What to see in Myanmar, 5 travel tips for the first low cost holiday in Burma, from Golden Rock to Yangon, to Bagan and Mandalay, read the post.
La Burma it has recently opened its borders to tourism. It is a country that still has many inaccessible areas but what it has to offer is immense and waiting to be discovered. Are you ready for some advice on what to see in this magical place? I take you in Myanmar, the golden country that will fill your eyes and heart.
1. Yangon
The former capital of Burma, it is a fast developing city. Located on the banks of the river of the same name, it is the city that offers the most spectacular pagoda in the country: the Shwedagon Paya. With its 100 mt. high is a real architectural spectacle. Completely covered with gold leaves and surrounded by numerous complementary buildings, it is the country's main place of prayer.
Also in the area of the main pagoda we find two other temples that deserve a visit: the Chaukhtatgyi Paya, where you can admire a splendid Reclining Buddha of 65 meters. A little further on, on the other side of the road is the Ngahtatgyi Paya, where a seated Buddha of 14 meters is kept.
After this immersion in religious culture I recommend a relaxing walk on the shores of Lake Kandawgyi. The best time is certainly the sunset, where the magical Shwedagon Paya is reflected in its waters.
Let's move towards the city center: the Sule Paya, with its 46 meters it acts as a traffic island in a roundabout along the main artery of Yangoon. Continuing towards the banks of the river to visit the smaller but crowded Botatung Paya.
2.Golden Rock
Two hundred kilometers east of Yangoon is another important pilgrimage site for Buddhists: the Golden Rock. It is a big boulder hovering on a rise, covered with gold leaves. Legend has it that it is supported by a hair of the Buddha.
3. Inle Lake
We move north, where nature reigns supreme. If you go to Burma you cannot miss spending a few days on the calm waters of Inle Lake and one boat trip is a must. You can arrange it through the hotel where you are staying or by going directly to the pier and negotiating with the boat owners. The excursion is very "tourist" but you will discover a lot of things about this country. Also, as the lake is very large, you won't meet many people.
4. Bagan
Obviously if you come to Bimania the Bagan Valley it is a must. Rent an electric scooter or if you are sporty a bicycle and get lost in the narrow streets of the Valley in search of the temple you like best. If you have enough money, treat yourself to a hot air balloon ride at the price lights of dawn, the show is guaranteed. To enjoy a beautiful view of the Valley, much cheaper, go up to the temple of your choice and enjoy the beautiful sunset lights.
5. Mandalay and surroundings
Mandaly hosts the splendid Royal Palace. It is an imposing complex surrounded by thick walls of 3,6 kilometers per side. Inside, many areas are off-limits to foreigners. The part that tourists can visit is the Palace where the royals once lived. This place is located at the foot of the Mandalay Hill: a hill dotted with temples, from which you can enjoy an excellent view of the city, especially at sunset.
Mandalay is the ideal starting point for visiting the area around the city which offers very interesting attractions. Among these, a place not to be missed is the Amarapura bridge. It is the longest teak deck in the world. The best time to visit is definitely at sunset.
Another attraction of the Mandalay area is the Mingun village. Here you can admire the beginning of the construction of what must have been the largest time in the world. Both places can be visited with an organized tour or by renting a moped. Mingun can also be reached by a short boat ride, departing from the river pier in Mandalay.
