History:

is a cave temple complex located in Myingyan, Mandalay Region Myanmar, comprising a series of shrines and caves with numerous images of Buddhas hewn from the sandstone cliffs. It is regarded as one of the most important Buddhist sites in the country, and is renowned as one of the most significant religious and cultural sites in the region. The complex includes more than 800 sandstone Buddha images carved into cliffs and sides of five towering sandstone mountains. The cliffs face east into the valley and west towards the Ayeyarwaddy River and the nearby village of Thayawaddy. The images have been placed in locales ranging from large groupings to solitary meditations stations, and at the holiest level there is a reclining Buddha. It is believed the site was originally established in the 14th century AD, during the period of the Bagan Dynasty. It is one of the best temple in Myanmar which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Phowintaung is a cave site located in the Sagaing Region of northwestern Myanmar. 2. The site was discovered in 1998 and consists of a network of limestone caves, some reaching 64 metres (210 feet) in depth. 3. The site is home to over 2,000 sculptures and figures carved from sandstone. 4. Phowintaung is believed to be a Theravada Buddhist monastery and meditation center, founded sometime in the 9th century. 5. The artwork includes seated and standing Buddhas, stupas, life-sized votive tablets and walls inscribed with verses. 6. It is believed that the cave-temple was the residence of the 6th century monk Mingalar Sayadaw, who wrote the treatise ‘Living Jesus’. 7. Many of the sculptures at the site were destroyed by Chinese troops in 1885 as part of the opium wars. 8. The site is now protected by the Myanmar Department of Archaeology and is open to visitors. Here are some facts about the Myanmar temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Myanmar

Worship Method:

The Phowintaung Cave Temple in Myanmar is an important metaphysical site for Buddhists in the country. The worship practices within the Cave Temple depend largely upon the various spiritual and physical elements found within. Before the actual practice begins, worshippers must observe strictly hygienic standards. This is seen as a type of respect for the temple itself. They must also abstain from any consuming of meat or alcoholic beverages for three days prior to their visit. Upon entering the Cave Temple, worshippers must kneel and bow three times towards the temple's center. This is symbol of the display of reverence to the spirits of the Buddha as they are believed to reside in the center of the Cave Temple. Afterward, worshippers will then make offerings in the form of traditional Burmese ornaments and flowers. They will also recite traditional Buddhist prayers, sutras, and mantras during their time inside the temple. It is considered an honor to have the opportunity to be in the presence of such a sacred site. At the end of their worship practice, worshippers will recite their last prayers of thanks and offer incense as a form of respect to the Cave Temple. The offering of incense is usually accompanied by a donation of money or offerings such as food or drinks. Worshippers are expected to be not only present in the Cave Temple to pay respects, but also to observe other practices and rituals that are an integral part of the Buddhist tradition. This most visited temple in Myanmar

Opening Timing:

The Phowintaung cave temple is open for visitors from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm every day. top temples in Myanmar

How to reach:

Phowintaung is located in the Kyaikto Township of the Mon State in Myanmar. To get there, it is best to fly to Yangon International Airport and take a taxi or hire a car to drive the approximately 441 km to Kyaikto Township. The other option is to take a bus from Yangon to Kyaikto Township. The journey takes about 11-12 hours. famous temples in Myanmar