Food In Gawdawpalin Temple

Food History of Gawdawpalin Temple, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

Gawdawpalin Temple is one of the largest and most imposing temples in Bagan, Myanmar. Although it is not directly associated with food, the temple's history is intertwined with Bagan's cultural and religious heritage, of which food is a significant part. Historically, the Bagan kingdom was a melting pot of cultures, which is reflected in its cuisine that blends local Burmese flavors with Indian, Chinese, and Thai influences. Temple festivals and religious ceremonies have traditionally included offerings of food to the Buddha and to the attending monks. These offerings often comprise vegetarian dishes due to Buddhist dietary practices, although non-vegetarian dishes are also widely consumed by the general population.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Gawdawpalin Temple, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

1. Mohinga: Often considered the national dish, this is a fish-based soup with rice noodles and is a non-vegetarian staple for breakfast.
2. Shan Noodles: Originating from the Shan state, this dish of rice noodles is typically served with a mix of chicken or pork, making it non-vegetarian, and is topped with a variety of condiments.
3. Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thoke): A traditional Burmese salad made from fermented tea leaves and a mixture of nuts; it is a vegetarian dish.
4. Burmese Curry: This typically includes a meat such as chicken or mutton (no cow meat), simmered in a rich, spicy sauce, making it non-vegetarian.
5. Onnokauswe: A coconut milk noodle soup with chicken, this is a comforting non-vegetarian dish with a silky, rich broth.
6. Chapatis: Influenced by Indian cuisine, these flatbreads are served with a variety of dips and are vegetarian-friendly.
7. Samusa Thoke: A flavorful salad made with falafel-like samosas, cabbage, and other veggies, bound together with a tangy tamarind sauce, offering a vegetarian option.
8. Burmese Tofu: Made of chickpea flour or yellow split pea flour, this tofu is completely vegetarian and often used in salads and curries.
9. Nan Gyi Thoke: A thick rice noodle dish mixed with chicken and a variety of toppings, typically non-vegetarian.
10. Tamarind Leaf Salad: This is another vegetarian salad that showcases the sour taste of tamarind leaves balanced with other fresh vegetables.

Top Famous Restaurants in Gawdawpalin Temple, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)

1. Sanon Training Restaurant
   Pyu Saw Hti Street, Bagan, Myanmar

   Famous for its Shan Noodles (Non-Vegetarian) and Mango Salad (Vegetarian).

2. The Moon Vegetarian Restaurant
   Between Ananda and Shwegugyi Temples, Old Bagan, Myanmar

   Famous for its all vegetarian menu, especially the Tea Leaf Salad (Vegetarian) and Burmese Tofu (Vegetarian).

3. Be Kind to Animals The Moon
   New Bagan, near Ananda Temple, Myanmar

   Known for its vegetarian dishes like Vegetable Curry (Vegetarian) and Samusa Thoke (Vegetarian).

4. Yar Pyi Vegetarian Restaurant
   Bagan – Nyaung U Main Road, Bagan, Myanmar

   Serves a variety of vegetarian dishes, with the Tamarind Leaf Salad (Vegetarian) being a highlight.

5. Weather Spoon's Bagan Restaurant and Bar
   Thiripyitsaya 4 Street, Bagan, Myanmar

   Popular for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including Burmese Curry (Non-Vegetarian) and Vegetarian Spring Rolls (Vegetarian).

While visiting Gawdawpalin Temple and the surrounding area of Bagan, tourists have the opportunity to explore the rich culinary landscape that reflects Myanmar's diverse cultural heritage. From street-food stalls to refined restaurants, the region offers a variety of dishes catering to different dietary preferences.