Ngapali Beach Myanmar – Top Picks for Attractions and Sights

Many people come to Ngapali Beach to enjoy the scenery and relax after a longer trip to Myanmar which may have included a lot of trekking and sightseeing. One of the big joys of this area is the chance to indulge in some laid back beach life, but if you are still hungry for some sights then Ngapali Beach won’t disappoint and there are a mix of temples, markets, and monasteries dotted around the wider area.

Zalun Monastery

One of the big draws in the area is the Zalun Monastery which houses the mummified body of a Buddhist monk who died as a result of prolonged meditation in 1984. His remains have been kept in the monastery in a glass case for decades and this is a moving and unusual sight in Ngapali Beach. As well as the monk you can also take in the architecture of the monastery which is designed in the traditional Burmese style. The trip out to Zalun Monastery is also part of the experience as you will weave past paddy fields and dainty Rakhine villages.

Kinmaw Village Clay Pottery

Kinmaw Village just outside of Ngapali Beach is the place to come to check out some traditional arts and crafts in this part of Myanmar. The village is famous for its clay pots, bowls, and vessels, and you can watch the craftsmen and women at work and also buy some of the pieces which in turn helps to support the village.

Thandwe Market

If you are in Ngapali Beach then you may consider taking a trip to the neighbouring town of Thandwe which is about four miles away by road. This town is extremely picturesque in its own right and it is also a great place to visit if you want to catch the local market in progress. Here you will find locals selling fruits, vegetables, dried snacks, and textiles, and there is also a longyi-weaving factory close by where you can learn how this traditional Burmese sarong is made.

Nandaw and Sandaw Pagodas

The Nandaw and Sandaw Pagodas are located on hillsides just outside of Thandwe and you will find three gorgeous golden pagodas which are all spots of pilgrimage for Buddhists in the region. They are dotted on different hills around Thandwe and the tallest of these is called Nandaw Paya which has the claim to fame of containing a section of one of the ribs of Buddha.

Amata Mountain

Another important Buddhist sight near Ngapali Beach is Amata Mountain which is located close to the Jade Taw Fishing Village. The mountain is most famous for its imposing statue of the Standing Buddha and it is also a great spot if you want to enjoy 360 degree views over Rakhine State. If possible try to time your visit here so that you arrive shortly before sunset and can enjoy the spectacle as the sunsets over the ocean. There is also a meditation centre here is you want to learn more about this important part of the Buddhist faith.

Jade Taw Fishing Village

Just a short ride away from Ngapali Beach is Jade Taw Fishing Village which is a local Rakhine village nestled on the coast. The village is known for its abundance of fishermen and if you rise early to visit the village you will get to see them unloading the day’s catch from their boats. As you walk through the village you will be able to see how the fisherman make the most of their catch, with the larger fish being sold to restaurants and the smaller fish left to dry in the sun on straw mats to be made into snacks.