“Did anyone lose a city?” a voice boomed, echoing through the bustling square. That’s how The West Gate might have felt if it could talk. Abandoned by its city, yet still standing proud. The West Gate is one of twelve grand entrances that once pierced the mighty walls of Mandalay Palace. Each gate, a guardian of time, bore the name of a zodiac sign. Imagine elaborate wooden pavilions with five or seven tiers, perched atop each gate, their gold-tipped spires glinting in the sun. These gates witnessed the rise and fall of a kingdom, the last royal capital of the Konbaung dynasty. The city, designed in a precise grid, was a testament to King Mindon’s vision in 1857. He meticulously planned every detail, from the palace at its heart to the intricate network of moats and bridges. Tragically, the palace, a masterpiece of Burmese architecture, was ravaged by fire during World War II. Today, only the sturdy walls, the imposing gates like The West Gate, and the surrounding moat whisper tales of its former glory. A reconstructed palace stands in the heart of the old city, offering a glimpse into the past. But as you stand before The West Gate, let your imagination soar. Picture the vibrant processions of elephants, the royal chariots gliding through, and the echoes of ancient ceremonies. The West Gate might be a silent sentinel now, but its story reverberates with the grandeur of a bygone era.
The West Gate
Discover cities like never before.
Enjoy over self-guided city exploration with our app ‘Explory’. Learn all about the history and discover hidden more than 500.000 hidden gems, that only locals know about. Build custom tours, find nearby places, and start exploring instantly.
More Places in Mandalay
Pariyatti Tharthana hita Team
Founded in 1994 the Mandalay Buddhist University is a testament to unwavering dedication. Its creation stems from a profound desire
No. Water Pumping Station
Peering into the history of Mandalay’s water supply, we arrive at No. 5 Water Pumping Station. This pumping station plays
NyeinNyein fri
“A fri? What on earth is a fri?” whispered a tourist, squinting at his map in the midday Mandalay sun.
Traditional Medical University
Is there a more ancient human desire than the pursuit of health? Here at the Traditional Medical University, that pursuit
အေရာင္းအိမ္
Have you ever looked closely at a tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, and craftsmanship? Stand before the magnificent
Livestock Industry
Ever wonder how a city like Mandalay gets its meat and dairy? The Livestock Industry in Mandalay plays a crucial