*This exclusive seasonal tour operates only once a year. In 2026, the event will be held on 25 October; early booking is highly recommended.*
Itinerary
Overview:
Experience one of Myanmar’s most vibrant cultural celebrations on this full-day excursion from Mandalay to Kyaukse. The Kyaukse Elephant Dance Festival is a unique annual event dating back to the Bagan period and is held during the Burmese lunar month of Thadingyut (usually in October).
The festival’s highlight is a colorful parade and lively dance competition, where teams dressed in beautifully crafted elephant costumes perform traditional dances to rhythmic music. This joyful celebration showcases local heritage, creativity, and community spirit.
Taking place only once a year, this special event offers a rare opportunity to witness an authentic and historic Myanmar tradition just a short drive from Mandalay.
Full Itinerary
In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Mandalay for a scenic 1 to 1.5-hour drive to Kyaukse to experience the vibrant Kyaukse Elephant Dance Festival.
This full-day cultural celebration features a colorful parade and lively elephant dance competition, showcasing months of meticulous preparation and artistic craftsmanship. The festivities begin with a grand procession, where competing teams from various wards of Kyaukse Township parade around Kyaukse Myo Ma Bazaar three times. Accompanied by traditional music such as drums, oboes, cymbals, brass gongs, and bamboo clappers, the performers create an energetic and festive atmosphere while proudly presenting their elaborately decorated elephant costumes.
Following the parade, the elephant teams proceed to the foot of Shwe Tha Lyaung Hill, circling Shwe Tha Lyaung Pagoda three times to pay homage. After this ceremonial tribute, the dance competition takes place, usually at the foot of the hill or in designated areas. Performers are judged on rhythm, coordination, balance, and overall presentation by an official panel of judges.
During the festival, the streets are filled with pilgrims and visitors who gather to witness this unique and historic cultural event. After enjoying this extraordinary celebration, you will return to Mandalay in the late afternoon.
