The Bagan Plain of Burma presents a vision so breathtaking it seems conjured from the imagination. Over a thousand years ago, this sacred landscape was adorned with 10,000 Buddhist temples and pagodas, their spires rising like prayers to the heavens—a masterpiece of devotion and craftsmanship.

A thousand years later, in 1859, the last king of Burma built his royal palace in Mandalay, just a few years after the Château des Tesnières was constructed. It feels only natural that a suite dedicated to the wonders of ancient Myanmar would bear the name Mandalay, evoking a land of timeless beauty and romance.

Stepping into the Royal Mandalay Suite is to cross the threshold into a realm where spirituality and art merge seamlessly. The walls are graced with a mural depicting pagodas as numerous as stars, each one a tribute to the spiritual and architectural legacy of Burma. Against this evocative backdrop stands an intricately carved wooden bed, a masterpiece that brings to life the epic love story of King Rama and Sita from the Ramayana.

Sita, a symbol of purity, devotion, and strength, is at the heart of this ancient tale. Born of the earth itself, she is the embodiment of grace and resilience. Her unwavering loyalty to Rama, even in the face of great trials, is a testament to the enduring power of love and faith. The Ramayana, whose name translates to “The Journey of Rama,” tells not only of Rama’s heroic quest to rescue Sita from the demon king Ravana but also of the unbreakable bond that ties them together—a bond that transcends adversity, time, and even divine realms.

The room invites you to dream of their world—a world where love is a force that conquers even the darkest challenges. Their story, told for over 2,000 years, has inspired countless generations, shaping Hindu and Buddhist cultures and leaving an indelible mark on art, music, and literature.

Every detail in the suite whispers of romance and reverence, from the mural’s ethereal beauty to the wooden bed’s exquisite craftsmanship. This is not just a room but a sanctuary—a place to reflect on the timeless themes of love, courage, and devotion that Rama and Sita represent.

Perhaps one day, you will walk the hallowed grounds of the Bagan Plain or stand before the royal palace in Mandalay. Until then, your stay at the Château des Tesnières offers a glimpse into the heart of ancient Myanmar, an experience that stirs the soul and leaves you dreaming of faraway lands where love reigns supreme.