Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery
Shan
Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery, also known as the "cat jumping monastery," is the oldest and largest wooden monastery on Inle Lake in Shan State, Myanmar. Built in the mid-19th century, it is supported by numerous teak pillars and raised platforms to adapt to the lake's seasonal water levels. The monastery's architecture features a large multi-tiered roof typical of Shan monastic style, with interiors showcasing aged teak, intricate carvings, and gold-leaf decorations. It houses a diverse collection of Buddha images reflecting artistic influences from Bagan, Ava, and Tibetan traditions. Historically, it was famous for monks training cats to jump through hoops, a spectacle that attracted many visitors but has since been discontinued. The monastery remains a significant religious and cultural center, hosting the annual Phaung Daw Oo festival. Despite minor damages from floods and earthquakes, it continues to be a major cultural landmark around Inle Lake.
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Astuce: Visit during the Phaung Daw Oo festival for a unique cultural experience. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds and consider purchasing tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons. Modest dress is recommended as it is a religious site. Note that the famous cat jumping performances are no longer held.
Faits intéressants
- •The monastery is built on stilts with hundreds of teak pillars to accommodate Inle Lake's seasonal water changes.
- •It houses a diverse collection of Buddha images showcasing styles from Bagan, Ava (Inwa), and Tibetan traditions.
- •The once-famous "jumping cat" performances were a unique tourist attraction until discontinued in the early 2000s.
- •Nga Phe Kyaung is one of the most visited cultural landmarks around Inle Lake.
Histoire
The Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery was established in the mid-19th century, around 1843 or the late 1840s, supported by the local Shan rulers of Yawnghwe.
Over time, it accumulated Buddha images and ritual objects from older shrines and palaces in the region, growing into a prominent religious center.
In the 20th century, it gained fame as the "Jumping Cat Monastery" due to monks training cats to jump through hoops, attracting tourists worldwide.
However, this practice was discontinued in the early 2000s following changes in monastery leadership.
The structure has endured minor damage from natural events like floods and earthquakes but remains intact as a cultural landmark.
Guide du lieu
Main Dhamma Hallmid-19th century
The central hall features a multi-tiered roof characteristic of Shan architecture, with interiors displaying aged teak wood, carved pedestals, and gold-leaf decorations. It serves as the primary place for religious ceremonies and houses many Buddha statues.