Taung Kalat

Taung Kalat has a significant religious connotation. The same-named mountain, which was formerly a volcano, is where the monastery is situated. This truth is directly connected to monks' beliefs and is reflected in the fables that are told about the temple. Particularly, it is said that this volcano is home to natami spirits or living spirits. They are considered demigods by the locals. They formerly served as exemplars of the old nobility, whose veins were filled with royal blood. They were all slain, but at relatively different times and under quite different conditions.

Many pilgrims who fervently believe in the existence of nata provide the spirits with gifts of raw meat in an effort to coax them and get their sort of blessing in a variety of situations. By the way, if you are prone to superstitions as well, it may be worth your while to visit the monastery and ask the spirits for guidance while wearing red or black clothing, as these are said to be the nats' preferred hues. Two festivals, Nyon and Nada, are now conducted in May and November at the Buddhist monastery of Taung-Kalat in remembrance of these spirits.

Taung Kalat stands at the topmost summit of a dormant volcano from long ago. The peak rises barely over 700 meters. In the late XIX and early XX century, the monastery was constructed. The monk Wu Khandi is recognized as having contributed significantly to the temple's construction. By the way, the Golden Stone, a once-famous icon of Myanmar, was restored as a result of his work and efforts. 777 stairs lead to the temple. To reach a Buddhist god with pure ideas, each pilgrim must climb this ladder and cleanse his thoughts while being filled with harmony.

Location: Mandalay Region, Myanmar