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Things To Know About Karaweik Palace, Yangon: Explore Dinner & Cultural Show

Monday, December 18, 2023 Useful infos Heidi

For those with a penchant for savoring delectable traditional cuisines from across the globe, Myanmar undoubtedly claims a top spot on the travel itinerary. However, not every culinary exploration on the streets or in restaurants unveils authentic specialties. But fret not, as Karaweik Palace in Yangon is the perfect haven for Myanmar food enthusiasts. Autour Asia will give you all things to know about Karaweik Palace, Yangon to ensure your delightful experience.

I. A few words about Karaweik Palace
II. Dinner at Karaweik Palace - Things to know about Karaweik Palace Yangon
III. Karaweik Palace Royal Culture Show
III. Karaweik Palace Travel Guide

I. A few words about Karaweik Palace

Karaweik Palace, a symbol of architectural grandeur and cultural significance in Yangon, graces the eastern shore of the artificial Kandawgyi Lake. Constructed between 1972 and 1974, this majestic palace graces the heart of the city, overlooking the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda - one of Myanmar places to visit. The name "Kandawgyi," signifying the "great royal lake," takes on a resplendent glow in the evening, adorned by brilliant spotlights that illuminate its radiant gold exterior. Karaweik Palace, a prominent landmark, graces the panoramic views of the lake and is visible from virtually any vantage point along its shores.

From a distance, Karaweik Palace presents itself as an opulent golden cruise, gracefully navigating the shimmering waters of Kandawgyi Lake beneath the sun's radiant beams. When night falls, the palace's lights transform the tranquil lake into a wonderful view, captivating all who admire it. The palace's distinctive seven-tiered pyatthat roof stands as an embodiment of quintessential Burmese architecture, reminiscent of the royal palace in Mandalay. Additionally, the restaurant inside offers a fine dining experience with traditional dance performances during dinner, offering guests a mesmerizing blend of cultural immersion and culinary pleasure. Hosting many performances of traditional Myanmar dances during dinner, this palace is one of the best places in Yangon.

Take a look at: Myanmar visa application

II. Dinner at Karaweik Palace - Things to know about Karaweik Palace, Yangon

For an interesting Myanmar cultural experience paired with a delightful dinner, we highly recommend the enchanting Karaweik Palace, situated on the serene waters of Kandawgyi Lake. Exploring all things to know about Karaweik Palace, Yangon where an evening of immersive experiences awaits. Inside the Karaweik Palace, a new world unfolds, housing a meeting room, reception area, theater, and a buffet restaurant that boasts an extensive array of delectable dishes and beverages. The highlight of this visit is the top dinner and cultural show in Myanmar, offering a sophisticated blend of Karaweik Burmese cuisine, captivating folk shows and soft drinks, snacks and coffee /free tea. This central dining area provides a culinary experience and serves as the venue for a nightly art show. The dining area offers a captivating view of the lake, creating a picturesque setting for guests with its intimate atmosphere that is no less enchanting than other sections of the palace.

Dinner at Karaweik Palace

To transport guests to the heart of authentic Burmese flavors, dedicated chefs meticulously select the freshest ingredients, crafting a palate-pleasing culinary journey. Myanmar's specialty dishes with delicate flavors and delicate spices, range from fragrant curries to mouth-watering desserts. For diners who want to enjoy international cuisine, the restaurant offers European dishes, sushi and fresh salads, along with delicious dishes available. Indulge in a delightful Burmese dinner within the palace's regal confines, setting the stage for an enchanting display of local history and culture. Every evening, the Karaweik Palace restaurant is very diverse with fresh, delicious dishes, creating a dining experience that is both rich and interesting. Commitment to providing a memorable culinary journey is demonstrated through a diverse selection of services, allowing guests to enjoy the delicious and exotic flavors of Myanmar cuisine or choose from various international dishes to suit different tastes.

III. Karaweik Palace Royal Culture Show

Especially during the evening, when the colossal barge is aglow with lights, it creates a breathtaking ambiance for your night out. Indulge in a delectable Karaweik Burmese cuisine within the palace, followed by a captivating showcase of local history and culture. Admire traditional costumes spanning various eras, and listen as local performers narrate the nation's history. Therefore, we highly recommend attending the dinner show at least once during your visit to Myanmar for an immersive evening of cultural richness.

Take a look at things to know about Karaweik Palace, Yangon, and explore the splendor of traditional Myanmar dance at the Karaweik Palace Royal Culture Show. Experience the grace of the Oil Lamp Dance, where performers elegantly dance with candles as an offering to Buddha. Transport yourself to the Innwa period with the Myay Wine Dance, featuring dancers adorned in traditional costumes from that era, moving gracefully with torchlight. Witness the captivating Human Vs Puppet Dance and be enchanted by the red-clad performers in the Pakhan Ko Gyi Kyaw Dance, among other mesmerizing performances.

1. Oil Lamp Dance

Oil lamp dance, a cultural heritage of Myanmar, artistically conveys the symbol of the victory of light over darkness through the use of lit oil lamps. This dance has deep cultural and spiritual significance in Myanmar so it is often performed during Buddhist rituals and festivals to celebrate enlightenment and wisdom. Dancers in traditional costumes will skillfully demonstrate their dance and precision through intricate movements, maintaining graceful balance with these radiant lights. With melodious notes of traditional music and intricate choreography, this iconic dance transmits cultural traditions to future generations.

2. Basic Myanmar Dance

Myanmar Basic Dance is performed in Karaweik Palace restaurant to preserve and transmit the unique cultural traditions of Myanmar. The traditional costumes worn by the dancers are inspired by the Yadanarbon Era, expressing a richer sense of history. Demonstrating the complex movements of Myanmar dance requires the performer to put in a lot of effort. Especially beginners need to carefully study each dance with about 20 basic dance steps. This dance requires rhythmic movements between the head, waist, legs and arms.

Basic Myanmar Dance

3. Human and Puppet Dance

The adept puppeteer skillfully orchestrates the puppet's dance to the musical accompaniment. A puppet show unfolds with a puppeteer who intricately connects the puppet to key parts, such as the head, back, arms, hands, and feet, deftly controlling its movements through wires. Every subtle movement of the fingers instantly transforms the puppet's demeanor and actions, propelling the seamless progression of the narrative. The traditional Burmese musical instruments were flawlessly executed in their performances by the focused expressions of the musicians.

Human and Puppet Dance - Things to know about Karaweik Palace, Yangon

4. Pakhan Ko Gyi Kyaw Dance

During the Bagan dynasty, the prevailing belief system encompassed both Buddhism and Nats (spirits), a tradition passed down through generations. Ko Gyi Kyaw is regarded as one of the Guardian spirits among the 37 Nats. The Ko Gyi Kyaw dance holds a significant place in performances, recognized as the inaugural act (Pwe Oo Min). The principal dancer dons an ensemble featuring a long top adorned with red girdles and a traditional longyi. Witness the lively and entertaining portrayal of Ko Gyi Kyaw and his accompanying lady dancers at Karaweik Palace during the Royal Culture Show, offering a delightful and amusing dance performance for your enjoyment.

Pakhan Ko Gyi Kyaw Dance

5. Bagan Dance

In the ancient city of Bagan, which has a history spanning over a millennium in central Myanmar, thousands of pagodas and stupas stand as testaments to its rich cultural heritage. This dance, steeped in antiquity, unfolds with the accompaniment of relatively crude musical instruments from that era. The dance style is characterized by deliberate slowness and sedateness, while the music of the time exudes a melodic and soothing quality. In the Bagan Dance of Karaweik Palace, one can discern profound expressions of reverence for religion, courage, gentleness, and cooperation, creating a captivating portrayal of the values held dear during that historical period.

Bagan Dance

6. Chin Bamboo Dance

From the mountainous expanse of Chin State in Western Myanmar, the Bamboo Dance emerges as a spirited performance characterized by precise and well-choreographed movements and now it is performed in Karaweik Palace restaurant. Executed between horizontal bamboo poles skillfully held by young men from the village, the dance unfolds as a joyous celebration. The vibrant Chin costumes are traditionally adorned in white, green, black, and red. Participation in the bamboo dance requires participants to share similar heights and possess an appealing appearance, with dancers donning identical uniforms. The bamboo holder also needs to be of uniform height and proficient in handling bamboo poles. The complexity of the dance lies in the timing of lifting the legs and clapping the bamboo synchronously, requiring precision and coordination between the dancer and the person holding the bamboo.

Chin Bamboo Dance

7. Traditional U Shwe Yoe & Daw Moe Dance

Traditional U Shwe Yoe & Daw Moe Dance is still an important part of charity events and ceremonies. The iconic duo U Shwe Yoe and Daw Moe, famous for their Burmese folk dances, have always been a favorite comedic dance and bring joy to audiences. This traditional dance has existed for many years in Myanmar. To truly delve into the richness of Myanmar's heritage and tradition, there's nothing more enlightening than the opportunity to witness the authenticity of a U Shwe Yoe & Daw Moe dance.

Traditional U Shwe Yoe & Daw Moe Dance

8. Elephant Dance

The Elephant Dance at Karaweik Palace has its roots in the era of King Anawrahta of Burma. Legend has it that the king dispatched a white elephant carrying a replica of the Buddha's tooth. The elephant halted at the hill above Kyaukse, leading to the construction of Shwe Tha Lyaung Pagoda. Since that significant event, Burmese people annually commemorate it by paying homage to the pagoda and crafting elephant-shaped cookies as offerings to Buddha. In 1238, U Ngal Gyi instituted the Elephant Dance festival, featuring dancers adorned in elephant attire as a gesture of reverence.

Elephant Dance

9. Kinnari & Kinnara Dance

According to legend, the Kinnari was a mythical being, part woman and part bird, while the Kinnara was a character that combined the features of both a bird and a man. This captivating performance graces the stage every evening in Karaweik Palace restaurant. As you immerse yourself in the spectacle, you'll sense the profound love between them portrayed by skilled dancers. The performers don spectacular costumes, complete with huge wings intricately adorned with tiny sequins and hand-embroidered patterns. Traditionally showcased during auspicious occasions in the Shan States of Northern and Eastern Myanmar, this mesmerizing dance is accompanied by tall, slim handcrafted Shan drums.

Kinnari & Kinnara Dance

III. Karaweik Palace Travel Guide

Have a look at the times and ticket prices of things to know about Karaweik Palace, Yangon. The Kandawgyi Lake and Park welcome visitors daily until 10 pm. The entrance fee to the Karaweik Hall is 300 Kyat, around 0.50 USD. This fee is required to access the Lake & Palace premises. The traditional Burmese entertainment commences around 6:30 pm and concludes by approximately 8:30 pm. For the international buffet paired with the cultural show, the cost is approximately 26 USD per adult, with a child fare of 50% off, totaling 13 USD for children aged between 5 to 12 years. Alternatively, visitors can explore Karaweik Palace without partaking in the fine dining and cultural show, opting for a free visit to enjoy exterior views and photography.

Type of ticket	Price of ticket
Adult (aged 13 and over)	26 USD
Child( aged 5 to 12)	13 USD

These are all things to know about Karaweik Palace, Yangon. It would be a missed opportunity not to bask in the allure of the captivating Karaweik Palace during your journey to the golden land of Myanmar. Being one of the most famous places in Yangon, this palace has impressed every visitor with its splendid architecture and traditional culture of the Burmese people. By booking the Cultural Dinner & Performance, you will not only have a memorable experience but also support and preserve Myanmar's rich cultural traditions.

If you have any questions, please CONTACT Autour Asia consultants directly. We are always ready to assist you at any time to ensure you have a good experience in Yangon.