Ratnagiri is a major tourist destination. There are many famous monuments and splendid beaches which cannot be described in words. One of these monuments is the Thibaw Palace which is the center of attraction for all tourists. Now it has been converted into a museum.
The architecture of this three-storey palace built of red bricks is a wonderful example of beautification in building construction. The architecture of this special building is a mixture of the architectural style prevalent in Burma and the British architectural style, due to which it is a unique beautiful palace.
In fact, it was built by the British as a prison for Burma’s King Thibaw and his family to confine them. When the reins of Burma’s rule went into British hands after the defeat of Burma’s King Thibaw in the Third Anglo-Burmese War and the Konbaung dynasty collapsed in 1885.
After this defeat, the British government deported the Burmese king and his family and first kept them in Madras and when this palace was built, they were kept on the first floor of this palace in 1910 in Ratnagiri.
Household items used by King Thibaw and his family are displayed in the museum. And photography is prohibited. The beautiful corridors, halls, rooms, secret staircases etc. of the palace can be seen. Arched windows, fountain in the large courtyard, proper arrangement of air and light are the features of this palace. Varandah at ground floor is supported by arches built on pillars central porch is very attractive and it’s also having arch. Centre of all arches a bell like pattern made by plaster resembles Stupa. Final roof is sloppy built of red tiles. This architectural style represent Burmese culture also.
Generally tourists numbers are less in Ratnagiri, so it’s not crowded. Nominal ticket is charged for this protected monument.