Myawaddy

Myawaddy or Myawadi (Burmese မြဝတီမြို့) is a border town in Myanmar.

Myawaddypagodas - Pagodas by Buddhist temple in Myawaddy

An introduction to Myawaddy

At some point, this is expected to be a full international border crossing as part of the Asian Highway Network route AH1 which will connect Tokyo in Japan with the border between Türkiye and Bulgaria. In July 2015 and the part between Kawkareik and Myawaddy opened.

The Mae Sot (Thailand) - Myawaddy border crossing is the main overland entry point for foreigners wishing to get from Bangkok to Yangon or Thailand to Myanmar in general, and vice-versa. Also it is a moderately popular destination for tourists and expats in Thailand who want to make a "visa run", i.e. get a new (Thai) entry permit stamp by making a short visit to another country. Many western foreigners receive a 30-day entry permit when re-entering Thailand. Other nationalities even receive 90 days. However, be aware that for western foreigners no visa-on-arrival is available on the Myanmar side.

Until recently, access for foreigners was only feasible from Mae Sot, and foreigners were not allowed to travel further overland into Myanmar from Myawaddy or stay overnight, but that is no longer true.

The time in Myanmar is 30 minutes earlier than in Thailand, and the traffic drives on the right.

Get in

The_road_to_Myawaddy_through_the_Dawna_Mountains_37 - On the Myanmar side of the border

There are several buses daily from Hpa-an (Pa-an) and Mawlamyine (Moulmein) to Myawaddy, as well as a few buses from Yangon (12 h). Shared taxi from Hpa-An is 8,000 kyat and takes 2.5 to 3 hours.

From the (Thai) town of Mae Sot, take a songthaew or other transport to the border crossing at the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge over the Moei River; Myawaddy is immediately on the other side of the bridge. The ride from Mae Sot is between 20 bby Songthaew.

Foreigners must have a visa for Myanmar prior to entry. It can be obtained in Bangkok within a day when applying in the morning, or simply online. The border opens between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.. The border crossing is hassle free: remember the name of the city you are going to and the name of an adress you will stay in, so the crossing may be a bit faster. The_road_to_Myawaddy_through_the_Dawna_Mountains_11 - Onward travel beyond Myawaddy in the not so distant past

Get around

Myawaddy is centred around the wide strip of highway that leads from the Friendship Bridge through town and is small enough to be explored easily on foot; alternatively, ubiquitous red bicycle rickshaws go everywhere.

What to see in Myawaddy

Shwe Muay Wan (the Golden Pagoda) 1 6.689026, 98.508045 2-3 minutes from the border checkpoint by rickshaw - Very picturesque site with several big Buddha images enshrined on its grounds, one of which is a replica of the golden Buddha image of Mahamuni Temple in Mandalay. Locals claim that this pagoda is more than 1,000 years old.

Myikyaungon Temple (the Crocodile Temple) 1 6.682490, 98.506251 6-7 minutes from the border checkpoint by rickshaw - Very unusual temple on the back of a gigantic crocodile statue. There is also a library on top, but women do not have access. An anti-clockwise series of pictures explains the life of Buddha.

Giant Standing Buddha 1 6.681494, 98.501439 - This complex houses a 20 m high standing Buddha and a large golden bell shared tower.

Kyan Khinn Monestry 1 6.688270, 98.511663

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There are more temples with big pagodas a bit away from the town centre and in neighbouring villages. With decent transport the following are accessible:

Pagoda 16.679651, 98.505605}} Pagoda & field of status 16.676486, 98.505034 Buddha images more than a hundred similar sitting behind this sight.
Pagoda 16.671630, 98.499906
Circle of posts 16.678442, 98.488571
Circle of little pagodas 16.679210, 98.485100
Pagoda 16.676147, 98.481761
Little pagoda 16.674687, 98.482555}} Hill pagoda 16.672458, 98.480675 This temple is situated on a hill 200 m walk from the previous one. It also has a big pagoda and gives a good view of the surrounding area.
Pagoda 16.678598, 98.480024
Pagoda 16.678583, 98.478624
Water hole 16.679789, 98.478715
Stadium like Place of Worship 16.680822, 98.478183

What to do in Myawaddy

Market 1 6.688287, 98.510563 Opening Hours: Afternoon & early evening Explore this single street market of 2 kilometers length and its side roads for an authentic Myanmar.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Myawaddy

Although (Thai) Baht used to be accepted in Myawaddy (as written in many places online and in guidebooks) this is no longer the case. There are ATMs that can be used to withdraw kyat. In addition and there are many money changers along the road right after the border post, but be cautious and double check.

Myawaddy Complex 1 6.696008, 98.498359 ☎ +66 36 288 867 Casino and Duty Free Shops

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Myawaddy

There are some Halal restaurants and retail outlets around along the street towards the border crossing.

Drink

Buy Muslim Friendly Condos, Houses and Villas in Myawaddy

eHalal Group Myawaddy is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Myawaddy. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Myawaddy.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Myawaddy ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Myawaddy. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Myawaddy, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Myawaddy are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@halal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Myawaddy

There are several guesthouses and small hotels, but be sure to call or book ahead since not every accommodation in Myanmar is available or licensed to tourists.

Hotel Lawka | Chit Kyi Yay Lane 16.686074, 98.498801

| phone+95 58 51330, +95 9 31223727

Myawaddy Hotel Chit kyi yay Road 16.687626, 98.509272 750 m from the border post ☎ +95 58 50519, +95 9 252 636527 $22-30 Rooms are clean and reasonable. Including breakfast and a restaurant.

Go next

You can cross the border to Mae Sot in Thailand].
There are several buses daily from Myawaddy to Hpa-an (Pa-an) and Mawlamyine (Moulmein) for about 5,000 kyat. Depending on when you arrive, it will be easier or necessary to take a private taxi (for about 10,000 kyat). After passing the customs office, you will be approached by taxi drivers or their friends who speak English. Depending on the route and the ride will take about 3-5 hours including stops. A proper road is under construction.
The bus to Yangon leaves at 08:00, 09:00 and 10:00, takes 12 h and costs about 13,000 kyat.