The Santawshin Myat Mawtinsun Pagoda, located in Hainggyikyun Town, Ngaputaw Township, Pathein District, Ayeyawady Region, attracted over 56,000 pilgrims from all over the country during the Buddha Pujaniya festival from 27 February to 12 March, according to the Board of Trustees of the Santawshin Myat Mawtinsun Pagoda.
This year, the lower square of the Myat Mawtinsun Pagoda has been concreted, and the beach path of the Pagoda, as well as the northern stairs, have been repaired, allowing pilgrims to visit with peace of mind.
“This year, the number of pilgrims has been increasing since the festival began. From 27 February to 12 March, over 56,000 pilgrims visited. Most of the pilgrims came from the Ayeyawady Region and Yangon Region. Some pilgrims travelled directly from Yangon Region by ship or by vehicle,” said U Kyaw Swa Win, a member of the board of trustees.
The ancient and historical Myat Mawtinsun Pagoda houses the real hair of the Buddha. Pilgrims from all over the country come to visit, even if they have to travel a long distance. Visitors engage in meditation, make donations, perform good deeds, recite the precepts, and offer oil lamps, flowers, and water. In addition, they perform a symbolic act of feeding dragons, enjoy the natural beauty of the beach, and take a bath at Ngwetaung Beach. Some travellers also visit historical sites and pagodas in Hainggyikyun, Kyaukkalat, and take unique photos. Some visitors stay overnight, leading to guesthouses being fully booked during public holidays.
— ASH/MKKS
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