Hidden Gems in Mandalay
It is situated on the corner of( 89 street & 38 street) and in the South West of MandalayPalace(10 minutes drive).It was built by a Chinese Merchant,U Set Shwin in 1895 and hedonated it.It is a typical wodden monastery which has Myanmar architectural features.
Travel safety note: Since the 2021 military coup, parts of Myanmar have seen ongoing armed conflict, and the March 2025 earthquake centred near Mandalay and Sagaing damaged many temples and historic sites. Before you go, check your government's latest travel advisory and confirm with a local guide which places are currently open and safe to reach.
Most visitors to Mandalay head straight for the royal palace, Mandalay Hill and the big pagodas. But the old royal capital also has quieter corners that local guides love to share. Here are three hidden gems recommended by one of our Mandalay-based guides: a carved teak monastery, an easy bike ride through the rice fields, and a day out at a lagoon southeast of the city.
Shwe In Bin Monastery
It is situated on the corner of 89th Street & 38th Street, southwest of Mandalay Palace (about a 10-minute drive). It was built by a Chinese merchant, U Set Shwin, in 1895, and he donated it. It is a typical wooden monastery with Myanmar architectural features. There are four main divisions: 1) Phaya-saung or Pyat-that-saung, 2) Sanu Saung, 3) A-saung-ma-gyi and 4) Baw-ga-saung. Mandalay was badly hit by the March 2025 earthquake, so please check with a local guide that the monastery is open before you visit.
Easy Bike Ride around the Rice and Seasonal Crop Fields
Mandalay is flat and used to be a bicycle city. It is surrounded by the Shan mountain ranges in the east, Mandalay Hill in the north and the Ayeyarwady River in the west. There are many rice and crop fields to the east and northeast of the city, with unforgettable views.
Read more: Five Must-See in Inle Lake, Myanmar
Elephant Camp and Dee Doke Waterfall (Blue Lagoon)
It is southeast of Mandalay city, about 35 minutes away. You can escape the crowds and humidity, enjoy the natural surroundings and swim in the lagoon as well. It is a relaxing trip from Mandalay to the elephant camp and the blue lagoon (a very easy hike). Conditions can change, so ask your guide whether the trail and lagoon are currently open.
Author: Nay Chi Lin (Tour Guide, MyProGuide) · Find a local guide
Read more: Tasty Street Food Snacks at Yangon
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