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Visiting Myanmar and looking to see as much of the country as possible? Stumped at how to get from place to place? Look no further if you’re searching for methods of travel to get from Yangon to Mandalay.
There’s a distance of roughly 630km (390 miles) between the two cities and you can choose between car, bus, train or plane to get you there. Depending on the method of transportation you choose, you’re looking at spending between 1, 8 or 15 hours traveling.
Take a look at some of the options listed below which include tips on how to book them.
Cost: One way – $90-$120 + taxis and baggage Duration: 1 hour Depart: Yangon International Airport (RGN) Arrive: Mandalay International Airport (MDL)
The fastest way to get from Yangon to Mandalay is to fly. There are frequent flights between the two international airports, taking about an hour and ten minutes in the air. However, like most cases, flying can be a costly option, especially when factoring in taxi costs and checking baggage.
It is though, the fastest way so if you’re short on time, taking a flight is something we recommend you do. If you want to book a flight, we recommend you check out Flymya Flightswhich aggregates various local airline companies in Myanmar, allowing you to quickly see and compare flights between each destination.
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Duration: 8-9 hours Cost: $14-$25 (or opt for an economy bus instead of VIP for $11-$15) How to Book:12go Website
Yangon to Mandalay is a popular route which means there are many buses leaving at different times to serve you. When traveling in Asia, I tend to book bus tickets on 12go or Bookaway as you can easily reserve tickets online ahead of time.
Both websites provide reviews and photos as well as ticket purchasing options. I opt for VIP buses which generally mean a reclining seat, blanket, snacks, and water. These buses also have the added benefit of a toilet on board to make the journey that much more pleasant.
The most highly rated bus line, JJ Express, offers frequent buses between Yangon and Mandalay and are sure to provide you with a comfortable and safe travel experience. As far as travel time goes, you should expect to spend at least 8 hours on the bus, but sometimes closer to 9. This is why it may be a good idea to choose the overnight bus, that way you don’t have to lose a day to travel and can (hopefully) sleep through the ride.
Details of Yangon to Mandalay Bus
Depart: Aung Mingalar, Yangon Arrive: Kywel Sel Kan, Mandalay
Yangon to Mandalay by Train:
Duration: 14-15 hours
Cost: Upper Class – $15-$20, Sleeper – $20-$30
How to Book: 12go Website
Another common way to get to Mandalay from Yangon is by train. These trains provide quite a lengthy, bumpy journey and offer different levels of comfort depending on what class you choose. Whatever your choice is, make sure you’ll be comfortable for 15 – 16 hours because that’s how long you’ll be on the train for.
These trains run regularly with overnight options. The 5 pm train arrives in Mandalay at 7:45 am, so if you choose this time, I’d opt for a sleeper ticket. But be sure to check that the train offers a Sleeper option because some don’t!
Otherwise, you can secure an Upper-Class ticket so you can ditch the bed for a reclining seat at a lower price. Another thing to note is whether the train you’re taking has a dining car so you can have a couple of meals along the way.
If not, be sure to stock up on enough food and water to last you until reaching your destination. If you choose to travel during the daytime, you’re sure to enjoy plenty of countryside scenery, glimpses into local life, and lots of chatter between travelers.
Details of Yangon to Mandalay by Train
Depart: Yangon Central Arrive: Mandalay Central
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The final way you can get from Yangon to Mandalay is by renting a private car and driver to take you on this 8-hour trip. However, this is the most costly method by far. There are different services online to help you book a private car, but they’re rather expensive and sometimes a bit unreliable.
If you wanted to travel using this method, I recommend you contact your hotel to arrange it for you and get a price quote up front. Otherwise, you can visit a local travel agency to help smooth out the details. This method is best if you’re traveling with many people as the ride can be split between the passengers.
Hopefully, this article helps you decide which method of travel is best for you. No matter what you choose, always remember to bring plenty of water, warm clothes because air-conditioned transportation can get frigid, and to be safe! Happy trails!
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