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Yangon
Yangon, the capital city and gateway to the Union of Myanmar ,
About 2,500 years ago, there was a coastal fishing village called "Okkala".
After the construction of Shwedagon Pagoda, the settlement grew in
fame as Dagon, King Alaungpaya of Konbaung Dynasty founded Yangon
when he took the village of Dagon in 1755 He called the settlement
as Yangon.End of danger and harm It became a port city and a centre
of commercial activities in Myanmar.
Shwedagon Pagoda
Shwedagon means the Pogada of Golden Glory in Myanmar. It is
built on the Singuttera Hill. Myanmar people believe that it was
built about 2,500 years ago on the life time of lord Buddha. It is
in the heart of the metropolis Yangon. The magnificent stupa is
plated with 8,000 solid gold slabs and its tip is set with diamonds,
rubies, sapphires and topaz.
Eight strands of the hair of the Buddha and some other relics are
said to be enshrined in the vault of the Stupa. The Pagoda Platform
covers 5.6 hectares on the Singuttra Hill which is the spur of the
Bago Yoma . The Stupa is 58 meters above sea level. King Okkalapa
built the great Pagoda. It's initial height was only 66 feet. King
Bayinnaung continued to build it to the height of 302 feet. Now the
hight is 326 feet. Shwe dagon pagoda is very famous in Myanmar as
well as in the world. Worshipers from all over Myanmar are always
crowded on Shwe dagon and many foreign tourists are very interested
to visit Shwe dagon pagoda.
 Sule Pagoda
The word "Sule"derives from the Mon word Kyaik Athok, meaning the
Pagoda where the sacred hair is enshrined. Sule Pagoda is in the
heart of Yangon City, amild the rush and bustle of the busiest
sector of the city. It is a center of pilgrimage of devotees from
all over the country. Sule Pagoda was built by a Court Minister Maha
Thura in the year 235 Buddhist Era or about 2,200 years ago. A
strand of hair and other relics of the Lord Buddha were enshrined in
the Pagoda.
 Bogyoke Aung San Market
Bogyoke Aung San Market is one of the most popular markets in
Yangon and Myanmar as well. Different kinds of textiles and a wide
variety of souvenirs and handicrafts are available at this market
attracting not only locals but also foreigners. Myanmar ruby,
sapphire, jade and pearl are highly popular for their best quality.
Botataung Pagoda
Botataung Pagoda means the Pagoda guarded by one thousand
vanguards, pagoda stands near Botataung Jettyin nice place. The
Pagoda had been destroyed by Allied bombing during the Second World
War. During its postwar reconstruction, a treasure vault was
unearthed beneath the ruins. This led to more discoveries of images
of the Lord Buddha in silver, bronze and alabaster, and other
priceless treasures.
Kaba Aye Pagoda
 Kaba Aye means World Peace. Hence the Pagoda of World Peace. It
was built in the year 1952. It is a harmonious blend of the
traditional and modern. Both its height and basal perimeter are 118
feet. The Pagoda is a milestone in the world Buddhist history. In
the year 1954 which marked the 2,500th anniversary of the Buddha's
birth, the Kaba Aye Pagoda served as the meeting place of eminent
Buddhist clergymen including primates from around the world to
commemorate the Sixth World Buddhist Synod (Chatta Sangayana).This
meeting hall is a nice type of man made cave, called Maharparthana
Cave.
Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda
Chauk Htatgyi Pagoda is famous for its huge image of Reclining
Buddha, built in 1966 replacing the old image built in 1907. The
image is 72 meter long reclining and large as the one in Bago. The
unique feature of Image is the glass mosaic on the sole of it's feet
representing the 108 special characteristies of Buddha. It is on
Shwegondine Road. It is housed in a large natal-roofed shed. It is
not so far from the Shwedagon Pagoda. It is also a tourist spot,
while in Yangon.
National Races Village
National races village, constructed by Ministry of Progress of
Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs is situated
in Tharketa Township, on the left of Yangon-Thanlyin Bridge.If one
visits the village, he will get the sense of Unioun Spirit from the
village of our national brethern, Kachin, Kayah, Kayin , Chin, Bamar,
Mon, Rakhine and Shan. One can see buildings with significant
symbols denoting various national races residing in the country with
different kinds of traditional designs of different cultures of
national races.
Allied-war Memorial Cemetery
It is about some fifteen miles by car from Yangon. It is a
cemetery with 27,000 urns of Allied soldiers, who fell during the
Second World War. It is under the management of the Commonwealth War
Graves Commission. It is beautifuly landscaped and is one of the
interesting tourist destinations worth visiting.
Bago
Bago(Pegu)is just 80 km(50 miles)north of Yangon. It is just
about an hour drive from Yangon. Bago is one of the richest
archaeological sites in Myanmar.Two Mon brothers Thamala and Wimala
from Thaton, first founded the city about 825 A.D. In 13th century
A.D.the site, which was then on the Gulf of Martaban, had already
been earmarked as the location of a great city by Gautama, the
historic Buddha. Bago was made the capital of Mon Kingdom and it
came to be known as Hansavati (Hanthawaddy). It was also the seaport
of ancient Mon kingdon. Then it became the Second Myanmar Empire
founded by King Bayinnaug. Now it is the capital of Bago
division.Historical old sites can be seen in Bago Nowadays the
ancient palace of King Bayin Naung had been already rebuilt newly.
It is " Kanbawzathadi Palace ".
Kyaik Pun Pagoda
Kyaik Pun Pagoda is in the form of four gigantic Buddha images
all in sitting posture known as 4 faces Pagoda. They are seated back
to back against a massive brick pillar. This was built by King
Dhamma Zedi in 1476 A.D. They are kept in a fair state of
preservation. Kyaik Pun pagoda is situated amidst the lush rugged
countryside. According to legend four Mon sisters were connected
with the construction of the images. It was said that if one of them
marry, one of the Buddha would collapse. Because the four Mon
sisters night have a promising oaths among them.
Shwemawdaw Pagoda
 The Shwemawdaw or Great Golden God Pagoda' of Bago has been
growing for more than 1000 years. The Shwemawdaw Pagoda was
originally built by the Mon to a height to 23 meters in the 8th
century and was rebuilt higher several times until it finally
reached its present 114 meter stature in 1954.The pagoda was
originally built by 2 merchants, Taphussa and Bhalita, to house some
hair relics of the Buddha. Originally built to a height of 23
meters. This growth in size occurred during numerous reconstruction
periods, usually following great earthquakes. The most recent quake,
in 1930, nearly leveled the ancient structure and it was not until
1952 that it again dominated the Bago skyline. Legends say that
enshrined beneath the towering pagoda are the hairs and teeth of the
Buddha. Because of these relics, Shwemawdaw is visited by throngs of
Buddhist pilgrims during all hours of the day and night.
Shwethalyaung Pagoda
Shwe-the-lyaung Reclining Buddha was Built by the Mon in 994.
This big Buddha was restored several times but was overgrown by the
jungle after the total destruction of Bago by the Burmans in 1757.
The 55 meter long and 16 meter high reclining Buddha is well known
in Bago. It was rediscovered in 1880 and restored again several
times to bring it to this condition. It is reputed to be one of the
most lifelike of all reclining Buddhas. The Myanmar people say that
the image represents Buddha in a 'relaxing' mode.Buddhist pilgrins
are alway visit the Recling Buddha for worship.
Kanbawza Thadi
Kanbawza Thadi, the famous palace of King Bayinnaung (1551-1581
A.D)is being extensively excavated and some buildings are being
rebuilt. King Bayinnaung was the founder of the Second Myanmar
Empire, which stretched from the borders of India to parts of
Thailand and Laos. In 1566 A.D. He built a new capital city called
Hanthawadi on what is now Bago. To the south of the Shwe -Maw-Daw
Pagoda he built a grand palace, which he named Kanbawza Thadi. Now
the palace was atready rebuiltin ancient design.
Kyaikhtiyo
Kyaikhtiyo pagoda is also known as the Golden Rock Pagoada. It is
situated in Kyaikhto township in Mon State, four-hour drive from
Yangon. There is a well-beaten path leading to the Pagoda on the
peak of the mountain. It automatically makes a good trekking.Pagoda
is only 18 feet high. It stands on a sliding gilded boulder of
Paurglaung ridgeof Easton Shan Yoma Mountain, 1100m abouve sea level
on a position of wonderful balarcing stand.
This famous Pagoda has an interesting legend that the two brother
hermits had received a strand of the hair of Buddha and enshrined
them in the Pagoda, built on a huge rock that resembles the head of
a hermit. The Pagoda is situated on the sloping big rock stone. It
is a really miraculous Pagoda, because it does not fall down from
the steep slope of the mountain, although it should, but still
remains as it is throughout a great length of time. Myanmar
Buddhists beleve it is due to the power and glory of the Buddha's
hair enshrined in the Pagoda. The Pagoda Festival is annually held
November . And december with very crowded pilgrin from all parts of
Myanmar. But Buddhists worshipers as well tousists used to visit the
Golden Rock Pagoda from November to May Every year.
Mawlamyine
 Mawlamyaing in British times was known as Moulmein. Tt is the
capital city of Mon state, formly it was Mon Kingdon from 3rd
century B.C. to 11th century AD, in flourishing condition.Mawlmyaing
is famous for Kyaik Than Lan Pagoda and Shwesandaw pagoda as well as
a seaport and GaungSay Island . Beelu island of Chaung Sone Towr
ship near Mawlamyaing is a famous handicrafts enter with full of
different kinds of utitities.
Beside near by magnificent Kyaikhami Mid-water Pagoda and Setse
Beach are also interesting sight seeing places for visitors. To the
south ther is a town "Thanphyuzayat". It is famous for war cemetery
of Allied soldiers who fell in the second world war, where the
foreign tourists used to visit with great interest.
Mandalay
Mandalay was the capital of the last Myanmar Empire and is the
second largest city after Yangon. It is about 620 km north of Yangon
and is reachable by land, waterway and flight. It is also the
gateway to upper Myanmar. It is the centre or Myanmar handicrafts
and culture. King Mindon built the present Palace City in 1858.
Before that time, it was known as Yadanabon, or the City of Gems.The
highlights in Mandalay are Zaycho market, The old Royal Palace,
surrounded by a moat of four square miles, the Maha Muni Shrine in
the city center, the Kuthodaw pagoda and Mandalay Hill from the top
of which you can enjoy the panorama of the city. The three most
impressive are handicraft-makings, the gold-leaf making tapestry
drawing and the bronze casting in Myanmar way and Myanmar style. To
know Mandalay is to know Myanmar. Most-visited tourists spots and
its environs are Sagaing hill, Mingun, Inwa (Ava), Amapura, and old
U Bein bridge.
Kuthodaw Pagoda
Khuthodaw pagoda is in the southeastern base of Mandalay hill.
The pagoda has been known as "the world's biggest book"for its 729
marble slabs on which the entire Tipitaka is inscribed. All slabs
are housed in its own individual small stupa. The first complete
version of Tipitaka was assembled by a team of 2400 monks during the
Buddhist Synod in 1872 by the sponsorship of King Mindon.
 Manadalay Hill
Manadalay hill is one of the must-visit attractions in Mandalay,
and it can be visited at any time of the day. Watching sunrise and
sunset from the top of mountain gives the visitors unforgettable
experience Scenic view of Mandalay. The south west entrance to the
hill is guarded by two immense carved lions.On the hill plat form
there are Buddha Image in different sizes and at the south stair
there is a very hight Standing Buddha Image in harm less posture.
Zey Cho Maket
Zey Cho Market is well known for its cheaper price as well as
with unique style of golden-anglet. The buildings of Zey Cho were
firstly designed and erected during the colonial period in 1904-05
AD by a French civil engineer. As Mandalay is located in the
strategic point and crossing-road of domestic and foreign traders,
Zey Cho becomes the center of many consumer goods. Now it is rebuilt
in modern style types.
Mahamuni
 Mahamuni was originally Buddha Image of Rakhine. Mahamuni Pagoda
is a replica of Lord Buddha. Rakhine historical record said that ,
the Rakhine King Sanda Suriya requested Buddha to visit Rakhine (Dhannyawaddy)during
554BC. When Buddha reached there, the replica of Buddha Image was
cast in broze on five kinds of preious matals, lord Budd breathed
upon the Mahamuni Image. The Rakhine Kings and Rakhine races had
revered for centuries.
But Kongbaung Dynasty King of Myanmar Bodawpaya carried the
Mahamuni Buddha Image to Mandalay when he reigned Rakhine.Thus the
sacred Mahamumni Image became very famous among Buddhists as well as
forgeign tourists.
Mandalay Environs
Amarapura
Amarapura means the city which does not die. It further means an
immortal city. It is an ancient city, 20minutes drive from Mandalay.
Of particular is the combine eating of food by about more than one
thousand monks at a large refectory at the same time. It is a very
enjoyable feast for monks in famous Mahagandha yone Monastery in
Amarapura.One can see old palace walls and parts of palace site.
U Bein Bridge
It is in Amarapura, three quarter mile long teak-wooden bridge
built by U Bein the Mayor in 1849.The bridge connects Amarapura and
Inwa across the Tungthaman Lake. Though it has been quite a long
time ago, the teak-wood bridge still remains as it was, and that
manifest the quality of Myanma teak wood endurance.It is the longest
teak bridge in the world, endurig the storms and floods about two
centuries longer.
In-wa (Ava)
Inwa or Ava was an ancient city of Inwa period in 1364 till 1572
AD. It happened to be thrice capital city of Myanmar kingdom.Old U
Bein Bridge of all teak wood 1.2Km Long is famous one. It crossed
Tang tha man lake joinng Inwa and Amarapura, another ancient capital
of Myanmar kingdom. We can see some ancient pagodas and old palace
site boundries only remained there.
Sagaing
Sagaing is an ancient capital of Myanmar Kingdom before Mandalay
empire. On the Sagaing hill, there are many monastries and rest
house with full of monks, nuns and hermits. There are also
meditation ceutres along the hill. Most meditatiors come there for
peace of mind. On the east foot of Sagaing hills near the west bank
of Ayeyarwaddy, large Unfinished Mingun Pagoda stands, as the World
largest Brick pile and the world largest Ringing Mingun Bell can be
seen nearby. Sagaing can be reached by car from Mandalay about half
an hour drive.
Kaunghmudaw Pagoda
Kaunghmudaw Pagoda, built by king Thalun in 1636, is about 10
kilometers form Sagaing . This enormous dom-shaped pagoda stands 46
meters in the shape of a perfect hemisphere. Around the base of
pagoda are 812 stone pillars, each is 1.5m high. The detailed
construction of pagoda are recorded on each of pillar scriptures.
Sagaing Hill
On the Sagaing Hills, there are many pagodas monastries and rest
houses with full of monks, nuns and hermites. There also good
meditation centers on the hill. Most meditatiors came there for
meditation in perace of mind.
There are famous pagodas Swan Oo Ponnya Shin and U Min Thoneze
(30 caves)Pagodas on the top of Sagaing hill which are in terested
by tourists.
Mingun
At the east foot of Sagaing Hill, there is Mingun. A short boat
trip from Mandalay, crossing up Ayeyarwaddy river. It is famous for
the enormous and Unfinished Pagoda as very large Brick Pile and the
uncracked Brass Ringing Bell which is the largest one in the world.
It is also noted for the most Reverend Ven. Mingun Sayadaw who was
the First Buddhist Tipitaka scholar Monk in Myanmar, and very famous
in Myanmar as well as in the world.
Bagan
Old Bagan city was located along the East bank of Ayeyarwaddy
river in the middle of Myanmar. Bagan was first build by King
Thamudrit. At that time it was called Paukkan. In the 11th century (A.D).
King Anawrahta (1044-1077)became a powerful King of Bagan empire
with full of brave heros. Ancient Bagan city area was about 16
square miles wide along east bank of Ayeyarwaddy. King Anawahta
firstly established. Therawada Buddhism in Myanmar by the help of
Venerable Monk Shin Ahrahan. In the period of his reign Buddhism and
Buddhist culture very developed. The wealth became progressive and
built about 10,000 Pagodas and temples in Bagan area. But there many
edifices were ruined and now only over two thousand monuments are
nemained.
Bagan had been ruled by 55 Kings till 13th century. In the end of
13 th century Bagan Dynasty in the reign of King Narathihapatae fell
down, who was called Tayukpye Min, because of hostile occupying by
Mongols in 1287AD.
In Bagan area, the famous pagodas and temples are Ananda,
Thatbyinnyu , Daammayangiyi, Shwezigon, Marhabodhi, Minglazedi,
Manuha, Bupaya Pagodas and others. Magnificent monuments are
Tharabar gate of old city, Anada okkyaung, Myazed stone Seriptures.
And nowadays there are Archaelogical Museum, Palace Tower and
Lacquarware workshops which are interested by foreign tourists.
Tharabar Gate
The main gate of the eastern wall, only left out of the twelve
gates of the wall of the city which king Pyinbya established in
849AD.The main gate of ancient city was built by King Pyin Pyar Min
(AD 846-878) together with fortress of Bagan with twelve gates. It
is located on the east side of the palace. Traces of stucco can be
still seen on the gate. The gate was guarded by the great Nat
brother and sister, Min Maha Giri (the brother)and Namadaw (Sister)speirits
in each side of gate.
Ananda Temple
 Completed in Ad 1091 by King Kyanzittha, the name of this most
majestic of temples means endless wisdom and symbolizes the wisdom
of the Buddha. Designed as a square, there are with four large
entrances from each side forming a perfect Greek type. There are
four cardinal compass points each containing a single 31 foot tall
standing Buddha statue representing the four previous Buddhas. Two
Buddha footprints mounted on pedestals stand on the west porch.
There,we can see the magnificient Statutes of Shin Ahrahan and
Kyansit Min. This Temple is the "mother of all temples "in Bagan,
containing representative works of all the arts, architecture,
glazed plaques, woodcarvings, stucco, terra cotta and stone
sculptures found in all Myanmar temples.
Thatbyinnyu Temple
Over 66 meters high, and built by king Alaungsithu in the middle
of the 12th century, this white stucco building overtops all other
monuments as the highest pagada on the Bagan plain.
Dhammayangyi Temple
 Dhammayangyi Temple was built by King Narathu in 1163. It is the
large and massive temple and noted for it's fine brickwark. The
brick fitting is so close together that there is hardly any space
betwen fine archtectural type. It extends approximately 225 feet on
each of 4 sides walls, known for the mass and thickness of brick
design figure. It was not fully finished but it displayed the finest
brickwork.
There is a noteworthy words in Bagan history that "The Finest Art is
Ananda. The Best Architecture is Thatbyinnyu. The Most Massiveness
is Dhammayangyi, and The Best Beauty is Shwezigone".
Shwezigon Pagoda
Commenced by Anawrahta but completed by his son, King Kyansittha,
it is a prototype for later Myanmar pagodas. It is Bagan's biggest
and one of the most important pagoda. From 5 terraces rises the
golden bell-shaped stupa providing a lovely illuminated landmark at
night. The corners of the terraces are adorned by smaller stupas. A
small square temple at each of the 4 sides of the stupa houses a
standing bronze Buddha image. There are green glazed plaques
depicting scenes from the Jatakas. The pagoda festival is held late
October till early November.
Htilominlo Temple
Built in 1211 AD by King Nadaungmya, Htilominlo is one of the
largest temples of Bagan. It is a double-storied structure rising 50
meters in height. This temple is noted for its fine plaster carvings
on the arch pediments, frieze and pilaster.
Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabohdi Temple, erected during the reign of
Nadaungmya(1211-1234), is modeled after the temple of the same name
in Budhgaya, India. It is a 140 feet high brick and whitewashed
stucco structure, characterized by a large square pyramidal tower
and topped by a conical spire and umbrella.
Bupaya Pagoda
Standing on the brink of the Ayeyarwaddy River, Bupaya Pagoda is
conspicuous landmark for travelers along the river. This pagoda with
bulbous dome resembling the "Bu" or gourd is a favourite spot for
visitors to watch the sunset.
Archaeological Museum
Bagan Archaeological Museum is situated near the Gawdawpalin
Temple. It has a collection of more than 2000 items including Buddha
statutes of different postures in gold, bronze and silver. Visitors
can more study the many excavated archaeological items, stucco
pieces, terra cotta cups and pots, stone scriptures and the painting
of pagodas.
The museum is run by Archaeological Department. Open daily except
Monday and public holidays.
Mingalazedi pagoda
The last pagoda of the Bagan dynasty built by King Narathihapatae
(1256-1287). Started building in 1268, and before it was finished, a
prophecy arose that"once the pagoda is finished, the Kingdom would
be destroyed". The King thus stopped the works for 6 years. He
resumed works in 1274. Ten years later, he had to run away from
Bagan to escape from the invading Mongols.So he was called
Tayukepyae Min.
Manuha Temple
At the southern end of Myinkaba village is the Manuha Temple
complex. When in 1057 King Anawrahta returned victorious to Bagan,
the captive King Manuha was brought to live. By 1059 Manuha had
built himself this two-storey square white temple. The three Buddhas
are uncomfortably large for their enclosures, thus illustrating his
captivity and mental stress. The facial expressions of the two
seated images are grim. That of the one reclining Buddha, on the
other hand, is smiling and serene. He faces north and is therefore
on the verge of Nirvana and release from the transitory world.
Arnandar Okkyaung Monastery
Just a few yards from Ananda, there are Arnandar Okkyaung
Monastery. The building was a residence for monks. It is considered
an unusual piece of art because the whole structure is made of fine
workmanship demonstrate the life of the ordinary people but seem to
have been painted in 18th century A.D. Arnanda Okkyaung Monastery
simply meaning Brick Monastery.
Mt. Popa
It is Said to be the core of an extinct volcano with the height
of 1500 meters above sea level wellknown as the oasis of the central
Myanmar dry zone. Mt. Popa considered the abode of most powerful
Nats (spirit)and there are respectable Buddha Images as a major
pilgrimage destinations. Mt. Popa hosts two major Natpwe (Spirit
festival), one in May/June and other in November/December. . Nearby
there is a green forest and flowers garden with different kinds of
flora and fauna.
Sittwe
 Sittwe is located on the confluence of Kisspanadi river and Bay
of Bengal. After British occupied Rakhine in 1826 AD. Sittwe became
capital city in Rakhine state, a third seaport of Myanmar developed
as business centre in Rakhine. Now it is also a capital city of
Rakhine state and gate way to Mrauk U(Myohaung).
There is a scenic spot "Point View" at the Kisspanadi river and
bay of Bengal confluence. A little faraway there is a nice light
house among the surfing waves.
In the west of Sittwe, near Sittwe Hotel visitors can enjoy the
scenery of breaking waves on the bank of seabeach with fresh
seabreeze. And there may have a glance of busy Sittwe market, port
harbour movement on the bank of blue river.
In Sitttwe, intersting pagodas are Pyay Lonechan Tha Payagyi,
Kaba aye Pagoda and Lawkananda Pagoda, which can be visited as one
likes.
Cultural Museum
A modern four storey building located at the corner of Main Road
and Yedwin street of Sittwe. This museum stored the plans of ancient
Rakhine city and evolution of Rakhine literatures and Ananda Santra
inscription, Buddha images, religious edifices, Scenes of
traditional fine arts and handicrafts which are highlights to be
studied.
Buddhist Museum
Sittwe also has a Buddhist Museum with Buddhistic features,
cultural and traditional artifacts as national heritage to be kept
longer.
Then there is a Mahakusala Monastery in Sittwe like Museum. It
has thousands of Buddha Images, Arahat figures, relices of Laymro
and Mrauk U periods, bronze and palm leaf inscription, coins and
notes showing living culture of Rakhines.
Sittwe can be reached by 1hour flight from Yangon.
Mrauk U
Ancient city Mrauk U was founded by King Min Saw Mon of
Dannyawaddy Dynasty in 1430 AD and became the capital of Rakhine
Kingdom Dannyawaddy. In ancient time, Rakhine was formed comprising
4 regions of Dannyawaddy, Rammawaddy, Mayghawaddy and Dwarawaddy (4
waddies) According to Rakhine history, Mrauk U Kingdon lasted about
355 years. Mrauk U is located in the north west region of Myanmar,
45 miles to the north of Sittwe. The whole city was covered with
many creeks and cannals forming a interconnecting channels.
After 48 kings ruling of Mrauk U in glory was ended when Myanmar
King occupied in 1785. There are highlights such as Shitthaing
pagoda, Dukkanthein Temple, Andawthein Temple, 5 Man Aung
pagodas(Setkya Manaung, Radana Man Aung, Zina Man Aung and Mingala
Man Aung ), Koethaung pagoda, Vasali Payagyi, Ananda Sandra
inscription, palace sites, moats, cannals, palace walls, many
religious edifices, monasteries and culturd museum. Mrauk U can be
reached from Sittwe by boat crossing up Kisspanadi river about 7
hours trip.
 Shitthaung Pagoda (Yan Aung Zaya)
Founded by powerful Rakhine King. Minbagyi in 1533 AD. Shitthaung
means "Shrine of 80,000 images". It's architectural design is in the
form of cave temple with inner ambulatory corrider. On the walls of
stupas are 80,000 rock figures in different styles of carvings.
Pagoda Festival is yearly held in March with crowded people.
Dukkan Thein Temple
Constructed by Rakhine King Minphalaung in 1571 AD, similar type
to Shitthaung and Andawthein. Built of hewn sandstones and layers of
bricks roof, welknown for stone sculptures in the vaulted passages,
the figures in seated ladies with different hair styles,offering
lotus flowers to Buddha. Traditonal says that there were 64 kinds of
hair styles for the wives of noblemen.
Koethaung Pagoda
This pagoda was built by King Min Taikkha. It was similar
structure to Shitthang pagoda. It was full of figures of stupas,
Buddha images in figures of 90,000, all are built of brick and
sandstones.
Cultural Museum
Cultural Museum stands on the old Palace sites of Mrauk U near
Shitthaung pagoda. The museum shows the antique objects for visitors
and researchers. There are ancient Buddha Images and stupas, stone
scriptures, old city map of Mrank U , evolutions of Rakhine
literatures, Rakhine cultural dress style of ladies and men,
historical records of Mrauk U and Rakhine state.
Vesali Payagyi
Vesali Payagyi was carved in 327 AD from a single stone block,
with payagyi inscription in Pali Language and the Ananda Sandra
inscription can be seen there. Others are bronze Buddha Images,old
coins, potteries , bronze lamp and headless deva figures which can
be experienced by visitors and tourists in old sites of Vesali city.
There can be reached by car about 1½ or 2 hours drive from Mrauk U
and from Kyauk taw crossing Kissparnadi river and proceed by car
about 1½ or 2 hours drive to Vesali old city sites.
Mahamuni Pagoda
Mahamuni is a famous Pagoda in Myanmar. As Rakhine Chronicles
Stated,during Lord Buddha life time, Rakhine King Sanda Suria of
Dannya Waddy Dynasty requested Buddha to visit Dannya-Waddy. When
Buddha reached there on Thirigutta Hill, by the request of King
Sanda Suriya, the replica of Lord Buddha was cast in bronze with
five Kinds of precious metals. Buddha breathed upon the replica and
was given life by Buddha Himself.
And at the same time, another replica was cast same as the first
replica of Mahamuni Buddha Image, which is now in Kyauktaw Township.
Rakhine state. The first Mahamuni Buddha Image was carried to
Mandalay by Myanmar King Bodaw Paya of Konbaung Dynasty in 1785AD.
The high land of Mahamuni Pogada compound is wide about 600 feet
in each side with four brick walls. Buddhists or visitors can
worship the respectable and magnificent Mahamuni Buddha Image seated
on the royal sitting alter.
Around the precint of Pagoda, visitors can experience a Museum
with ancient religious artifacts, a royal head-washing lake and
other lakes with lotus. And on the second platform, there is a big
and high Bodhi Tree, under which the sacred Mahamuni Image was
supposed to be cast and breathed upon by Lord Buddha. Besides,
visitors can look up to Deva(Nat) figures in ancient stone sculpture
as praying or watching around the Pagoda.
Rakhine Mahamuni Pagoda is located on the east bank of
Kissapanadi river about 8 km from the jetty on Kyauktaw - Mrauk U
mortor road. The pagoda can be reached from Kyauktaw crossing
Kissapanadi river, proceed by car ½ hour drive and from Mrauk U by
car about 1 hour drive.
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