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Nay Chi LaminTravel & Tours
Yangon, the biggest commercial capital of Myanmar lies beside of Yangon river. Once known as Dagon, just a tiny fishing village with about 10000 dwellers is now converted as the garden city of Asia. Yangon is also the main entrance for the people who wish to make Myanmar travel. The great pagoda Shwedagon is the landmark of Yangon and also the most famous one in Myanmar and it is incredible. Other interestings in Yangon are downtown area, China town, Yangon Jetty, Scott market or Bogyoke market. Chaukhtat kyi reclining Buddha image. It takes about one hour flight from Bangkok.
Shwedagon pagoda, the most sacred spot for all Buddhist people around the world. And also the one wonders of the world. Towering almost 100 metres above the green cityscape of Yangon. The Shwedagon pagoda is the landmark visible from miles around. It was believed to have built over 2500 years ago where the Buddha’s relics were enshrined. Shwedagon was originally a mere 27 feet high, and became the present height of 326 feet in the century by Shin Sawbu, famous queen in Myanma history. Tons of gold and thousands of real gems such as diamonds, rubies, sapphires which are stuck by the donations of pious Buddhists.
Chaukhtatkyi Pagoda The biggest reclining Buddha image in Yangon. It was built in 1907 and the original image was damaged due to exposure to climate over the years. This 72 m long new image was rebuilt in 1960. Of particular interest are the feet of the Buddha which are inscribed with 108 scared symbols proving the Buddha’s Enlightenment.
Kandawgyi Park At the heart of Yangon’s downtown area is Kandawgyi lake, a large water body surrounded by restaurants, bars and hotels. A walkway rings the lake and there are a number of recreation and relaxation areas for families and young people to enjoy. It’s a great place to take small children because there are numerous sets of play equipment, open spaces to fly kites or kick a football, a small zoo, eateries and many other attractions.
Htaukkyant War Cemetery Myanmar was an important battleground between the Japanese and Allied troops during World War II and many on both sides lost their lives in the fighting. At the periphery of Yangon on the Bago road lies the Htaukkyant war cemetery where the 27,000 tombstones of Allied soldiers who lost their lives in Myanmar during the World War II. The cemetery is a calm, peaceful place and is beautifully tended.
Kyauk Taw Gyi The biggest marble Buddha image in Myanmar, lies just about 5 minutes drive from the Yangon International airport. Kyauk taw gyi Buddha image is not very old, finished in 2001. It was rough curved in Mandalay and carried by the river till Yangon, then complete carving in Yangon.
Thanlyin Thanlyin,a small charming town at the other side of Yangon was once a trading port occupied by the Portuguese in early 17th century. The old buildings still stand in evidence of the days of Portuguese occupation. The 270 metre long bridge spanning the Bago river made possible the 30 minutes drive from Yangon. Dotted pagodas,horse carts, paddy fields and fresh air will give you at least the moment escape from the crowed city Yangon. Kyaik-Khauk and Kyauktan pagoda are famous and interesting to visit.
Twante Another day return trip from crowded city area, visit Twante. About 24 km from Yangon, takes about one hour by car and also take as boat trip about two hours on the Twantay Canal. The boat trip provides a view of the life along the canal. Twante provides interest as a center of pottery and hand-woven cotton cloth. There are over fifty pottery works. This craft has been handed down from generation to generation and is still carried on in the time-honored tradition. Twantay pottery is recognized and distributed throughout the country. Thousands of water pots flower pots, basins, jars of from 5 to 25 viss capacity are produced daily. One of the famous Pagoda in Twante is Shwesandaw Pagoda which is reputed to enshrine two hairs of Buddha.
Mon State is on the south-east of Yangon and one of the biggest state. Mainly mon people live and also some other tribes. According to historical background, Mon people are Buddhist since before Bagan period. Mon state is in hot wet region, gets annual rainfall about 200 inches. The average annual temperature is 80F. The chief crops in area are rice, rubber, sugar cane, betel nuts, peppers and coconuts. Mon State is also noted for its delicious fruits like durians, mangosteens, pomelos, rambutans.
Mawlamyine is the capital of Mon State situated 165 kilometers from Yangon. It takes about Mon State has an area of 16735 square miles with ten townships and about 400 villages. 6 hours drive from Yangon. Population in the city is almost 300,000. The majority of the people are Mons and there are also Karens, Shans. During colonial time known as Moulmein and the administrative capital of British Lower Burma. Mawlamyine does have a charm of its own with its rich history, buildings with colonial style architecture, World War II era wooden buses, and its close proximity to the infamous Siam-Burma “death railway”, making it a fascinating place to visit ! With its colonial buildings, wooden chevrolet buses and its leafy tropical coastal setting, Mawlamyine has a charm of its own distinct from any other town or city in Myanmar.
Kyaikthanlan pagoda was built in 875 AD and enshrines the Tripitaka Buddhist manuscripts as well as a hair relic from the Buddha. This pagoda is the highest one in Mawlamyine and stands 150 feet tall on the ridge overlooking the town centre. It can be seen for miles especially at night where its lighted brilliance dominates the skyline. From the top of the pagoda grounds, an excellent 360 degree panoramic view of the whole of the city can be seen. From this vantage point, Mawlamyine’s British built prison strikes you immediately as you look westwards towards the Thanlwin river and the Gulf of Mottoma. It is thought to be the site where Rudyard Kipling wrote his famous poem, Mandalay. Incidently, the Mandalay ward of Mawlamyine is located just north of the Kyaikthanlan pagoda so this may have been his inspiration for writing the poem “Mandalay”.
Gaung Se Kyun First two words Gaung Se means ‘head medicine’ or shampoo in and ‘kyun’ means island thus giving rise to its English name of Shampoo Island. It has been given this name from the Ava period when water from a spring on this island was used in the annual royal hair washing ceremony. The island also has a Buddhist meditation centre although these days, with the Thanlwin bridge being built just 50 meters abeam the island, meditation on the island is far more challenging than what it used to be, with vehicle traffic and railway line being literally only a stone’s throw away. Sandawshin Pagoda is also located on the island. To get to Gaung Se Kyun, hire a long tail boat from the banks of the Thanlwin river immediately opposite the island.
Zay Gyi is the town’s main shopping centre and is not to be confused with Zeigyo, which is 7 km away near the highway bus station on the way to Mudon. This is a ‘dry market’ where items for sale include domestic household goods such as clothes, longyi, soaps and detergents, pots and pans, biscuits, cigarettes, medicines etc.
Mon Cultural Museum is located on the corner of Baho St and Dawei Jetty Rd and is easy enough to find. Look for this large signboard in red at the front of the museum building. There you can see the various kinds of traditional art and craft things. Historic evidences from different eras.
Win Sein Taw Ya is the place of the largest reclining Buddha image in the world , situated about 20 km south of Mawlamyine on the main road to Mudon. It can be clearly seen for miles as you leave Mudon for Mawlamyine on the right side of the road. The reclining Buddha has 180 meters in length, and 30 meters in height. Inside there are numerous rooms with dioramas of the teachings of Buddhism.
Kyauktalon Taung is an interesting flat rock formation 300 feet in height with a Buddhist shrine situated on top. Although reminding you of Mt Popa in central Myanmar, the outcrop is geologically different being made of limestone rather than volcanic rock.
Yadana Taung is just opposite of Kyauktalon Taung and the entrance to a Hindu temple where literally hundreds of monkeys. Stairs to go up to that old Hindu temple is quite steep and so need to take care. Not far from old temple is new temple. A hundred metres further south is the entrance to Win Sein Taw Ya.
Thanbyuzayat, there are also places of historical interest in and around Mawlmayine. Thanbyuzayat, 60 km south is the end of the line for the infamous Burma-Siam death railway where 100,000 people died in its construction during World War II under the Japanese occupation.
KAYIN STATE
Hpa-an, is the administrative capital of Kayin State and about 400 kilometres (250 miles) southeast of Yangon. It is a small town with busy market. The major tribes living here is Kayin and Mon, and most of them are Buddhists. Christians are just a minority. Thandaung Hill Resort is a small resort town located in Kayin State, Myanmar. The majority of its population is Karen. It was developed as a hill resort by the British. Thandaung was also built-up as a hill resort from Victorian times by the British. It happens to be the hill resort closest to Yangon as it is only about 200 miles away and can be reached by car or bus on a half day’s journey. If visitors prefer using the railway, they can ride the train from Yangon to Taungoo in about six hours and from Taungoo to Thandaung it is only 27 miles up by car passing through lush virgin forests, see cascading mountain streams and climb gradually to over 4,000 feet, to reach Thandaung.
Mt.Zwegabin The glorious Zwegabin Hill is an attractive place for visitors and Kawtgon Cave is also a place of interest. Mt.Zwegabin in the state of Kayin MOUNTAIN ZWEKABIN one evidences 800 meters over plains and e’ one stone for the Kayin people who live in these plains. An ascension hundred of the irregular points to the monasteroche that situated on the peak, them ricompensera’ with one seen exceptional.
Lumbini Park is at the foot of famous Zwegabin Hill. There are over thousands of sitting Buddha images spread around the park makes your soul charms and peace. Entrance fees collect at the entrance of the Park. You can visit also a small museum and inside museum life stories of Buddha.
Kawkun Cave, Yathepyan Cave, Bayin Nyi Cave & Saddan Cave
Kawkun cave and Yathepyan cave are just near Thanlwin bridge, if go from Yangon turn right just before the bridge. Kawkun caves have more old buddha images stuck on the walls of cave. Yathepyan cave has high stairs to go up and can go up the upper small room of cave from which said that hermit got supernatural power and flies.
Bayin Nyi Cave is closer to Thaton and makes an ideal stop on the way to Yangon. This is another steep Rock in the plains with a monastery at the foot of the mountain. There is a hot spring with bathing possibility. During rainy season you need to cross a small lake with rowing boat to arrive monastery, and then can go up to the cave. At the entrance of the cave you can see the statue of the hermit, monk and the king.
Saddan Cave is on the way to Mawlamyine and little far from the main road. That huge cave with two giant elephants stand at the entrance. After goes up few steps arrive big cave and that cave is quite big long way to walk till the end of cave. When you arrive the end of cave, you can take a small row boat to back to entrance. But after rainy season, maybe walk back as not much water.
Pyin Oo lwin During Myanmar travel, famous picnic place or to enjoy leisure visit neayby Mandalay is a small town Pyinoolwin. Pyinoolwin, formerly known as May Myo is situated 67 kilometers east of Mandalay, about 1 ½ hours drive. The former name May Myo was known for the town’s first administrator, Colonel May during colonial time of 1896. Pyinoolwin, a small charming town became a pleasant hill station to escape the summer heat because of its cool climate at an altitude of 1070 meters. A small charming town is decorated with beautiful gardens, old colonial Edwardian-style houses in big compound, pine trees, coffee plantations, unique horse carriage. Local products such as Knitted sweaters, wines, Strawberry jams and various fresh fruits are popular products of Pyin Oo Lwin. There are some populations of Indian and Nepali inhabitants, who served in the British Indian Army and settled after the British left. Pyinoolwin is also the first step to continue to mountain ranges regions of Northern Shan trails till Lashio and finally Muse, Myanmar-China border.
National Kandawgyi Garden The most famous place in Pyinoolwin is National Kandawgyi Gardens (formerly National Botanical Gardens). It was first founded by Alex Roger, a forest research officer, with the aid of Lady Cuffe, the botanist in 1915. It was modeled after the Kew Gardens of England. The original area of the Botanical Garden was 170 acres of land and 70 acres of water spread totaling 240 acres. In 1917, the government granted it official recognition, and in 1924, the site was declared a Government Botanical Reserve. On 1 December 1942, the Ministry of Forestry designated the Botanical Gardens a “protected forest area”. It has been used to promote extensive ecotourism in Myanmar. In 2000, the garden was upgraded to be a recreation garden and renamed it “Kandawgyi National Gardens”. The Botanical Gardens has three museums. The fossils museum, the petrified wood museum and the butterfly museum. The gardens are well laid out among lakes and paths, and there are beautiful collection of pond fish and lovely black and white swans. There have an aerial walkway through aviary with hornbills and a variety of other birds as well as the swamp trail. There is a watch tower to climb up which offers a great views over Pyin Oo Lwin and the Shan Hills.
Pwe Kauk Waterfall After visiting around Pyinoolwin, nice place to make fresh before back home is Pwe Kauk Waterfall. The Pwe Kauk Falls is a very pleasant and funny picnic spot in Pyin Oo Lwin where many Myanmar families come for a picnic. Pwe Kauk or B.E waterfalls is also known as Hampshire Falls in British times. It is located on the way to Lashio and not too far from Pyin Oo Lwin town. There are two waterfalls in Pwe Kauk where many people swim or play in the shallow waters. There is a market besides waterfalls where you can buy local products such as wines, strawberry jams, fruits and flowers etc. Pwe Kauk stunned by it’s natural beauty and breathtaking scenery. A one hour hike from the falls there is the natural caves of U Naung Gu where several Buddhas are enshrined.
Peik Chin Myaung Cave also known as Maha Nandamu Cave) is located on the Lashio road near Wetwun village, 12 miles east of Pyin Oo Lwin town. It is a limestone cave estimated between 230 million and 310 million years old. The cave is called Peik Chin Myaung as plenty of Peik Chin plants used to grow there. The entrance of the Peik Chin Myaung cave is about 20 ft wide and 1,600 ft long. The long cave is filled with so many Buddha images and pagodas in various sizes and position at every corners and niches.
Maha Ant Htoo Kan Thar Buddha is not very old, but famous around Myanmar travel because of its own history. The reason was that three marble Buddha Images sculpted in Mandalay were being transported to their planned destination in China. On this journey, one of the Buddha statues fell down from the truck and could not be reloaded due to its weight. After many attempts, this Image was left behind and the other two were taken on their way. A local Buddhist monk decided he would try faith. He sat for 7 days on this image and preached to the locals and recited teachings of Buddha. After 7 days the image was apparently easily lifted and placed in its current location and the local people built a pagoda as an offering to Buddha.
Purcell Tower stands in the heart of the town, Pyin Oo Lwin. The clock was one of the few made in 1934 by Gillete and Johnson Co. of England in commemoration of the Silver Jubilee of the reign of King George V of Britain.
Hsipaw is an ancient Shan town, the local capital of a Shan principality of the same name which according to its legendary history goes back to year 58 B.C. The Myanmar (Burma) people pronounce as Thibaw and the last king of Myanmar, King Thibaw (1875-85 AD) got his name from this town. Hsipaw is one of the most well known and powerful saopha states of Shan State. According to the biography, Hsipaw was the wealthiest and most powerful saopha states like Kyaing Tong and Nyaung Shwe. Hispaw has a large local market in the center of the town, old cinemas, small guest houses and restaurants near around. The sunset of Hsipaw is famous and you can see the beautiful sunset and the overview of the town from sunset hill.
Interesting place to visit in Hsipaw is the old wooden traditional Haw, Palace of the Sawbwa was destroyed by bombing during the last World War, but able to visit the interesting modern Sawbwa’s residence built during colonial times by Sawbwa Sao Ohn Kya who ruled Hsipaw from 1928 to 1938. The Haw is at the northern end of the town. And the main pagoda, the Maha Myatmuni Phaya is right at the southern end. The roads are parallel to the Namtu or Dokhtawaddy River with its clear, cool waters against a backdrop of hill and mountains. Hsipaw is famous also for the Bowgoy Pagoda, situated in Bowgoy Village about 6 miles far from Hsipaw. Famous Myanmar travel itineraries always include Hsipaw to visit.
Lashio is the largest town in northern Shan State, about 200 kilometres (120 miles) northeast of Mandalay. The highest mountain of the Shan Hills, is located 45 km to the southeast of Lashio. Capital of the northern Shan State, major settlement is Shan and Chinese being bordering with Yunan province of China. The famous Burma Road built by the British before the War, interests with Ledo Road leading into the Yunnan province. Myanmar Railways line from Mandalay reached Lashio in 1903. In 1900, the town of Lashio consisted of the European station, with court house and quarters for the civil officers; the military police post and the headquarters of the Lashio. The highlight about this trip is to enjoy the most spectaculars scenic views of the Shan plateau traveling one way by winding road with elbow crossing hilly drive and the other way by train with twisting and turning hilly trek. Crossing over historic Gokehtaik viaduct, which is the highest bridge in Myanmar will be an unforgettable experience. There is a hot spa near Lashio which is always crowded with local pilgrimages to enjoy the nature warmed both of they believe bathing here will purify body and mind. Religious sites include the Sasana (Pyilon Chanta) Pagoda and the Mansu Pagoda. Lashio has been important for border trade between Myanmar and China. It is 190 kilometres (120 miles) from Muse, and is situated midway between Muse and Mandalay. Complete Myanmar travel itineraries always include Lashio to visit.
Kyaing Tong is the capital of Eastern Shan area and also the capital city of the Golden Triangle region. Near border with Thailand. Four countries of China, Myanmar, Thailand and Laos all have stakes in the triangle. Myanmar’s part of the Golden Triangle is a big one and takes up a fair chunk of Shan State, including the trakking destinations of Kyaing Tong. There are so many different groups of people living in the area around Kyaing Tong. Akha, Akhu, Lisu, Lahu, Shan,Wa and Eng are the larger groups and more easily to visit.
Eng Tribe Another larger groups in the Golden Triangle is the Eng. If you visit the Eng villages, you will never forget the experience for one major reason. Eng women chew a variety of jungle betel nut that stains their mouths black. Accourding to the Eng culture, women with black teeth and mouths are considered beautiful. Traditional dress for the Eng consists of a shirt or jacket depending on the weather and their black costumes are made within the village itself and never as generously as the Akha.
Akha Tribe, The Akha people are a true hill tribe and they almost always live in relatively high altitudes and survive in that climate by slash-and-burn agriculture. The Akha people are highly distinctive, with the women donning silver-decorated headdresses and jewellery. Akha women are skilled weavers and each village is certain to have at least a handful of looms tucked away within it. Around Kyaing Tong, Ho Kyin four Akha villages are interesting. Akha people are Buddhist, Christian, and also Animists.
Tachileik,
located in the Golden Triangle area, is the border gateway opposite Mae Sai in Thailand. Tachileik is also home to a replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda that sits atop a hill overlooking the town. From the tourist market it’s a decent walk to the site but numerous motorcycle taxi drivers and tuk-tuk drivers will offer to take you with reasomable price. The visitors who wants to pass from Tachileik border will need the special permission from the government.
Bago Day return trip and interesting place to visit from Yangon is Bago,Located only 80 km from Yangon. Bago,now the capital city of Bago Division and it was an ancient capital of Mon kingdom in 15th century. Two Mon princes were built that town when they observed a scared goose building its nest on an island nearby. This was an auspicious sign and they called their town Han-tha-wadi. Female hintha (hintha derives from the pali word hansa whicn means a water bird) perched on the male’s back is the symbol of Bago. And because of that symbol, people said that the men from Bago are hen-packed husband.
Shwemawdaw Pagoda The most important and symbol of Bago.Its history dated back to the time of Buddha and two hairs of Buddha were enshrined in it. Shwemawdaw, that name derives from the Khmer phrase meaning ‘at the tip of the peninsula. About 15 meters higher than the great Shwedagon. The upper part of Shwemawdaw pagoda was broke down in 1930 after frequently earthquakes. Reconstructed in 1952 and the new umbrella and diamond orb was placed on top in 1954.
Kyaik Pun pagoda Kyaik Pun Pagoda situated just before arrive the downtown of Bago. Kyaik Pun pagoda was built in 1476 AD by King Dhammazedi, king of Bago. There are four sitting Buddha images placed back to back and facing the four directions. Each image has 33 meters in height. One of the images facing west was destroyed in the 1930 earthquake. They have also an interesting legendary said that these four images were built by four princesses after making a promise “ not to married in their life”. But one princess could not keep her promise and got married. So her Buddha image was frequently damaged and had to repaired.
Shwethalyaung Image This 180 foot long reclining Buddha image was built in 994 AD by King Migadhippa to commemorate his conversion to Buddhism after years of spirit worship. After the Bago period, it was hidden in the jungle for over a century. And fortunately it was discovered in 1881 when the railway lines constructed in that area.
Kanbawzathadi Palace was built by King Bayinnaung (1551-1581 A.D.) the founder of the second Myanmar Empire. The first Hantharwaddy city was shifted to new place and the king rebuilt the new palace to the south of the Shwemawdaw Pagoda and named Kanbawzathadi in 1556. The original palace consisted of 76 apartments and halls according to the old drawing record. It was burned down in 1599. Kanbawza Thadi, the famous palace of King Bayinnaung (1551-1581 A.D.) is being extensively excavated and some buildings are being rebuilt. It is a great archaeological site in Bago. In AD 1566, King Bayinnaung was the founder of the Second Myanmar Empire, which stretched from the borders of India to parts of Thailand and Laos.
Kyaikhtiyo (Golden Rock) The most famous pagoda in Mon State. “Kyaikhtiyo”derived from Mon language means a pagoda shouldered on the head of a hermit. It’s built on a huge boulder which balances precariously on a projecting tabular rock. The rock itself is separated from the mountain by a deep chasm which is spanned by an iron bridge. Legend has it that two hermits lived in these mountain and they had received two hair relics of Buddha and desired to enshrine these relics on the rock which looks like his head. Mountaineering about an hour to arrive there is fun.
Bagan During your Myanmar travel, one place you should not miss to visit is Bagan. Bagan is the richest archiological site in South-East Asia. The remaining place of 11th -13th century pagodas, temples, monasteries and other religious evidences. Over 2000 pagodas & temples spread here and there beside of the Ayeyarwaddy river, the main river of Myanmar. The ravishing scenes and the panoramic view from the top of some high temple or pagoda is life time memorial.
Shwezigon Pagoda One of the four famous pagodas in Bagan. This golden pagoda was the first monument built in the Myanmar style, the prototype of later pagodas. Shwezigon, means the golden pagoda on the sand bank. It was first built by the famous and important king Anawrathar who introduced Buddhism to Myanmar. He could not complete in his life time and his son, king Kyansittha finished it in 1087 AD. Nat (spirit) images can be found within its precincts. Inside four shrines in four directions, there are four standing Buddha of 11th century style and which were made of bronze.
Htilominlo Temple is named after its builder, King Htilominlo in early 13th century. Htilominlo is one of the larger temples of Bagan. And the finest plaster carvings of Bagan can see in this temple as the original. Some horoscopes of important persons inscribed high up on the walls are interesting. “Htilominlo” means favoured by the King and favoured by umbrella. According to the chronicles, Htilominlo, a price of lesser rank, was chosen by the King to be his heir. Calling together Htilominlo and his four elder brother, the King set up the white umbrella, the symbol of kingship, in their mid and making a solemn vow, said “May the umbrella bend towards him who is worthy to be king” and the umbrella bent towards Htilominlo.
Ananda Temple this white temple is the most beautiful temple of Bagan. Ananda means the “Endless wisdom of Buddha”and the King Kyansittha built it and completed in 1090 AD. The plan of temple is a Greek Cross and it has two corridors inside. On the walls of these two corridors, there are many tiny niches in which there are Sand stone Buddha images and stories of Buddha from his birth to Nibana. In the centre of the main block, there are four 31 feet high Buddha images facing to four directions. The faces of these Buddha images are wonderfully illumined by light filtering in from dormer windows above. The Ananda seems like a magic cave full of wonders. There is also a vast collection of green glazed terracotta plaques in the Ananda.
Thatbyinnyu Temple Towering above the other monuments of Bagan and the highest temple of Bagan. It was built by King Alaung Sithu in 12th century. Thatbyinnyu temple is a transitional temple, standing between the Early Style and Late Style.
Minnanthu Village you can visit Minnanthu village to skip the full day sightseeing of Pagodas. Minnanthu village, is one of the old village since ancient time. About 10 minutes from Bagan. In this village, we can see the daily life of local people that how they bring the water, how they collect the crops, how they crash the peanuts, how they feed the cattles and so on…Visiting before sunset is nice.
Mt.Popa Half day trip to Mt.Popa from Bagan is interesting. Just about an hour drive from Bagan. Mt.Popa, is an extinct volcano about 50 km southeast of Bagan. It is the legendary home of the ‘nats’ or spirits and till now the famous Nat festivals are held every year and many visitors come from the whole Myanmar. The name “Popa” derived from Sanscript language means mountain of flowers. Mt.Popa region is an oasic of middle plain region around Bagan. So, the temperature around Mt.Popa is pleasant the whole year. Because of the volcanic ash, the soil in Popa region is very fertile and can grow many kinds of flowers, fresh fruits.
Brown Sugar / Peanut Oil On the way to Mt.Popa, there are many fields of peanut, seasoms, peas, and palm trees fields. You can stop for short visit to see how to pick up crops, palm juice, how to make brown sugar from palm juice, how to make the villager’s whisky from brown sugar and life of farmers along the raod.
Salay If you have extra day in Bagan, you can go and visit Salay. Salay is a rich old religious center located on the eastern bank of Ayeyarwaddy River, about 15km, 1 and half hours drive from south of Bagan. Small charming town Salay is the native town of one famous poet, U Pone Nya during our King’s period. You can continue to Salay from Mt.Popa (about 1 ½ hour) drive. On the way to Sale, you can feel the life of middle country. In Salay you can visit numerous ancient monasteries, adorned with beautiful woodcarving, you can enjoy the beauty of this compact city of colonial buildings, monasteries and pagodas without crowded tourist.
Yoke Sone Monastery One of the main famous attractions in Salay is “Yoke-Sone” monastery, which is a cultural heritage site in Salay situated on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River. It was built in AD 1882 and it has 154 teak posts and decorated with nice woodcarving and collection of palm-leaf manuscripts, Buddha images and lacquer-ware boxes, utensils of Yadanabon 19 century period. It is only one monastery with full of very detailed wood carvings about the life stories of Buddha.
Lacquer Buddha Nearby the monastery, you can also visit the biggest lacquer Buddha statue in the country and so many beautiful colonial style monasteries.
Pakkoku If you continue your travel from Bagan to Monywa, you have to pass this town, Pakkoku. Pakkoku is another commercial town at the west of Ayayarwaddy river. Former time British made Pakkoku into a trading center on the river and there’s a distinct colonial influence to be found all around this small town. That un-spoiled small town famous as tobacco trading centre and many cotton blankets and cheroot making factory can also be observed here. The most famous local cosmestic, thanaka mainly planted around this area. You can also visit handmade workshop of papier mache although many family left the traditional profession. From Pakkoku to Bagan, you can take the boat trip along the Ayeyarwaddy river (about 2 hours).
Maule Village On the way to Monywa, you can visit Maule village, near Yezakyo. This village is just beside the road. Around that area, many villagers do incense sticks, bamboo toys, bamboo hats and boxes. You can visit some of these hand made work shops in village. Nearby village there are groups of ancient pagodas and temples dated back from centuries. You can study the collections of old things such as old Buddha images, old buddhist inscriptions.
INLE LAKE Inle, vast picturesque and the second largest natural lake is one of the famous highlight and situated in Nyaung Shwe Township of the Southern Shan State. Lying 900 meters above the sea level. The lake stretches about 22 km long and 10 km across, has a population of some 150,000, many of whom live on floating islands of vegetation. Inle lake, natural and unpolluted, is famous for its scenic beauty and the unique leg-rowing of the Inthas, the native lake dwellers. All Inthas are Buddhist. They are very pious observing the Buddhist moral precepts on Sabbath days, going to monasteries, and Buddhist shrines to carry out works of religious merit. Interesting sightseeings in Inle lake are their market day, weaving, black-smith, silver-smith, paper-making, boat-making, cigar workshop, umbrella workshop and etc.. You can get fresh and relax feelings during your trip in Myanmar.
Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda The most famous pagodas in Shan State. There are five Buddha images of 12th century. When the King from Bagan visited this area in 12th century, he donated these Buddha images. Because of the pious Buddhists guild gold leaves on images, now the buddha images transform as round. Phaung Daw Oo pagoda festival celebrate in October and these Buddha images are brought by village boats and resided village by village everyday.
Indein Pagodas Indein means shallow lake, connected with small canal to big inle lake. Indein village located the other side of Inle lake and also the starting point to go up to many tribes’ villages on the mountain area. Around Indein village is nice landscape with bamboo forests, paddy fields, old monasteries. The main attractions in Indein are groups of ancient pagodas from centuries ago. Over thousands of Indein pagodas were lost in jungles for centuries and now maintain by the government.
Kalaw is a typical small town in Southern shan state. Situated 1400 meters above sea level and so the weather is cool all the year round and chilli cold in winter. It is also another hill station and many of the Tudor-style houses and English gardens of colonial days remain. Around the town, there are shan mountains to make nice trekking trip to visit the tribe villages from kalaw. The old station, kalaw market is interesting. Making half day trekking and one night stop in Kalaw is nice. If you would like to make trekking more, you can stay more days.
Pindaya A small and charming town about 45 km from Kalaw is Pindaya. Landscape from Kalaw to Pindaya is very nice with different colors of plantations. Beautiful lake near the center of town and many big ficus trees around the town are symbol of Pindaya. Pindaya well know for its extensive limestone caves. The caves are set deep in the hillsides and there are at the entrance, a 15 meter high Shwe U Min Pagoda. Inside there are some 8000 Buddha images and interesting stalagmites. Around Pindaya also many hill villages and visitors can make trekking to these villages.
Shwe U Min Cave (Pindaya Cave) Famous cave with full of ancient Buddha images in different styles. Shweumin or Pindaya cave formed 200,000 million years ago. The caves are stocked full of Buddha images (8094 in total) many covered in gold leaf and carved by the locals at the end of the 17th century in a variety of styles. There are also numerous stalactites and stalagmites. The stupa inside the cave was built by King Alaungsithu from Bagan in 12th century. Legendary that the young prince saved seven princess who were closed inside the cave by the webs of huge spider was interesting and visitors can see the prince and spider statues at the entrance of the cave.
Taunggyi, the capital of Shan State is situated over 1430 metres above sea level. It is a hill station, cool and pleasant all the year round and a few of the typical ‘hill station’ houses still remain. The market on every fifth day is crowded with ethinic minrities in their traditional dresses. From Inle lake to Taunggyi takes about an hour. Hot air balloon festival which celebrate in November is the most famous attration of the town Taunggyi and full of local and foreign visitors go and see the festival.
Kakku If you have enough time or extra day at Inle lake, you can go and visit Kakku. About nearly 2 ½ hours drive from Nyaung Shwe. Kakku is the place of the collections of thousands pagoda from 12th century. On the way to Kakku you can visit the famous winery and vineyard before you arrive the capital of the state, Taunggyi. You can visit also the capital of State. Between Taunggyi to Kakku there are many Pao tribe villages. You can visit some village beside the road to see the life of tribe people.
Mandalay, for clients who interest to see Myanmar arts & culture, recent history of 19th century, you have to visit Mandalay in your travel. Mandalay is the second commercial capital of Myanmar and the last capital of Myanmar King in 19th century. Old city wall and moat still exist. It is the center of Myanmar culture. Wood carvings, Stone carving and bronze casting and most of art works are famous in Mandalay. Interesting places are Mandalay hill, Shwenantaw, Kuthodaw pagoda, Sandarmuni pagoda, Kyauktawgyi buddha, Mahamuni Buddha image, Ze-cho market.
Shwenantaw Monastery This monastery is the only one building which was left from the Mandalay Palace of 1853. This beautiful monastery was originally inside the palace compound and the room of King Mindon. It was also the place where the King Mindon passed away. When the King Mindon died, his son the King Thibaw moved this building to its present site in 1879 and donated to the monks as monastery. As the palalce of the king, fully decorated with finest wood carvings and coated with pure gold.
Mahamuni Buddha Image Like Shwedagon Pagoda, Mahamuni Buddha image is the most famous Buddha image in Myanmar. Buddhist people believe that Mahamuni Buddha image is the alive Buddha image. It was cast in Rakhine kingdom during the visit of Buddha. In 18th century, the king from Mandalay brought this Buddha image from Rakhine State to Mandalay. Being the most revered Buddha in Mandalay, the early morning ritual of washing the face of the Buddha’s image draws a daily crowd of devotees.
Kuthodaw Pagoda is one of the famous pagoda in Mandalay. It was built by King Mindon in 1857. Kuthodaw pagoda is also known as the world’s largest book because of its 729 monoliths of white marble on which the Tripitaka have been inscribed. Those inscriptions were made during the Fifth Buddhist Synod convened at Mandalay in 1871. It is said it took 2400 monks six months to recite the entire text.. Each slab has a small temple erected over it, making the Kuthodaw a vast and venerable pagoda.
Mandalay Hill Every visitors to Mandalay won’t be forget to enjoy the nice sunset from legendary Mandalay Hill. Actually, now we call the city Mandalay. But, in fact the name of the city was not Mandalay when the King Mindon built. “Mandalay” is the name of hill and the name of the city was “Yatanabon”. In later the city also known as Mandalay. From the top of Mandalay hill you can see the hazy dotted pagodas and monasteries.
Mingun Mingun, a charming village located about 11 km upriver from Mandalay on the western banks of the Ayeyarwaddy river. The places or village of the biggest bell in Myanmar, the second largest bell in the world. mingun pagoda is cracked because of earthquake.It takes about an hour from Mandalay by boat. The way to Mingun can get experience about the ways of life of local people along the river.
Mingun Pagoda was built in 1790 and the King intended to be the World’s largest one. If pagoda finished, will be 150 meters high. But could not finished it for reasons. In 1813 stop the construction and only the square base was finished. Because of the earthquake in1838, the pagoda collapsed and cracked. The visitors can walk up the top of pagoda and enjoy the landscape of the region till last few years ago and now is not allowed to go up to the top.
Mingun Bell is the biggest in Myanmar and also the biggest ringing bell in the world. This 90 tons bell also the symbol of Mingun. In 1838 earthquake, broke down the teak pillar on which the bell was hung up and replace with iron beam now.
Myatheintan Pagoda built by The King Bagyidaw in 1816 as memory of his queen. The pagoda is circular construction and seven concentric terraces designed to represent the seven mountain ranges surrounding Mount Meru. Four stairways in four sides brought you up and from the top of terrace you have a panoramic view of Mingun.
Sagaing
One interesting place and a short visit from Mandalay is Sagaing. Sagaing is one of the ancient capital site before Mandalay. Sagaing lies 21 kilometers (about 40 minute) south west of Mandalay, beside the Ayeyarwaddy river. Not like Mandalay, Sagaing is charming and peaceful town with dotted pagodas on the Sagaing hills along the river. There are 500 monasteries and meditation centers, a retreat for some 6000 monks and nuns. Interesting places to visit in Sagaing are Pon nya shin pagoda, Umin thonese pagodas, Kaung Hmu daw pagoda and silver smith workshops, pottery making house.
Umin Thonese (Thirty Cave) Umin Thonese ( 30 images in 30 caves) was built by Padugyi. Thirty Buddha images are housed in a crescent-shaped building on the side of Sagaing Hill.
Ponnyashin Pagoda The main and most famous pagoda in Sagaing. Was built by U Ponnya, minister of Sagaing in 13th century. Accourding to legendery, the spirit of the minister Ponnya still does his daily down offering food at the shrine earlier than anyone, and so if you go there to offer at down, you will find that someone has already been there before you.
Amarapura
Amarapura, just 11km south of Mandalay is the town of Amarapura. It was the capital during the reign of King Bodawpaya in 1783. Also the first city of the British embassy in Myanmar. Amarapura was as the palace for two times and was finally displaced by Mandalay. Not many left from Amarapura palace. The royal palace tower, the royal treasury building, and tombs of King Bodawpaya and Bagyidaw still exist. U Bein teak bridge, Kyauktawgyi pagoda, Mahagandayon monastery, Cotton and silk weaving factory are famous to visit in Amarapura.
U Pein Bridge was built by the former town mayor named U Pein and it was constructed with thousands of teak pillars which were left when the king move the palace from Ava to Amarapura. It’s the longest teak bridge in the world, is about 1.2 km in length crossing the Taungthaman lake. It takes about 20 minutes to walk it and there are many sampans to go back from the other side of the bridge. There are many local restaurants around the bridge and like a relaxation place of Mandalay.
Mahagandaryone Monastery This monastery is the the biggest and famous one in Amarapura to study the Buddhist lecture. In that monastery, can learn the daily life of the monks, disciplines of Buddha, and ways of meditation. There are about 1500 monks live and study in that monastery.
AVA (Inwa)
During your travel around Myanmar, Ava is only place where you have to visit with traditional horse cart. Ava was another palace site around Mandalay. It was founded by the King Thado Minbya in 1364 AD. It remained the capital for more than 300 years until King Bodawpaya moved over to nearby Amarapura. Then the King Bagyidaw who is the grandson of Bodawpaya moved his capital again to Ava. Ava was on an island between the Ayeyarwaddy river and Myitnge river. The name “Ava” actually means “lake’s entrance. In Ava you can still see the city wall, Bagayar monastery, Nanmyit watch tower, Maha Aung Mae Bonzan monastery just near by the Ayeyarwaddy river. Now Ava is just a small quite & charming village with plantations, horse carts, bamboo houses with teak pillars and nice to enjoy the different feelings from busy and crowded city Mandalay.
Monywa
Another interesting place not very far from Mandalay is the town, Monywa. It’s about 136 km to the west of Mandalay. Monywa is the main commercial centre and the biggest town in the North-west of Myanmar and connect with India border. Accourding to research, the surrounding areas were the dwelling places of mankind as long ago as a million years. Around Monywa we can visit Alantayar Buddha images, the huge standing buddha image (600 feet height), and reclining buddha image of 450 feet long. Famous Than Boddhay temple which has about 600,000 Buddha images, Poe Win Caves, Boddhi Tahtaung images.
Alantayar Image the huge standing buddha image (600 feet height), and reclining buddha image of 450 feet long. During your Myanmar travel, that standing and reclining Buddha images from monywa will be the biggest.
Poe Win Caves Pagodas The caves of wonders in Monywa region is called Poe Win Caves Pagodas. Poe Win Caves means caves which were built by U Poe Win or the name “Poe Win” is believed to have evolved from a term meaning ‘the powerful state of an ascetic’s mind’,. Legend has it that those seeking supernatural powers had once meditated there. The temples in Poe Win hills are not particularly high but are black with age. There are about 790 caves around the hill. Many of those are true caves. The interior walls of the caves are thickly covered with wall paintings from the 17th century. To go to Poe Win cave, you can go direct by car from Monywa or you can cross the Chindwin river by ferry boat and from the other side village, take car to Poe Win Caves.