From Yangon to Bagan

Day 2 started with me having forgotten the hair gel for The Boy again. Oops.


It began in a mad flurry as well, for we had a domestic flight to catch to Bagan at 7am. We arrived, bleary-eyed, at the airport, and were whisked off onto the plane in a split second. Cool. Planes that still fly with the aid of propellers. It was like being transported back to the Payer Lebar Airport days, exclaimed The Boy’s parents. Despite my silent fears, the plane took off (and landed) smoothly. As we trooped down the flight of stairs from the airplane, we were greeted with a fresh wave of cool air. Tried to take a snap shot of the plane, but was told off by the militia. Nonetheless, the Scooplet (aka a National Geographic photog wannabe) was determined.


Our place of accommodation was a really charming chalet right in front of the Irawaddy River. Ahhh… we couldn’t wait to come back and laze by the pool, and soak in the beautiful sight all around.



We set off for the local market right after we settled into the room. The market gave us an excellent insight into the local culture and way of life of the people. It was teeming with activity, with everyone selling anything imaginable. The shopaholics in me and Munch’s mummy couldn’t resist a couple of souvenir items.








Lunch was by the river, again, another charming, isolated spot. The vast area of the country around us was absolutely peaceful and serene. We could see villagers bringing their cows to graze the pastures in the distance, and some others washing by the riverside. Even we started to feel so relaxed and at peace!




Evening was breathtaking. Richard the tour guide brought us to this 11th century old stupa. We had to climb the extremely steep steps to the top to get a panoramic view of the 3,000 over stupas all around. This we did bravely, and what we saw from the top, we didn’t regret the initial hard work one bit.


Everything was serene, and magical all around us. We were there, high up on the ancient stupa, taking in every single sight with awe. We waited for the sunset, which many came for that purpose as well. We had a simply remarkable experience. It felt like being in some ancient lost civilization.


Bagan, with her thousands of stupas, many of them monumental, and over centuries old, should certainly be worthy of being one of the wonders of the world.