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 Alaungdaw
Kathapa National Park
The park is situated in Yinmabin township of Sagaing Division, west
of the Chindwin river, and east of the Myittha river; more or less
at the foot-hills of the Chin Hills, and not too far from the Indian
border. The reserved forest area comprising 620.32 sq. miles was
designated to National Part status in 1984. The park derives its
name from a sacred shrine that is located in the central part of the
park area. "Alaung" can be either mean potentiality or a corpse. "Daw"
is used when relating to deity or royalty. For instance Alaungdaw
Kathapa can be "Kathapa a potential Buddha" or "The remains of
Kathapa". According to ancient chronicles, three brothers Gautama,
Arimittaya and Kathapa of wealthy origins lived in India.The
brothers made a vow that when Kathapa expired, his body would be
entombed to remain in its natural state, till such time that
Arimittaya attained Buddha-hood was able to perform the burial rites
personally.
An earth road, usuable in the dry season is the only means of access
by motor transport from Monywa on the opposite bank of the Chindwin
river. Previously the motor road was accessible to Kabaing, on the
fringe of the reserve; but it is possible to travel up to the log
cabin camp, about one and half miles from the shrine. People travel
on foot or on elephants.
The Park is isolated during the rainy season; but it is said to be
the period when the forests are most attractive and wildlife most
visible.
The forests themselves are rich in legends and tales of ancient
history. Many devout nature lovers have described several unique
spots as being "beautiful beyond words". But the most striking
phenomena about the Park is that through all these years, there has
not been a single incident of pilgrims being harmed by man or
animal.
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24 hours emergency client support phone
number 095131926
