Sagaing
Sagaing’s classical name, Zeyapura, means the ‘city of victory’. The region, located at the north-western part of Myanmar, was the capital of the Sagaing Kingdom. It was one of the few kingdoms that managed to rise despite the fall of the Bagan dynasty and was also known to be the princes’ province during the Ava period. The region plays an important role as a religious centre and is known to have a great many. The Sagaing Hill, one of the main places for meditation in the country, is also known to have great meditation centres. Sagaing is home to numerous Buddhist monasteries and pagodas located on hills and parallel to the river, creating a magnificent view that would awe tourists visiting the area. Sagaing is home to the famous Naga Festival where tourists from all over the world would come to witness this unique and culturally rich celebration.
Origin
The people of Sagaing are descents of the Bamar, Shan, Naga, and Chin people. They all speak Burmese and practise Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism.
Geography
The region has a local steppe climate with an average rainfall of 807mm. Sagaing is bordered by Kachin State, Shan State, Mandalay Region, Magway Region, Chin State, and India. The region's size is 93.527 km².
Interesting Facts
Sagaing is rich with religious sites and is known as one of the main places for meditation in Myanmar. The population of this area is 5.325 million (2014).
Sagaing is home to some of the most popular pagodas in Myanmar. Sagaing Hill itself is abundant with hundreds of pagodas of different shapes and sizes. Some places require lengthy and winding journeys to the top, but the bottom view is worth all the effort. From golden pagodas, to those with unique shapes and designs, tourists would be astonished by the spectacular sight of the pagodas found all over the Sagaing region. Tourists can make a trip to Mingun, Sagaing Division to see one of the most famous pagodas in the world: the Min Kun Pahto Taw Gwi Pagoda. The pagoda was among the four pagodas built by King Bodawpaya in the 18th century but was left incomplete due to a legendary prophecy. Visitors can also see the magnificent Mya Thein Tan Pagoda which is surrounded by seven terraces. The pagoda was once damaged by an earthquake and was restored by one of the kings.
Known as a place of beautiful landmarks and historical sites, Sagaing has an abundance of old buildings and 6 places rich with impressive history and heritage of the region and its people. The Shweboyadanar Mingla Palace boasts detailed architecture and is a credit to the management of Past Myanmar Kings. As the region is also well-known as a religious centre, tourists can visit many monasteries which dot the area to learn more about the architecture as well as witness the monks and nuns, conducting prayers, rituals, and meditation. Visitors should not miss the chance to visit the historical Hanlin Ancient City which is one of the three Pyu cities on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list. Discover more pagodas, springs and antique remains and inscriptions found in the timeworn city.
Sagaing is also known for its cane ware. Cane chairs, tables, settees, flower trays, pillows, and baskets could be found all over the region. These cane wares are made in Tintein, Mankyisin and Makyikone village in Sagaing township. Handcrafted by the locals, the cane products in Sagaing are made with high-quality cane along with great skills from the cane-weavers. Rattan canes in this region are often sought after by neighbouring countries. The export of rattan canes contributes largely to the country’s economy. With more than 200 available cane-weavers who are eager to pass down their knowledge and expertise in the art of hand-crafted cane ware, visitors have the chance to witness the complex process of cane-weaving and also buy some of the products. There are several showrooms and sales-centres in the downtown area available for tourists to visit.
