The 1990s reconstruction of Mandalay's royal palace features over 40 timber buildings built to resemble the 1850s originals. Climb the curious spiral, timber-walled watchtower for a good general view. The palace's most striking structure is a soaring multi-layered pyramid of gilt filigree above the main throne room . The westernmost building within the palace oval contains a minor culture museum where the most intriguing exhibit is King Thibaw's dainty, glass-pillared four-poster bed.
Palace access for foreigners is only via the east gate.
If cycling or motorcycling you must dismount as you pass through the gate and, due to army sensibilities, you are required to stay on the direct access way and palace loop road. From this road you can see (but technically should not approach) the tomb of King Mindon , a large drum-tower , sheds containing over 600 stone inscription slabs and a small airplane on some rocks in the trees.
