Mandalay‘s Most Popular Neighborhood, known as Amarapura, is a bustling area filled with history, culture, and delicious food, making it a must-see destination for any tourist visiting the city.
Amarapura’s History
Amarapura, which means “City of Immortals,” was once the capital of Myanmar during the Konbaung Dynasty in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The city was built by King Bodawpaya in 1783 as a new royal capital and was used as such for only about 30 years before being abandoned in favor of Mandalay. Today, Amarapura is a part of Mandalay and is home to many historical sites, including the famous U Bein Bridge, which is the longest teak bridge in the world.
The U Bein Bridge
The U Bein Bridge is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Amarapura and for good reason. The bridge stretches over 1.2 kilometers across Taungthaman Lake and is made entirely of teakwood. It is a great spot to catch the sunset and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge and stop at various points to take pictures and enjoy the scenery.
Mahagandayon Monastery
Another popular attraction in Amarapura is the Mahagandayon Monastery, which is known for its large community of monks who reside there. Visitors can observe the daily routine of the monks, including their morning and evening prayers, and can also take part in meditation sessions. The monastery also has a large library and visitors can learn about Buddhism and the history of the monastery.
Amarapura’s Local Markets
Amarapura is also home to many local markets where tourists can shop for souvenirs and traditional crafts. One popular market is the night market, which is held on the U Bein Bridge. Here, visitors can find a variety of goods such as traditional clothing, lacquerware, and hand-woven textiles. The market is a great place to bargain and pick up a unique souvenir.
Food and Drink
Amarapura is also a food lover’s paradise, with many delicious and traditional Myanmar dishes to try. Visitors should definitely try the local specialty, “Mohinga,” which is a fish and rice noodle soup. The dish is typically served in the morning and can be found at street vendors and restaurants throughout the neighborhood. Another must-try dish is “Nangyi thoke,” a dish made of fermented tea leaves mixed with various ingredients such as peanuts, sesame, and dried shrimp. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Burmese tea, which is made with milk and served with sweetened condensed milk.
Conclusion
Amarapura is a vibrant and historic neighborhood in Mandalay that offers visitors a chance to experience the traditional culture and lifestyle of Myanmar. From the U Bein Bridge and Mahagandayon Monastery to the local markets and delicious food, Amarapura is a must-see destination for any traveler to Mandalay. With so much to see and do, visitors will find that a day in Amarapura is never enough.
