Thaton

Thaton is an ancient city in northern Mon State, approximately 80 km north of Mawlamyine. It was an important Mon kingdom centre in the 5th–11th centuries and is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Myanmar. Thaton has many ancient pagodas and is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. The city has a relaxed atmosphere and a rich Mon cultural heritage.

The best time to visit is November to February.

By Train

Thaton is on the Yangon–Mawlamyine railway line. Trains from Yangon (6–7 hr) and Mawlamyine (1.5 hr) stop here.

By Car / Road

Thaton is on the main road between Yangon (170 km, 3 hr) and Mawlamyine (80 km, 2 hr). Buses run regularly.

The town is walkable. Motorcycle taxis are available.

• Shwemayutaw Pagoda: The most important pagoda in Thaton, housing relics of the Buddha and the Mon kings.

• Thaton City Walls: Remains of the ancient city walls and moat.

• Mon Monasteries: Several working monasteries with Mon architecture.

• Thaton Market: A lively market with Mon textiles and produce.

• Pagoda Pilgrimage: Visit the major pagodas and learn about Mon history.

• Cultural Exploration: Thaton has a strong Mon identity — explore the local culture.

Small restaurants serve Mon and Burmese food — curry sets, rice dishes, and noodle soups for 1,500–4,000 kyat.

Basic guesthouses offer simple rooms for US$8–15.

Mon textiles and palm-leaf hats are local specialities. Bargaining is expected.

• Mawlamyine (80 km south, 2 hr) — Third-largest city with Kyaikthanlan Pagoda and colonial architecture.
• Hpa-an (70 km east, 2 hr) — Kayin State capital with limestone karst scenery.
• Kyaiktiyo (Golden Rock) (90 km west, 2.5 hr) — The famous balanced boulder.
• Yangon (170 km west, 3 hr) — Myanmar's largest city.