Mandalay Palace
The palace of Burma's last dynasty, its teak buildings showing the splendour of 19th-century royal culture.
Overview
Mandalay Palace was built in 1857 as the last royal palace of the Konbaung dynasty, surrounded by a moat and walls, with all its buildings constructed of teak. The palace was destroyed during the Second World War and the present buildings are a 1990s reconstruction, though the walls and moat survive intact. From the palace wall there are fine views of Mandalay Hill and the Irrawaddy River, especially at dusk. Nearby, U Bein Bridge is the oldest teak bridge in Myanmar at 1.2 kilometres long.
History
The palace was built by King Mindon when he founded Mandalay as his new capital in 1857, and the court occupied it until the British annexed Burma in 1885. The wooden palace was destroyed by bombing in 1945, and the present structure is a reconstruction completed in 1996 using surviving plans and photographs. The surrounding walls and moat, 2.5 kilometres on each side, are original.
Highlights
- •Panoramic views from the palace watchtower
- •The moat at dusk
- •U Bein teak bridge nearby
Practical tips
- •Combine with Mandalay Hill for sunset
- •The reconstruction is modern, so manage expectations
Practical information
- Best time
- November to February
- Tickets
- About USD 10
- Opening hours
- 9:00 to 17:00
- Local food
- Burmese curry, tea leaf salad and noodles
- Getting around
- Mandalay is the transport hub, and U Bein Bridge is best seen by boat at sunset
- Visa
- A visa or e-visa is required. Check border area and safety advisories before travelling.
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