Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock Pagoda) is a famous pilgrim site among Buddhists in Myanmar. It is located at the summit of Kyaiktiyo Mountain, close to Kinpun, Mon State. It is one of the most popular pilgrim sites among Buddhists and, most importantly, is getting a lot of attention among international travelers.
As a traveler and photographer, the entire journey was an excellent opportunity for me to meet local people and experience a great adventure. In addition, it has allowed me to make some priceless memories that were worth all the effort. Staying overnight in a hotel was also a perfect opportunity to enjoy the dusk and dawn from a high elevation and get some great shots.
Getting to Kyaiktiyo Mountain
Having traveled extensively in Asia, especially in Myanmar, a couple of years back, I pretty much knew what to expect in Myanmar, but this journey still has some great surprises along the way. In Yangon, I was staying in Hotel Esta, not far from Shwedagon Pagoda and only a few blocks from the Yangon River. To avoid Yangon traffic, we started our trip very early at around 7:30 am; family friends (Zaw, Jasmin, and their baby Aung) picked me up and headed towards Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, where we planned to spend a day on top of Kyaiktiyo mountains at a 1,100 meters (3,600 ft) elevation and visit the Golden Pagoda.
From Kinpun a Daring Ride Going Uphill
It was about a 3-hour drive to a village called Kinpun (only 14 km north of well-connected Kyaikto village), where we parked our car and were required to shift over to a special heavy-duty four-wheel truck authorized to climb up through narrow, very stiff, bumpy zigzag road.
What to Expect on The Weekend
On Friday morning, we stood with a larger than usual crowd at the station from where we were required to take the traditional, roofless trucks with their extremely narrow and uncomfortable benches tightly squeezed together. Sitting on the 6-inch narrow surface was uncomfortable as the truck climbed stiff uphills on this narrow, winding road. Kyaiktiyo was only 9 miles (15 km) from Kinpun, but during my 30 – 40 mins trip, I worried more about saving my camera than being thrown off this truck at every sharp turn. The view of some passengers sitting in front of me was not all too pleasant as I watched their sick faces plunging into the plastic bags they clutched. Finally, we arrived at the top of the mountain, and it all felt like we had achieved something unachievable.
Activities Around Kyaiktiyo Pagoda
Our hotel was only about a 10-minute uphill walk from that point (the length of the walk had to be barefooted as the hotel was inside the Pagoda complex). Luggage carriers were swarming us, and I decided to hire one of them as this is how locals can support their families in remote areas such as this.
Check-in at the hotel was around 1:00 pm, and later we started exploring the area. The religious complex around Pagoda Hill Square was massive and looked peaceful and secret to me. The complex comprises quite a few temples, restaurants, guesthouses, etc. The Golden Rock looked beautiful in the evening when illuminated by the warm colors of the setting sun. The golden rock is set on the edge of a hill, and the parables say a hair from Buddha keeps the rock from falling, which is why hundreds of thousands of Burmese come annually to worship it. The sunset view from the top of the mountain high above the clouds was picture-perfect.
Dinner at Golden Rock Pagoda Hill Square
There were many restaurants and all kinds of shops and food vendors around the pagoda. We found many restaurants on both sides of the walking street, overwhelmed, hard to decide which one to select. Finally, without much thinking, we chose one and had our dinner. We ordered all authentic local food and beer.
Sunrise Viewing From The Top
The next day weak up early and captured some beautiful pictures at sunrise from the hotel rooftop. I was so glad that I stayed overnight there at the Kyaiktiyo. I highly recommend an overnight stay if you want to enjoy the sunset, evening activities around the pagoda squire. Also a great opportunity to try some authentic food, and of course, the sunrise in the morning.
Heading Back Down For Our Onward Journey
I loved this place due to its authenticity and its location. While the journey is a bit complicated at times, the sense of adventure it provides is all the fun, while the magnificently picturesque view at the end is a well-deserved reward. So, after a great weekend adventurous trip, we are heading back down to Kinpun. Our next stop is Hpa-An soon we pick up our car.
Where to stay in Kyaikhtiyo, Myanmar
Golden Rock Hotel Myanmar, Kyaikhtiyo
Conveniently situated in the Pagoda Hill Square part of Kyaikhtiyo, this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. This 3-star property features a restaurant to make your stay more indulgent and unforgettable. Moreover, the hotel is in a vantage point, experiencing unique breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain range and stunning sunsets that will leave a lasting impression.
The Eternity Resort, Kyaikhtiyo
The car parking and the Wi-Fi are always free, so you can stay in touch and come and go as you please. Conveniently situated at the Foot of Mt. Kyaikhtiyo part of Kyaikhtiyo, this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. Massage, restaurant, and indoor pool are special facilities that will enhance your stay with on-site convenience. The hotel is quiet and peaceful, with some beautifully kept garden areas.
My Opinion and Last Word
Have you been to Kyaikhtiyo, Myanmar? Any cool tips to share?
I loved being in Kyaikhtiyo, Myanmar, and want to go back again. I hope my story has motivated you to visit Myanmar.
Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge.
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