Mrauk U

mrauku-01Mrauk U, an ancient town in northern Rakhine State, was built in 1431 AD by King Min Saw Mon and remained its capital until 1785 AD. It is situated between Kaladan and Lay Mro Rivers and is surrounded by hills in the north and south. Mrauk U can be reached by boat from Sittwe which takes about five hours. It is not merely a plain ground but has many high-rise mounds with rich soil so that paddy is easily grown there.

Within Mrauk U city wall on every mound and every hill dotted with Buddha images, temples, ordination halls and pagodas which were all constructed with well fitting cemented sand stones. Note-worthy religious monuments are Shitthaung Pagoda (Temple of 80,000 Images) built in 1535 AD. It is the main attraction of Mrauk U. 'Htokekanthein' is one of the most famous temples in Mrauk U.

Its name means "Cross-Beam Ordination Hall". Andaw Shrine, in which is enshrined a tooth-relic of Buddha built in 1521 AD. The Ratanabon Pagoda, which signifies treasure heap, is impressive for its massiveness and Koethaung (Temple of 90,000 Images).

About one hundred species of mammals are found in Mrauk U. Famous elephants can be seen at Maru ridge, north-west of Mrauk U. Varieties of wild animals roar around all over the country side. About 300 species of birds wander in the hills.