Monywa is the commercial center of the northwest of Myanmar. It is situated on the left bank of the Chindwin River, about 60 miles (97 km) west of Mandalay. During World War II, the town was a Japanese communications centre and was captured by the British in 1945.

In October of 1952, the Triple Alliance Pact was signed near Monywa, demarcating zones throughout Myanmar in which various ethnic and political groups, including the Karen, Shan, Kachin, and communists, would have power.

Monywa is situated in the dry zone above the confluence of the Mu and Chindwin rivers; paddy rice, sesame, millet, peas, wheat, and cotton are cultivated in the surrounding area. Monywa’s manufactures include textiles and wood and bamboo products. Copper is mined near Monywa, and a copper refinery has operated in Salingyi since 1976.

A hospital was built in Monywa in 1972. Paved roads and a railway line run through the town. Pop. (1983) 106,873. Bodhi-ta-taung Pagoda (one thousand Bo trees), Thanbokde Pagoda, Po-win taung Hills and Kyaukka village are some of the interesting places to visit.

How to get there.

You can also take a Ye U train from Mandalay for only K50, but this trip takes five or six hours.

Climate

The rainy season lasts from mid-May until mid-October. For the next few months, the weather is quite reasonable. In fact, it is actually cool in Mandalay at night and near freezing in Kalaw, near Inle Lake. From mid-February, it gets increasingly hot until the rains arrive once more. The Burmese New Year in April, at the peak of the hot season, means much fun and throwing water at all concerned. November to February are the best months to visit.