Optional Activity : Traditional Ritual Mahamuni Face Washing
Mandalay is also well known for the traditional ritual of a daily face-washing ceremony at the Mahamuni Pagoda in the early morning before dawn. This ritual commences every morning at 4 am, which is an elaborate ritual performed by the monk and the local devotees. When the drums strike, the monks wash the face with special fragrant flower water with fresh towels offered by devotees and brush its teeth with a large brush. Soon after the ceremony, people lined up for sacred water that was used to wash the Mahamuni was returned to devotees who believed that the towel is holy and can bring good deeds to the person.
This is a perfect opportunity to learn about Buddhist culture. An hour ceremony will be a unique experience and Inspiring atmosphere to share with the local devotees.
After that, enjoy local Authentic Breakfast at one of the famous local Tea shops in Mandalay. Transfer to the hotel and continue the day’s activities.
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, discover the former ancient Kingdom of Sagaing, an important religious and monastic center, home to some 554 monasteries and 6,000 monks and nuns. 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, noteworthy Pagoda on the hill is Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda was originally built in 1312. The temple offers spectacular panoramas of pagoda-decorated hills, with the Ayeyarwaddy River flowing beyond.
Continued 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.
Afterward, time to explore before visiting one of the monasteries which is 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, to observe lunch offering time at the monastery their last meal in a day.
Carry on and explore Mandalay’s impressive marble carving and handicraft workshops. Followed by a visit to Mahamuni Pagoda named after the holy image “Maha Muni” housed therein. Enjoy the beautiful gold leaf covered statues on display including Erawan, the three-headed elephant.
Return to the hotel escape from the midday heat and leisure for this afternoon.
Next, begin exploring some of the most hallowed attractions in Mandalay starting with a visit to Shwe Kyaung (Golden Palace Monastery) - an excellent example of a traditional wooden building. Also, visit Kuthodaw Pagoda which houses the world’s largest book. It consists of 1,460 pages, each measuring three and a half feet wide, five feet long and five inches thick. Each page is made of marble and is placed upright on a stand of its own. Combined, the book’s pages cover 13 acres.
Transfer to the hotel and overnight in Mandalay.
Breakfast included
Overnight