Mandalay

The principal cultural and economic city of upper Myanmar and the former capital, Mandalay still evokes images of a romantic bygone era. The royal palace and its impressive surrounding moat sit at the foot of the imposing Mandalay Hill. Positioned on the banks of the mighty Ayeyarwaddy River, Mandalay lies within easy distance of former colonial hill stations, ancient cities and an abundance of cultural attractions. In contrast to the colonial feel of Yangon, Mandalay embodies all that is traditional about Burma. Even today, we see very few motorized vehicles on the streets. Historically, this is Burma’s most “Burmese” city, close to the heart of the original national character and till one of the country’s most significant cultural and religious hubs. For centuries this was the capital of Burma’s kingdoms, and we can still visit three former royal remains here. King Mindon Min, penultimate ruler of the Konbaung Dynasty, founded the city in 1857. Mandalay’s age of glory was short-lived as Mindon was succeeded by his son, Thibaw Min. King Thibaw’s accession to the throne stirred up violence and civil strife, and it was under his rule that Britain, which had already annexed Lower Myanmar, took Mandalay in 1885. Thibaw was deposed and exiled to India, where he remained until his death. Mandalay then became another jewel in the British crown. Rich with monasteries and pagodas, Mandalay is still accepted as the art and cultural heartland of Myanmar. Skilled craftsmen create world famous genuine tapestry called “Shwe Chi Htoe” (Golden Weaving), beautiful articles of wood, marble, silverware and bronze according to the time-honored traditions of their forefathers.