Shwebo is northwest of Mandalay in the Sagaing Division, residing on the east bank of the Chindwin River. It is primarily a rice-collecting center and is mainly visited for its many temples and king’s palace.
Shwebo was the birthplace of Alaungpaya, who founded the Alaungpaya Dynasty in the 18th century, and was originally known as Moksobomyo (‘town of the hunter chief’). The conquest to secure the Third Burmese Empire was launched from Shwebo.
If Shwebo wasn’t so close to Mandalay it probably wouldn’t be worth the effort of getting here, with its limited tourist facilities and lack of things to do. There are many Buddhist temples to see, however, along with the ruins at Alaungpaya’s palace and the Shwe-taza paya and Myodaunk zedi pagodas. In addition, Shwebo is surrounded by an ancient moat.
Getting There & Away
You can get to Shwebo by bus or train from Mandalay. Bus is the best and fastest option and there are frequent departures. For rail, get on the Mandalay-Myitkyina line. Mandalay International Airport is the main gateway to Shwebo, an hour’s transfer time from downtown Mandalay. It receives regular flights from Yangon, the main international gateway.
Things to Do
Shwebo Attractions
- Alaungpaya Palace
-
Built by alaungpaya in the late 1700s, the alaungpaya palace today is in ruins but is well worth a look.
- Shwebo pagodas
-
Be sure to check out the myodaunk zedi and shwe-taza paya pagodas.