Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Nga Phe Chaung Monastery
Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Nga Phe Chaung Monastery on Inle Lake, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
A brief summary to Nga Phe Chaung Monastery
- GV8X+M4M, Myayni Gone, MM
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Inle Lake, Nga Phe Chaung Monastery stands as a serene oasis that captivates visitors with its unique charm. Often referred to as the 'Jumping Cat Monastery,' this revered site is famous for its monks who train cats to leap through hoops, providing an entertaining spectacle that delights children and adults alike. As you enter the monastery, you are greeted by the stunning architecture adorned with intricate wood carvings and golden stupas that shimmer under the sun, inviting you to explore its spiritual essence. The monastery houses an impressive collection of ancient Buddha images, each with its own story to tell. The tranquil atmosphere is enhanced by the gentle sounds of water lapping against the wooden stilts of the structure, making it an ideal spot for reflection and meditation. Visitors often find themselves enchanted by the peaceful surroundings and the warm hospitality of the monks who reside here. A boat ride on Inle Lake to reach this unique destination adds to the adventure, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the vibrant local life. Nga Phe Chaung Monastery is not just a tourist attraction; it is a cultural gem that provides insight into the spiritual traditions of the region. As you explore the grounds, take the time to interact with the locals who are eager to share their stories and traditions. Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural enrichment, or simply a moment of peace, this monastery is a must-visit on your journey through Myanmar.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and witness the monks' morning rituals.
- Dress modestly to respect the monastery's spiritual environment.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your visit with insights into the monastery's history and significance.
- Don't forget your camera; the scenic views and intricate details of the monastery are perfect for photography.
- Enjoy a boat ride on Inle Lake to reach the monastery, as the journey itself offers stunning views of the local landscape.
Getting There
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Boat
To reach Nga Phe Chaung Monastery from any location on Inle Lake, start by taking a traditional long-tail boat. You can hire a boat from the main boat docking areas in Nyaung Shwe or any nearby villages. Once on the boat, inform the boatman that you wish to visit Nga Phe Chaung Monastery. The boat ride typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on your starting point. As you travel across the serene waters, enjoy the stunning views of the lake and local life along the shores. Look out for the stilt houses and floating gardens that make Inle Lake famous. The monastery is located in the area known as Myayni Gone, so keep an eye out for signs or ask your boatman for directions as you approach.
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Walking
If you are already close to Nga Phe Chaung Monastery, you can walk from nearby locations along the lakeshore. From the nearest boat docking point, head towards the stilted structures and follow the path that leads up to the monastery. The path is well-trodden and should take about 10-15 minutes on foot. As you walk, you will encounter local vendors and beautiful scenery, making the journey enjoyable.
Attractions Nearby to Nga Phe Chaung Monastery
- Floating Gardens of Inle Lake
- Inle Lake
- Mine Thauk Bridge - မိုင်းသောက် တံတား
- Nyaung Ohak
- Shwe Inn Dein Pagoda
- Natural Hot Spring (သဘာဝရေပူစမ်း)
- Khaung Daing Natural Hot Spring
- Red Mountain Estate Vineyards & Winery
- Inle Horse Club
- Nyaung Shwe Night Market
- Kyaung Daw Pagoda
- Nyaung Shwe Cultural Museum
- Shwe Yan Pyay
- Shwe Yaunghwe Kyaung
- Kakku Pagodas
Landmarks nearby to Nga Phe Chaung Monastery
- Paramount Inle Resort
- Floating Gardens
- Golden Moon
- BLUE SKY
- The Serenity Inle Resort
- Shwe Inn Tha Floating Resort
- Phaung Daw OO Market
- Amazing Inlay Resort
- Amata Garden Resort, Inle Lake
- Villa Inle Boutique Resort
- KMA INLE Hotel
- Aureum Palace Hotel & Resort Inle
- Nan Pan Market
- Sky Lake Inle Resort
- Ananta Inlay