Maymyo

Maymyo: botanical gardens

Maymyo, also called Pyin Oo Lwin, town, central Myanmar (Burma). It lies at the head of a shallow valley, at an elevation of about 3,450 feet (1,050 metres). The town, named for Colonel (later Major General) James May of the 5th Bengal Infantry stationed there in 1886, served as the summer capital during the British administration. The town is spaciously laid out in broad roads lined with eucalyptus, silver oak, and pine. The flowers, fruits, and vegetables produced in its many large gardens are widely distributed. There is a training centre for army officers. Maymyo is reached by road from Mandalay and by rail and air from Yangon (Rangoon). It has notable botanical gardens, and there is a hunting reserve nearby. The town has a technical high school. Pop. (1993 est.) 85,712.