The
Pindaya
Caves consist of three separate caves of which
the southern one is open to the public. It is a Buddhist
pilgrimage site
and has several rooms and halls, each dotted with
Buddha images (fig.).
The limestone grottoes are thought to
have been in use as a Buddhist spot since the 18th
century and are located on a
steep mountain ridge, which can be reached by a lengthy
set of roof-covered stairs, or by road and a lift.
Pindaya Caves
Pindaya Caves
Buddhist novices visiting the
southern cave perform a
thaksinahwat
by
walking three times around a circular platform.
According to a legend, a blocked-off path at the end of
the cave leads to the ancient city of
Pagan.