Pathein Travel Guide

Previously called Bassein, the city of Pathein is the capital city of the Ayeyarwady Division and it lies close to the river.  It is a major river port, despite lying fairly fair away from the ocean.  It can be reached by road, rail, and water.  It is also the fourth biggest city in Burma.  


                                                                                                                      Photo credit: Jeroen & Dafne

Getting around the city is easy and there is an abundance of taxis, motorbike taxis, and rickshaws.
In the past, Pathein was a major trading centre for Indians and Arabs.  There is still a thriving industry in the city today, and it is well known for its production of beautiful, decorative, and colourful parasols.  Not only do these make great souvenirs and gifts but they also help you to stay cool in the heat of the day, providing shade and shelter from the sometimes oppressive sun.  A visit to one of the workshops is really interesting, nd you can see the skill that goes into making the pretty umbrellas.  Pathein also has a large rice-milling industry.

As well as ethnic Burmese citizens the city is also home to large communities of Rakhine and Karen people.  There are also a few Mon people.
Wandering around the city you will see a large number of old colonial ere buildings.  Look out for the port authority buildings as well as old churches and mosques.  A stroll along the waterfront is very pleasant, and the city has a really peaceful and serene atmosphere. 

There are lots of Buddhist temples around the city.  A main temple is Shwemokhtaw Pagoda, often jokingly referred to as the Olympic Medal Pagoda because of the materials used for the different levels of the stupa – they are made from gold, silver, and bronze.  It is an attractive temple where you can admire the main stupa as the sun glints and gleams off the different metals.  You will also see local people making merit and praying. 
A couple of beaches are within easy reach, and you’re also not too far away from forests and jungle areas.
There is a selection of mid-range places to sleep in the city, as well as a decent selection of restaurants.