Kyaikthanlan Pagoda is one of the most important pagodas in Mon State and a symbol of Mualamein, a coastal port city of religious, historical, and cultural significance in southern Myanmar.

The pagoda is believed to have been built around 875 AD during the reign of Mon King Mutpi Raja to enshrine the Buddha's relics, the tooth relic, and hair relics. (Mon legend states that the hair, tooth relic, and other relics were enshrined here.)
Over the centuries, the pagoda was renovated by several kings. King Wareru, the founder of the Mon dynasty, increased its height_ from 56 feet to 150 feet (approximately 46 meters) to enhance its city skyline.

The pagoda's architecture is traditional Mon, with a round, tapering base, a golden canopy, and a bell hung all around it. The grounds also include smaller pagodas, viharas, and other religious buildings, including a shrine hall, bell tower, and an ancient teakwood pavilion. The stupa also features a covered staircase leading up to it. Connected from the foot of the hill to the pagoda terrace above.

From the pagoda's terrace, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Muallamen, the Salween River, the sea, Martaban, and Shampoo Island (also known as Bilu Island), a large island near the coast. Other pagodas dotted around the city also offer a peaceful and sacred atmosphere.

Kyaikthanlan Pagoda also has a connection to Western literature, as the renowned poet Rudyard Kipling wrote about it in his poem, The Road to Mandalay, referring to "the old Moulmein Pagoda," believed to have been inspired by a visit there in the 19th century.

Today, Kyaikthanlan Pagoda remains a center of faith for the Mon people and a significant site of religious ceremonies, particularly on Visakha Puja Day and other important Buddhist festivals. Visitors come to pay their respects, light incense, and offer flowers for good fortune.

In the evenings, the pagoda is bustling with both Burmese and foreign tourists who come to watch the sunset, which casts a golden glow over the pagoda's spire, creating a beautiful glow. It is considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the city.

• The pagoda can be reached from Mawlamyine town by taxi or motorbike taxi (costs around 2,000–5,000 MMK) in about 10-15 minutes. The pagoda is located on a hill, with stairs and an elevator available.

• Dress appropriately and remove your shoes when entering the sacred grounds.

• Bring a hat or umbrella, as the ground can be hot during the day.

• Visit in the evening to enjoy the sunset and cool weather.

• The area around the pagoda is dotted with local shops selling souvenirs and small water fountains.

• If traveling in a group, hire a local guide to share the pagoda's history and beliefs.

Admission Fees:

• No admission fee

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.