The land that time forgot: Mandalay
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With the Myanmar government easing up on visa restrictions for overseas visitors, travellers now have an opportunity to explore a country so culturally rich and yet barely touched by the boom of tourism. And it is almost as untouched as the day it gained independence from the British in 1948.
Located in the heart of Myanmar and known as the last royal capital of Burma, Mandalay, is well known as a source of inspiration for the British poets’ nostalgia for Asia. And as Rudyard Kipling illustrated in his poem ‘The Road to Mandalay’ and George Orwell in ‘Romance’, the city holds a special place in English Literature for its fabled beauty.
Mahamuni Buddha Temple: Originally cast in bronze, the Mahamuni Buddha has over time, been covered in gold leaf by believers who want to fufill prayers and wishes. The statue is crowned in diamonds, rubies and sapphires and only men are allowed to apply the gold leaf to the statue. It is estimated that statue grows 3cm larger every year.
Kuthodaw Pagoda: Modelled after the Shwezigon Pagoda in Bagan, the Kuthodaw Pagoda is gilded above its terraces at 57m high. The main building and the stupas (containing the world's largest book) are almost serenely spiritual.
The Buddhist scriptures of Kuthodaw: A UNESCO Heritage site of religious significance, the Kuthodaw pagoda is a site that houses 729 marble slabs, with each slab containing the writings of the Buddhist scripture.
Observe the spiritual life at Mahagandar Monastery: The monastery is home to many monks and novices. Twice a day, every day, the monks will line the streets of the monastery town to get their food and it is truly a sight to behold. The food is donated and occassionally one can catch a glimpse of men in military uniforms helping to distribute the food as well.
Take a ride in a horse drawn carriage: This might seem like a touristy thing to do but the experience in Mandalay is like no other. This is the only mode of transport along the dirt roads of the ancient ruins of Ava (other than motorcyles).
The Bagaya Monastery: Located in Inwa, Mandalay Region, Burma, this teak building was first constructed in 1593. The building has since been recontructed due to a fire and Buddhist monks continue to reside there
The deserted palace of Ava: This slanted watch tower is all that remains of the Ava palace built by a Burmese king in the early 19th century. It leans to the left following an earthquake in 1838.
The gilt buddhas in Sagaing Hill: This long hallway of buddhas are almost too serene to disturb. As you tread down the passage, the doorways let in light that shows off the gold gilding on each statue.
U Min Thone Sae: A stunning pagoda on top of Saging Hill which boasts of breathtaking views of Mandalay and the Irrawaddy river. To get there you can hire a a mini truck that can hold up to 12 people to the base of the temple or climb up an extremely long flight of steps.
Worth your weight in Gold (or rubies or sapphires): Myanmar is rich in natural resources like gold (which is panned in the upper part of the Irrawaddy river) and gem stones like rubies and sapphires which are mined under the government's strict supervision. Check out reputable jewellers for the genuine items. They will write up a certificate for articles purchased. Here is a tip that our guide imparted to us: make sure you are the first customer in the shop, because the proprieters want to close the first sale of the day for good luck. And for a good yardstick on how much you should bargain; about 40% lower than the price tag would be good guide to go by.
U Bein Bridge: Take a walk along the world's longest teak bridge. It might seem a bit old and rickety but it has withstood the test of time with its sturdy foundation withstanding floods, droughts and volatile weather. Stretching 1.2km and made entirely of Burmese teak (one of the strongest forms of timber in the world), you will feel like you have been transported back to an ancient Indochine city.
