friendly locals.
Hill Tribes: Opportunities to interact with the Palaung, Pa-O, and Danu hill tribes.
Trekking Opportunities: Scenic treks through lush valleys and remote villages.

Relax on the sandy beaches of Hpayak Pin Creek, an ideal getaway from Mandalay.

Visit this quiet town to explore the Myinmu Wildlife Sanctuary and learn about the local wildlife.

Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to a variety of endangered species such as the tiger, elephant, and gaur.
Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush forests and rivers.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 300 species of birds can be found in the sanctuary.

Experience rural life in Kathee Village, known for its traditional crafts and scenic beauty.

Traditional Crafts: Learn about traditional basket weaving techniques.
Scenic Beauty: Located in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains.
Rural Experience: Opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life.