In the morning, take a transfer from Mandalay to Monywa, which takes approximately 2 and a half hours. Upon arrival, visit the highly decorated Thanboddhay Pagoda, which boasts over 500,000 Buddha images covering every inch of the walls, archways, and niches in vibrant colors.

A few kilometers away from Thanboddhay Pagoda is Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung, a well-known Burmese monastery featuring two colossal Buddha images. The Monywa reclining Buddha, measuring 90 meters in length and 20 meters in height, is one of the largest in the world.

Additionally, towering above the landscape is the standing Buddha, measuring 116 meters in height, and both images sit atop a hill, offering visitors spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. Under the Bodhi trees at the foot of the hill, you can find thousands of seated Buddha images that adorn the vast grounds.

On the return trip to Mandalay, visit the Kaunghmudaw Pagoda, which is famous for its enormous white dome, standing at 64 meters. The ceilings and supporting pillars of the pagoda are intricately decorated in a mosaic of green tiles.

As the sun starts to set, take a leisurely walk along the U Bein Bridge, which stretches 1.2 km across the shallow Taungthaman Lake, said to be the world’s longest teakwood bridge. The bridge is particularly lively during sunrise and sunset, with daily commuters such as monks, fishermen, and village residents.

In the evening, transfer back to Mandalay for an overnight stay.

Overnight