To visit the ancient Vesali Temple near Sittwe, visitors have several options to reach this historic destination:
Sittwe Airport (AKY) is the nearest airport to the Vesali Temple. It is well-connected with domestic flights from Yangon, the largest city and gateway to Myanmar. Upon landing at Sittwe, travelers can hire a taxi or arrange for a pickup through their accommodation to reach Vesali Temple.
Long-distance buses run to Sittwe from major cities like Yangon and Mandalay. Buses may take a long time, often over 14 hours, but they offer a budget-friendly option. From the bus station in Sittwe, one can take a local taxi or tuk-tuk to Vesali Temple.
Another scenic but less common option is to take a boat from places like Mrauk U. The journey can be quite an adventure and offers a unique perspective of the remote areas along the river. After the boat ride, you will still need to take a taxi or other road transportation to reach Vesali Temple.
Visitors can also rent a car with a driver from Sittwe or other parts of Rakhine State. This option allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to explore the region at your own pace. Remember to check current travel advisories, road conditions, and required travel permissions due to the sensitive nature of Rakhine State.
Upon reaching Sittwe, local transport options include taxis, motorcycles, and tuk-tuks. Negotiating the fare before the trip is advisable.
Once at Vesali Temple, visitors can explore the remnants of the ancient Vesali kingdom, admire its unique architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The temple is a significant historical and cultural site, giving insight into pre-colonial Burma and the Rakhine State's heritage.