Hpa-an
This football-stadium-sized cave is simply breathtaking, its entrance dominated by dozens of buddha statues, a couple of pagodas and some newer clay wall…
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Kayin State
The combination of fantastic scenery – tree-covered limestone hills rising above luminous green paddy fields – and a fascinating ethnic mix, makes Kayin State (ကရင္ျပည္နယ္) a Myanmar highlight. That's despite the fact that significant parts of the state remain off-limits to foreign visitors, thanks to ongoing tensions caused by what is thought to be the world's longest-running internal conflict.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Hpa-an
Standing proud in the middle of a small, artificial lake is Kyauk Kalap, a tall finger of sheer rock atop which is one of the more unusual pagodas in…
Hpa-an
The 7th-century artwork of the Kawgun Cave consists of thousands of tiny clay buddhas and carvings plastered all over the walls and roof of this open…
Kayin State
Within walking distance of the Friendship Bridge, Shwe Muay Wan Paya is Myawaddy's most important temple, a traditional bell-shaped stupa gilded with…
Hpa-an
Close to the waterfront, this golden pagoda is a popular hang-out around sunset, as well as an easy place to watch the world go by during the day.
Hpa-an
This area actually consists of three caves, only two of which are generally open to the public.
Kayin State
Myikyaungon Paya is a noted Buddhist temple, called Wat Don Jarakhe in Thai, and named for its gaudy, crocodile-shaped sanctuary. The temple is an easy…
Hpa-an
Now digitised, but not always working, Hpa-an's clock tower is lit up at night like a gaudy lollipop.
Guidebooks
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Get to the heart of Kayin State with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.
