How To Reach Mahakuthala Monastery

Traveling to Mahakuthala Monastery, Sittwe, Myanmar (Burma)

By Air

The quickest way to reach Sittwe, the capital city of the Rakhine State where Mahakuthala Monastery is located, is by air. The nearest airport is Sittwe Airport (IATA: AKY). There are domestic flights from Yangon (RGN) and other cities within Myanmar to Sittwe. Upon arriving at Sittwe Airport, you can hire a taxi or arrange a private car through your hotel to take you to the monastery.

By Bus

If you prefer land travel, long-distance buses are available from Yangon and other major cities to Sittwe. The journey can be long and tiring, sometimes taking up to 14-20 hours depending on the starting point. Once in Sittwe, a taxi or a motorbike taxi can be used to reach the monastery.

By Boat

You also have the option to experience a boat trip from other parts of Rakhine State or coastal regions. Boats usually leave for Sittwe from neighboring towns, though travel times can be lengthy and dependent on weather conditions. After arriving at the Sittwe jetty, local transport is necessary to get to the monastery.

Local Transportation

Inside the city of Sittwe, the modes of local transportation include taxis, trishaws, and motorbike taxis. For a more scenic route, visitors can also rent a bicycle. It is advised that you negotiate the fare before starting your journey. For more comfort and convenience, especially when traveling with luggage or in a group, hiring a private car with a driver may be best.

Visa Requirements

Most international tourists will need a visa to enter Myanmar. A tourist visa is typically valid for 28 days. Be sure to check the latest visa requirements and travel advisories before planning your trip.

Travel Tips

• Climate: Sittwe has a tropical monsoon climate. The best time to visit is during the cooler, drier months from November to February.
• Currency: The local currency is the Myanmar Kyat (MMK). It's recommended to exchange money at official currency exchange centers and to always carry cash, as card payments are not common outside major hotels.
• Language: The local language is Burmese, but English may be understood in tourist areas. Consider learning a few basic phrases in Burmese to make your interactions smoother.
• Respect Local Customs: When visiting monasteries such as Mahakuthala, it is important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and to remove shoes before entering the sacred areas.

Be sure to plan in advance and confirm all travel arrangements, as travel within Myanmar can involve multiple steps and changes. Safe travels!