Places to See in Myanmar: Land of a Thousand Adventures

Places to See in Myanmar Land of a Thousand Adventures

A Journey of a Lifetime

Beyond - the seas is an exotic land rich with lush jungles, ancient temples and beauty so rare it can only be called by one name, Myanmar. The second largest country in Southeast Asia, Myanmar also known as Burma, is bordered by Bangladesh, India, China, Thailand and Laos.

Still largely untarnished by tourism it’s cultural and geographical diversity makes it a riveting destination for memories and adventures to be had. Learn more about Myanmar’s most popular destinations in the following presentation‌

Yangon

Our Adventure – starts in Yangon. Formerly called Rangoon, the former capital of Myanmar is known for its large number of British colonial buildings and is the largest city in the country.

At the heart of Yangon is the Shwedagon Pagoda. The most sacred Burmese pagoda is said to have existed for over 2,600 years. Housing relics from the past four Buddhas, including eight strands of hair from Gautama Buddha and the staff of Kakusandha Buddha, its gold plated architecture is truly a sight to behold.

Bagan

The Ancient City – of Bagan, once called Pagan, was the capital of Myanmar’s first kingdom from the 9th to 13th century. Now, the home of over 2,200 temples and pagodas, it’s known for its magnificent collection of religious artifacts and stupa (hollow) style temples.

An archeological wonder, some of its most famous sights include the Ananda Temple, the Shwezigon Pagoda, the Mingalazedi Pagoda and the Dhammayangyi Temple.

Mt. Popa

31 miles southeast – of Bagan sits Mt. Popa. A holy pilgrimage site, the volcano is home to 37 animist sprit entities statues, also known as Mahaigiri Nats.

Located on the top of the volcanic plug called Taung Kalat, is a Buddhist monastery that offers panoramic views of the landscape. A popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, the area is transformed during the full moon festival seasons of Nayon (May/June) and Nadaw (November/December).

Yandabo

On the Ayeyarwady River – in central Myanmar is a small village called Yandabo. Infamous as the location where the peace treaty was signed, ending the First Anglo-Burmese War in 1826, it’s true cultural significance is far greater than it’s military history.

Known for its traditional terracotta pots, Yandabo is a village still very much connected to its natural environment and heritage. Made from riverbank clay, local artisans are known to make an average of 30-50 pots a day. These pots are then used for food or water storage, as they have been for hundreds of years.

Sagaing

A place like no other – Sagaing is home to hundreds of Buddhist monasteries and pagodas, which surround the hillside, parallel to the Ayeyarwady River.

Once the fief of Burmese princes, it was briefly a royal capital during the reign of King Naungdawgyi. In present day, its ancient white, silver, and gold monasteries ornate it’s idyllic scenery. A religious and cultural hub, it is also the location of Soonuponyashin Pagoda, one of the oldest temples in the area and the first to receive offerings during festivals.

Amarapura

Stretching - 1.2km or .75 mi, Amarapura is home to the U Bein Bridge. Build in 1850, the U Bein Bridge is the longest and oldest teakwood bridge in the world.

Built from reclaimed wood from the former royal palace in Inwa, it is an important passageway for locals. Crossing over the Taungthaman Lake, it contains 1,086 pillars and is one of Myanmar’s most photographed sites. Visitors will revel in the scenery of local fishermen, monks, bicyclists, families and souvenir shops.

Mandalay

An icon – Mandalay is the last royal capital of Myanmar. A wealth of historic and religious monuments, including the Mandalay Palace, the Mahamuni Buddha and the Shwenandaw monastery, it is the economic hub for Upper Burma and the second largest city in the country.

Renowned for its holy sites, travelers can climb Mandalay Hill while enjoying the view of the city, or take in local cuisine throughout Mandalay’s many famous restaurants.

Start Your Adventure Now

There is no time better than now – to start your Myanmar adventure. Since 2002, AmaWaterways has been pioneering the art of river cruising with their tours through Myanmar and the rest of the world.

To begin your journey, contact them at: www.AmaWaterways.com 1(800) 626-0126 info@AmaWaterways.com