Karaweik

Karaweik or Karaweik Hall is a structure and landmark on the eastern shore of Kandawgyi Lake, Yangon, Burma.

Etymology

The word karaweik comes from Pali karavika, which is a mythical bird with a melodious cry.

History

The structure commissioned by General Ne Win, who was inspired by a Burmese pavilion displayed at the Expo '70 in Osaka, which in turn was modeled after the Pyigyimon royal barge used by Mandalay’s royal court.
The barge was designed by Burmese architect U Ngwe Hlaing, designed to appear as if floating on the lake’s surface, with an ornate design featuring mythical karaweik birds at the bow and a seven-tiered pyatthat roof reflecting traditional Burmese architecture. The barge was constructed as a two-storied construction of concrete and stucco, reinforced by iron rods, with a pyatthat-topped roof, two reception halls and a conference room. Construction began in June 1972 and it was finished in October 1974.
During the 8888 Uprising, it was a safe haven for monks from nearby monasteries. Managed by the Ministry of Trade until the 1990s, it was later leased to a private operator.