Mandalay Hill

Why?

Before you start to climb to the top, two giant leogryphs (lions) are standing side by side as a welcoming sign at the foot of the Mandalay Hill. There is also a free service to keep your slippers and shoes at their shoebox because it is a pilgrimage site and not allowed to bring your shoes to the top of the hill. It is worth the effort of the barefooted climb on the covered stairway on the hill’s southern slope. There are four covered stairways (we called it “Saungtan”) getting to the top of the hill from the west, north, south, and southeast. Along all the stairways, you can take a break at the seats of masonry work. You can also drive from one-way motorbike road but then you would miss the colorful processions of prayer and the opportunity to take the views at your own space. The climb takes about 30 minutes with 1,729 steps, usually depends upon your stepping skills. At the top of the hill, Sutaungpyi Pagoda (wish-fulfilling Pagoda) and the most stunning, magical sunset are waiting for you all! Maybe, it’s a long way to reach the top. But, really worth it! Just overlook the whole city’s sunset view over the Ayeyarwaddy river from the large courtyard area. And you can share and engage your experiences with the local young Buddhist monks each other to practice their English skills. Get relaxed and take beautiful moments to share and show your lovely ones as one of your amazing trips to Myanmar.