“I thought I was in Myanmar, not Maharashtra”: What happened when I visited Myanmar Gate in Igatpuri

As an offbeat explorer, I recently landed somewhere in India that not only took me by surprise but transported me to another country all together. For a few moments, I thought I was not in India but Myanmar.

This happened during my recent visit to the lesser-known Myanmar Gate in Igatpuri, Maharashtra. Standing in front of this beautifully designed gate, showcasing red, green and golden detailing, I actually had to pinch myself to come out of a dream. Yes, that happened. Located in the peaceful hill station of Igatpuri, near Nashik, the Myanmar Gate is not just a tourist attraction but a grand entrance to the famous Vipassana International Academy (Dhamma Giri).

It is among the largest meditation centres in the world.A little bit of Myanmar in Maharashtra

Built in 1999 as a gift from Myanmar, the gate symbolises cultural exchange between the two India and Myanmar. As I stepped in, the first thing that struck me was the grand architecture. It is inspired by Burmese and Thai styles. The gate looked gorgeous adorned with golden carvings, symbolic motifs, and spires. The ambience around the gate adds to the illusion of being in Myanmar.

The whole space is naturally blessed and surrounded by lush green hills.

It is an almost meditative atmosphere where you would want to sit and close your eyes and just be one with nature.

The peace that surrounds the place is rare. There were few tourists which added to the sanctity of the place. As I crossed the gate and entered the premises, I saw the iconic Ashoka Stambh, along with a visitor hall displaying artwork and stories from the life of Buddha.

The paintings on the wall depicting Buddha’s life were simply stunning.There’s also a small Buddha Park, green, clean and serene. I sat there for some time on a bench simply soaking in the silence. I did not feel that I am visiting an attraction, but the whole experience felt like a much-needed break my mind needed at the moment from daily life.What makes Myanmar Gate truly unique is how different it feels here from regular attractions in India.

Unlike forts, and palaces, there was calm and peace here. How to reach Myanmar Gate

Reaching Myanmar Gate is easy:By Train: The nearest railway station is Igatpuri, which is well connected to cities like Mumbai, Nashik, and even Delhi. From the station, the gate is only about a kilometre away, a short walk. By Road: Igatpuri is around 120–130 km from Mumbai and 45 km from Nashik. Roads are good.By Air: The nearest airport is Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, about 130 km away.Autos and taxis are easily available inside.Other attractions to explore

Igatpuri is packed with scenic and adventure spots making it ideal for weekend getaways:Kalsubai Peak: It is the highest peak in Maharashtra and a trekking paradise.Arthur Lake: A peaceful spot surrounded by greeneryAmruteshwar Temple: A historic temple known for stone carvings.Camel Valley: Famous for waterfalls.A trip to Myanmar Gate offered me a new perspective on travel that you don’t have to cross borders to have global experiences. In just a few hours, I was on a journey from Maharashtra to Myanmar and Myanmar Gate in Igatpuri is a place you feel.