Climb 100 steps to a 100-years old monastery and best sunset view in town
- Pyi Taung Su Road (find the steps under the golden arch along the Union Highway)
- Open sunrise-sunset. There is no fee to enter, visitors should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and legs
Illuminating the image of Buddha' Sasana over the country whole. That's in Kalaw, where we all fall in love.
A monastery with a view
Thein Taung Monastery is tucked away up a hill, and the best way to reach it is by climbing the 1,000 step walkway. The long climb is like a meditative journey leading you to a peaceful retreat where monks learn the teachings or Buddha. Built in 1918 this monastery is one of the oldest in Kalaw. The complex itself may not be that extraordinary (we heard of peeling frescos and dusty cabinets in the Buddha museum) but the setting on top of the hill is worth the trek.
Popular sunset spot
The monastery is an excellent place to sit and watch the sunset over Kalaw as well as the interesting spectacle of Kalaw youth posing for selfies.
A poetic reflection
“The sun's golden light dawns, revitalizing fields of green.
Over the herculean Mount Kalaw where its fountain flows free.
There it lays, a construct of great importance, "the Thein Taung".
Just as the waterfall gives life to all tree around the Thein Taung does for "the Sasana" same.
A century long, it stood as "Sasana's Stronghold".
Standing tall even now, during our fourth Sayadaw's region.
Illuminating the image of Buddha' Sasana over the country whole.
That's in Kalaw, where we all fall in love.“
by Nwe H.