The National Museum on Pyay Road is the country's main repository of Burmese cultural heritage. Its most important exhibit is the Sihasana Throne — the gilded lion throne of the last Burmese king, Thibaw, which was returned from India after independence. The throne is a masterpiece of Burmese royal craftsmanship and the centrepiece of the regalia room.
Other highlights include the Mandalay Regalia collection, a gallery of traditional musical instruments (Myanmar has a rich tradition of percussion and string instruments), and rooms dedicated to natural history, ethnic dress, and Buddhist art. The building is not air-conditioned throughout, but the exhibits merit a half-day visit. Located near the zoo on Pyay Road, about 3 km north of downtown.