About This Place
An ancient city hidden in the hills of Rakhine State, Mrauk-U was once the capital of the powerful Arakan Kingdom (15th–18th centuries) and a major trading port visited by Portuguese, Dutch, and Indian merchants. Today it is scattered with hundreds of stone temples and stupas slowly being reclaimed by jungle.
Why Visit?
- ✓Explore hundreds of ancient temples in a landscape reminiscent of Bagan but without the crowds
- ✓Watch sunrise from Shitthaung Temple over a mist-filled valley of stupas
- ✓Experience a remote and authentic corner of Myanmar largely untouched by mass tourism
- ✓Learn about the distinct Rakhine culture, art, and Buddhist traditions
- ✓Trek to surrounding villages and meet Chin women with traditional facial tattoos
Highlights & Must-Sees
Best Time to Visit
November to March. The site is remote enough that shoulder seasons (October, April) are still manageable. Avoid monsoon season (June–September) as roads can flood.
How to Get There
Fly from Yangon to Sittwe, then take a slow boat up the river to Mrauk-U (~5–6 hours). Alternatively, reach Sittwe by ferry or road from other points in Rakhine State. The remoteness is part of the charm.
Visitor Tip
Very limited tourist infrastructure — bring cash, arrange accommodation in advance, and hire a local guide. The temples close at dusk. Mrauk-U is worth the effort; far fewer visitors than Bagan.