Shwe In Bin Monastery
A serene monastery famed for its intricate wooden architecture and peaceful ambiance, offering a glimpse into traditional Burmese craftsmanship.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene ambiance
Shwe In Bin Monastery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene monastery famed for its intricate wooden architecture and peaceful ambiance, offering a glimpse into traditional Burmese craftsmanship.
"An ornately carved temple that must have been spectacular in its heyday but now in need of restoration."
👟 Barefoot Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering. Bring a bag to carry them, as nails can sometimes protrude.
🚶♀️ Quiet Contemplation
Visit in the afternoon for a peaceful experience with minimal crowds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Wood Carvings
Marvel at the detailed wooden architecture and facades, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship from a bygone era.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Experience a rare sense of calm and serenity, often with few other visitors, allowing for quiet contemplation.
Monk Dwellings
Observe the surrounding old dwellings of the resident monks, adding to the authentic monastic ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Restoration Needs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Barefoot Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering. Bring a bag to carry them, as nails can sometimes protrude.
🚶♀️ Quiet Contemplation
Visit in the afternoon for a peaceful experience with minimal crowds.
💰 Free Admission
Enjoy the monastery's beauty without an entrance fee, unlike some other temples.
🚗 Taxi Waiting
No nearby shops or restaurants. Arrange for your taxi to wait.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Barefoot Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering. Bring a bag to carry them, as nails can sometimes protrude.
🚶♀️ Quiet Contemplation
Visit in the afternoon for a peaceful experience with minimal crowds.
💰 Free Admission
Enjoy the monastery's beauty without an entrance fee, unlike some other temples.
🚗 Taxi Waiting
No nearby shops or restaurants. Arrange for your taxi to wait.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shwe In Bin Monastery is praised for its exquisite, intricate woodwork and exceptionally peaceful atmosphere, offering a free and serene escape. However, some visitors note that parts of the monastery are in need of restoration, with protruding nails on the wooden floors requiring caution when walking barefoot.
"An ornately carved temple that must have been spectacular in its heyday but now in need of restoration. Its surrounded by the old dwellings of the resident monks, but its eerily quiet.Note the sign to remove "slippers" (shoes), but then you walk around on the ground barefoot - unusual vs only entering a prayer hall.On the one side, the wooden gates at the top of the staircases are open and you can go to the first level and enter the prayer hall upstairs."
Vincent Oliver
"This Temple don't have to pay entrance fee. Is quite big and is free to move around. They don't even collect that 200mmk toilet fee. You enjoy the quiet atmosphere there. Local go to the big Mediation Hall to get peace of mind. The temple can only see from outside.
Is much better then visiting Shrenandaw Temple which have to pay 15,000 to enter and 500 for toilet. See nothing special. Same type of wood curving as the Shweinbin Temple."
stephen francis
"Beautiful monastery, the woodwork is exquisite. Very calm and peaceful place. Thankfully there was not many people there, so it didn't disturb the serenity of the monastery."
Eva Praskova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monastery is accessible by taxi or private car from central Mandalay. Many visitors arrange for their taxi to wait, as there are no nearby amenities.
While it's a bit secluded, most taxi drivers in Mandalay will know the location. It's recommended to have the address handy or use a navigation app.
Taxis and private car hires are popular for exploring Mandalay's attractions, including monasteries. Some tour packages may include visits to Shwe In Bin.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Shwe In Bin Monastery is free to enter. This is a significant advantage compared to some other temples in Mandalay that charge admission.
The monastery is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit spontaneously.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, out of respect for the religious site. You will need to remove your shoes before entering.
You can explore the grounds and enter the main prayer hall on the first level. Some areas might be under restoration.
Yes, the intricate woodwork and serene atmosphere make it a great spot for photography. Capture the details of the carvings.
Visiting in the late afternoon, around 3 PM on a weekday, often results in having the place almost to yourself.
There are no restaurants or shops immediately surrounding the monastery. It's best to use facilities before you arrive and have your taxi wait.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the incredibly detailed wood carvings, the architectural elements, and the serene, quiet ambiance. The facades and intricate details are particularly photogenic.
Generally, photography is allowed on the grounds. Be respectful of any areas designated for prayer or meditation.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a lens that can capture both wide architectural shots and close-up details of the carvings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Woodwork
The monastery's design features elaborate motifs and patterns that adorn its walls, pillars, and roofs. While the monastery itself is the main draw, the surrounding old dwellings of the monks add to the authentic monastic atmosphere.
It's important to note that while the artistry is preserved, some parts of the monastery are in need of restoration.
A Sanctuary of Peace
The monastery's secluded nature contributes to its calm.
This sense of peace is amplified by the fact that there is no entrance fee, which seems to deter some of the larger tourist groups.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit