MANDALAY

     Mandalay is located between one of the most historical Ayeyarwaddy river and the Shan state. In other words, the location itself is the central of Myanmar geographically which leads the city to become the economic hub of Upper Burma and considered the center of Myanmar culture.  The unique culture of Mandalay city is the transportation method of how people travel.  In other words, among the local people, Mandalay is known is the cycling city where majority of the Mandalay citizens prefer to travel on bikes rather than relying on other transports.

     As it can be said that, Mandalay is nearer to Bagan and also the central of the country itself, as a result, various traditions and cultures can be found in the city itself which is why, every visitors should always go to Mandalay when they are in Myanmar not just only for sightseeing purpose but visitors can also see and observe different cultures and traditions of Myanmar in one place. 

    Mandalay was acted as the capital of the country for several decades in the long standing history as approximately 150 years old palace can be found in the city central area.  Even though the palace itself is 150 years old, due to the good maintenance, it is still in a good shape without losing every single bit of the ancient architecture.  As the majority of Myanmar people are Buddhism Mahamuni Buddha image which is also one of many sacred places with an interesting long standing history.  Everyday pilgrims and monks can contribute in helping clean the Buddha image itself at 4:00 in the morning which is known as “Face washing ceremony”.

    Last but not least, as a country with a long standing history, there are a few other ancient palace existed in the country and those can be reached easily via Mandalay with various type of transportations such as by boat or by car within an hour.  As a result, going to Mandalay will not only have a chance to see one palace but will have plenty of chances to explore other palaces as well. Another tourist attractions city with pleasant weather and environment known as “Pyin Oo Lwin” is just the uphill of Mandalay and can be reached within a 2-hour drive.  Mandalay is just one city but it is the only place where almost half of the country cultures and traditions can be found as well as other good resorts and sightseeing activities.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=LGY-X_QvpgU

http://www.myanmartravel.cc/myanmar-travel-destinations/mandalay