Amarapura
Amarapura, meaning “City of Immortality,” is a historic town just south of Mandalay. It served as the royal capital of Myanmar during the Konbaung Dynasty in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Today, Amarapura is known for its spiritual atmosphere, traditional silk weaving, and especially the iconic U Bein Bridge — the world’s longest teakwood bridge.
Highlight Places
U Bein Bridge
A 1.2 km-long bridge across Taungthaman Lake, popular at sunrise and sunset for its scenic views.
Mahagandayon Monastery
One of Myanmar’s largest monastic universities, home to thousands of monks.
Bagaya Monastery
A beautiful teakwood monastery showcasing traditional architecture and craftsmanship.
Silk Weaving Workshops
Visit family-run weaving houses to watch the process of creating traditional Burmese textiles.
Best Experiences in Amarapura
Compare Urban vs Traditional
Amarapura’s slow-paced, spiritual life contrasts sharply with Yangon’s bustling modernity.
Photography Opportunities
Capture the serene beauty of monks walking along U Bein Bridge, a peaceful image different from Yangon’s busy streets.
Deepen Cultural Understanding
Where Yangon shows colonial and commercial influences, Amarapura reflects the roots of Burmese monastic life.
Cultural Experiences
Alms-Giving Ceremonies – Participate in or observe morning rituals where monks receive offerings from locals.
Monastic Life Insights – Learn about monastic education and the daily discipline of Buddhist novices.
Traditional Crafts – Engage with weavers and learn about the long history of Amarapura’s textile industry.
Near Places
Just across the Ayeyarwady River from Sagaing lies Ava (Inwa), an ancient capital famous for its crumbling monasteries and serene riverbank atmosphere—best explored by horse-cart. A bit south is Mingun, home to the gigantic unfinished Mingun Pahtodawgyi and the resonant Mingun Bell. Nearby U Bein Bridge in Amarapura—an iconic teakwood walkway—offers magical sunsets over Taungthaman Lake. Finally, the lush slopes of Sagaing Hill itself are dotted with dozens of white pagodas, ideal for peaceful walks and local market visits.