From Mandalay: Full Day Excursion to Sagaing, Innwa, Amarapura

Set out on a captivating journey through Myanmar’s rich cultural tapestry with a full-day excursion from Mandalay. Discover the spiritual essence of Sagaing, Innwa, and Amarapura, where ancient traditions and architectural marvels intertwine. From panoramic vistas to historic monasteries, this immersive experience promises to transport you to the heart of this enchanting region. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply curious to uncover Myanmar’s hidden gems, this excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s captivating heritage.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Full-Day Tours In Mandalay.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Mandalay explores the ancient cities of Sagaing, Innwa, and Amarapura, offering insights into Myanmar’s rich cultural heritage.
• Highlights include panoramic views from Sagaing Hill, visiting historic monasteries, a ferry ride and horse-cart tour of Innwa, and witnessing the daily meal procession at Mahagandayon Monastery.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide, transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, making it a convenient way to experience the region’s top attractions.
• Cultural considerations such as appropriate dress, shoe removal in pagoda areas, and potential photography restrictions are important to note.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions, so it’s essential to review the accessibility details.

Tour Overview and Details

Offering a full-day excursion from Mandalay, this private sightseeing tour takes visitors to the historical sites of Sagaing, Innwa, and Amarapura.

Accompanied by an English-speaking guide and in an air-conditioned vehicle, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of these important Buddhist centers.

Pricing starts at $191.03 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.

Included are entrance fees, ferry and horse cart rides, lunch, water, and tips for the guide and driver.

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Mandalay are provided, with a start time of 7:30 am.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a range of services and amenities to enhance the sightseeing experience.

It covers entrance fees for Innwa and Sagaing, as well as a ferry boat ride to Innwa and a horse cart within the ancient town.

Lunch at a local restaurant and bottled water are provided.

Travelers also receive a snow towel and have their Mandalay Zone Fees, camera fees, and travel insurance covered.

Tips for the guide and driver are included too.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

Visitors must also follow a dress code and be aware of potential closures during the Water Festival in April.

Pickup and Drop-off Information

The excursion offers pickup from your hotel in the Mandalay City area, with a start time of 07:30 am. Guests are advised to provide their hotel name for pickup. At the end of the tour, guests will be dropped off at the same location as the pickup.

Pickup Details	Start Time	Drop-off Location
Mandalay City Area	07:30 am	Same as pickup

It’s important to note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour is not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions.

Health and Accessibility Considerations

According to the provided information, the excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. However, most travelers can participate.

Visitors should keep in mind that they’ll need to remove their shoes and socks in pagoda areas.

Plus, the tour isn’t available during the Water Festival (April 12-18) when the towns experience closures and heavy water throwing during the celebrations.

Cultural Etiquette and Restrictions

Visitors to the sites on this excursion should be mindful of the cultural etiquette and restrictions. When visiting religious sites, appropriate dress is required – clothing must cover shoulders and knees. Plus, shoes and socks must be removed when entering pagoda areas.

Travelers should also note that:

1. Photography may be restricted or require payment of a camera fee.
2. The tour isn’t available during the Water Festival (April 12-18), when town closures and heavy water throwing occur.
3. Certain medical conditions, such as back problems, heart issues, or pregnancy, may make this tour unsuitable.
4. Infants must be held on laps during the tour.

Adhering to these cultural considerations will ensure a respectful and meaningful experience.

Highlights of Sagaing

One of the highlights of the Sagaing portion of the excursion is the Sagaing Hill, a prominent landmark that offers panoramic views of the Irrawaddy River and the surrounding countryside.

Atop the hill, visitors can explore numerous religious sites, including the Soon U Ponya Shin Paya, which houses an impressive collection of Buddha statues.

The area is also known for its numerous monasteries, where visitors can witness the daily rituals of the resident monks.

Plus, the Kaunghmudaw Pagoda, with its unique stupa design, is a notable attraction that showcases the region’s rich architectural heritage.

Exploring Historic Innwa (Ava)

After exploring the spiritual sites atop Sagaing Hill, the excursion journeys to the historic town of Innwa (also known as Ava).

Once a capital of Myanmar, Innwa offers a glimpse into the country’s rich past. The highlights of this stop include:

1. A ferry boat ride across the Irrawaddy River to reach the town.
2. A horse-drawn carriage tour through the sleepy streets, passing by the remnants of the old palace walls and monasteries.
3. A visit to the Bagaya Monastery, known for its ornately carved teak pillars.
4. The opportunity to witness traditional craftsmanship, such as the making of Innwa’s famous bronze and brass work.

Discovering Amarapura’s Attractions

The final leg of the excursion takes travelers to the riverside town of Amarapura, once the penultimate royal capital of the Burmese kingdom.

Here, visitors will explore the ancient Mahagandayon Monastery, home to over a thousand resident monks. They’ll also witness the graceful movements of monks during their daily meal procession.

A short drive away, the famous U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest teak footbridge, offers stunning sunset views over Taungthaman Lake.

Amarapura’s timeless charm and deep spiritual heritage make it a fitting end to this comprehensive tour of Mandalay’s surrounding cultural gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, you can bring your own food and drinks, but the tour includes lunch at a local restaurant and 1 bottle of purified drinking water. Bringing additional snacks or beverages is permitted.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can inquire with the tour operator about the possibility of adding extra time or activities for an additional fee. The standard tour lasts the full day.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Customers can receive a full refund if they cancel within this timeframe, providing flexibility in their travel plans.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts specifically for students or seniors. However, the price starts at $191.03 per person and can be lower for larger groups, providing a potential cost savings.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional sites. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who can adjust the itinerary to accommodate their requests, subject to availability and additional fees.

Recap

This full-day excursion from Mandalay provides a comprehensive introduction to Myanmar’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will be immersed in the spiritual essence of the region, exploring stunning attractions, experiencing local transportation, and savoring delicious cuisine. With an English-speaking guide, travelers can explore the history and significance of Sagaing, Innwa, and Amarapura, leaving with a deeper understanding of Myanmar’s captivating culture.