As far as military juntas go, the rulers of Myanmar take the proverbial cake. Thuggish, dangerous and perhaps worst of all, ignorant, the regime has wrought untold havoc on the country’s phenomenal archeological wealth. Bagan, the historical capital of the nation, thankfully still heralds many rare spiritual charms. A land of enchantment on the lush shores of the Ayeyarwady River, almost 200 km south of Mandalay, Bagan was the last bastion of the now defunct Burmese monarchy.

With in excess of 2,000 pagodas and religious structures, the city is quite distinct. Not simply because of a collection of 11th to 13th century architectural gems however. The fact of the matter is that Bagan needs UNESCO World Heritage protection more than ever. It comprises one of the most pristine, reverential and spectacular places in Asia, notably as a cosmopolitan hub of Buddhist study that dates back over a millenium and settlement as far back as the year 100.

Unfortunately, the military government has made somewhat questionable temple renovation choices over the years and additions like golf courses and highways are certainly devoid in comparable destinations, like Angkor Wat in Cambodia for example. Nevertheless, Bagan is remarkable. While Myanmar may never attain the tourism potential it deserves without the transformative leadership of someone like Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi, at least for now, you can enjoy the country’s infinite treasures while they last.

How to get to Bagan? Well, the ancient city may not be the most accessible, like Myanmar, but there are several options available. The flight from Yangon, the capital of the country, is a mere 80 minutes, with daily trips available from local government or even private agents. Trains are always a more serene and sophisticated mode of travel and several make the express trek from Yangon to Mandalay, with car rental necessary from the town of Thazi.

Of course, you can always rent a car for yourself from Yangon and make the relatively short drive. The inherent appeal here is control, as plane and train schedules are not always the most reliable. Last but not least, river cruises on the Ayeyarwady, while touristy, do offer the promise of beautiful scenery on the way to Bagan from Mandalay.

The key to Bagan’s attraction is first and foremost, a glorious panoply of spiritual landmarks that exemplify a link to a past when Myanmar was a rich Buddhist kingdom. Here are just a handful of the eye candy on display in the phenomenal destination.

Ananda Temple was built in 1091 as a tribute to Buddha’s cousin. In the same design vein as many temples in India, with a cruciform shape, terraces and illustrated terra cotta tiles, Ananda hosts a special festival every December and January.

Mahabodhi Temple was built in the mid-1200’s in the image of a temple with the same name in Bihar, India. The magnificent landmark contains over 450 depictions of Buddha and a pyramid-like tower.

Bupaya Pagoda has a fortuitous and beautiful location on the banks of the Ayeyarwady and remains perhaps the most famous attraction in Bagan. Although small in size, the fact that the original structure was built almost 2,000 years ago is very crucial for tourists and pilgrims alike. With typical gold leaf adornments, the pagoda is emblematic of ancient Burmese design.

Gawdawpalin Temple has a dramatic and holy perch in Bagan, with the Ayeyarwady as a watery backdrop. Built in the 12th century, the temple ranks second in size in the ancient city. Like many proximate landmarks from the historic Buddhist era, a massive earthquake in 1975 did major damage to the foundation and exquisite facade. Thankfully, proper reconstruction was done to bring Gawdawpalin back to life.

Htilominlo Temple is a magnificent three-story structure that dates again, back to the early 13th century. The temple has terrific plaster-work, elaborate Buddha sculptures and unique red-brick design details. It now sits on the Bagan Archaeological Site.

Payathonzu Temple is one of the most exceptional ancient landmarks in Bagan for one remarkable feature. A network of subterranean passages connects people to what in essence, is a collection of three temples. Mahayana and Tantric-style fresco art coats the interior walls and represents a mystical, etheral quality not found in many Bagan temples.

Check out the best hotel rates in Myanmar before you make your foray into the mysterious country.

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