Mandalay

Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar by population and serves as the administrative capital of Mandalay Region. It lies on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River in central Myanmar. Founded in 1857 by King Mindon Min as the royal capital of the Konbaung Dynasty, Mandalay remained the seat of Burmese royalty until the British conquest of 1885.

The city functions as a major cultural and economic center. It is known for traditional crafts such as marble carving, gold leaf production, woodcarving, and lacquerware, and for its numerous Buddhist temples and monasteries.

Key landmarks include the Mandalay Palace complex, built between 1860 and 1878 as the royal residence; the Kuthodaw Pagoda, whose marble slabs form what is described as the world’s largest book; the Shwenandaw Monastery, noted for its teak carvings; and the Mahamuni Pagoda, which houses a venerated Buddha image. Mandalay Hill offers city views and sunsets across the river.

Transportation and economy are centered on the Irrawaddy river port, a major railway hub on the Yangon–Mandalay line, road connections to other cities, and Mandalay International Airport. The surrounding region contributes through agriculture, timber, and manufacturing linked to craft industries and wholesale trade in markets such as Zegyo Market.

The population is predominantly Bamar, with minority communities such as Shan and Rakhine. Burmese is the main language, and Buddhism is the dominant religion.