BAGAN
Bagan is the main tourist attraction in Myanmar. One of the richest archaeological sites in Asia, it is located on the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwaddy River. Also being the capital of first Myanmar Empire, Bagan covers an area of 42 sq. km containing over 2000 well-preserved pagodas and temples of the 11th- 13th century.
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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. |
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Thatbyinnyu Temple
The Thatbyinnyu Temple, a white 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. |
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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 50km southeast of Bagan, Mount Popa, 1,500 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. |
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Sale ( Sa-Lay)
It is a small town about 15km south of Bagan, down the Ayeyarwaddy River. U Pone Nya Museum, formerly the Yoke Sone Monastery, exhibits antique Iaquerwares, wooden reliefs and a large standing gilded Buddha image. The figures carved outside the front of the building are worth seeing. An other place worth visiting is Tha-ta-na Kyaung ( Keythar monastery) where Tipitaka texts are housed in a large red lacquered
cabinet.
