Bagan & The Central Heartland

Bagan

Bagan

Mt. Popa

Mt. Popa, a one hour drive from Bagan on the road to Mandalay, rises 1520 metres into the sky. Climbing to the summit takes about 45 minutes and you can visit the Mahagiri Shrine dedicated to the “Nats” (spirits) at the top where there is a wonderful panoramic view. This is an easy day’s journey from Bagan stopping along the way at local villages and a palm tree plantation.

Mt.Popa

Pakokku

A peaceful excursion by boat along the Ayeyarwaddy River from Bagan, Pakokku and its surroundings offer travellers a unique glimpse into the typical village life in the area. The nearby 19th century town of Pakhangyi has one of the oldest wooden monasteries in Upper Myanmar with 254 teak pillars. Locals produce tobacco, jaggery palm sugar candy and the famous checkered blankets and woven fabric typical of this region.
 

Salay

Today Salay is known as an important centre of Buddhism with many working monasteries. But throughout its past, Salay created its own unique style of Bagan era architecture which still exists today. Highlights include Payathonzu, Hkinkyiza Kyaung, Yougson Kyaung. Sites of the British colonial past can still be found and a day’s excursion from Bagan can be combined with a visit to Mt. Popa.

Salay