The dark teakwood vihara of Shwe Yan Pyay, i.e. ‘Gold [to] Stop Quarreling’) Monastery dates from the early 19th Century and is best known for its oval windows.

Whereas the term shwe in its name means ‘gold’ or ‘golden’, yan pyay translates as ‘to stop fighting’. In 2017, these guarding animals, originally left white, were painted in bright colours, mostly green and gold and a little red, whilst the two lotus buds at the end of the lions' bodies were also painted gold.

Though made almost entirely of wood, the massive staircases to enter it are made of concrete. They have lotus-bud balustrades and whereas the one on the eastside is guarded by two lions, the one on the western side has two naga.

Inside, this fascinating vihara houses a golden Buddha image seated in the maravijaya pose, which is also known as bhumisparsa. Monk and novices (fig.) often appear in the open windows and on the outdoor balcony, allowing for some unique photo opportunities.

This monastery located on the road from Heho to Nyaung Shwe, just north of this city dubbed the Gateway to Inle Lake.