I decided to go from Ostello Bello to U-Bein bridge by bicycle besides hearing that is very far. From the city center to U-bein it is a 13km distance and I took approximately 1h30 to get there.
I couldn’t have made a better decision… I choose a path through villages and it was too good. The path isn’t the much comfortable, as the floor like so many bumps, but is definitely the coolest path to take. I was going across crowded streets and also small villages and that was the best part!
Going through the villages is just an incredible experience!! Everyone wants to say hello and you are riding among the biggest smiles on earth. These people are so nice that the journey is an unforgettable experience you will not have by getting to the bridge another way. They surely not see foreigners on those paths. Actually, I haven’t come across any other foreigner there on a bicycle and in a certain way, that makes you feel special. There is a train line next to the houses and I actually got the chance to see the train passing by. What a loud noise it makes!
Everyone smiles at you, and once you greet them they keep on smiling in a cute shy way that you just can’t avoid laughing. That a nice and gentle people. I would describe their reaction as: “OMG this foreigner just greeted me”
I also came across several street markets where they are selling fresh fish, meat, fruits, vegetables, a lot of different products that give the road a very particular smell. Not the most pleasant one as I don’t appreciate the smell of fish.
By going with my Ympek bicycle to U-bein bridge you have another view from the whole lake and it is very pleasant. You are able to see many fishermen and a lot of life going on the lake. The view is worthy so, if you are going to Mandalay consider a visit to U-Bein bridge. I didn’t stay until sunset because I have all the way back to do, and going by bicycle in the dark doesn’t look like a good idea. Incredibly I’m not feeling very tired.
This was an amazing way to see Mandalay from another perspective and see how the Burmese live in villages. If I haven’t done this bike trip I wouldn’t experience this feeling and trust me, that was the best part of the whole day.
My first experience going from Mandalay to U-Bein bridge on the top of a bus was also awesome, but this bike trip is special.
So, if you are visiting Mandalay any soon, consider this option!
