Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
eye-to-eye with the Shwesandaw and watching over it. The smaller gold stupa on the
highest hill southeast of Shwesandaw is the
Wunchataung Paya
(Apology Mountain Pa-
goda), where people can say 'sorry' for misdeeds. While they're at it, they get the best
view of Shwesandaw and the mountains across the river. Reach Wunchataung via Sehtat-
gyi Rd, east of the Shwesandaw.
Central Market
MARKET
Follow Strand Rd north of a morning to catch all the action at the lively and colourful
central market which spreads over several blocks. As you approach, you'll pass an ornate
Chinese Temple
dedicated to the goddess Guan Yin on the corner of Ya Yoke Tann St. A
little further on are giant clay water pots and a row of thanakha wood sellers. Continue
along the riverside north of the market to find the Shwepaliamaw Paya.
Payagyi Paya
BUDDHIST TEMPLE
Once marking one of Thayekhittaya's four corners, this towering pagoda probably dates
from the 5th or 6th century AD. Three terraces encircle the slightly swollen, breastlike
structure from its base; 'ladies' are not allowed on the upper one. The modern
hti
is lit up
at night and lies a half-mile (800m) east of the bus station.
Sleeping
Myat Lodging House
HOTEL $
( 053-25695; 222 Bazaar St; r with fan $5-15, with air-con $20-25; )
This small back-street
guesthouse has simple rooms a block from the Pyay 'action'. The $5 rooms might be the
cheapest in Myanmar, but are a cell with a fan and shared bathroom. Higher-priced
rooms come with a private bathroom and are set at the back of the maze of buildings.
Friendly English-speaking staff give out maps of Pyay and Thayekhittaya.
Smile Motel
HOTEL $
( 053-22523; 10-11 Bogyoke Rd; r $24-35; )
The long corridor leading to the simply fur-
nished rooms may have a shabby carpet and remind you of
The Shining,
but it's all pretty
clean and the staff are nice, if a bit surprised at your existence. The $35 rooms are essen-
tially triples if three's not a crowd.
Lucky Dragon
HOTEL $$$
