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Mandalay Palace Moat Park

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Mandalay Palace Moat Park (Myanmar (Burma))

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The Mandalay Palace Moat Park surrounds the massive complex of the last royal capital of Myanmar, forming a great square with each side measuring two kilometers. The moat was constructed starting in 1857 under King Mindon, coinciding with the foundation of Mandalay as the new royal seat. It measures 64 meters (210 feet) in width and has an average depth of 4.5 meters (15 feet), originally designed as a formidable defense against invaders. Today, the paved paths along the moat serve as a popular recreational area for the citizens of Mandalay, especially for morning and evening exercise. The still waters provide a mirror-like reflection of the reconstructed palace walls and the distant Mandalay Hill, making it a prime location for photography. The fortification features massive walls with 48 bastions and 12 gates, each topped with traditional Burmese pyatthat pavilions. As a symbol of the Konbaung Dynasty's grandeur, the moat remains one of the most significant historical landmarks in the country. It integrates the city's royal past with its modern urban lifestyle, offering a spacious green and blue lung in the heart of the bustling city.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212428313130303030292623
Rain mm11271532443338303397

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The expansive facility is typically very easily accessible on foot, by bicycle, or via local transport directly from the city center, as it almost completely surrounds the historic central area.
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Best season
The cooler and drier months typically offer the most pleasant climate for walking, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the bright sun reflects beautifully on the wide expanses of water.
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Terrain & paths
The pathways surrounding the water are generally very flat, largely paved, and barrier-free, making the terrain an extremely easy and highly comfortable environment for relaxing walks or casual cycling.
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What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes, a reliable hat, and proper sun protection are normally entirely sufficient, complemented by a camera to perfectly capture the beautiful reflections and the historic atmosphere.
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Parking
Parking is usually straightforward and can generally be found along the adjacent city streets or in specially designated parking zones located conveniently near the main entrance gates to the extensive facility.
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Safety
Visitors should always be highly mindful of the often bustling local traffic on the adjacent busy streets and, for their own utmost safety, consistently remain strictly on the designated pedestrian pathways.
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Time needed
A leisurely stroll or a relaxing bicycle ride along a substantial section of the extensive area usually takes approximately one to two hours, depending entirely on the specific chosen pace of exploration.

Geography

Coordinates
21.99330, 96.09670

Facts

  • The moat was built in 1857 as part of the new capital's defenses.
  • It forms a perfect square with each side being 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) long.
  • The moat is 64 meters (210 feet) wide and 4.5 meters (15 feet) deep.
  • The surrounding walls include 48 bastions and 12 guarded gates.
  • King Mindon established this site as the capital of the Konbaung Dynasty.
  • The moat's perimeter is a major hub for public fitness and social gatherings.

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Notable places around

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Sights in the town Mandalay Palace Moat Park (10)

Mandalay Palace

Reconstruction of the royal palace of the last Burmese monarchy, surrounded by a moat.

🕒 Mo-Su 07:30-16:30

Nanmyo Sutaungpyae Pagoda

Buddhist pagoda near Mandalay Palace, a quiet place for prayer.

The East Gate (Gate for Foreigners)

Eastern gate of the Mandalay Palace grounds, formerly the entrance for foreign visitors.

Mandalay Royal Palace (Foreigner gate)

Entry gate for foreign tourists to the royal palace compound in Mandalay.

National Theater (amiu:saa: kjaattruN)

National Theater in Mandalay, venue for traditional and modern performances.

Yadanarpon Zoo

Zoo in Mandalay, housing native and exotic animal species.

Yadanarpon Zoo Garden

Garden with Buddhist features, adjacent to Yadanarpon Zoo.

Hindu Temple

Hindu temple in Mandalay, used by the local Hindu community.

Su Taung Pyae Pagoda

Buddhist pagoda in Mandalay, another place of worship.

Thu Da Mar Public Resthouse

Public resthouse in Mandalay, an archaeological site with historical significance.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Mandalay-Palastgraben-Park offer?
A beautiful green strip along the historical moat, well-suited for jogging and relaxing.
Can one go around the moat?
Yes, there is a long, level route around the entire palace complex.
Is the park safe at night?
The area is well-lit and a popular meeting point for locals in the evening.
Are there photo opportunities there?
Yes, the reflection of the palace in the water and the old wall offer great subjects.
Are there park benches?
Yes, at regular intervals, there are benches for breaks.
Mandalay Palace Moat Park: where is it located?
Mandalay Palace Moat Park is located in Myanmar (Burma).
Mandalay Palace Moat Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mandalay Palace, Nanmyo Sutaungpyae Pagoda, The East Gate (Gate for Foreigners).
Mandalay Palace Moat Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Mandalay Palace Moat Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Mandalay Palace Moat Park surrounds the massive complex of the last royal capital of Myanmar, forming a great square with each side measuring two kilometers.
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