Ubain

• Location: Myanmar, Mandalay, Amarapura
• Material: wood
• Overall length: approx. 1.2 km
• Start of construction: approx. 1850

The Ubein teak bridge or the U bein bridge is a unique landmark of Myanmar , there is a construction in the city of Amarapura in the Mandalay region , over Lake Tauntaman. The Ubein Bridge is considered to be the oldest and longest teak bridge. It was built around 1850 so that peasants could cross the river to the Kyauktawgui pagoda. The bridge consists of two parts - 650 and 550 meters, which dock at an angle of 150 ° relative to each other, so that there is resistance to water and wind.

Interesting Facts

1. The main piles of the bridge are crammed into the bottom of the lake by two meters, with a total of 1086 pieces, the log road was formed conically, so that the rainwater does not stay on the bridge, but flows down. The bridge is built without nails, the logs are connected by a cable. Every year on the Ubein Bridge reconstructions are carried out-decaying logs of teak, they are changed to concrete poles.
2. Initially, two passes were conceived, but when the city began to grow and merchant ships began to float on the lake, the designers developed 9 passes so that boats and barges would pass freely under the bridge even during the rainy season. Also on the bridge there are four covered wooden pergolas for tourists, they can relax and visit stalls with souvenirs.
3. Every year thousands of tourists come here, so local residents, in addition to selling souvenirs, try to make the teak bridge even more attractive. For example, in order to watch the sunset or dawn over the lake you can rent a boat, the rent price is $ 10. Still on the bridge they offer to release the bird from the cage for $ 3 for $ 3, however, after your departure the bird flies back.
4. In the last 10-15 years, fishing has increased in Tauntamai, which is why the water has stagnated. The number of aquatic plants increased at times, and the population of animals and fish, except for telapia, significantly decreased. Teak piles began to deteriorate quickly, and soon the uniqueness of the bridge will disappear.

How to get there?

Public transport does not go here, so we recommend taking a taxi (about $ 12 from Sagain) or renting a bicycle. From Sagain, go west towards Mandalay on Route 7, then turn onto the Shwebo Rd and go 12 km to the city of Amarapura.