Show up at U Bein Bridge exactly an hour before sunset for the iconic silhouetted monk photos, but expect absolute chaos. Rent a small wooden boat for $10 to get away from the tourist crush on the teak planks. Skip the midday heat; it is brutal and the site is mostly exposed. Spend two hours walking the bridge and grabbing a coconut. If you book a private day tour from Mandalay, you can hit nearby Mahagandayon Monastery beforehand.
