Kyaiktiyo - Discovering Myanmar

Travelling to Kyaiktiyo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kyaiktiyo, a pretty good destination in Myanmar (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kyaiktiyo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kyaiktiyo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Myanmar, here's everything to know about Kyaiktiyo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kyaiktiyo

Kyaiktiyo is a famous pilgrimage site located in the Mon State of Myanmar. It is best known for its incredible Golden Rock, a massive boulder that seems to defy gravity as it balances precariously on the edge of a cliff. The Rock is believed to be held in place by a single hair of the Buddha and draws thousands of visitors every year who come to pay their respects and witness the mystical beauty of the site. Kyaiktiyo is also surrounded by stunning natural scenery and offers excellent hiking opportunities. To reach the Golden Rock, visitors must take a winding mountain road and then complete a challenging hike or take a local truck ride to the final destination.

What to visit in Kyaiktiyo

Kyaiktiyo, also known as the Golden Rock, is a famous pilgrimage site in Myanmar. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to see in Kyaiktiyo: 1. Golden Rock: The Golden Rock is the main attraction in Kyaiktiyo, and one of the most sacred sites in Myanmar. It's a massive boulder covered in gold leaf, perched precariously on the edge of a cliff. Legend has it that the rock is held in place by a single hair of the Buddha.
2. Kyaiktiyo Pagoda: Located next to the Golden Rock, the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is a beautiful temple with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Pilgrims come from all over Myanmar to pay their respects here.
3. Tara Hill: Tara Hill is a popular spot for sunset views over the Golden Rock and surrounding mountains. There are several shops and restaurants here as well.
4. Kyaukthanban Pagoda: This pagoda is famous for its beautiful mosaics and carvings, and is considered one of the most important temples in the region.
5. Bago: Bago is a nearby town that is worth a visit if you have time. It's home to the Shwemawdaw Pagoda, one of the tallest pagodas in Myanmar, as well as several other interesting temples and historical sites.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Myanmar, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kyaiktiyo.

When to go on holiday to Kyaiktiyo

The best time to visit Kyaiktiyo is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is cool and dry. The temperatures during these months range from 20°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the pagoda and surrounding areas. However, it's important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so accommodations and tours may be more expensive and crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds and higher prices, you may want to consider going during the shoulder seasons of March-April or October-November, but be aware that this is also the dry season with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C and humidity can be high. The monsoon season runs from May to September, and while it can be a cheaper time to travel, the heavy rainfall may make it difficult to explore the area and may result in transportation disruptions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kyaiktiyo

To get to Kyaiktiyo in Myanmar, also known as Golden Rock, you can follow these steps: 1. The nearest airport to Kyaiktiyo is Yangon International Airport. So, first, you will need to fly into Yangon.
2. From Yangon, you can take a bus or a private taxi to Kyaiktiyo. The journey takes around 4-5 hours by road. 3. Once you reach Kin Pun base camp, you will need to take a truck or a bus to reach the mountain summit. The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour, and it's quite an exciting ride! I recommend booking your bus or taxi in advance to avoid any confusion or delays. Moreover, it's important to note that the roads might be bumpy, so it's best to carry motion sickness medicine if you're sensitive to such movements.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kyaiktiyo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kyaiktiyo

Kyaiktiyo, also known as Golden Rock, is a famous pilgrimage site in Myanmar, and offers a variety of local foods for visitors to try. Here are some of the typical foods of Kyaiktiyo with a short description: 1. Mohinga – A popular breakfast soup made with rice noodles, fish broth, and various herbs and spices.
2. Shan-style noodles – A dish of thin rice noodles topped with shredded chicken or pork, mixed with tomato, chilli, and herbs.
3. Burmese curry – A variety of meat or vegetable curries served with steamed rice and a variety of side dishes.
4. Papaya salad – A spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, and peanuts, mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, and chilli pepper.
5. Samosas – Small, crispy fried pastries filled with potato, onion, garlic, and spices.
6. Tea leaf salad – A unique salad made with fermented tea leaves, mixed with a variety of crunchy nuts, seeds, and spices.
7. Kachin-style bamboo shoot curry – A curry dish made with tender bamboo shoots cooked in a spicy, flavorful broth with a variety of herbs and spices.
8. Sticky rice cake – A sweet dessert made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk, sometimes flavored with sesame or pandan.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods you might find in Kyaiktiyo. Other local specialties include Burmese-style barbecue, fried fish, and a wide variety of snacks and street foods.
You can find general info about typical foods in Myanmar here.

Is Kyaiktiyo an expensive destination for tourists?

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, also known as Golden Rock, is a popular destination for tourists in Myanmar. However, compared to other popular destinations in Southeast Asia, Kyaiktiyo can be considered a bit expensive. The main reason for this is that there are limited accommodation options in the area, and the location is relatively remote. Additionally, there are entrance fees for both foreigners and locals, as well as transportation costs to get to the shrine. Despite the higher prices, many visitors still consider it to be a worthwhile destination due to its cultural and historical significance.

Where to find accomodation in Kyaiktiyo

Kyaiktiyo, also known as the Golden Rock, is a popular pilgrimage site located in the Mon State of Myanmar. The best areas to find accommodation to visit Kyaiktiyo are Kin Pun Sakhan (also called Kimpun Basecamp) and the nearby town of Kyaikhto. These areas have a variety of guesthouses and hotels to choose from and are located close to the foot of the mountain where you can catch transportation up to the Golden Rock. Some visitors also choose to stay overnight at the mountain top, where there are a few guesthouses available as well.
You can check hotel prices at Kyaiktiyo here:
Booking.com

Is Kyaiktiyo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kyaiktiyo is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's always important to use common sense and take precautions to ensure your safety. It's a good idea to travel with a reputable tour operator, avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas. It's also a good idea to check the latest travel advisories from your home country's government before planning a trip to Kyaiktiyo.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Myanmar here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kyaiktiyo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kyaiktiyo the most?

Kyaiktiyo, also known as the Golden Rock Pagoda, is considered a spiritual and cultural destination in Myanmar. Therefore, it is popular among families, couples, and solo travelers who are interested in history, religion, and natural beauty. It's not an ideal destination for those looking for nightlife or wild adventures. However, the serene atmosphere, scenic views, and the opportunity to immerse in the local culture make it an unforgettable experience for travelers who value tranquility and spirituality.

How to get around Kyaiktiyo

To move around Kyaiktiyo, the best mode of transportation is hiring a taxi or a motorbike. Alternatively, you can also take a public bus or a truck that operates to and from the Golden Rock Pagoda. However, it may not be as comfortable as a private taxi or motorbike. You can easily find these modes of transportation at the base camp when you arrive, but negotiating a price in advance is recommended.

What to see around Kyaiktiyo

Here are some great places that you can visit in a day trip from Kyaiktiyo: 1. Bago: Bago is a historic city located about 80 kilometers from Kyaiktiyo. The city is full of ancient temples and pagodas, making it a great place to visit for those interested in history and culture.
2. Yangon: Yangon, the former capital of Myanmar, is located about 160 kilometers from Kyaiktiyo. The city is known for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and iconic Shwedagon Pagoda.
3. Golden Rock: Golden Rock is a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site located just a short distance from Kyaiktiyo. The site is home to a massive boulder that is said to be balanced precariously on the edge of a cliff.
4. Hpa-An: Hpa-An is a charming town located about 100 kilometers from Kyaiktiyo. The town is surrounded by stunning karst limestone peaks and is home to several ancient temples and pagodas.
5. Mawlamyine: Mawlamyine is a coastal city located about 160 kilometers from Kyaiktiyo. The city is a great place to visit for those interested in colonial history and architecture, and is also home to several important Buddhist sites, including the Kyaikthanlan Pagoda.
For every travel information about Myanmar you can click here.

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