Pyay
,Pyay, also known as Prome, is a historical city located in the central part of Burma. It is famous for its ancient archaeological sites, including the impressive Shwesandaw Pagoda and the ancient city of Sri Ksetra. The town is situated along the Irrawaddy River, providing beautiful views and opportunities for river cruises.
Pyay is also known for its traditional culture, warm hospitality, and bustling local markets.
- "Mingalaba" - Hello
- "Kyaikhtiyo" - Thank you
- "Nehn hma kyi" - How are you?
- "Nya naing" - Goodbye
- "Pyan nar" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Pyay's Ancient Sites
morning
:Start your day by visiting the Shwethaundaw Pagoda, an iconic and beautiful structure that showcases unique architecture. Enjoy a peaceful morning taking in the historical significance and serenity of this site.
afternoon
:Head to the Pyu Ancient Cities, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk among ancient ruins and learn about the Pyu civilization. The archaeological park offers stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
evening
:Relax at the banks of the Ayeyarwady River and catch a picturesque sunset. It's a perfect way to wrap up your day in Pyay with the sound of the flowing river in the background.
Cultural Immersion in Pyay
morning
:Begin your morning at the local market, where you can experience the bustling atmosphere and try some traditional Burmese breakfast foods. Engage with vendors and locals to get a taste of daily life in Pyay.
afternoon
:Visit the renowned Sein Dagon Pagoda, a major spiritual site in the area. Take time to reflect in this calm setting filled with local devotees.
evening
:Enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant that specializes in local cuisine. This is a great opportunity to taste traditional dishes while mingling with locals.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites such as ancient pagodas and monasteries.
- Access to the Ayeyarwady River, providing opportunities for scenic boat trips.
- Warm and welcoming local community with unique traditions and festivals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Less touristy compared to other destinations in Burma, allowing for a more authentic experience.
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and public services compared to urban centers.
- Potential language barrier, as English may not be widely spoken.
- Health facilities may not be as advanced or accessible as in larger cities.
- Weather can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months.
- Limited entertainment and dining options for expatriates and tourists.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Exploring the Shwesandaw Pagoda
A beautiful pagoda with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and city of Pyay.
Visiting the Shwemyetman Paya
A historic and revered Buddhist temple with impressive architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Boating on the Ayeyarwady River
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the scenic Ayeyarwady River, offering a different perspective of Pyay and its surroundings.
Hiking at the Akauk Taung
Explore the scenic cliff carvings and enjoy a hike in the serene natural surroundings at Akauk Taung, located near Pyay.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Pyay with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Shwesandaw Pagoda
The pagoda offers panoramic views of Pyay and the surrounding area, making it a great spot for photography.
Thayekhittaya Archaeological Site
This ancient site provides a historical backdrop for stunning photos and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Aungmye Bonzan Monastery
The monastery's architecture and tranquil surroundings provide a picturesque setting for photography and capturing the beauty of Pyay.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mohinga
A traditional Burmese breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles in a fish and lemongrass broth, garnished with crispy fritters, hard-boiled egg, and lime. Best enjoyed at local tea shops or street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Ohn no khao swe
A comforting dish of wheat noodles in coconut milk and chicken broth, topped with a variety of condiments such as boiled eggs, fried onions, and chili flakes. Available at small eateries and local restaurants.
Burmese Curry
A staple in Burmese cuisine, typically made with fish, meat, or vegetables cooked in a fragrant mix of spices and served with steamed rice. Sample authentic Burmese curries at traditional eateries and family-run restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pyay better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pyay Night Market
Explore a vibrant array of street food vendors offering local delicacies such as skewered meats, grilled fish, spicy soups, and fresh fruit juices. The market comes alive with bustling energy, perfect for an evening food adventure.
Thida Zay Market
Venture into this bustling market to savor a variety of street food delights including samosas, noodle soups, and an assortment of sweets and snacks. Engage with the friendly vendors for an authentic taste of local flavors.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for elders
In Pyay, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them using proper titles and avoiding speaking loudly or using disrespectful language in their presence.
Buddhist customs
As a predominantly Buddhist community, it is important to be mindful of Buddhist customs and practices, such as removing shoes before entering pagodas and temples, and showing respect for monks and religious symbols.
Hospitality
Hospitality is highly valued in Pyay, and visitors are expected to show appreciation for the warm welcome by practicing humility, showing gratitude, and being polite in their interactions with locals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pyay with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Pyay, Burma, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected in most situations. However, in upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, and additional tipping is not necessary.
Payment
In Pyay, Burma, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially outside of major cities. It's important to carry enough local currency for day-to-day transactions as ATMs may not be readily available in all areas.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pyay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter (November to February)
Best time to visit Pyay. The weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer (March to May)
Hot and dry weather. Expect high temperatures and potential for heatwaves. It is advisable to stay hydrated and seek shade.
Monsoon (June to October)
Heavy rainfall and high humidity. Some attractions may be affected by the rain, but the landscape becomes lush and green.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Popa
A prominent volcanic plug located about 50 kilometers from Pyay, Mount Popa offers challenging hiking trails with breathtaking views and a chance to see diverse flora and fauna.
Taungthaman Lake
While primarily known for its scenic beauty and U Bein Bridge, the area around Taungthaman Lake offers several walking paths and trails for light hiking amidst nature.
Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock)
Located approximately 160 kilometers from Pyay, this famous Buddhist pilgrimage site features a hiking trail leading to the stunning Golden Rock, offering both a spiritual journey and scenic views.
Thazi
Situated to the northeast of Pyay, Thazi provides various hiking opportunities through its beautiful landscapes and less-trodden paths, ideal for those looking for a quiet nature experience.
Shwebo
About 100 kilometers from Pyay, Shwebo offers several hiking options in its hilly terrain, allowing adventurers to explore the rural landscape and local culture.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pyay through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Pyay by plane.
Yangon International Airport (RGN)
Located approximately 150 km from Pyay, Yangon International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Myanmar, serving numerous international flights.
Mandalay International Airport (MDL)
Situated about 180 km from Pyay, Mandalay International Airport is the second-largest airport in Myanmar, offering both domestic and international flights.
Naypyidaw International Airport (NYT)
Approximately 200 km from Pyay, Naypyidaw International Airport serves the capital city and has facilities for both international and domestic travel.
Thandwe Airport (SNW)
Around 220 km from Pyay, Thandwe Airport serves the popular tourist destination of Ngapali Beach and has limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bamar (Burman)
The largest ethnic group in Myanmar, making up a significant portion of the population in Pyay.
Mon
An ethnic group primarily located in the southeastern part of Myanmar, with a smaller population in Pyay.
Rakhine
Ethnic group with origins in the Rakhine State, some members may reside in Pyay as part of internal migration.
Shan
Known for their rich culture and history, Shan people are found in various regions of Myanmar, including Pyay.
Karen (Kayin)
An ethnic group with several sub-groups, some of whom may have settled in Pyay.
Chinese
A minority community in Myanmar, including Pyay, primarily involved in trade and commerce.
Indigenous tribes
Several smaller indigenous tribes may also inhabit the area, contributing to the cultural diversity of Pyay.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Pyay, played in local fields and organized clubs, attracting a wide audience and various amateur leagues.
Cricket
Cricket enjoys a growing fan base, with local teams and community matches being commonly organized in Pyay, inspired by the international cricket scene.
Sepak Takraw
This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is popular among the youth and is often played in local tournaments.
Myanmar Traditional Sports
Traditional sports like chinlone (a form of foot-volleyball) are practiced in Pyay, showcasing local culture and attracting spectators.
Badminton
Badminton is increasingly popular among the youth in Pyay, with community centers providing facilities for both recreational and competitive play.
Basketball
Basketball is enjoyed by many youths in Pyay, with open courts and local teams frequently organizing games and competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Burmese cuisine prominently features meat and fish, many eateries in Pyay offer vegetarian and vegan variations of traditional dishes such as curries, stir-fries, and salads, accommodating those with plant-based diets.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten restrictions can opt for rice-based dishes like various rice noodle soups, salads, and stir-fries, which are prevalent in local eateries. It's recommended to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.