Mandalay Palace

Mandalay Palace is a royal residence in central Mandalay, Myanmar, consisting of more than 40 wooden buildings within a walled compound. The walls form a square about two kilometers on each side, surrounded by a wide moat with access gates on every face.

King Mindon built the compound between 1857 and 1859 as the new capital of the kingdom, housing the entire administration within its walls. British troops seized it in 1885, ending the monarchy, while bombing during World War II destroyed most of the original structures.

The name comes from the nearby hill town, and the layout reflects cosmological beliefs with the throne hall representing the center of the universe. Visitors notice the extensive use of teak and the gold leaf decorating roofs and doorways, marking royal status.

Access is through the eastern side, and visitors must walk certain sections since motorized vehicles are allowed only in limited areas. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense.

The current compound is largely a reconstruction from after 1990, with craftsmen using traditional techniques to recreate the original appearance. A small section of the old mint remains as one of the few authentic pre-war buildings.