Located just north of Mandalay’s downtown, Mandalay Hill rises about 236 meters above the city — roughly 230 meters above the surrounding plain — and has long been the city’s natural watchtower for both sunrise and sunset. It is a landmark that almost every visitor to Mandalay, the former royal capital of Myanmar, includes in their itinerary. The base of the southwest entrance is guarded by two immense white lion statues, symbolic protectors of this sacred hill.

Visitors can ascend the 7,292 covered steps on foot, encountering shrines, pagodas, and resting spots along the way, or take the escalator for a faster route. Early in the climb, there is a shrine housing relics discovered in ancient Gandhara (in present-day India/Pakistan), inscribed as belonging to King Kanishka, one of eight Indian monarchs entrusted with the Buddha’s relics. Near the summit stands the Shweyattaw Buddha in the “Prophecy Posture,” pointing toward Mandalay Palace, linked to the legend of the Buddha’s prophecy of the city’s founding.

At the top sits the Sutaungpyei Pagoda, whose name means “wish-granting pagoda,” originally built by King Anawratha in 414 Myanmar Era (11th century CE) and later patronized and renovated by successive Konbaung kings. The pagoda platform features historical photographs of Mandalay Hill. Surrounding it are colonnades with green mosaic-clad pillars, four corner shrines with Buddha images, and a circular viewing balcony with panoramic views of the palace, Kuthodaw Pagoda, Irrawaddy River, monasteries, and distant hills. Local belief holds that paying homage at the pagodas along the way brings long life.

From downtown Mandalay, a taxi or motorcycle taxi takes 10–15 minutes to the base. Visitors can either climb the stairway or use the escalator to reach the summit. 

Arrive in the early morning for sunrise or late afternoon for sunset. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to remove them in temple areas. Dress modestly according to local customs. 

Admission Fee: Free (small fees may apply for cameras or parking)

Opening Time: Daily 08:00–18:00