Amarapura
,Amarapura, located in Burma, is known as the "City of Immortality." This historic city served as the capital of Burma in the 18th century. It is famous for its iconic U Bein Bridge, the longest teak bridge in the world spanning across Taungthaman Lake.
Amarapura is also home to numerous monasteries and is a hub of traditional Burmese culture and craftsmanship.
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kyaikhtiyo" - Thank you
- "Nehn hma kyi" - How are you?
- "Nya naing" - Goodbye
- "Pyan nar" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Amarapura
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the U Bein Bridge, the longest teak bridge in the world. Enjoy a peaceful walk and take in the stunning sunrise views over the lake.
afternoon
:Visit the Mahagandayon Monastery to learn about the daily life of Buddhist monks. Watch the monks' lunchtime ritual, which is a unique cultural experience.
evening
:Stroll around the town to experience the local culture. Enjoy a traditional Burmese dinner at a local restaurant while watching the sun set.
Cultural Immersion
morning
:Head to the gold leaf workshop and observe the intricate process of gold leaf making. Engage with artisans and learn about this ancient craft.
afternoon
:Visit the traditional silk weaving workshops to see how local fabrics are made. You might even get a chance to try weaving yourself!
evening
:Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare Burmese dishes. Enjoy the meal you've cooked and share stories with fellow travelers.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage, with numerous monasteries and traditional crafts.
- Beautiful scenery, including the famous U Bein Bridge and Mandalay Hill.
- A tranquil atmosphere compared to larger cities, ideal for relaxation.
- Access to unique local experiences, such as traditional Burmese festivals and ceremonies.
- Opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Bad
- Limited infrastructure, which can make travel and transportation challenging.
- Lack of modern amenities and conveniences that travelers may expect.
- Potential language barriers for non-Burmese speakers.
- Political instability and safety concerns in some areas of Myanmar.
- Overcrowding during peak tourist seasons, which can detract from the experience.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
U Bein Bridge
Visit the iconic U Bein Bridge, a historical teakwood bridge offering stunning views of the surrounding lake and countryside. It's a great spot for photography and a leisurely stroll.
Maha Ganayon Kyaung Monastery
Explore the Maha Ganayon Kyaung Monastery, known for its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere. Witness the monks' daily rituals and partake in the peaceful surroundings.
Walking Tours
Take a walking tour of Amarapura to explore its vibrant street markets, local cuisine, and traditional crafts. Engage with the friendly locals and immerse yourself in the town's rich culture.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Amarapura with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
U Bein Bridge
A historic teak bridge offering stunning views, especially during sunset and sunrise.
Maha Aung Mye Bonzan Monastery
A beautifully preserved monastery with intricate architectural details, perfect for photography.
Taung Tha Man Lake
A picturesque lake known for its reflections, particularly appealing for photography enthusiasts.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mohinga
A traditional Burmese breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles in a rich fish broth, garnished with an assortment of condiments like coriander, lime, and crispy fritters.
Must-Try!
Laphet Thohk (Tea Leaf Salad)
A distinctive salad made with fermented tea leaves, mixed with crunchy nuts, toasted sesame, garlic, and a burst of flavors from lime and chilies.
Shan Noodles
This noodle dish features flat, wide rice noodles tossed in a savory, tangy sauce, often served with your choice of meat and fresh herbs.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Amarapura better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Amarapura Night Market
A bustling market offering an array of delectable street food such as grilled skewers, dumplings, and a variety of flavorful curries.
U Bein Bridge Street Food Stalls
Along the banks of the iconic U Bein Bridge, numerous street food stalls offer an assortment of local snacks, grilled meats, and refreshing beverages.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for elders
In Amarapura, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and mannerisms.
Modest clothing
When visiting sacred sites and religious places in Amarapura, it is respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs.
Removing shoes
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or a religious site in Amarapura as a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Amarapura with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping in Amarapura, Burma is not widely practiced and is not expected in most situations. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, but additional tips for exceptional service are appreciated.
Payment
In Amarapura, Burma, cash is the primary form of payment. Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's important to carry enough local currency for daily expenses and transactions.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Amarapura.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (November to February)
Best time to visit with cooler temperatures and clear skies. It's a great time for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying traditional festivities.
Hot season (March to May)
Expect hot and dry weather. This season is less crowded and offers good deals on accommodations and tours, but be prepared for high temperatures.
Monsoon season (June to October)
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. Some attractions may be inaccessible, but this is the best time for witnessing lush landscapes and enjoying local cultural activities.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Amapura Hill
A scenic hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Irrawaddy River, popular for day hikes.
Mount Popa
A famous extinct volcano and pilgrimage site, with trails leading to the summit, offering beautiful views and unique flora and fauna.
Kandawgyi National Park
Located nearby, it features numerous trails through lush greenery, lakes, and gardens, suitable for hiking and bird watching.
Shwesandaw Pagoda Trek
A short trek that leads to the Shwesandaw Pagoda, known for its stunning sunset views and serene environment.
U Bein Bridge Trail
While not a traditional hiking spot, walking along the trails near U Bein Bridge offers a unique experience to explore the local environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Amarapura through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Amarapura by plane.
Mandalay International Airport (MDL)
The nearest major airport serving Amarapura, located approximately 35 kilometers from the city center.
Yangon International Airport (RGN)
The largest international airport in Myanmar, located about 600 kilometers south of Amarapura, serving as a major hub for international flights.
Bagan Nyaung U Airport (NYU)
An airport serving the ancient city of Bagan, located about 180 kilometers west of Amarapura, offering both domestic and limited international flights.
Heho Airport (HEH)
An airport serving the Inle Lake region, located approximately 135 kilometers northeast of Amarapura, with domestic flights and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bamar
The largest ethnic group in Myanmar, primarily residing in the central regions, including Amarapura.
Shan
An ethnic group predominantly found in the eastern regions of Myanmar, including some presence in Amarapura.
Rakhine
An ethnic group mainly found in the western state of Rakhine, with some communities across the country.
Chinese
A smaller demographic group in Amarapura, associated with trade and business activities.
Indian
A minority community in Amarapura, consisting of descendants of settlers and traders.
Kachin
An ethnic group from northern Myanmar, with a lower presence in Amarapura.
The Soul of Amarapura
Discover the essence of Amarapura through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Canoeing
Canoeing is a popular sport in Amarapura, often practiced on the serene waters of the surrounding lakes and rivers, showcasing traditional wooden boats.
Sepak Takraw
A traditional sport resembling volleyball, but using a rattan ball, Sepak Takraw is popular among locals, highlighting agility and teamwork.
Football (Soccer)
Football is widely played in Amarapura, with many local teams and community matches, reflecting the sport's popularity across Myanmar.
Traditional Burmese Wrestling
Known as 'Lethwei,' this traditional form of wrestling is not only popular for competition but also culturally significant in local festivals and events.
Cricket
Cricket has gained popularity among the youth in Amarapura, featuring local leagues and encouraging community participation.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options
Many local eateries are accustomed to catering to vegetarians and vegans, offering delectable plant-based dishes like curries, salads, and stir-fries.
Gluten-Free Options
While traditional Burmese cuisine heavily features rice and rice-based noodles, it's important to communicate any gluten restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Amarapura with these cultural adventures.
