Myanmar: agan – Exploring Old Bagan
Bagan was the capital of the Pagan Empire from 1044 to 1287. During all these years, the rulers of Bagan went on a construction binge to please the gods by erecting over 10000 religious monuments (large and small stupas, temples and monasteries) in an area of 104 sq km (40 sq mi) in the Bagan plains. The Old Bagan is the oldest part of this sprawling universe of Bagan temples – located along the bend of Ayeyrwaddy River this used to be a fully walled and gated city. You enter Old Bagan through Tharabar Gate. Old Bagan contains several large temples like Gawdawpalin, Nathlaung, Schwegugyu and others. It’s awesome to roam around here and climbing temples near sunset for great panoramic views. But the key is making it to the waterfront for sunset!
