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Located in the ancient city of Amarapura, Myanmar, U Bein Bridge spans Taungthaman Lake. At 1,200 meters long, it's the world's longest teak bridge. The piers, bridge beams, and planks are all made of precious teak. It was built during the reign of King Mindon of the Konbaung Dynasty.
The area surrounding U Bein Bridge was originally low-lying, but during the rainy season, the lake's water level rose, turning the shores into a swamp. To address local transportation difficulties, King Mindon constructed this wooden bridge. To protect it from decay, he used precious teak, enduring its centuries-old quality. Weathered by wind and rain, and shone by sunlight, the wood has stained a light gray. While serving as a tourist attraction and a daily transportation route for locals, it still stands firmly in Taungthaman Lake.
Locally, this bridge has a nice nickname - "Lover's Bridge". A bridge has a length, but love has no length.
The tropical monsoon climate is best for travel from October to February.
2-3 hours
Included with $10 pass
All day
U Bein Bridge was built in the 1850s by U Bein, the mayor of Amarapura, using reclaimed teakwood from the royal palace. It spans 1.2 kilometers across Taungthaman Lake and is the longest and oldest teakwood bridge in the world. The bridge is an important symbol of the resilience of the local people and is a significant part of Myanmar's cultural heritage.
U Bein Bridge is located in Amarapura, about 11 kilometers south of Mandalay. It is easily accessible by taxi or private car from Mandalay. There are no metro or bus routes directly to the bridge, but it is a popular destination for tourists, so taxis are a convenient option.
The bridge is open all day, but the best times to visit are early in the morning for sunrise or in the late afternoon for sunset. These times provide the best lighting and a peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds.
There is no entrance fee to visit U Bein Bridge. However, there might be small charges for activities such as boat rides or parking fees for vehicles near the bridge.
No advance booking is required to visit U Bein Bridge, as it is open to the public year-round and free to access.
You can fully explore U Bein Bridge in about 1 to 2 hours. This includes walking across the bridge, taking photos, and enjoying the surrounding area. If you decide to take a boat ride, add another 30 minutes to an hour.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English. Local guides can provide insights into the history of the bridge and the surrounding area. You can find guides near the bridge or book a tour from Mandalay.
Start by walking across the bridge from one end to the other to appreciate the teakwood structure. Afterward, take a boat ride around the lake for a different perspective. If you have time, visit the nearby monasteries for a tranquil experience.
Night visits are not commonly offered, and there are no light shows or special tours. However, the bridge is still accessible at night if you want to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The best times to visit are during sunrise and sunset.
The bridge can get crowded during the peak tourist seasons, especially at sunset and sunrise. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning, just after sunrise, or late in the evening. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends.
The bridge itself may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to its narrow and uneven wooden planks. However, children and families can still enjoy the bridge as long as they are careful when crossing. The surrounding area and boat rides are more accessible.
Cash is primarily used around U Bein Bridge. Most local vendors do not accept credit cards, so it’s advisable to bring cash (Myanmar Kyat or US Dollars) for any purchases or boat rides.
Yes, local Burmese restaurants often offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. You can find vegetable-based curries, rice dishes, and fried items suitable for different dietary preferences.
