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An Introduction to Myanmar
Len Gao
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 The
mighty Thatbyinnyu Pahto (left, 61 metres high, mid-12th century) and
Ananda Pahto (middle, 51 metres high, early 12th century) dominate Bagan's
skyline and dwarf the modern archaeological museum (centre) in the
background. |
 Dated
from mid-9th century to modern day, thousands of temples, pagodas and
stupas pack in a small area by the Ayeyarwady River in central Myanmar,
making Bagan one of Asia's, perhaps the world's, most hidden
archaeological treasures. Even today, photographers and tourists are still
allowed to climb most of the monuments to observe the panorama during the
sunrise and sunset.. |
 No
one is certain about the exact number of monuments in Bagan archaeological
zone, since new ones are constantly being constructed, and old ruined.
Depending different historical periods and counting methodology, the
number ranges from 2,100 to more than 4,400. |
 A
balloon kisses the Thabyinnyu Pahto during the morning hour. Foreign
entrepreneurs have siezed yet another economic opportunity. However, with
the local economy, the $200+/person price tag seems to be astronomical to
the locals, or even budget foreign travellers. |
 Chariot
of Fire. Unlike other archaeological sites, Bagan still mingles with daily
life of people living along the Ayeyarwady. Not far from the Ananda Pahto,
a farmer burns shrubs to fertilise his cultivated land. |
Local women harvest before the backdrop of
the Htinominlo Pahto (above) in the morning, while sheep graze amid a
forest of pagoda at high noon (below).
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