Ancient capitals by bike in Burma from Mandalay

Minimum age: 18

Highlights

• Taungthaman Lake views
• Mahagandayon monastery
• Towering golden Soon Oo Ponya Shin pagoda
• Views of Amarapura, Mandalay, Sagaing Hills, and Ayeyarwady River

All about the trip

The country formerly known as Burma has been through hundreds of years of shifting political and religious landscape, and this is reflected by incredible monuments built through the ages. Taking time to understand the past will give some insight into the current state, as well as provide phenomenal photo opportunities, introduce you to local foods and witness practical aspects of daily life for many people.

First up: Mandalay. The world-renowned U Bein Bridge was built in 1850 from teak wood pillaged from the deserted ruins of the Ava Palace. It spans over a kilometer, crossing Taungthaman Lake with impressive pillars emerging from the water and sustaining the weight of hundreds of travelers each day. We'll ride across and enjoy the view.

The bridge takes us to the detailed glory of Amarapura, which reigned as the capital not once but two times, and then we're on our bikes again. Next we stop for a visit at Mahagandayon monastery, home to more than 1200 monks.

The monastery was established in 1914 to be a Buddhist teaching center and it remains so for the thousands of monks, distinct in their saffron-coloured robes. A moving sight here is seeing them lined up patiently for their sole daily meal, an event that epitomizes their simple lives which are full of sacrifice.

As we cycle on we'll pass some impressive pagodas, follow along the old city walls, and see why the town is known for its cotton and silk weaving industry. A country track takes us to the Ayeyarwady River. After crossing via the Inwa Bridge we arrive at Sagaing, which first rose to prominence in 1315. Although its glory was fleeting, the city reveres its importance as a Buddhist center with hundreds of pagodas and monasteries built on the hills parallel to the river.

We join a steady flow of devout pilgrims in climbing up to the towering golden Soon Oo Ponya Shin pagoda, built in 1312 on Nag-pha Hill. From here we have a spectacular panoramic view of the white pagodas that dot Sagaing Hills, the Ayeyarwady River, Mandalay, and Amarapura.

We return to Mandalay in the late afternoon after having ridden a total of 45 km on flat paved roads.

Our meeting place is at Mandalay Hill Resort or a central Mandalay hotel and take a transfer to the bike warehouse. Please be present by 7:15 for a bike fitting as the tour leaves promptly at 7:30. We return at approximately 16:30 at the bike warehouse.

What is included in the price

• Guide
• Hotel pick-up
• Bike and helmet
• Snacks and drinks

What is not included in the price

• Alcohol
• Tips

Instructions

Please be present at the meeting point by 7:15 for a bike fitting as the tour leaves promptly at 7:30.