The Outskirts of Hsipaw, Myanmar- Myauk Myo

There were a couple of hours before sunset after we arrived in Hsipaw so we decided to visit Myauk Myo, the northern section of Hsipaw, which is a small village comprised of little Bagan, Madahya Monastery and the Shan Palace. A handful of beautiful old pagodas next to a small village comprised little Bagan. We wandered through the ancient stupas marveling at these structures in the middle of nowhere. There were just two other tourists in the area so it was quite serene.

 

The Madahya Monastery is a small compound of teak buildings. We arrived as the novice monks were bathing outside and though curious we let them be after snapping a few photos. Inside one room of the monastery was a large gold Buddha on a platform. The light inside this room was just beautiful and mysterious; great for pictures. After wandering through the monastery we left for the Shan Palace.

A descendant of the last Shan prince resides at the Shan Palace and educates tourists on the history of the palace and its former residents. It was quite interesting to hear the story from someone who spoke English so well. Apparently when the military junta took control of Myanmar all of the ruling princes were arrested. All but one, the last Shan Prince, were released some years later, and his relatives must still speculate as to what happened to him. The woman living in the Shan Palace has made it her role to spread the story of her relatives to as many people as she can and loves to receive visitors so that she can tell her family’s tale. The sun had set so we returned to town after visiting the Shan Palace.