Khit/ Yoon (NSS) – Jan 9

This year, as per the announcement from the Magway Regional Government, the Mann Shwesettaw Buddha Pujaniya Festival is scheduled to hold only for 64 days. 

Mann Shwesettaw, meaning "Golden Footprints Pagoda," stands as a revered pilgrimage site and cultural landmark in Myanmar, situated near the Mann Chaung creek in the Magway Region. With profound religious and historical importance, it draws visitors from across the country and beyond.

Every year, Mann Shwesettaw hosts the Buddha Pujaniya Festival for 80 days, starting from the 5th waxing day of Tabodwe in the Myanmar calendar until Myanmar New Year. However, due to this year being a leap year in the Myanmar calendar, the festival will only run for 64 days. 

 “"This year's Mann Shwesettaw festival will be shorter than usual, lasting only 64 days. Despite the reduced timeframe, authorities are ensuring everything is in place for pilgrims, including security, accommodation, and food. The traditional pagoda festival itself will remain unchanged, and the elephant camp has been prepared for the occasion. Security measures along the route to the pagoda and transportation are also being implemented," explained U Win Ye Tun, Magway Regional Minister of Social Affairs, to NP News.

The Mann Shwesettaw Buddha Pujaniya Festival is scheduled to commence on February 14th, marking the 5th waxing day of Tabodwe in the Myanmar Calendar.

A total of 800 temporary guest houses and approximately 400 stalls will be erected to accommodate pilgrims from across the country visiting the Mann Shwesettaw Buddha Pujaniya festival for overnight stays.

Mann Chaung elephant camp resort will also be opened in the festival time.