Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Monywa, Myanmar

Monywa is a town situated near the renowned Mandalay, and traveling from Bagan to Mandalay presents an excellent opportunity to pause in Monywa for a night or a few days, allowing visitors to appreciate its attractions.

Monywa features numerous points of interest, such as the world’s second tallest Buddha statue, alongside a picturesque monastery that hosts a collection exceeding 500,000 depictions of the Buddha.

The town is also home to an array of ornate traditional temples, some of which are nestled within stunning limestone caves.

Here are the 15 best activities to engage in while in Monywa…

1. Explore Thanboddhay Paya

Thanboddhay Paya represents one of the most vibrant temples in Monywa and is also among the newest constructions.

This temple is renowned for its vast array of Buddha images, complemented by a roof adorned with small stupas embellished in glistening gold leaf.

Additionally, intricately designed obelisks etched with Buddha images reach heights of approximately 30 feet.

It is estimated that there are around half a million Buddha images present, varying in size and position, making it a compelling destination in itself.

2. Take a Boat Trip

Monywa, similar to many Burmese towns, is positioned along a river, which serves as a bustling hub in the city.

One of the premier methods to appreciate the river’s scenery is to hire a boat and embark on a journey along this enchanting waterway.

During your excursion, you can observe local families residing along the riverbanks, providing insight into the daily lives and work of Burmese people in Myanmar.

3. Walk Around Hpo Win Daung Complex

For those interested in experiencing local culture, a visit to this remarkable complex is essential, containing nearly 500 Buddha chambers intricately carved into the adjacent limestone hillside.

These chambers date from the 14th to the 18th centuries and while the caves themselves are shallow, they provide a unique sight if you have never encountered anything of this nature before.

In addition to the Buddha images within the caves, several larger chambers feature magnificent colorful murals narrating local Buddhist legends.

4. Check Out Payagyi

The Payagyi stupa is particularly recognized for its imposing chinthe, a mythological creature that merges the features of a lion and a dragon.

This stupa overlooks a hill, making it an exceptional vantage point to admire the renowned Monywa countryside.

A prayer hall can also be found on the premises, notable for its teak pillars, which are estimated to be around 170 years old.

The hall features beautiful stone tiles depicting celebrated legends, such as the Ramayana.

5. Explore Shwe Ba Taung

Shwe Ba Taung is located near Hpo Win Village and is distinguished by its 46 unique caves.

To access the caves, visitors must traverse rustic pathways carved into the hillside, with some sections featuring vertical drops of around 25 feet, making it unsuitable for those with a fear of heights.

The cave chambers house several Buddha images that, while less grand than those found in other locations in Myanmar, create a stunning visual effect due to the carved stone steps and the caves themselves.

6. Eat at the Local Night Market

For those seeking affordable dining options in Monywa, visiting the Night Market located near the local clock tower is advisable.

The setup may lack sophistication, as most stalls offer simple plastic chairs and tables, but the delectable snacks, including succulent skewers of barbecued meats, are a highlight.

It is also a great spot to observe local dining customs and beer is available for purchase.

7. Visit Shwe Gu Ni Pagoda

Approximately 29 miles from downtown Monywa, the Shwe Gu Ni Pagoda dates back to the 14th century.

This pagoda is distinguished by its imposing Buddha statue, which is 33 meters tall.

It is adorned with gold leaf foils, a result of pilgrims attaching gold leaf to the Buddha as a gesture of respect.

This practice has led to the accumulation of gold leaf in some areas, creating a thickness of several inches that nearly obscures the face of the Buddha.

8. Explore Kyaukka Village

Kyaukka Village, located approximately 12 miles from Monywa, serves as an idyllic destination for a day trip.

The village is acclaimed for its lacquerware products, making it an ideal location to acquire souvenirs and memorabilia of your journey.

The lacquerware here is characterized by a thicker composition compared to that found in other regions of the country and typically features black and gold designs.

9. Check Out Laykyun Setkyar Standing Buddha

Constructed by the monk Bodhi Tahtaung Sayadaw, the Laykyun Setkyar Standing Buddha is recognized as the second tallest Buddha statue globally.

This impressive statue stands at an altitude of 116 meters, positioned behind the renowned reclining Buddha statue in Po Khaung Taung.

To visit the Laykyun Setkyar Standing Buddha, guests may ascend a staircase within the hollow body of the Buddha, allowing them to appreciate the ornate interior.

This statue is considered one of Myanmar’s most notable landmarks and took an impressive 11 years to complete, exemplifying exquisite craftsmanship.

10. Travel to A Myint

If you have several days to spend in Monywa, consider a visit to the nearby village of A Myint.

This village is recognized for its 300 scenic stupas, which are believed to date back to the 11th century, although their exact origin remains uncertain.

As you navigate through the village, you will encounter stupas dispersed throughout the rural landscape, along with a picturesque pagoda situated in the town center, constructed from shiny teak wood.

11. Travel to Twin Taung

Twin Taung is yet another picturesque village in proximity to Monywa and provides an appealing destination for local exploration.

This village is known for its lake, which features a unique supply of spirulina, harvested for use in cosmetics and health products.

One of the most enjoyable activities here is to stroll around the lake, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the village.

12. Visit Shwezigon Paya

Shwezigon Paya is often regarded as the most visually appealing temple in Monywa.

Regardless of individual opinions, it is undeniably the most grandiose, adorned with intricate gilding that sparkles under the intense Burmese sunlight.

Conveniently situated in the town center near the local clock tower, it is impossible to overlook while exploring the area.

13. Dine at Pleasant Island

Despite its somewhat kitschy name, Pleasant Island offers a charming dining experience located on a central lake.

This small island also houses a modest restaurant, which serves as a primary reason for visiting.

The experience is indeed worthwhile, as patrons cross a quaint wooden bridge to reach the restaurant.

The menu features various dishes, including Burmese, Chinese, Thai, and Indian cuisine, all enjoyed in the serene lakeside pavilions.

14. Visit Su Taung Pye Zedi

Anyone fond of temples should not overlook Su Taung Pye Zedi, a beautifully designed pagoda situated adjacent to the central clock tower.

This temple is among the most colorful and vibrant within the area, offering a refreshing contrast to others in the region with its striking design elements.

15. Eat Your Way Around the City

Monywa may not be widely recognized on the tourist route in Myanmar; however, visitors will be pleasantly surprised to discover a diverse and rich food scene offering ample variety.

Some of the finest dining experiences can be found at the delightful Burmese teashops scattered throughout the city, where local snacks like tea leaf salad and fried delicacies are available.

Additionally, Monywa offers a selection of delicious curries and a variety of international dishes, including burgers and pastries, facilitated by several bakeries catering to those seeking bread-based options.