Bago

When in Bago, don't miss the opportunity to explore its various Buddhist monuments. Start with the iconic Shwemawdaw Pagoda, a towering stupa that reaches a height of 114.3 meters, making it the tallest pagoda in Myanmar. This revered site, also known as the Golden God Temple, is believed to enshrine relics such as Buddha's hairs and teeth.

In western Bago, you'll find the remarkable Shwethalyaung reclining Buddha statue, a meticulously crafted masterpiece that measures 55 meters in length and stands 16 meters high. It's the second-largest reclining Buddha in Myanmar, after the one in Dawei. Burmese people admire the statue for its lifelike representation of Buddha in a relaxed posture.

Another notable site is the Kyaik Pun Pagoda, famous for its Four Seated Buddha statue, with each of the four Buddhas—Kakkusana, Kassapa, Konagamana, and Gotama—facing one of the cardinal directions, their backs to each other.

Venture beyond these Buddhist attractions to visit Kanbawzathadi Palace, which is part of the Bago Archaeology Department. Originally constructed in 1556 for King Bayinnaung, the founder of the Second Myanmar Empire, the palace includes 76 apartments and halls. Although it was destroyed by fire in 1599, it has been under reconstruction since 1990 and is set to become a highlight of future trips to Bago once the restoration is complete.

Nature enthusiasts can take a two-hour drive north of Bago in the early morning to Moeyinghi Park, where you can observe a diverse range of birds. Birdwatching from a boat adds an interesting dimension to the experience, and there are observation stands for a closer look.

Lastly, be sure to savor a bowl of Mote Hin Khar when you visit Bago. This delicious soup is available each morning at a street stall on San Taw Tywin Street, in front of the south entrance to Shwemawdaw Pagoda.