Bagan --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dawn of Myanmar Civilization and Culture, located on the east back of the mighty Ayeyarwady River, this once splendid and glorious capital of the Myanmar, is dotted with thousands of ancient pagodas, stupas, shrines, ordination halls and monuments, over 2200 monuments still standing and some 2000 in ruins. Time, man and nature, particularly earthquakes, have taken their toll but the most important monuments have been restored to their original grandeur.

What to see

Shwezigon Pagoda

This golden pagoda was the first monument built in the Myanmar style, the prototype for later pagodas. It was first built by King Anawrahta and completed by King Kyansittha in 1087. "Nat" (spirit) images can be found within its precincts.

Ananda Temple

The Ananda Temple built after the Shwezigon in 1090 is the masterpiece of the early style temple architecture. There are four huge Buddha images in the standing position and eighty reliefs depicting the life of the Buddha from his Birth to his Enlightenment.

Thatbyinnyu Temple

The Thatbyinnyu Temple, a while stucco building, is the Bagan's highest pagoda. It was built by King Alaungsithu in mid-12th century. The view from its terraces is spectacular both at dawn and dusk.

Gawdawpalin Temple

This 13th century temple is like Thatbyinnyu, about 60 metres high with a fine view of the Bagan plains.

Dhammayangyi Temple

Bagan's most massive temple, Dhammayangyi Temple was built by King Narathu in 1167. This temple was not finished but it displayed the finest brickwork.

Gubyaukgyi Temple

This early 13th century temple displays a strong influence of Indian culture. Inside are the wall paintings and 28 Buddha images in sitting position.

Shwesandaw Pagoda

This pagoda built by King Anawrahta in early 11th century displays a strong Mon influence with a steep stairway directly to the terraces for a superb view from the upper level.

Sulamani Temple

A temple built in 1181 by King Narapatisithu is known for its murals dating from 11th -12th century.

Other attractions in Bagan are Mingala Zedi Pagoda, Manuha Temple, Lawkananda Temple, Bupaya Pagoda and Bagan Museum.

Around Bagan

Mount Popa

Some 50 km southeast of Bagan, Mount Popa, 1500 metres high, is an extinct volcano. It is the legendary home of the "nats" or spirits. The Mount Popa area has also been designated as a National Park, a perfect place for eco-tourism.

Sale (Sa-lay)

It is a small town about 15 km south of Bagan, down the Ayeyarwady River, U Pone Nya Museum, formerly the Yoke Sone Monastery, exhibits antique laquerwares, wooden reliefs and a large standing gilded Buddha image. The figures carved worth visiting is Tha-ta-na Kyaung (Keythar monastery) where Tipitaka texts are housed in a large red lacquered cabinet.

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