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U Bein Bridge
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Landmark
The U Bein Bridge near Amarapura is the oldest and longest teakwood bridge in the world, serving as an iconic landmark of Myanmar. Built around 1850 by the city official U Bein, it spans approximately 1.2 kilometers across Taungthaman Lake. The construction utilized over 1000 teak pillars, many of which were salvaged from the dismantled royal palace of the former capital, Ava. The bridge was engineered to withstand the annual monsoon floods, showcasing exceptional 19th-century craftsmanship. Along its span, there are nine passages for boats and several roofed pavilions that act as social gathering spots for locals. During the dry season, the bridge towers over the fertile lake bed, while in the rainy season, the water level rises nearly to the footway. Despite modern concrete reinforcements on some pillars, the bridge has retained its historical essence and is globally renowned for its pretty silhouette at sunset.
- Location: Myanmar (Burma)
- Top sights: Kyauktawgyi Pagoda · Amarapura Moat Site · Ancient Vault of Amarapura
- Nearby: Meiktila (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 24 | 28 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 26 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 11 | 2 | 7 | 15 | 32 | 44 | 33 | 38 | 30 | 33 | 9 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
U Bein Bridge is a freely accessible teakwood footbridge spanning Taungthaman Lake. You can walk the entire bridge and enjoy the views over the lake and surrounding villages.
Typical hours
The bridge is accessible 24/7, but the best time to visit is sunset. The sky is often bathed in warm colors and the light is great for photos.
Photography
Photography is allowed on the entire bridge and features great subjects, especially at sunset. Avoid blocking other pedestrians by standing to the side.
Time needed
A walk across the bridge takes about 20-30 minutes. If you also want to visit the nearby monastery or surrounding villages, allow one to two hours.
Combine with
Nearby is the town of Amarapura with Mahagandayon Monastery, where monks receive alms in the morning. The U Bein Bridge area itself also invites lingering.
Getting there
The bridge is about 11 kilometers south of Mandalay and reachable by taxi, bus, or motorbike taxi. From Amarapura it is easily reached on foot or by bicycle.
Insider tip
Arrive well before sunset to secure a good spot on the bridge. Boat rides on the lake offer a different perspective of the bridge and the setting sun.
Geography
Facts
- The bridge was completed in the year 1850.
- The total length is exactly 1.2 kilometers (3,937 feet).
- A total of 1,086 teak pillars support the entire structure.
- Much of the wood was reclaimed from the former palace of Ava.
- There are 9 openings for boat traffic beneath the span.
- The bridge crosses the shallow waters of Taungthaman Lake.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town U Bein Bridge (10)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the U Bein Bridge?
A famous teak wood bridge over 1.2 km long, spanning Taungthaman Lake.
How long does a walk across the bridge take?
About 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the pace.
Is it safe?
Yes, but there are no railings, so be careful when walking.
Is it very crowded there?
At sunset, it can get very crowded.
Can I rent a boat?
Yes, rowboats can be hired to watch the sunset from the water.
U Bein Bridge: where is it located?
U Bein Bridge is located in Myanmar (Burma).
U Bein Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kyauktawgyi Pagoda, Amarapura Moat Site, Ancient Vault of Amarapura.
U Bein Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
U Bein Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The U Bein Bridge near Amarapura is the oldest and longest teakwood bridge in the world, serving as an iconic landmark of Myanmar.
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