Page 27 - Thailand Myanmar 20 Day Sample

Built along side the Ayeyarwady River, Mandalay combines Myanmar's royal history and the preservation of spiritual traditions. The royal heritage can be found at the Golden Palace Monastery with its exquisite wood carvings. The spiritual heart is enshrined at Mahamuni pagoda, housing the most venerated Buddha statue in Mandalay. The large seated image is so greatly revered that layer upon layer of gold leaf, placed as a mark of homage by a ceaseless flow of worshippers, have distorted the true shape of the statue. Only the highly polished face, gazing serenely is untouched. With its wood-carving, stone sculpting, gold-leaf-making and cheroot rolling, Mandalay comes across as a kind of huge oriental bazaar. The shopping hub of upper Myanmar, this is where the colorful hill tribes come together and mingles with the townspeople. The nearby Sagaing Hill provides stunning panoramic views. Visit Mahamuni Pagoda with its spectacular Buddha image covered with thick layers of gold leaves. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. This afternoon visit U Bein Bridge – the world’s longest teak bridge (over 200 years old). Revel in the sunset at Mandalay Hill. Overnight: Mandalay Hill Resort – Corner Deluxe Room