MORE than 180,000 pilgrims have visited the Mann Shwesettaw Pagoda festival in Minbu (Sagu) Township, Magway Region, with a total of 187,118 visitors recorded as of 4 April, according to the pagoda board of trustees.
The annual festival, which runs for 86 days from 22 January to 17 April 2026 (from the 5th waxing day of Tabodwe to Myanmar New Year Day), has drawn large crowds, especially during weekends and public holidays. Pilgrims have travelled from across the country, including major cities such as Yangon and Mandalay, using both tour buses and private vehicles.
A total of 17,259 vehicles of various sizes and 1,304 motorcycles have entered the festival grounds, reflecting higher attendance compared to last year. Accommodation has been arranged to ensure visitors can stay comfortably, although lodging facilities have been fully occupied during peak holiday periods.
The festival is expected to grow busier as it approaches its closing day on Myanmar New Year Day following the Thingyan holidays, said U Aye Ko, chairman of the pagoda board of trustees. — Zeya Naing (Shwe Kan Myay)/KZL
