Inwa (Ava) Ancient City – A Timeless Burmese Marvel
Inwa (Ava) is an ancient city that is a must-visit destination in Myanmar (Burma). Once the capital of the Konbaung Dynasty, Inwa was a major settlement of the Burmese people for centuries. Its ruins of temples, pagodas, and monasteries still stand today, giving visitors a glimpse into Myanmar’s rich past.
Inwa is located in the Mandalay Region, near the city of Amarapura, and is a popular day trip for visitors to the area. With its fascinating history and stunning architecture, Inwa is a wonderful place to explore and learn about the culture and traditions of Myanmar.
Exploring The Historic Ruins Of Inwa (Ava)
The ruins of Inwa are spread across a large area, so it is important to plan your visit carefully. There are many temples and pagodas to explore, and the best way to do this is to hire a guide who can take you around the main sites.
The most famous structure in Inwa is Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, also known as Ok Kyaung. This brick and stucco building was built in 1818 and is one of the best-preserved structures in the city. Next, you should visit the Nan Myint Tower, which was built in 1822 and is the only remaining structure of the old royal palace.
Another highlight of the ruins is the Bagaya Monastery, which was built in 1593 and is known for its teak pillars and intricate wooden carvings. There are also several smaller temples and pagodas, as well as the remains of the old city walls.
Discovering The Culture Of Inwa (Ava)
Inwa is also a great place to experience the culture of Myanmar. The city is home to many traditional handicrafts, such as lacquerware and hand-woven textiles. You can also visit the local markets to buy souvenirs and sample the local cuisine.
The nearby village of Ywama is also worth a visit. This traditional fishing village is a great place to get a glimpse of rural life in Myanmar. You can also take a boat ride down the Irrawaddy River, which is one of the most scenic river cruises in the country.
Visiting Inwa (Ava)
Inwa is a fascinating destination to explore and it can easily be visited on a day trip from Mandalay. To get to Inwa, you can take a taxi or hire a car, or you can take a bus from Mandalay. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and costs around $5.
Once you arrive in Inwa, you can hire a guide or explore the ruins on your own. There is also a small museum in the city which is worth visiting.
The ruins of Inwa are open from 9am to 5pm, and the entrance fee is $5. There are also many restaurants and cafes in the city, so it is easy to find something to eat.
Conclusion
Inwa (Ava) is an ancient city that is a must-visit destination in Myanmar. With its fascinating history and stunning architecture, this city is a great place to explore and learn about the culture and traditions of Myanmar. From temples and pagodas to traditional handicrafts and markets, Inwa has something to offer everyone. So, if you are looking for a unique experience, then make sure to add Inwa to your list of places to visit in Myanmar. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or simply want to enjoy the beauty of ancient ruins, Inwa is a timeless Burmese marvel waiting to be discovered.