Bagan

Bagan is not to be missed on a visit to Burma. It’s one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world, with around 2,230 temples and pagodas on a 26 square-mile plain next to the Irrawaddy River. They were built between 1057 and 1287 by the Kings of Bagan and are an incredible sight.

Many of the temples are well preserved or have been restored by UNESCO. It’s worth spending time here exploring the frescos, carvings and statues of Buddha of varying sizes. Cycling or taking a horse and cart along the dusty tracks are both excellent ways to get around.

One of the highlights is watching the magnificent sunset from one of the temples where you’ll get a fantastic view of the area. Taking an early morning or late afternoon hot air balloon flight is an incredible experience if you have the chance.

Mount Popa is within a reasonable driving distance and is the Burmese spiritual epicentre for those who worship the nat spirits and martyrs. The mountain itself is an extinct volcano. The Buddhist monastery on top of the nearby mountain of Taung Kalat is reached by climbing 777 steps and you are rewarded with a great view of the surrounding area.