4 Things You Won't Forget After Trekking in Burma

Burma has long cultivated a shroud of mystery against the outside world. Run for many years by an unyielding military junta, the lack of connection with an increasingly globalised world has strangely added to the lure and appeal of this Asian nation. The scent of its cuisine, culture and history has drifted over the world and beckons many an inquisitive and curious traveller.

With the country slowly becoming more open to tourists, now is an ideal time to venture into somewhat unchartered waters and see a destination not yet slung with the trappings of a bloated tourist market. When you do visit, be prepared to be struck by the special beauty and charm of this small country that will impress itself heavily on your memory.

Bagan

There is no better way to truly sink your teeth into this place than by trekking in Burma. A must on an exploration is a foray into the ancient (once the capital) Bagan, one of the most significant Buddhist temple complexes in Asia. Nearly 10, 000 temples, pagodas and other constructions were built across this vast plain, of which nearly 2200 still survive in their original form. You will never forget the site as you walk past these historic and beautiful monuments, which harken back to an ancient culture.

The Elephant River

One of the great joys of trekking in Burma is the opportunity to enjoy the lush and unique natural surrounds the country has on offer. It boasts full flowing rivers and humid, vividly green jungles that mark this area of Asia, and its own unique heritage within these environs to boot. A boat ride down the majestic waters of the Irrawaddy or Elephant River is the opportunity to create the memory of a lifetime as you gaze at the historic Arakan Buddha image and visit the Shwe Nandaw Monastery.

Tawya Monastery

Speaking of monasteries, trekking in Burma gives you ample time to begin to appreciate the depth and breadth of the religious and social significance of the country's long heritage. The series of kingdoms that rose and fell in the course of this nation's development to its state in the present day, and the influence of various schools of Buddhism and Islam still flavour the landscape and culture. As such, no visit to this nation is complete without engaging in a site such as the Tawya Monastery, one of many full of nuns, monks and volunteers, and rich in its own traditions.

Golden Rock Mountain

Finally, of all the natural, cultural and historical wonders that will be firmly implanted in your mind after trekking in Burma, no doubt Golden Rock mountain will stand out. Also known as the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, it is the third most important Buddhist pilgrimage site in the country. You will marvel at the small pagoda perched on a hanging rock which, adorned with the gold leaves of devotees, seems to mock gravity as it almost falls off a cliff.

Tony Maniscalco is the Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday trekking in Burma to see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 140 guided group walking holidays in over 60 different countries.

Article Source: Tony_Maniscalco

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Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Yangon

Yangon is one of the most important cities of Myanmar and it is filled with history along with a wealth of tourist attractions that are worthy of your time. No matter if you want to visit the museums and get a deeper insight into the local history and traditions, or you just want to enjoy the natural beauties in Yangon, you will definitely not get bored here! In this article you will find 5 of the most visited tourist attractions in Yangon:

1. The Botahtaung Pagoda

Yangon has several worship sites where the people can go and pray, and the Botahtaung Pagoda is one of the most important ones. The beautiful design coupled with the great location (this Pagoda is located near the Yangon River) have made Botahtaung Pagoda a popular tourist attraction spot. In addition to this, those who want to see the interior of the Pagoda can do it, as it allows visitors to walk inside and admire the building.

2. The Taukkyan War Cemetery

This is a memorial cemetery that was raised in the memory of the 30,000+ British soldiers that died in Myanmar during the World War II. The memorial pillar is imposing and all the names of the soldiers are engraved on it.

3. The Yangon Zoo

If you travel to Yangon city with your family, then you must stop by at the zoo to admire the animals! If you want to relax in an amazing location away from the noise of the city, then the Yangon Zoo is certainly an inspired choice. The zoo has been around for over 1000 years and it has over one thousand animals from 200 different species, some of them being in danger of extinction. Elephants, leopards, crocodiles, Bengal tigers, bears and tens of reptiles and birds - you can admire all of them at the Yangon Zoo.

In addition to the wealth of animals, the zoo is also famous for hosting many different plants and trees, such as bamboo trees, palms and a variety of seasonal flowers that add color to the entire zoo. The pleasant scent of the flowers is floating in the air.

4. The Museum of Natural History

If you are passionate about Myanmar and you want to find out more about the indigenous animals, then the Museum of Natural History will certainly appeal to you. Here you will find hundreds of different animals along with captions and information boxes.

5. Shwedagon Pagoda

The Shwedagon pagoda (The Great Pagoda in English) is one of the most sacred pagodas in the country of Myanmar, as it contains relics of the past Buddhas, such as strands of hair or pieces of the robes of the Buddhas. Tens of thousands of people visit the Shwedagon Pagoda every year to pray and to connect with Buddha and with nature.

These are 5 of the tourist attractions that should draw your attention if you plan to visit Myanmar in the near future.

If you're looking for a good and luxurious hotel in Yangon, visit Luxury Hotel in Yangon.

Article Source: Jeff_Molenda