| Situated on the eastern bank of the Pathein (Ngawun) River in the Ayeyarwaddy Delta about 190 km west of Yangon, Pathein is a charming town that is reached either by road or overnight ferryboat via the Ayeyarwaddy River delta rigion. It is the most important delta port outside the capital despite its distance from the sea. Pathein is also named as “the big rice pot”. Noted for its colourful hand-painted umbrellas which are actually parasols, the town is of some historic interest. Around 25 parasol workshops are scattered throughout the northern part of the city. The scenic waterfront area, markets, umbrellas workshops and colourful pagodas make the city worth a stay of at least a night or two. It also srves as a jumping-off point for excursions to the small beach resort of Chaungtha. |
