MOKE THOKE MONASTERY

South of Nyaung Shwe, along the canal leading to the lake and along paths through fields, is the Moke Thoke Monastery. You can go there by bicycle in dry season only. The monastery is inhabited by only five monks, who will be happy to receive you, but do not speak English. Built on stilts, the monastery consists of a large dark room, all made of wood and pierced with openings overlooking the fields. In the centre of the room, under the golden umbrellas, is a collection of sitting Buddhas, made of wood and stone.