Mandalay was founded in 1857 as the capital by King Mindon and remained the capital city of the Konboung, Myanmar’s last dynasty until it fell to British troops in 1885 and moved to Yangon. Today, Mandalay is known as the center of Myanmar culture, the second-largest city and famous for its monasteries, pagodas, temples and the resource of Myanmar arts and architecture. The city is both a bustling commercial center and a repository of rich cultural heritage with the remains of the old Royal City and its many ancient monasteries. Explore the past and present of this legendary city for an overland experience.
Top Sights in Mandalay
Mandalay Royal Palace
Myanmar had a kingdom dynasty and the last dynasty was Alaungpaya Dynasty, also called Konbaung, the last ruling dynasty (1752–1885). The dynasty’s collapse in the face of the British imperial might marked the end of Myanmar sovereignty for more than 60 years. King Thibaw was the last king of the Myanmar Kingdom before it was captured by British Colony. Many places of the complex were destroyed during World War II. Only one major wooden building survived, the Shwenandaw Monastery which is built completely of teak and is decorated throughout with detailed and ornate carvings. The watchtower and the royal mint also survived. The rest of the Royal Palace has been rebuilt from scratch. Today this is a major attraction for the tourists once a time in Mandalay.
