Today’s tour features the last Kingdom of Burma before the British colonialized the country. Considered as the cultural and spiritual center of Myanmar, Mandalay and neighboring town, Saaing is home to over 60% of the country’s monks, while artisans of Mandalay continue to turn out the finest crafts in Myanmar.Tour will start by heading to Amarapura, also a former royal capital, and visit Mahagandayon Monastery to observe monks line up to receive their daily offering of alms and food from faithful Buddhists. This allows you to understand more about the rituals of the country’s major religion, which is the Theravada Buddhism.
Then, tour will be continued by taking a stroll on U Bein Bridge, a picturesque teak bridge which extends over one kilometre across Taungthaman Lake before returning to Mandalay City. It is also a very famous picture spot.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant.
This afternoon, tour will continue to Mahamuni Paya, the most well-known pagoda amongst the locals in central Myanmar, Shwenandaw Kyaung (Golden Teak Monastery), a 19th century Burmese teak architecture which was used by King Mindon, the second last king of Myanmar. After the king passed away, the last king of Myanmar, King Thibaw occasionally used the structure as a meditation ground, but he was convinced that his father’s spirit still haunt the ground, so the building was then moved from the palace, and donated to become a monastery.
Moving on to Kuthodaw Paya, known also as “the world’s biggest book”; you will be able to get amazing pictures amongst the white walls of the stone books. You will also be able to wear Myanmar traditional make up “Thanakhar” by the flower vendors and experience the true Myanmar culture.
Tour will then be proceed to Shwe Kyin Old Monastery. The monastery is not only one of the oldest, but also considered as the most important one in the entire country. Originally, the head monk of the monastery was greatly revered by King Mindon as well as the citizens in the 19th The head monk’s disciplines and teachings were admired as well as followed by many people till date. While visiting there, you will be able to notice all the meditation process the monks, the young novices do and if you are into it, you can most probably join the meditation process as well!
Accommodation at Rupar Mandalar Resort.