In March 1945, the capture of the Irrawaddy port of Myingyan was an major strategic objective in the struggle to control the railway junction at Meiktila and loosen the grip of the Japanese 33rd Army on central Burma. Today, Myingyan is a mid-point between Bagan and Mandalay. Most travelers used Myingyan as a stopover on a motorbike trip, and really liked the place. Main attraction was the old buddhist monastic buildings in tranquil settings. The most noticeable feature is Popa Hill, an extinct volcano, to the south-east. The highest peak is 4,962 ft. above sea-level. Myingyan is the head of the branch railway to Thazi and the main line between Yangon and Mandalay.