Pedal through Myanmar’s second largest city (after Yangon of course) with Exotissimo’s Cycle Mandalay: Half Day Biking tour. Bike along wide lanes as you explore small villages, visit temples with opportunities stop and chat with the locals, who are more than happy to converse with you. There’s no better way to explore Mandalay.

The very word Mandalay evokes images of Burma old. You’d be surprised to know that the town was only recently established. Yes, it was founded in 1857 and was quickly established as a capital. Mandalay was once a prosperous city, but unfortunate events throughout history, ranging from fires and World War 2 bombings destroyed its past splendor. The city has recovered nicely and is now considered the main commercial hub of Upper Myanmar, despite the Burmese capital Naypyidaw being in the vicinity.

One thing you will notice as you cycle around Mandalay is its ethnic diversity. You have the Burmans forming up a majority of the population, if only slightly. Chinese have started to settle here, and you can see some of their architecture around town as well. The Shan and Karen constitute to the population diversity as well. Then you have ethnic Indians, Nepali as well as a Sikh community.

Ok, back to the cycling program. You will leisurely cycle just over 30 kilometers through quiet roads with almost no traffic to speak of (except for two wheelers like what you will be on). There is just one little climb to endure, otherwise its flat roads pretty sailing all the way through. Pass Ywahaungy Village, the city golf course and endless paddy fields as you move further out of the city. Stop as often as you like along the way to enjoy the scenes and take photos.

The climb we were mentioning earlier is of Yaytagum Hill. But no worries, as with any hill climb, once you are at the top, the views are just gorgeous. No different here. Take a rest and enjoy. Or pull out your camera and capture the moment.

Myanmar is waiting your exploration! Come to one of the less visited countries in the world and explore a totally exotic and mystifying land. Our Myanmar tours and day trips can shed light on the country. Contact us for any questions about Myanmar, our tours or on how you can build your own itinerary.

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