Idyllic adoration: The Monastery of Mount Popa on a volcano
Idyllic adoration: The Monastery of Mount Popa on a volcano
We visit Taung Kalat, the surreal Buddhist monastery on Myanmars Mount Popa
Mount Popa could have been Mount Doom as well. It turned out on our bicycle route and mocked me with defeat. As a cycling newcomer (and certainly the weakest in our group), I found the prospect of cycling 83 km (52 miles) uphill under the burning Burmanic sun, more than a little discouraging.
Fortunately, our accompanying vehicle was always nearby and offered consolation ("I am here if you need me") and seduction ("you can cancel immediately if you want"). The latter turned out to be too much and soon I gave in and exchanged two wheels against four, while the group continued to take action.
Alt = "Berg popa"Atlas & BootsThe summit of Mount Popa
When we reached the summit, five out of nine cyclists from our G-adventure tour had chosen the bus. Suddenly I didn't feel that weak anymore.
We settled in the Mount Popa Resort, where we were able to catch our first glance at Taung Kalat, the surreal Buddhist monastery, which was built on a volcanic cone on the slopes of Mount Popa.
At first glance in the afternoon sun, the monastery was both miraculous and absurd. Spraying golden stupas, surrounded by steep rocks, was reminiscent of fairy tales and fortresses. Here was the perfect symbol for Myanmar: spiritual, remote, dramatic, unknown.
Alt = "Taung Kalat seen from Mount Popa"Atlas & BootsTaung Kalat seen from Mount Popa Resort
Taung Kalat, the name of the rock formation itself, rises 170 m (558 ft) above the slope of Mount Popa, the 1,518 m (4,980 ft) volcano on which it is. Volcanic plugs such as Taung Kalate arise when Magma hardens in an active volcano pile. Fortunately, Mount Popa is no longer active; His last outbreak was 442 BC. Chr., Say experts.
Today Mount Popa and Taung Kalat are considered sacred sites, home of 37 worshiped "Nats" (ghosts). The monastery on the top is reached over 777 steps - not an easy task after a bike tour on Mount Popa!
The staircase meanders past sellers and flying dealers and falls past groups of monkeys who Kühn grab a snack or a piece of jewelry if they only have half a chance. On the way to the summit, tourists and pilgrims are asked to take off their socks and shoes before they continue. (Storage boxes are available for a few Kyat.) Visitors may want to bring small change for the sweeping machines on the stairs, which often ask for tips.
Alt = "Golden Temple on the Mountain Popa"Atlas & BootsAt the summit of the Taung Kalat
At the summit, the colorful complex of stupas and temples offers a worthy change, but the real attraction is the view. The fertile volcanic soil of the Mount Popa is covered by trees, herbs and spiky bush, and its deep valleys offer a modest oasis in the middle of the dry central zone of Myanmar.
It is said that on a clear day you cannot see Bagan's iconic site 50 km (31 miles) northwest and the Irrawaddy River. Unfortunately, the famous Burmese haze has halved our view.
Alt = "View from Taung Kalat to the Berg Popa"Atlas & BootsThe view of Taung Kalat
Many tourists visit the monastery on a day trip from Bagan - attracted by living pictures of the fairytale site - and I can understand why some leave. Neither the monastery itself nor the view of Taung Kalat are the most impressive on Mount Popa. Rather, it is the view from afar into Taung Kalat. A short stay at the base and a sprint to the top offers nothing of the magic to see it from afar.
Alt = "sunset over Taung Kalat on Mount Popa"Atlas & BootsSunset over Taung Kalat
Fortunately, we had a whole night in Mount Popa Resort. With moved bicycle gloves and cocktails in hand, we made ourselves comfortable to watch the sunset - a well -deserved reward after 83 km to reach this enchanting place!
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Mount Popa monastery: the essentials
What: Visit from Mount Popa and Taung Kalat as part of a 13-day bike tour through Myanmar (Burma).
Where: The tour began in Yangon, the country's largest metropolis before led north to the Inle Lake, Pindaya and Mandalay, then to Central Myanmar with Mount Popa and the Irrawaddy River before it ended in Bagan.
The accommodation comprised 10 nights in comfortable tourist class hotels, one night in a guest house and one night in a monastery (classified as a host family).
When: The best time to travel for Myanmar is from October to March when the monsoon has subsided and the temperatures are pleasant. It gets very hot in the country from April to May. The central regions in which Bagan and Mandalay are located can reach temperatures of over 40 ° C - not ideal for cycling!
From May to September, the Southwest Monsun will lead to heavy rains. During this time, streets can become impassable, especially from July to September. The rains will decrease from October.
Like: We booked the 13-day Myanmar bike tour from G Adventures at a price from € 2,499 ($ 2,730) per person.
The price includes all accommodations, 12 breakfasts, four lunches, dinner, bike rental (including helmets and water bottles), domestic flights, transport, a fantastic chief experience officer throughout the trip and additional helpers, including experienced tour guide, mechanic and driver.
For more information or bookings, call 0344 272 2040 or visit gadventures.co.uk.
Note that the prices do not include international flights and there are no direct flights from the United Kingdom. However, several airlines offer one-stop flights from London Heathrow via Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or Bangkok. Book via skyscanner.net.
If you are considering a bike tour somewhere, read our five tips for cycling.
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Lonely Planet Myanmar is a comprehensive travel guide for Myanmar, ideal for those who want to explore the most important sights and take the less busy road.
Disclosure: We traveled to Myanmar with the support of G Adventures. All publications say that, but we really don't guarantee positive reporting. We say what we think - good and bad - so that you can make well -founded decisions with honest advice.
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