Amarapura: Myanmar’s Ancient Capital
Amarapura is an ancient city located in central Myanmar, and is the former royal capital of the Burmese monarchy. Founded in 1783, Amarapura was the penultimate royal capital of Myanmar before the country’s last king, King Thibaw, moved the royal court to Yangon in 1885. One of the most significant cities in Myanmar’s history, Amarapura has been a center of culture, religion, and commerce since its founding. Today, the city is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors the chance to explore its many monuments, temples, and cultural attractions.
A Brief History of Amarapura
Amarapura was founded in 1783 by King Bodawpaya, the second king of the Konbaung Dynasty. The city was built as a successor to the old royal capital of Ava, which was destroyed by a series of wars and natural disasters. The city was designed to be a “pleasure city” for the royal family, and was laid out in the traditional Burmese city plan, with four main gates and a central palace. Amarapura served as the royal capital for over a century, until King Thibaw moved the royal court to Yangon in 1885.
Amarapura Today
Today, Amarapura is a popular tourist destination and a living museum of Burmese culture and history. Visitors can explore the city’s many temples and monuments, including the famous U Bein Bridge, which is the world’s longest teakwood bridge. Other attractions in Amarapura include the Mahagandayon Monastery, which is home to hundreds of Buddhist monks, and the Bagaya Monastery, which is famous for its elaborate wooden architecture.
Things to Do in Amarapura
Amarapura is packed with things to do and see. Here are some of the top activities and attractions in the city:
- U Bein Bridge: The world’s longest teakwood bridge, U Bein Bridge is a must-see attraction in Amarapura. Spanning 1.2 km across Taungthaman Lake, the bridge is a popular spot for sunset views and photos.
- Mahagandayon Monastery: This is one of the most important monasteries in Myanmar. Home to hundreds of monks, the monastery is renowned for its daily alms-giving ceremony, which takes place at 4am each morning.
- Bagaya Monastery: This monastery is famous for its elaborate wooden architecture. Built in the 16th century, the monastery is home to a collection of sacred Buddhist texts and artifacts.
- Amarapura Royal Palace: The former palace of King Bodawpaya is now a museum dedicated to the city’s royal past. The palace is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and courtyards.
- Taungthaman Lake: Located near the U Bein Bridge, this lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views.
Getting to Amarapura
Amarapura is located about 11 km south of Mandalay, and is easily accessible by car or bus. The city is also served by an international airport, Mandalay International Airport, which is located about 20 km away from the city center.
Conclusion
Amarapura is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. From its ancient temples to the iconic U Bein Bridge, Amarapura offers a captivating journey into Myanmar’s past. Founded in 1783 as the royal capital, the city has evolved into a living museum, attracting visitors with its historical sites like the Mahagandayon Monastery and Bagaya Monastery. The U Bein Bridge, stretching over Taungthaman Lake, is a highlight for sunset views. Exploring the Amarapura Royal Palace and experiencing the tranquility of Taungthaman Lake are additional draws. Conveniently located near Mandalay, Amarapura provides a glimpse into Myanmar’s cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a historical and spiritual journey.