Yangon (Rangoon) Attractions

Mandalay

Legend has it Buddha himself visited Mandalay and it’s easy to see why.  A steep hike up 240 metre high stairwell is the top of Mandalay Hill, itself a holy site with an ornately decorated temple and Buddha statue overlooking the former capitol city and far reaching flatlands. Dominating the cities centre are the 150 year old palace grounds of King Mindon and King Thibaw with an adjacent temple and wide surrounding moat.  More than 50 people were buried alive in construction. A viewable prison is a reminder that human rights haven’t improved since.  For local travellers the Mahamuni Buddha is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists in Myanmar. Aside from sightseeing, shopping is Mandalay’s other pastime.  A fun jewel market, where visitors can watch craftsmen shape gems is visitable. Crafts such as monk’s umbrellas, gold leaf, ornate furniture, and lacquer-ware are made and sold in the city. Motorbike taxis seem a bit overeager in a city where horse and wagon is common.  Better to use the trishaw to fall into Mandalay’s slow rhythms.  Bland guesthouses are splashed about the city with similar accommodation.