10 things to do in Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery Mandalay Myanmar
Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery is one of the most important cultural sites in Mandalay, Myanmar. Located on the eastern side of the city, the monastery is a popular destination for travelers looking to explore the city’s rich history and culture. The monastery is also known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Here are 10 things to do while visiting the Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery in Mandalay, Myanmar.
1. Explore the Monastery Grounds: The Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery is a large complex of buildings and gardens, and visitors can spend hours exploring the grounds. The main building of the monastery is a large two-storey structure with a beautiful golden roof, and the grounds contain a variety of other buildings, including a library and a meditation hall.
2. Visit the Monks: The Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery is home to a number of Buddhist monks, and visitors can speak to them and learn more about the religion. It’s also possible to attend meditation classes and lectures held by the monks.
3. Take a Tour: Visitors can take a guided tour of the monastery to learn more about its history and architecture. The tours are available in both English and Burmese, and they usually last around two hours.
4. Admire the Architecture: The Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery is known for its stunning architecture, and visitors can admire the intricate carvings and ornate designs of the buildings.
5. Enjoy the Gardens: The monastery grounds are home to a number of beautiful gardens, which feature a variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and admire the peaceful atmosphere.
6. Visit the Library: The monastery’s library is a great place to learn more about Buddhism and the history of the monastery. The library contains a variety of books, manuscripts, and other artifacts.
7. Attend a Festival: The Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of Lights in October and the Festival of the Full Moon in December.
8. Buy Souvenirs: The monastery’s gift shop sells a variety of souvenirs, including postcards, books, and traditional Burmese handicrafts.
9. Visit the Shwezigon Pagoda: The Shwezigon Pagoda is located just a few minutes away from the Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, and it’s a great place to visit if you want to learn more about Buddhism.
10. Go Shopping: The city of Mandalay is home to a number of markets and shops, and visitors can find a variety of items, from traditional Burmese clothing to souvenirs and handicrafts.