Hpa An

The town lies on the east bank of Thanlwin River with stunning views across to an imposing limestone mountain which is topped by a chedi. It is surrounded by limestone hills and the impressive ridge of 722-meter Zwegabin Hill, the tallest among the chain of Myanmar’s limestone mountains with 2372 feet high. The hill is crowned by a stupa which is said to contain a hair of the Buddha. Moreover, Hpa-An is a marvelous hill station and an important tea, coffee and fruit producing region.

QUICK FACT:

  • Location: about 250 km southwest of Yangon, 43 km north of Mawlamyine
  • Status: capital of Kayin State
  • Name variant: Pa An Population: 50,000 (2006 estimated)
  • Religions: Theravada Buddhism, Baptism, Christianity
  • Main attraction: Zwegapin Hill – the landmark of Kayin State

Being one of the first major cities that travelers will pass when heading overland from Thailand, Hpa-An is the capital of Kayin State. The main attractions are scattered around the beautiful surrounding countryside, making this place an ideal area for relaxed touring. The town lies on the east bank of Thanlwin River with stunning views across to an imposing limestone mountain which is topped by a chedi. It is surrounded by limestone hills and the impressive ridge of 722-meter Zwegabin Hill, the tallest among the chain of Myanmar’s limestone mountains with 2372 feet high. The hill is crowned by a stupa which is said to contain a hair of the Buddha. Moreover, Hpa-An is a marvelous hill station and an important tea, coffee and fruit producing region. Eight miles south of Hpa-An is sacred Kawgun Cave, which mainly attracts tourists by its hidden gallery of 7th century artwork. Here you can find up to thousands of Buddha images and carvings on walls of roofs. The pagoda was first recorded in 1893 in an Archaeological survey of India Report. One of headless carving of an elegant torso is believed to represent a queen who donated some images to the cave pagoda. There is a Mon language inscription on the piece which writes: “I, the queen of Martaban, living in the town of Du Ei Wut, have the image of Lord Buddha made…” One of the best memories of experienced travelers is the breathtakingly huge Saddar Cave. The pilgrimage nature is evident in the many small shrines and Buddhist iconography greeting you at the entrance. The sacred atmosphere is initiated from the décor there. Ranging from small clay figures that have been arranged into mosaics depicting holy places and figures, to statues and stupas, the mouth of Saddar Cave deems like most holy sites in Myanmar. As you walk down the stairs into the cave, lighting is intermittently provided by fluorescent lamps and the ground is damp. Moreover, the cave is home for a flock of bats. Visitors will find these entire atmospheres quite intriguing and memorable. In addition, the life of people in Hpa-An makes this town more memorable with tourists. Sailing through the town by boat in slow vibration among the late afternoon’s sunlight, you will be relaxed. This seemingly nonchalant lifestyle, together with Hpa-An’s immense culture, is definitely an unforgettable memory for anyone.

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