Start explorations of Mandalay after breakfast. Visit to Mahamuni Pagoda, home to a specular Buddha image covered with thick layers of the beautiful gold leaf.
Afterward, discover the former ancient Kingdom of Sagaing, cross the bridge over the Ayeyarwady River to Sagaing Hill covered with white, silver and gold pagodas and monasteries that are decorated along the riverside.
After reaching the bottom of Sagaing Hill, drive to the summit for sweeping panoramic views, a noteworthy Pagoda on the hill is Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda; it was originally built in 1312. The temple offers spectacular panoramas of pagoda-decorated hills with the Ayeyarwady River flowing beyond.
Continue visit, Umin Thonze Pagoda also known as 30 Caves Pagoda filled with 45 beautiful gilded Buddha images which are unique in a different size. The golden statues, set in turquoise colored tiled mosaic hall, form an impressive sight. These thirty caves make for some excellent photo opportunities.
From here, admire an amazing view of the beautiful green valley below and many stupas around.
It’s time to explore one of the monasteries which are home to many monks. In his lifetime, a Myanmar male is expected to spend some of his life serving as a monk to learn the ways of Buddhism. Upon time permitting, observe lunch offering time at the monastery their last meal in a day.
Head out to Ava (Inwa) (approx..: 30 mins), the ancient capital city, required to cross the river and ride in a horse cart for a few minutes to reach an incredible teakwood monastery (Bagaya Monastery). Admire the impressive woodwork and the 267 carved pillars. Not far from here, stand the ruins of another monastery, built with bricks and stucco, the Maenu Okyaung.
The last in a day, drive to Amarapura, visit U Bein bridge a 200-year old, builtin 1782 and reputed to be the world’s longest teak footbridge. Enjoy a stroll along the bridge and the fabulous views of the surrounding farms and streams.
Following the sightseeing, return to Mandalay and take the rest evening for leisure.
Overnight in Mandalay.
Optional Activity: Traditional Culture Show at Mintha Theater
Before the end of the day, be introduced with Myanmar traditional dance which is essentially postures in movements of the feet, hips, head and hands, each detailing a different aspect of Myanmar culture. At Mintha Theater, it is organized by the Inwa School of performing arts and all the performers are students at the school. The school is run as a charitable project and an hour-long show composed of a series of short dance pieces in lavish traditional costumes. It will be a remarkable evening experience with a local traditional dancing in Mandalay.
Breakfast included
Launch included
Overnight