Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock)

Myanmar (Burma), Asia

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, famously known as the Golden Rock, is an engineering marvel perched atop a boulder that seemingly defies gravity. This unmissable pilgrimage site for Buddhists showcases a gleaming stupa adorned in gold leaf, surrounded by breathtaking mountainous landscapes. Visitors are captivated by the spiritual ambiance, especially at sunset when the rock shimmers like a beacon. The journey to the site involves a thrilling hike or a truck ride through lush jungles, making it a unique mix of culture and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Cultural Site

Vibe

History

Airport

Yangon

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock)

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Golden Rock

Experience the iconic balancing rock at sunset.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to the Pagoda

Enjoy a scenic trek through lush forests.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take the Cable Car

Get stunning aerial views of the area.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore local markets

Shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a meditation session

Experience mindfulness in a serene setting.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a local festival

Immerse yourself in vibrant cultural celebrations.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit nearby monasteries

Discover the tranquility of Buddhist monasteries.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Kyat

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Burmese

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mohinga

Fish soup with rice noodles. (National dish)

Shan Noodles

Noodles with meat and herbs.

Laphet Thoke

VE

Tea leaf salad with various toppings.

Ohn No Khao Swe

Coconut chicken noodle soup.

Burmese Curry

Spicy meat curry with rice.

Phrases to learn

English

Burmese

Hello

Mingalaba

(Min-gah-lah-bah)

Yes/No

Ho de / Ma ho bu

(Ho-de / Ma-ho-boo)

Thank you

Cè-zù tin-ba-deh

(Sey-zoo tee-in-bah-deh)

Excuse me

Ta wa hma

(Ta-wah-mah)

How much?

Behlout?

(Beh-lout)