Pyi Daw Aye Pagoda

You can see the golden chedi, rising on a hilltop just north of the centre, from some way off. It isn’t Burma’s most spectacular temple but it is worth a wander, though the view across town, the Kraburi River and the Thai mountains in the distance is the undisputed highlight.

The temple is a hit with locals and the main entrance and car park off Bogyoke Road is full of grilling food, drinks and souvenir stands. A second main access way is down a flight of steps leading towards the town centre and market area. With south and west vistas Pyi Daw Aye is a top sunset spot too.

The pagoda itself, apart the large gold painted chedi, is noteworthy for the huge boddhi tree surrounded by eight shrines corresponding to the days of the week. (Burmese Buddhists count Wednesday morning and afternoon separately.) It’s not so far from Garden Hotel or if you’re in Kawthaung or Penguin you can do a loop around from Bogyoke Road and down to the market. If you use 2 different entrances don’t forget to carry your shoes with you! Have a peek and make it late afternoon if you can.