Inside Nyaung Ohak: Myanmar’s hidden magical jungle village

A hidden gem in Myanmar, Nyaung Ohak in the remote regions of the country looks like a scene from the pages of a fairytale book. This surreal jungle village is a beautiful example of the country's rich cultural past and natural beauty.

To reach this stunning village, you’ll have to be in the Shan State of Myanmar. So let’s unravel the secret of this hamlet.

A timeless beauty

Nyaung Ohak, also known as the Ancient Village, is a timeless beauty! The village is noted for its stunning collection of ancient stupas and pagodas, which are said to be from the 13th century. These stunning structures are covered in moss and surrounded by a dense jungle. This creates a surreal ambience that looks from different eras.

The village's history is mixed with that of the nearby Inle Lake. It used to be a stopover for travellers and traders making their way to and from the lake. Nyaung Ohak has now become a center for religious and cultural activities.

Architectural wonder

One of the most wonderful features of Nyaung Ohak is its incredible architectural heritage. The village is home to a stunning range of stupas and pagodas, each with its unique design and historical significance. The Nyaung Ohak Pagoda, is also known as the Bamboo Pagoda. It is because of its distinctive design, which is covered in moss and surrounded by tall bamboo groves.

Another must-visit site in Nyaung Ohak is the Shwe Inn Dain Pagoda complex, featuring over a thousand stupas of varying sizes and designs. This creates an enchanting labyrinth to explore. Some of these stupas are adorned with intricate carvings, while others have weathered over the centuries, lending a mysterious aura to the site.

About Nyaung Ohak

Religion played an important role in the life of Nyaung Ohak's residents for centuries. Many of the religious structures in the village are still actively used for worship and meditation by the local Buddhist community.

Visiting Nyaung Ohak

Reaching Nyaung Ohak involves a boat ride from Inle Lake followed by a short trek through the jungle, making the entire journey an adventure.