Bird Watching Site

Alaungtaw-Ka-Tha-Pa 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 wildlife birds.