Mandalay, Myanmar Cruise Port, 2024, 2025 and 2026 Cruises to Mandalay, Myanmar | The Cruise Web
 

Mandalay, Myanmar Cruise Port

As you're cruising along the Irrawaddy River, you'll reach the former royal capital city of Burma: Mandalay, Myanmar. With 1.2 million residents, it's the center of Burmese culture as well as the economic center of Upper Burma (which includes Mandalay and its surrounding states). With increased trade and immigrants from China, the area's ethnic makeup has changed over the last two decades. Founded in 1857 by King Mindon, Mandalay was originally called Yadanabon, loosely meaning "City of Gems." By 1885, the city was annexed by the British, eventually getting its independence in 1948. With its mix of historic and religious sites, the city is a wonder to explore; as Buddhism is the primary religion here, there are more than 700 pagodas, temples, and monasteries. As Kipling once traveled "on the road to Mandalay" so should you. Here are some of our favorite experiences for the cruise port of Mandalay, Myanmar:
 
  • The historic Buddhist Shwenandaw or Golden Palace Monastery was built in 1880 by King Thibaw Min. Constructed in the traditional Burmese architectural style there is a plethora of teak carvings representing Buddhist myths decorating the walls and roofs.
     
  • The Kuthodaw Pagoda built during the reign of King Mindon is also known for containing the world's largest book: Set in stone, it contains 730 leaves and 1460 pages; each page is 3.51 feet wide, 5.02 feet tall, and 5.1 inches thick. The pagoda itself is a Buddhist stupa, containing relics and gilded in gold.
     
  • Mandalay Hill is not only an excellent viewpoint, but it's also where the city got its name. The 790 foot hill can be climbed via covered stairway; it's been a pilgrimage site for nearly two centuries, with many pagodas and monasteries at the top. Along with the great view, climbing the hill is also considered a "meritorious deed" by Buddhists.
     
  • History and military buffs will want to visit the royal palace of the last Burmese monarchy, Mandalay Palace. Located inside a walled fort surrounded by a moat, you can rent a bike to ride around the grounds if you're all walked out after the other temples and pagodas.
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