HALF-DAY MANDALAY BIKING TOUR

Mandalay is the second-largest city and the last royal capital of Burma. Located 445 miles (716 km) north of Yangon on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River, the city has a population of one million and is the capital of Mandalay Region. Mandalay is the economic hub of Upper Burma and considered the centre of Burmese culture. A continuing influx of Chinese immigrants, mostly from Yunnan, in the past twenty years, has reshaped the city’s ethnic makeup and increased commerce with China. Despite Naypyidaw’s recent rise, Mandalay remains Upper Burma’s main commercial, educational and health center.

Half-day Mandalay Biking Tours :

Set off this morning for a fabulous ride through the eastern outskirts of Mandalay. Your guide will meet you at the hotel with your bikes and, after adjusting your bikes and helmets, it’s time to start pedaling. The journey covers 20-30 kilometres (depending on start point and optional uphill climb) and is mostly on flat, sealed roads.

The first 4-6 kilometres take you out of the city, leaving behind the concrete buildings and moving on to a quiet road surrounded by fields and dotted with small villages. Our first stop will be at a morning market where a range of fruits, vegetables, local snacks and other items are for sale. Walk around, take photos and interact with the friendly vendors.

Continue toward the east, arriving at the base of Yankin Hill, a popular pilgrimage spot for the locals, and turn south. This next stretch of road is shaded by large trees and there are many monasteries, temples and schools on the sides. There is little traffic aside from the school kids and monks walking or biking alongside you.

We then reach Yeh Dagon Hill, where many Burmese come for meditation retreats. If you’re feeling fit, a short 6km loop will take you up the hilly switchbacks for fabulous views.  From here we turn back toward town on a different road and ride through more fields (growing sugarcane, sunflowers, beans and sometimes rice). We’ll stop at a small village making traditional paper fans before making our way back to the city.
Reach your hotel at midday where it’s time to say goodbye to your guide.

Time: 0800-1200 or 1300-1700
Recommended: Morning tour suggested- cooler weather and more active market
Total Distance<: 20-30 kilometers; 90% sealed roads, 10% hard pack; 100% flat roads (except optional 6km loop)

Our Services Include:

• English-speaking guide 
• Transfer to the start/finish point by private air-conditioned vehicle with driver 
• Bike rental and helmet 
• Water and refreshing towel

Our Services do not Include:

• Meals 
• Personal expenses 
• Any other items not mentioned 
• Visits not mentioned in the program