With some serious temple experience
under our belts, we were curious what impressions, if any, would be
evoked by Bagan. Located in the center of the dry zone, Bagan
consists of ruins of over 4,000 Buddhist temples, some constructed as
early as the 11th century. Over the years, many have been
neglected, destroyed or questionably restored, and thus their
archaeological value has been somewhat compromised. Many frescoes,
paintings, murals and carvings can now only be completed in the
imagination. It is no Angkor Wat as far as quality is concerned, but
the sheer volume of the structures, the wide swath of land that they
cover and the sweeping views at sunset easily give the former a run
for its money. Top it off with limited tourist congestion and
leisurely bicycle rides at your own pace, and you quickly get a place
appreciated for its, as yet, under-appreciated charm. If only it
wasn't so hot...
Mount Popa
Nat, or spirit, representations
Practical Information
View Point Inn - $18 for double AC room
in a somewhat shabby but still strangely pleasant hotel with shared
but clean bathrooms, comfy beds, friendly staff and a free breakfast
Bagan entrance fee - $5, except we
unintentionally circumnavigated it, finding out only on the last day
that one was required, so I guess it's not always enforced
Bus to Mandalay – 7,500 kyat per
person
Minibus to Pyin Oo Lwin - 6,000 kyat
pp
Most restaurants are on Restaurant Row
in Nyaung U (good options for accommodation), with the beer garden
Shwe Ya Su providing some of the cheapest and tastiest food.
Internet is dial-up slow, sporadic and
frequently affected by power outages.
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