Hpa-an

The capital of Kayin State in southern Myanmar, Hpa-an sits on the Thanlwin (Salween) River beneath the karst limestone mass of Mount Zwegabin and is surrounded by cave temples, paddy plains, and sacred pools. Kaw Ka Thaung Cave and Saddan Cave extend hundreds of metres into the limestone hills and are used as Buddhist shrines, with gilded Buddha figures installed in cavern chambers accessible by boat through flooded lower passages. The late-afternoon view from the Shwe Yin Myaw Pagoda over the reed-covered plains toward Mount Zwegabin is considered one of the most photogenic in southern Myanmar.