The Mandalay Palace (Burmese: မန္တလေး နန်းတော်), located in Mandalay, Myanmar, is the last royal palace of the last Burmese monarchy. It is a significant historical site that holds cultural and architectural importance, drawing visitors from around the world. The palace, built between 1857 and 1859, remains a key symbol of the last Burmese kingdom, despite the destruction it faced during British occupation and World War II. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the Mandalay Palace's features, history, and how to visit.

Overview of Mandalay Palace

The Mandalay Palace was constructed as part of King Mindon's plan to establish Mandalay as the new royal capital. The palace was built inside a walled fortress surrounded by a moat, designed in the traditional Burmese palace style. The plan of the palace compound reflects the grandeur of Burmese architecture, featuring structures with multiple spires. These spires signified the importance of the areas they marked.

Mandalay Palace was the residence of the last two kings of Burma, King Mindon and King Thibaw, until British forces captured the royal family in 1885 during the Third Anglo-Burmese War. The British subsequently turned the palace into Fort Dufferin and used it as a military base. Much of the palace complex was destroyed during World War II, but efforts were made to rebuild it in the 1990s.

Today, Mandalay Palace is a symbol of Burmese heritage and a significant tourist attraction.

Features of Mandalay Palace

The Citadel and Walls

The Mandalay Palace is located within a citadel, which is encircled by a massive square wall. The walls measure 2 km on each side and are 3 meters thick at the base, tapering to a height of 6.86 meters. The walls are reinforced with 48 bastions, each topped with gold-tipped pyatthats (traditional Burmese spires). The moat, which is 64 meters wide and 4.5 meters deep, adds an extra layer of defense.

• Gates: There are twelve gates on the walls, three on each side, each associated with a zodiac sign. The gates are guarded by bastions and pyatthats. The central gate on the east wall was the main entrance to the palace, facing the Great Hall of Audience.
• Watch Tower: One of the standout features of the palace is the Watch Tower, also known as Nanmyintsaung. Standing at 24 meters tall, it is topped with a seven-tiered pyatthat and offers panoramic views of the city.

Key Buildings within the Palace

• Great Audience Hall: The main building of the palace, where the king would hold court. It is where the Lion Throne (Sihasana) was placed. The Great Audience Hall is surrounded by several smaller halls, each used for different royal functions.
• The Clock Tower (Bahozin): Located to the north of the palace grounds, this tower signified the passage of time with its gong and water clock.
• Relic Tower (Swedawzin): This three-tiered structure is a classic example of traditional Burmese architecture. Despite its name, it did not house any relics, but served as a symbolic structure in the royal city.
• Royal Mint: Located to the northeast of the mausoleums, the Royal Mint is historically significant as the site where the first Burmese coin was minted in 1865. It is one of the few buildings that survived the WWII bombing.
• Mausoleums: Several mausoleums are located near the Clock Tower, including that of King Mindon, which is adorned with glass mosaics.
• Glass Palace: Also known as Hman-nan, this was a unique structure made entirely of glass, symbolizing the luxury of the royal family.

History of Mandalay Palace

Construction and Design

The Mandalay Palace was commissioned by King Mindon in 1857 to serve as the royal residence for the newly founded capital city of Mandalay. The design of the palace was inspired by the Amarapura Palace, which was dismantled and relocated to Mandalay. The layout followed a grid pattern, with the palace compound at its heart, covering an area of 413 hectares. The construction of the walls and moat was completed in 1859, marking the official completion of the palace.

British Occupation

In 1885, during the Third Anglo-Burmese War, the British forces captured the palace and exiled the royal family to India. The palace was renamed Fort Dufferin and used for military purposes. The British ransacked the palace, removing royal regalia and treasures. The royal library was destroyed, and much of the palace was looted.

WWII Destruction

During World War II, the palace became a target of Allied bombing. The bombing destroyed most of the original buildings, leaving only the royal mint and the watch tower standing. After the war, the palace complex remained in ruins.

Reconstruction Efforts

In the 1990s, the Myanmar government began efforts to rebuild the palace complex, using both traditional and modern building techniques. While the overall design remains faithful to the original, modern materials like concrete and metal roofing were used for practicality. The reconstruction process is ongoing, with several buildings, including the Great Audience Hall, the Lion Throne Room, and the Watch Tower, being restored.

In 2021, following Myanmar’s military coup, there was criticism regarding the construction of a public recreation park adjacent to the palace, which was seen as a violation of conservation laws.

Entrance Tickets to Mandalay Palace

• Entrance Fee:
  • Foreign tourists are required to pay a fee to enter the palace grounds, which includes access to the palace and its various structures.
  • The price may vary, so it’s advisable to check current ticketing information before your visit.
• Opening Hours: The palace is typically open every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, it is best to check for any changes in schedule during public holidays or local events.

Location and Address

• Location: The palace is situated at the heart of Mandalay, Myanmar. The citadel is located near Mandalay Hill, a major landmark in the city.
• Address: Mandalay Palace, Mandalay, Myanmar

How to Get There (Transportation)

By Air

• Mandalay International Airport is the closest airport to the palace, located approximately 35 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to the palace.

By Train

• Mandalay Railway Station is well-connected to other cities in Myanmar. From the station, you can take a taxi or local transportation to the palace grounds, which is around 3 km away.

By Bus

• Local buses and tuk-tuks are available throughout the city, and many will take you to the palace from various points of interest in Mandalay.

By Walking

• If you’re staying nearby, the palace is easily accessible on foot. It is located within the city center, and walking from Mandalay Hill takes around 20 minutes.

Travel Tips for Visiting Mandalay Palace

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The palace grounds are large, and you may need to walk a lot. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you explore the complex.
2. Bring Sunscreen and Water: The palace grounds are open-air, and the sun can be quite intense, especially during midday. Don’t forget to carry sunscreen and water to stay hydrated.
3. Respect Local Customs: As the Mandalay Palace is a culturally significant site, remember to dress modestly when visiting. Cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for the local customs.
4. Hire a Local Guide: A local guide can enhance your experience by providing deeper insights into the history and significance of the palace. They can also help you navigate the sprawling grounds.
5. Take Plenty of Photos: The palace is one of the most photogenic sites in Mandalay, so make sure to bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning architecture, serene moat, and the golden spires.
6. Combine with Other Attractions: Mandalay is home to several historical landmarks. After visiting the palace, you can explore nearby attractions like Mandalay Hill, the Kuthodaw Pagoda, or the Shwenandaw Monastery, all of which are within a short distance.

The Mandalay Palace stands as a testament to the grandeur of the last Burmese monarchy and remains a key piece of Myanmar’s cultural heritage. Despite its tumultuous past, including occupation, destruction, and reconstruction, the palace continues to captivate visitors with its fascinating history and impressive architecture. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or just curious about Myanmar's royal past, a visit to Mandalay Palace offers a rich and memorable experience.