Page 111 - Experience Thailand and More

WHAT TO DO If it wasn’t for this, we would not have this rare example of pure Myanmar

architecture, as the original palace was destroyed by bombing during
AND SEE World War II. Once gilded in dazzling gold, that has all disappeared,
and it has been left natural in soothingly dark and warm contrast.
Inside, a Buddha image sits quietly in what appears to be enlightened
contemplation. As an active monastery since 1880, a small community
of monks resides here in the shaded tranquility of a massive Bodhi
tree. Close by is the reconstructed Atumashi Monastery, which is quite
impressive because of its size.
Shwenandaw Kyaung
The corner of 14 and 62 streets, Mandalay, Myanmar
nd
th
Open daily from 8.00 a.m. - 8.00 p.m.

After all the glittering gold, the serene Shwenendaw Kyaung is a
welcome change. Constructed of teak with intricately carved bas-
reliefs of Buddha images, the Jataka tales, deities and angels, this
19 century structure was originally the royal apartment of King
th
Mindon at his palace in Amarapura. When he moved his capital
to Mandalay, he brought his residence with him. But after he died,
his son, King Thibaw, fearing it could be haunted, had it moved
from the palace grounds, thus, its name in English, Golden Palace
Temple.

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