Atumashi Kyaung, Mandalay

Atumashi Kyaung, also known as the Incomparable Monastery, is a distinguished historical temple located in the heart of Mandalay, Myanmar. Constructed in 1857 by King Mindon, who founded Mandalay as the new royal capital, the temple is an outstanding example of 19th-century Burmese architectural design and religious artistry.

Originally built to house the Atumashi Buddha Image, a revered statue encrusted with jewels, Atumashi Kyaung was a marvel of its time. The monastery stood out for its unique architectural features, including its impressive height and the use of traditional teak wood, which was intricately carved and adorned with ornamental work. It was designed with five ascending rectangular terraces, which symbolize the five precepts of Buddhism, leading to a large prayer hall.

Tragically, a great fire in 1890 destroyed much of the original structure and the precious Buddha image within. The building lay in ruins for many years until the Myanmar government undertook a reconstruction project in the 1990s. The reconstructed Atumashi Kyaung, while not an exact replica of the original, still reflects the grandeur and significance of the site.

Today, Atumashi Kyaung features a multi-tiered roof and a prominent spire, which is characteristic of traditional Burmese monastic construction. The interiors, although simpler than the original, are still a place of worship and contemplation. Visitors to the monastery can explore the spacious hall and get a sense of the spiritual importance of the site.