Tilawkaguru Cave Temple
A serene sanctuary featuring a colossal white marble Buddha and intricate corridors, offering a peaceful escape in Mandalay.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Tilawkaguru Cave Temple
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene sanctuary featuring a colossal white marble Buddha and intricate corridors, offering a peaceful escape in Mandalay.
"A peaceful and less crowded temple worth a quick visit, with a massive marble Buddha statue."
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Great for photographers! Capture the marble Buddha and ornate corridors. :camerawithflash:
🧘♀️ Peaceful Escape
A calm and less crowded temple, perfect for a relaxing break. :lotus_position:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Massive Marble Buddha
Main prayer hall
An awe-inspiring, intricately carved white marble Buddha statue that dominates the hall.

Ornate Corridors
Connecting various temple sections
Long, beautifully decorated walkways with intricate carvings and spiritual motifs.

Unique Blue Gong
Near the main hall
A distinctive, dark blue gong that stands out from traditional temple bells.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Beyond the Marble Buddha
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Great for photographers! Capture the marble Buddha and ornate corridors. :camerawithflash:
🧘♀️ Peaceful Escape
A calm and less crowded temple, perfect for a relaxing break. :lotus_position:
✨ Offerings & Souvenirs
Small shops sell items for offerings and memorial souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Explore the Shrines
Don't just see the main Buddha; explore the many small and big shrines. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Great for photographers! Capture the marble Buddha and ornate corridors. :camerawithflash:
🧘♀️ Peaceful Escape
A calm and less crowded temple, perfect for a relaxing break. :lotus_position:
✨ Offerings & Souvenirs
Small shops sell items for offerings and memorial souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Explore the Shrines
Don't just see the main Buddha; explore the many small and big shrines. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kyauktawgyi Pagoda is praised for its impressive marble Buddha and peaceful atmosphere, offering a serene escape from busier sites. While not as grand as some other pagodas, its unique architectural details and calm ambiance make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking tranquility and photographic opportunities.
"Kyauktawgyi Pagoda in Mandalay is a peaceful and less crowded temple worth a quick visit. The highlight is a massive marble Buddha statue, which is beautifully carved and impressive in size. The atmosphere is calm, making it a nice place to take a break from the busier sites in the city. It’s not the most famous pagoda in Mandalay, but if you’re nearby, it’s worth stopping by."
Tibor
"In a country with a million pagodas to visit, you need to look for distinguishing marks to differentiate between them. I remember Kyauktawgyi Pagoda because it had a big Buddha statue made of white marble. The statue's nails are also painted with gold leaf. The second mark is a dark blue and ornate gong in place of the classical bell. Looking at my pictures, I also remember very long and beautiful corridors connecting various parts of the temple."
Georges Younes
"It's a very old and beautiful pagoda near the mandalay Royal Palace and foot of mandalay hill. Has lots of small and big shrines.The architecture is very beautiful. Also has a big temple festival"
Joy Bose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kyauktawgyi Pagoda is conveniently located near the Mandalay Royal Palace and at the foot of Mandalay Hill. You can easily reach it by taxi or a local motorbike taxi from the city center. The journey is relatively short, making it an accessible stop on your Mandalay itinerary.
While direct public buses might be limited, local buses that pass by the Mandalay Hill area can be an option. However, for ease and directness, hiring a taxi or a tuk-tuk is generally recommended by travelers.
Many visitors combine a visit to Kyauktawgyi Pagoda with the Royal Palace and Mandalay Hill. Taxis and motorbike taxis are readily available for hopping between these nearby sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While many pagodas in Myanmar have an entrance fee, Kyauktawgyi Pagoda is often cited as being free to enter, though donations are always appreciated. It's always a good idea to check for any recent changes upon arrival.
The pagoda is generally open from early morning until late evening, allowing visitors to experience it at different times of the day. Early morning visits are recommended for a more peaceful experience.
No advance booking is typically required for Kyauktawgyi Pagoda as it's a freely accessible site. You can usually just show up and explore.
Yes, as with most religious sites in Myanmar, it's important to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees. You'll also need to remove your shoes before entering the main prayer halls.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas and the corridors of Kyauktawgyi Pagoda. However, always be respectful and check for any signs prohibiting photography inside specific sacred areas or within the main Buddha hall.
The massive marble Buddha statue is a must-capture. The long, ornate corridors also offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hour. Don't forget to capture the unique blue gong as well.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography. The soft light can enhance the details of the marble Buddha and the intricate carvings in the corridors, while also offering a more serene atmosphere.
🎫 🧘♀️ Onsite Experience
The undisputed highlight is the colossal white marble Buddha statue, renowned for its impressive size and detailed craftsmanship. It's a truly breathtaking sight that draws many visitors.
Visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as peaceful and calm, offering a welcome respite from the busier tourist spots in Mandalay. It's a great place to relax and reflect.
Basic facilities like restrooms might be available. Small shops selling offerings and souvenirs are also present. It's advisable to carry water, especially during warmer months.
Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to appreciate the main Buddha statue, explore the corridors, and take in the peaceful ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a relatively safe and open space for kids to wander (under supervision, of course), and the calm atmosphere can be a welcome change from more crowded attractions. Remember to dress respectfully and be mindful of removing shoes, which can be a fun new experience for younger visitors.
📸 Photographers
Don't overlook the details: the gold leaf on the Buddha's fingernails, the intricate carvings along the walls, and the distinctive blue gong all offer unique photographic elements. The peaceful ambiance also allows for unhurried shooting, enabling you to find the perfect angles and light.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers
It's a place where you can escape the typical tourist rush and find a moment of serenity. The impressive marble Buddha offers a focal point for meditation, and the overall environment encourages a sense of calm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Marble Buddha
This impressive statue is not just a visual marvel but also a significant religious icon. It's a focal point for devotees and a major draw for tourists seeking to witness unique Buddhist art and architecture. The surrounding hall is designed to complement the statue, creating a sacred and contemplative space.
When visiting, take your time to observe the statue from different angles. The way the light hits the marble can change its appearance, offering a dynamic viewing experience. It's a moment of quiet reflection that many find deeply moving.
Architectural Details and Ambiance
Another unique feature is the dark blue and ornate gong that stands in place of the more classical bell. This distinctive element adds to the pagoda's character and sets it apart from other temples. The presence of numerous small and large shrines throughout the grounds also invites further exploration and discovery.
The overall ambiance of Kyauktawgyi Pagoda is one of tranquility and peace. It's often described as a less crowded and more relaxed alternative to some of Mandalay's more famous landmarks. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a moment of quiet contemplation or a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit