The 5,000 Stupas Of Bagan

The capital of the Burmese empire of 900 years ago was in the central highlands at the city of Bagan. In an area of about 42 sq. km. there are approximately 5,000 Buddhist temples, each with at least one stupa (spire). Nearly all of them are between 700 - 900 years old

The largest ones were built by the kings, and the lesser ones built by what must have been nearly every one else around!

You can still climb the extremely steep steps of some of them, and for the effort gain a spectacular view of history.

Several years ago the military dictators shut off what electricity and plumbing that existed and gave the residents a week to relocate. They were told where to move - a few miles away, and they were ordered to dismantle and take their modest houses with them. Their neighborhoods were shuffled and consequently they lost their neighbors and the tight knit community that, among other things, watched over one another's children. The area to which they were moved is now called "New Bagan."

(Old) Bagan is a true Potemkin Village, set up as a show place for foreigners. Mostly Old Began consists of the few western type hotels .... and at least two private hotels... for "The Generals".