Po Win Taung Caves, or "Mountain of Solitary Meditation," are one of Myanmar's most historically and artistically significant man-made cave complexes. Comprising over 947 carved caves and niches, most carved into the soft red sandstone cliffs along the hillside, these caves not only housed Buddha images but also served as centers of study and meditation for Buddhist monks from the 14th to 18th centuries.

Art and Murals

Each cave within Po Win Taung is a time capsule, containing Buddhist paintings and carvings that remain vibrantly colorful even after hundreds of years.

• Art Period: Most of the murals were created during the later Konbaung Dynasty, around the 18th century, demonstrating the evolution of Burmese Buddhist art influenced by Shan and Mon art.

• Content: The paintings primarily tell the following stories:

• Ten Jataka Tales: Stories of the Buddha's past lives as a result of his perfections. Painted in warm tones, such as red, yellow, and orange, they stand out against a dark background.

• Life of the Buddha: Important events in the life of Gautama Buddha, from his birth to his death.

• Lifestyle: Images of the locals during that era are interspersed with images of warriors, musicians, and even worshippers, providing important social and cultural information.

• Buddha Statues: The caves are filled with sandstone and plaster Buddha images of various postures and sizes, including reclining and seated Buddha images.```

Architectural and Geological Features:

• Carving: Most caves are small and simple, but some, such as the main cave or the more ornately decorated caves, have high ceilings and decorative entrances with carvings of deities, including giants and lions.

• Materials: The relatively soft sandstone in this area allowed craftsmen in the past to use basic tools to drill and carve the cavities and artwork with exquisite precision.

• Complexity: The maze-like formations along the hillside create a sense of walking through a maze, demonstrating the immense devotion of the people of the past.

Nearby Attractions:

• Not far from Pho Win Taung is Shwe Ba Taung, another group of caves carved into the limestone cliff face. They offer a more open and magnificent design, particularly the stupas and archways carved into the shape of temples and viharas separated from the caves. Visitors often explore these two sites in conjunction.

A visit to Pho Win Taung Caves is therefore not just about admiring artifacts but also about wandering through an extraordinary, large-scale Buddhist art museum that has retained its tranquility and original charm.

From Mandalay:

• Drive for about 3 hours to Monywa.

From Monywa to the cave:

• By road: Drive across the new bridge to the west bank of the Chindwin River.

• By boat: Cross the Chindwin River by ferry, then transfer to a local open-top jeep at Nyaungbin Village to reach the cave.

• Exploring: Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be exploring the caves and hills over a wide area.

• Dress Code: As this is a religious site, dress modestly (covering your shoulders and knees).

• Monkeys: The caves are swarming with monkeys, so be careful with your belongings.

• Local Guide: Hiring a local guide will make your trip smoother and provide in-depth knowledge of the cave paintings and history.

• Timing: Plan at least half a full day to explore Powinthawong Cave and the nearby Shwebataung Monastery.

Admission Fees:

• The entrance fee to Pho Vinh Tong Cave is approximately US$3, or about 15,000 Kyat (for a three-hour pedicab rental).

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.