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Mandalay Hill, located north of Mandalay city, is a renowned Buddhist mountain, formerly known as Rakshasa Mountain. It boasts 231 large pagodas and temples, along with over 1,000 smaller temples. The city of Mandalay is named after this hill. A visit to Mandalay typically begins at Mandalay Hill, renowned for its panoramic views of the city and river at sunset. While the climb used to be difficult and required barefoot trekking, today, with pickup trucks and elevators to the tower, the ascent is much easier.
Recommended play time: 5 hours
(The best viewing time is to arrive before sunset at 17:00)
The Mandalay Pass costs US$10, and a photography fee of 300 Kyats will be charged if you need to take photos.
All day
Mandalay Hill is a historic and religious landmark in Mandalay, Myanmar. It has been a pilgrimage site for centuries, with numerous pagodas and monasteries along the hill. It is associated with Buddhist traditions and offers spiritual and cultural insights.
Located in central Mandalay, Myanmar. Visitors can take taxis or tuk-tuks from the city center. Walking is possible for those staying nearby. Buses and private tours can also bring visitors to the base of the hill.
The hill is accessible daily, generally from early morning around 5:00 AM to evening around 7:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning for sunrise or late afternoon to sunset for cooler weather and stunning views.
There is no entrance fee to climb Mandalay Hill itself. Some individual pagodas may request small donations. Tickets for guided tours, if desired, can be booked offline through local travel agencies.
Booking is not required for general access. Advance booking is only needed if hiring a private guide or joining a full-day tour that includes the hill.
1–3 hours depending on whether you climb to the summit, visit pagodas, and take photos.
Guided tours in English and Burmese are available through local travel operators. Audio guides are generally not provided.
Start at the foot of the hill, visit pagodas and shrines along the path, take breaks at rest stops, and finish at the summit to enjoy panoramic views and sunset.
Night visits are generally not allowed on the hill for safety reasons. Evening photography is possible near the base and surrounding areas. Special tours may include sunset viewing.
It can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. Early mornings on weekdays are the least crowded times.
Basic facilities include rest stops, small food stalls, water vendors, and public toilets near the base and along the main path.
The climb is steep, so elderly or disabled visitors may find it challenging. Children can climb with supervision. Motorized access is not available; some may use taxis to reach base areas near temples.
Cash is recommended for donations, food, and small purchases. Cards and mobile payments are generally not accepted at small vendors.
Vegetarian options are widely available. Halal food options are limited and may require checking with specific restaurants.
Yes, near the base and along paths, offering Buddha statues, traditional Burmese crafts, lacquerware, textiles, and postcards.
