Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery
Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery is an amazing 19th century red teak decorative structure with large oval windows standing on stilts – the theme of the area. Regarding its unique features, tourists should not miss the chance to visit this small but elegant monastery.
Located nearly 2.4 kilometers to the north of Nyaung Shwe, Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery is standout for its red-painted teak building that was built in the 19th century. Inside it is covered with carved wooden bas-reliefs decorated with colorful glass mosaics and gold paint.
Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery
This 150-year-old monastery is a gem of Burmese architecture reflecting the art of constructing religious buildings in the feudal period. Teak wood, which is widely used in many monasteries in Myanmar, is the main material for construction. Especially the ceiling is decorated with gorgeous carvings and gold leaves.
Niches with statues of Buddha at Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery
One of the outstanding features that tourists can easily notice is its extremely large oval windows. This is an iconic structure that can barely be found in Myanmar since it was built to give shelter for poor boys in the region, who eventually become novice monks when they come to live here. This is the reason behind that ordinary look, but even so, its unique architecture can be comparable to any noble buildings in Myanmar.
The iconic oval window at Shwe Yan Pyay
Visiting Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery, tourists can probably see the novice monks and their tranquil life here. They live in a dormitory which basically takes place in half the area of the monastery. One exciting thing is if tourists have such a big love for photography, it is a chance to catch so many great moments of the monks here, especially when they are reading books near those oval artistic windows. Sunlight, teak wood color, orange clothes, tranquil vibe, all together would form such a calm and perfect theme.
Young Samaneras (novice Monks) are studying in Prayer Hall
Travellers can visit Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery by many ways, but it is recommended to go there by private car, bike, or walking.
Opening from 8am to 6pm, visitors have to buy a mandatory of US $10 Inle Zone to get into the Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery. Since this is a religious place, besides taking off shoes before coming inside and dressing appropriately, tourists also have to lower their voice, especially when the novices are reading Buddhas litanies.
