Ancient Kingdoms

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We started the day with a horse-drawn cart ride through the ancient archaeological zone. Unbelieveable up-close views of the Bagan temples, as the sun glistened off the golden structures from the 9th - 11th centuries. We stopped at Damayangyi and Khayminga Temples. The ride was dusty & bumpy ride with authenticity including numerous stops for photos.

We then visited a village Pub -- perhaps one of the first micro breweries in the world???? Palm sugar is used not only for beer but also, delicious candy. Ken, perhaps this could be Skull Camp Breweries next off-site location..........

Later in the day included a breath-taking view from the Nanmyint Observatory Tower which towers above the pagodas. The tower was built by the richest Burman who also built a luxury hotel next to the tower. All 3 of our hotels are luxury. As guests, we conclude that in Burma, you either have (so-called) luxury or nothing at all. Perhaps the most exciting event happened while we were enjoying a drink at the top of the tower. Sandor (Guide) recognized the monk sitting at a table next to ours. We were the only ones in the restaurant. The monk happened to be the most famous in all of Burma. He has written 45 books and is extremely well thought of, especially by the younger population who are still searching for meaning. Sandor took the opportunity to visit with him (see photo) and was totally enthralled by the spiritual experience --- we all enjoyed it as well. As he later left for the airport, the tower staff then lined up for group photo with perhaps the most revered and popular monk in their country.

PHWER SAW VILLAGE was the next visit where we walked through the village of 517 people (977 families), visited inside homes, businesses and observed the animals coming home for the evening.

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Photos

Phwer Saw Village
Grandma

Village boys
Hand making a kite.

Horse drawn cart
Rode through archaeological zone of Bagan visiting ancient temples.

Bagan
Stupas

Bagan
A stop along horse drawn cart ride.

Village Brewery
Gathering palm sugar sap for "craft" beer. It was very tasty with high alcohol content.

Pub
Drinking beer with the locals.

A SHIN SANDAR DIKA
Famous monk leaving Observation Tower just after a group picture with staff.

one year old with mother
Visited within family's home. Gave Polaroid picture & Beanie Baby to this happy child.

Monk --- A Shin Sandar Dika
Born in 1968, written 45 books and much revered by Burman's. He finished regular high school and scored #2 in country on his H.S. exams. Sandor later said he could "feel" his reverence.

Cane Ball in Phwer Saw Village
Most popular sport. Keep ball in air for as long as can by touching only with feet, legs or head (not any other body parts). These young men are quite accomplished as they unwind at the end of the work day.