As an active town and main transport hub serving the temple town of Began, Nyuang-U enjoys a riverside location with plenty going on. The town is where many travellers choose to stay when in the area and has interesting back streets and a jetty where boats sail to Mandalay. In addition to the many temples in nearby Began, the town has some of its own superb examples such as the Shwezigon Paya temple. Indeed, the area is one of Asia's richest archaeological sites.
Nyuang-U is also home to a vast, colourful market. Of all the places to stay around Bagan, Nyuang-U is possibly the most charming and its centre is very atmospheric, with colonial architecture to admire and some very good restaurants. Allegedly, the town got its name from a mythical pig that lived there and killed many locals before it was slain by a Began future king! Both superstition and religion are evidenced in the area's dynamic festivals, which include the Ananda Pagoda Festival in January, the Nhtet Pyit Taung Pagoda Festival in February and the Water Festival in mid-April. All are a real treat for the senses!
While the area's temples are the highlight of the Nyuang-U area, visitors will also love the lively restaurant scene as well as visiting the bustling local market, where almost everything is for sale!
Shop at the market
The town's market is vast with all manner of Myanmar crafts, foods and household items. There isn't much you can't buy here and it's a fascinating, colourful place to go even to just watch people.
Eat at the best restaurants
Thiripyitsaya 4 Street is home to many restaurants and enjoys a relaxed atmosphere with different types of food and drink on offer after a day's sightseeing. Try Pyiwa, Aroma 2 or Sharky's Deli for a real treat!
Explore the temples
The area's famous temples include the huge and beautiful Ananda Pagoda, the Gawdaw Palin temple on the banks of the river and the imposing Dhammayangyi temple. These are quiet, spiritual places for a relaxing visit.
Spiritual and religious festivals are highlights of Nyuang-U and there's some kind of celebration going on most months of the year. Visitors are very welcome to be a part of these!
Ananda Pagoda Festival: Taking place over several weeks in January, this Bagan festival raises funds for the temple's Buddha. The area is decorated with tents and locals with their carts add to the festival atmosphere.
Nhtet Pyit Taung Pagoda Festival: This small February festival comprises stalls selling local products such as htamane: a tasty dish made of sticky rice, ginger, onions and peanuts. Additionally, there are stage shows with dancing, opera and drama.
Water Festival: In the lead-up up to the Myanmar New Year, locals splash water on one another to mark the passage of time and wash away past misdeeds as they pray for spiritual renewal and good harvests following the monsoon.
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