Nanmyint Watch Tower Inwa
Explore the ancient ruins of Inwa, a former royal capital, and climb the Nanmyint Watch Tower for breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Nanmyint Watch Tower Inwa
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient ruins of Inwa, a former royal capital, and climb the Nanmyint Watch Tower for breathtaking views.
"Interesting place to visit with great views from the watch tower, though some parts need upkeep. "
🎟️ Entrance Fee
Expect to pay around 10,000 kyat for entry to the Inwa complex.
🐴 Horse Carriage Ride
Negotiate your horse carriage fare before starting your tour of Inwa.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nanmyint Watch Tower
Inwa
Climb this ancient tower for panoramic views of the Inwa ruins and surrounding countryside. A true testament to Myanmar's rich history.
Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery
Inwa
Admire the intricate stucco work and architectural beauty of this well-preserved monastery. A peaceful spot for reflection.
Bagaya Monastery
Inwa
Explore this stunning teak monastery, known for its impressive carvings and traditional Burmese architecture. A photographer's delight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Inwa
Getting Around Inwa
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Entrance Fee
Expect to pay around 10,000 kyat for entry to the Inwa complex.
🐴 Horse Carriage Ride
Negotiate your horse carriage fare before starting your tour of Inwa.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and climbing the watch tower.
📸 Photography Spots
Capture the beauty of the teak monasteries and ancient ruins.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Entrance Fee
Expect to pay around 10,000 kyat for entry to the Inwa complex.
🐴 Horse Carriage Ride
Negotiate your horse carriage fare before starting your tour of Inwa.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and climbing the watch tower.
📸 Photography Spots
Capture the beauty of the teak monasteries and ancient ruins.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Inwa to be an interesting historical site with some beautifully preserved structures like the Bagaya Monastery. While the Nanmyint Watch Tower offers great views, some reviewers note its upkeep and safety concerns. The overall experience is enhanced by the unique modes of transport like horse carriages.
"Interesting place to visit. Some of the buildings look great and others could use a coat of paint, which they appear to be in the process of doing. Definitely check out the view from the top of the watch tower. It costs 10000 kyat to get into the complex."
Kimberly Berger
"Mandalay Palace was the primary royal residence of King Mindon and King Thibaw, the last two kings of the country. The complex ceased to be a royal residence and seat of government on 28 November 1885 when, during the Third Anglo-Burmese War, troops of the Burma Field Force entered the palace and captured the royal family. The British turned the palace compound into Fort Dufferin, named after the then viceroy of India. Throughout the British colonial era, the palace was seen by the Burmese as the primary symbol of sovereignty and identity. Much of the palace compound was destroyed during World War II by allied bombing; only the royal mint and the watch tower survived. A replica of the palace was rebuilt in the 1990s with some modern materials.
Today, Mandalay Palace is a primary symbol of Mandalay and a major tourist destination.
Thank you. Wiki"
Robin Sandee
"This vantage point is hardly worth the effort it takes to climb the rickety old stair case. The parts of Mandalay you can see are not that impressive, the view of Mandalay Hill which would be good is largely obscured by the Palace tower. I wouldn't bother unless you want the exercise."
Ross Woodford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Inwa (also known as Ava), you'll typically take a short boat ride across the Irrawaddy River from the town of Sagaing or Amarapura. From the Inwa jetty, you can hire a horse-drawn carriage or rent a bicycle to explore the historical sites, including the Nanmyint Watch Tower.
Yes, Inwa is a popular day trip from Mandalay. The journey involves a boat crossing and then local transport within Inwa. Many tours from Mandalay include Inwa as part of a larger itinerary.
The most common and recommended ways to get around Inwa are by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle. Carriages offer a more relaxed experience, while bicycles allow for more flexibility.
The travel time from Mandalay to the Inwa jetty is about 30-45 minutes by car. The boat crossing is brief, and then exploring Inwa can take anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on your pace.
Within Inwa itself, the primary modes of transport are horse-drawn carriages and bicycles. There isn't extensive public transport once you're on the island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the Inwa archaeological zone, which includes access to sites like the Nanmyint Watch Tower, is approximately 10,000 Myanmar Kyat per person.
No, typically a single entrance fee covers access to the main archaeological sites within Inwa, including the Nanmyint Watch Tower and other prominent structures.
While there aren't strict 'opening hours' for the ruins themselves, it's best to visit during daylight hours, generally from sunrise to sunset, to safely explore and appreciate the sites.
Currently, tickets for Inwa are usually purchased on-site at the entrance jetty or the archaeological zone's ticket booth. Online booking is not widely available.
The entrance fee for Inwa is typically charged per person.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The view from the Nanmyint Watch Tower offers a panoramic perspective of the Inwa ruins and the surrounding lush landscape. Some visitors find the view impressive, while others note that parts of the view are obscured by the palace tower itself.
Some visitors have noted that the staircases can be rickety and the structure may feel shakey, with some railings showing signs of wear. Exercise caution when climbing and leaning against railings.
In addition to the Nanmyint Watch Tower, Inwa is home to several significant ruins, including Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, Bagaya Monastery, and various stupas and temples, showcasing its past as a royal capital.
A visit to Inwa typically requires 2 to 4 hours to explore the main attractions at a comfortable pace, including travel time to and from the jetty.
Local guides can often be hired at the Inwa jetty or within the site to provide historical context and insights into the ruins.
📸 📸 Photography
The Bagaya Monastery with its intricate teak carvings, the stucco work at Maha Aungmye Bonzan Monastery, and the panoramic views from the Nanmyint Watch Tower are prime photography locations.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photography, while early mornings can provide softer light and fewer people.
Drone usage regulations can vary and may be restricted in historical or protected areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the ruins and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens can be great for the expansive views.
Photography is generally permitted inside the monasteries, but always be respectful of worshippers and any posted signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful of the heat and ensure children stay hydrated. The climb up the Nanmyint Watch Tower might be challenging for very young children, and supervision is crucial due to the age of the structure. Consider bringing snacks and plenty of water, as facilities on the island are limited.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Packing your own water and snacks can also help save money. While guides are available, you can still gain a good understanding of the site by reading up beforehand or using online resources.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Nanmyint Watch Tower provides a unique vantage point for panoramic shots of the ruins and the surrounding countryside. Aim for the late afternoon for the best light, or early morning for softer hues and fewer crowds. Be prepared to capture both grand vistas and intricate details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Inwa
During its peak, Inwa was a vibrant hub of political, religious, and economic activity. Many of the monasteries and temples constructed during its reign showcase exquisite craftsmanship and artistic expression, reflecting the deep Buddhist faith of the era. The city's eventual decline and abandonment as a capital were often due to natural disasters and shifting political landscapes, leaving behind the atmospheric ruins that attract visitors today. Exploring Inwa is like stepping back in time, with each crumbling wall and ancient structure whispering tales of a bygone era.
Today, Inwa is a protected archaeological zone, preserving its historical integrity for future generations. While some structures, like the Nanmyint Watch Tower, show signs of age and require careful maintenance, the overall site offers a profound connection to Myanmar's royal heritage. The ongoing efforts to preserve and restore these ancient edifices are crucial for understanding the country's long and complex history.
Exploring Inwa: Practicalities and Perspectives
When it comes to the Nanmyint Watch Tower itself, visitors should be prepared for a climb. While it offers a commanding view, some reviews mention that the structure can feel a bit rickety, and caution is advised, especially when leaning on railings.
For photographers, Inwa presents a wealth of opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient brickwork, the intricate details of the teak monasteries like Bagaya Monastery, and the expansive landscapes from the watch tower are all compelling subjects. Visiting during the 'golden hour' in the late afternoon can enhance the visual appeal, casting a warm glow over the historical sites.
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