population: 1.225 million million

extension: 37,632 square kilometers square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Mandalay and interested in visiting museums, one option is to go to the Mandalay Palace, which is both a museum and a historic site. You can learn about the last Burmese monarchy and see artifacts and exhibits related to that time period.

Another museum option is the Cultural Museum, which showcases traditional Burmese art, crafts, and textiles. It's located near Mandalay Hill.

If you're looking for similar museums nearby, you may want to consider the National Museum in Naypyidaw, which has exhibits on Burmese history and culture, or the Bagan Archaeological Museum, which displays ancient art and artifacts from the Bagan Kingdom. Both are a bit of a distance from Mandalay, however, so plan accordingly.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Mandalay, according to local people, include:

1. Mandalay Monti - a type of noodle soup made with chicken or pork broth, minced meat, and thin rice noodles. It's often served with crispy fried garlic and chili oil.

2. Shan-style tofu nway - a cold and refreshing dish made with chickpea tofu, rice noodles, and a tangy tomato-based sauce. It's commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

3. Mandalay mohinga - a fish-based soup with rice noodles, lemongrass, and a variety of herbs and spices. It's a popular breakfast dish and often served with crispy fritters on the side.

4. Mee shay - a dish made with thick rice noodles, braised pork or beef, and a flavorful broth. It's often topped with various condiments like crispy garlic, chili flakes, and chopped cilantro.

5. Mandalay-style curry - a rich and fragrant curry made with chicken, pork, or beef, and a blend of spices including turmeric, cumin, and coriander. It's usually served with steamed rice and various side dishes like pickled vegetables and crispy fried onions.

These dishes are just a few examples of the delicious cuisine you can find in Mandalay. Don't forget to also try some of the street food options like samosas, grilled skewers, and sweet desserts like mont let saung and htoe moke.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that local people in Mandalay enjoy:

1. Go on a food tour: Mandalay is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, so one of the best ways to experience the city like a local is through a food tour. You can try out various street food stalls, tea houses, and restaurants in the city.

2. Visit the night markets: Mandalay has several night markets where locals go to shop, socialize, and eat. Some popular ones include the Man Thi Tar Yar Market and the Zegyo Market.

3. Watch a marionette show: Traditional Burmese puppetry, also known as Yoke thé, is an art form that's been passed down for generations. Watching a marionette show can be a unique and enjoyable cultural experience.

4. Take a boat ride along the Irrawaddy River: The Irrawaddy River is the lifeline of Myanmar and a boat ride along this river can be a scenic and peaceful experience. You can take a short day trip or opt for a longer multi-day cruise.

5. Attend a festival: Mandalay has several festivals throughout the year, such as the Thingyan water festival, the Tazaungdaing Festival, and the Ananda Pagoda Festival. Attending these festivals can give you a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.