Ancient Bagan

Pagodas, pagodas, pagodas! The former 9th century capital of Bagan is home to the largest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, and stupas. The day started with a climb to the top of a pagoda for an amazing view over Bagan's archeological complex with thousands of pagodas built during the 9th through 13th centuries. During the kingdom's peak in the 11th and 13th centuries, over 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas and monasteries were constructed in the Bagan, of which the remains of over 2200 temples and pagodas still stand today. With my guide I explored many pagodas big and small, highlights were Ananda, Dhammayangyi, Sulamani, and Thatbyinnyu. 

A horse drawn carriage took me to my pagoda of my choosing, I opted for a little known pagoda with no people for the perfect sunset views.  After a full day of exploring Bagan's history a relaxing sunset atop a peaceful pagoda was a welcome rest to contemplate all of the amazing sights I'd see and history I'd learned.