This Popa mountain park is located in Kyaukpadaung Township. The Division can be mentioned as Madalay which is situated at fifty km southeast of bagan. The total area of the park is 129 sq. kms. Established in the year 1983 this park was opened in 1989. This is an extinct volcano placed over 1,500 metres in height. Popa Mountain Park is recently covered with green forests. This is more like an oasis in the desert-like Central Myanmar.
From Yangon to Kyaukpadaung, you can go 412 miles by car. From Kyaukpadaung you have to go to Popa. Airways is also there starting from Yangon to Naung Oo. The distance is thirty seven miles from Naung Oo to Popa by car.
Monkeys, wild pig, barking deer, wild dog, jungle cat and about one hundred and forty avifauna species live in the Popa area. Monkeys prevail in this area. The dusky leaf monkey is a scarcely found animal among them while the total population of monkeys in Popa Mountain Park is about 150. Nearly forty medicinal plants and some climbers are finely growing in this area. The botanists explored these plants and climbers in various field research works.
Hlawga National Park: This park is located in Htaukkyant Model Village. Based on 216 hectares area this national park comprises of a mini-zoo on 25 hectares, Wildlife Park on 327 hectares and a buffer zone on 264 hectares area. This Hlawga National Park is established on 30th September 1982.
Not less than seventy species of herbivorous animals and ninety species of birds are present in this national park. Some of the animals are barking deer, Thamin, sambar deer, hog deer, Rhesus monkey, mythyn and pythons. All are well protected and cannot come beyond fence. In mini-zoo you can see large and spacious cages that are built with modern zoo concept. Migratory as well as residential bird species are also present.
Irrawaddy River in Burma
View from Irrawaddy River is possibly the most enjoyable way to see Myanmar or Burma. You can feel the heartbeat with more clarity at this place. The River’s tranquility is always enjoyable while the tales of the life on riverside are equally fascinating. You can see nature’s abundant beauty i.e. small bamboo and teak habitations, abode of small children that run at the line of the riverbank, woman do their household work, all these and much more attracts the tourists. Wide cultivating fields, a river cruise, etc. can enlightens you frame of thought regarding way of life. Graceful monasteries are there that rise above canopied trees. Some of the ruined ancient temples always disclose the richness of historic values.
This Irrawaddy River conveys Burma’s lifeline. Several people depend on its lively natural source. Bamboo rafts, ferries, barges and fishing boats, etc. ply their trade along these waters. The usual pace is slow and relaxed. You can always visit this country with a purpose to relax.
The Irrawaddy River arises by the merging of the Mali and N'mai Rivers in Kachin State Kachin. Both of these rivers find their sources in the Himalaya glaciers of Northern Burma. The eastern branch of the two i.e. the N'mai River is the larger stream. Here strong current is available whereas the smaller western branch i.e. the Mali River is navigable.
Bhamo is situated at the distance of about 150 miles south of the N’mai and Mali river convergence. This is the northernmost city where you can reach by boat. But during the monsoon season you cannot use boats to reach the rivers. The city of Myitkyina lies 30 miles south of the confluence. You can only reach there during dry season. Yangon River is a minor channel of this Irrawaddy River.
This Irrawaddy River conveys Burma’s lifeline. Several people depend on its lively natural source. Bamboo rafts, ferries, barges and fishing boats, etc. ply their trade along these waters. The usual pace is slow and relaxed. You can always visit this country with a purpose to relax.
The Irrawaddy River arises by the merging of the Mali and N'mai Rivers in Kachin State Kachin. Both of these rivers find their sources in the Himalaya glaciers of Northern Burma. The eastern branch of the two i.e. the N'mai River is the larger stream. Here strong current is available whereas the smaller western branch i.e. the Mali River is navigable.
Bhamo is situated at the distance of about 150 miles south of the N’mai and Mali river convergence. This is the northernmost city where you can reach by boat. But during the monsoon season you cannot use boats to reach the rivers. The city of Myitkyina lies 30 miles south of the confluence. You can only reach there during dry season. Yangon River is a minor channel of this Irrawaddy River.
Exciting elephants in Burma
Burma and its wildlife sanctuaries or national gardens are really worth visiting. The natural beauty in the surrounding environment can be enjoyed from core of the heart. Different endangered and rare species of animals, birds and fishes are present in this country. If you are a nature lover, this is the place for you. Forget about military rule and everything, just enjoy the raw beauty of nature and feel that this is true life.
Pho Kyar Elephant Camp: This camp is situated by the side of Thaing Creek in Taungoo. This place is just 205 miles away from Yangon. Pho Kyar Elephant Camp was set up as the base camp of Taungoo timber extraction region. About twenty years age this was done for timber business and also for elephant keepers. At this place you can easily study elephant habitat, observe how to take care of elephants and also how to catch them. Elephant riding can also be enjoyed here.
Khakaborazi National Park: This national park is situated in Naungmaung Township in Putao District of Kachin State. The total area is 3816 sq.kms. The park was established in the year 1996. The place is reachable by train or air. You can also go by car from Yangon or Mandalay to Myitkyina. After that you have to travel 218 miles with four wheel drive wagon through Sonparabon to Putao. You can face some difficulties in rainy season.
Evergreen forests are there with hill pine and moist mixed deciduous forests. Some rare species such as Blue Sheep, Takin, Phet Gyi i.e. Muntiaus putaoensis, Black Barking Deer, musk Deer, etc. are present in the park. Colorful butterflies are real attraction here. You can trek to the highest [peak at the capped mountains.
You can observe endangered medicinal plants, mammals, orchids and also attractive colorful butterflies.
Pho Kyar Elephant Camp: This camp is situated by the side of Thaing Creek in Taungoo. This place is just 205 miles away from Yangon. Pho Kyar Elephant Camp was set up as the base camp of Taungoo timber extraction region. About twenty years age this was done for timber business and also for elephant keepers. At this place you can easily study elephant habitat, observe how to take care of elephants and also how to catch them. Elephant riding can also be enjoyed here.
Khakaborazi National Park: This national park is situated in Naungmaung Township in Putao District of Kachin State. The total area is 3816 sq.kms. The park was established in the year 1996. The place is reachable by train or air. You can also go by car from Yangon or Mandalay to Myitkyina. After that you have to travel 218 miles with four wheel drive wagon through Sonparabon to Putao. You can face some difficulties in rainy season.
Evergreen forests are there with hill pine and moist mixed deciduous forests. Some rare species such as Blue Sheep, Takin, Phet Gyi i.e. Muntiaus putaoensis, Black Barking Deer, musk Deer, etc. are present in the park. Colorful butterflies are real attraction here. You can trek to the highest [peak at the capped mountains.
You can observe endangered medicinal plants, mammals, orchids and also attractive colorful butterflies.
Exquisite natural beauty of Burma
In Burma natural beauty takes an important part of its tourism industry. Though explored late still the beauty has taken the heart of all. Some of the gardens are so serene that you can feel the extreme tranquility and peace in life. Here I have mentioned about two places where you can visit and feel the beauty.
Zoological Garden: Established in 1906 this zoological garden is 27.7 hectares large. It lies at Minglartaungnyunt township of Yangon. Rather you can say that the garden is located in centre of Yangon. Reachable by taxi or bus, this place is situated near the Royal Lake, Great Shwedagon Pagoda, Karaweik Hall, Aquarium and Yangon Railway Station. Nearly three hundred tree species are present in this garden. The total numbers of planted trees are 15000. Fifty nine species of mammals, eighteen species of reptiles, sixty bird’s species are available. Some other available animals are rhinoceros, hippopotamus, elephant, tapir, tiger, camel, deer, lion, etc. Various rare species of snake, crocodile, monkeys, tortoise, and birds are present. Most interesting part is that a pair of tucks of the white elephant is present. The elephant died in 1219 when King Thibaw was the king. 21.6 meters long skeleton of a whale is also present in this garden. One of other attractions is a statue of Stegosaurus. At every Saturday and Sunday you can enjoy dancing of trained clever elephants and also Monkeys and snakes show. It starts from the month of November to May.
National Kandawgyi Garden: This garden is located in Pyin Oo Lwin at Mandalay Division. This garden was established in 1915 and opened in the year 1999 on July 7. The area is not less than 13792 hectares. There is flight service from Yangon to Mandalay. You can also go by car. The route is 42 miles from Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin. 42 species of Orchid, 344 species of forest and 25 species of Rose can be studied. Insects, inland indigenous birds, mammal species and reptiles are also present.
Zoological Garden: Established in 1906 this zoological garden is 27.7 hectares large. It lies at Minglartaungnyunt township of Yangon. Rather you can say that the garden is located in centre of Yangon. Reachable by taxi or bus, this place is situated near the Royal Lake, Great Shwedagon Pagoda, Karaweik Hall, Aquarium and Yangon Railway Station. Nearly three hundred tree species are present in this garden. The total numbers of planted trees are 15000. Fifty nine species of mammals, eighteen species of reptiles, sixty bird’s species are available. Some other available animals are rhinoceros, hippopotamus, elephant, tapir, tiger, camel, deer, lion, etc. Various rare species of snake, crocodile, monkeys, tortoise, and birds are present. Most interesting part is that a pair of tucks of the white elephant is present. The elephant died in 1219 when King Thibaw was the king. 21.6 meters long skeleton of a whale is also present in this garden. One of other attractions is a statue of Stegosaurus. At every Saturday and Sunday you can enjoy dancing of trained clever elephants and also Monkeys and snakes show. It starts from the month of November to May.
National Kandawgyi Garden: This garden is located in Pyin Oo Lwin at Mandalay Division. This garden was established in 1915 and opened in the year 1999 on July 7. The area is not less than 13792 hectares. There is flight service from Yangon to Mandalay. You can also go by car. The route is 42 miles from Mandalay to Pyin Oo Lwin. 42 species of Orchid, 344 species of forest and 25 species of Rose can be studied. Insects, inland indigenous birds, mammal species and reptiles are also present.
Burma – The Natural Beauty Revisited
Burma or Myanmar is the abode of abundant natural beauty. Some wealth of Burma is unique e.g. huge teak wood forest in the country is really a treasure. Some endangered species are also present such as jewel-thrush. Rich heritage in culture, clean and pure beaches are the main attraction for the visitors. Some of the beautiful virgin beaches are here to enjoy.
Burma was a closed country. The first military coup in Burma was settled in 1962. So the Burmese could not cope with the thousands of tourists according to their expectation. Logging and mining industries were there. The answer was very simple to the junta and it was forced labor. Hundreds of women, men and children have suffered abuse and also beatings while being pushed to build railways, roads and some airports for the usage of tourists. Both the International Labor Organization and the US State Department have supported that the Burmese army uses forced labor.
Many Burmese people’s lives flow much deeper with the effects of tourism. Not less than one million people have been forced to go out of their houses with a view to beautify Burma. They were also forced to make some room for profit-making hotels and also tourist attractions.
As for example I can mention that in Pagan nearly five thousand people were on 10 hours’ notice to carry their property or belongings to relocate to an undeveloped area. This was done to make rooms. The amount of compensation was usually very less. Sometimes various ethnic communities are forced to sleep in tourist centers with a view to do traditional actions to entertain tourists.
Very recently it has been come to limelight that the Padaung tribe is brought back from Thailand. In Thailand they were in refugee status. They were called to be used as another tourist appeal. You can of course think it as an appalling violation of human rights.
Burma was a closed country. The first military coup in Burma was settled in 1962. So the Burmese could not cope with the thousands of tourists according to their expectation. Logging and mining industries were there. The answer was very simple to the junta and it was forced labor. Hundreds of women, men and children have suffered abuse and also beatings while being pushed to build railways, roads and some airports for the usage of tourists. Both the International Labor Organization and the US State Department have supported that the Burmese army uses forced labor.
Many Burmese people’s lives flow much deeper with the effects of tourism. Not less than one million people have been forced to go out of their houses with a view to beautify Burma. They were also forced to make some room for profit-making hotels and also tourist attractions.
As for example I can mention that in Pagan nearly five thousand people were on 10 hours’ notice to carry their property or belongings to relocate to an undeveloped area. This was done to make rooms. The amount of compensation was usually very less. Sometimes various ethnic communities are forced to sleep in tourist centers with a view to do traditional actions to entertain tourists.
Very recently it has been come to limelight that the Padaung tribe is brought back from Thailand. In Thailand they were in refugee status. They were called to be used as another tourist appeal. You can of course think it as an appalling violation of human rights.
Natural Beauty of Burma attracts Tourism
One country’s tourism is a controversial issue. For Myanmar or Burma, the roots of tourism lie in the concrete fact that the tourist industry has direct link to the ruling military junta. From the year 1988, the abundance of natural beauty of the country Burma has bit by bit opened up to foreigners. The trades and industries was the first that exploited enormous natural resources of Burma. But in the year 1996, a major change was there which inclined towards the expansion of the tourist industry in Burma. The campaign was named as “Visit Myanmar Year”.
Although it’s not strange for any country to encourage tourism, but in this case the main reasons behind Burma’s support of it are alarming and also sometimes horrifying. The junta invests the income from tourism in. Not less than half the national budget has spent on military by the junta. The size of this amount has nearly repeated in the past 20 years. Each year less than US$0.50 is spent on health per person. Burmese army has not less than 70000 child soldiers and this number is highest among all nations. In Burma Army tries to get full control over population in a brutal manner.
Feel of unease surrounds everywhere in Burma that whether or not the tourists should visit the country. Visiting Burma is supporting the army’s terrible action in other way. Since 1988 more than US$1.1 billion have been invested in tourist industry in Burma whereas the industry reportedly gives US$100 million per year.
Theoretically this should help in improving Burmese economy. But unfortunately either this money is treated into the military or else some generals and friends take this into their pockets.
Some of the breathtaking sanctuaries in Burma
In Burma the splendid natural beauty is really mesmerizing. Here we can enjoy some sanctuaries where the natural beauty is really incomparable. People come here to leave their footprints and take the memory in their heart. If you really want to take something from here, take some unique photographs. You will cherish them in whole your lifetime.
Hookaung Velly Santuary: This sanctuary in Burma or Myanmar is located in Kachin State. This can be mentioned as the largest Asian tiger Natural Wildlife area. This area is famous as the Ledo Main Road, used in 2nd world war, the road connected from India to China, has passed through this area. Asian tigers largest Natural Wildlife Sanctuary is the reason why this sanctuary is so famous.
Htamanthi Santuary: This sanctuary is located at Homalin Township near Sagaing Division. You have to go about 520 miles from Yangon to Monywa to reach the place. The excellent beauty can be enjoyed which has no comparison. After Yangon to Monywa you have to travel 57 extra miles from Homaline to Htamanthi. This is an excellent boat journey. On your journey you can study the life style as well as traditional culture of Naga tribe. You can also study the natural beauties of residential rivers and stream. There are thirty mammal species which you can observe. The list of mammals also includes Myanmar Roofed turtle. Rowing, swimming and recreation can be done. Various colorful marine species as well as fishes are present there. You can also study and also observe 180 species of birds that include uncommon species of Masked Finfoot and white-winged wood-duck.
Hponkanrazi Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located at Putao Township in Kachin State. The exact location is the north-west side of Putao. Hponkan Valley is situated nearby at the border of India-Myanmar. You can enjoy hiking in the natural environment. Snow-capped mountains are there. Exciting mammals and rare species of birds are present.
Hookaung Velly Santuary: This sanctuary in Burma or Myanmar is located in Kachin State. This can be mentioned as the largest Asian tiger Natural Wildlife area. This area is famous as the Ledo Main Road, used in 2nd world war, the road connected from India to China, has passed through this area. Asian tigers largest Natural Wildlife Sanctuary is the reason why this sanctuary is so famous.
Htamanthi Santuary: This sanctuary is located at Homalin Township near Sagaing Division. You have to go about 520 miles from Yangon to Monywa to reach the place. The excellent beauty can be enjoyed which has no comparison. After Yangon to Monywa you have to travel 57 extra miles from Homaline to Htamanthi. This is an excellent boat journey. On your journey you can study the life style as well as traditional culture of Naga tribe. You can also study the natural beauties of residential rivers and stream. There are thirty mammal species which you can observe. The list of mammals also includes Myanmar Roofed turtle. Rowing, swimming and recreation can be done. Various colorful marine species as well as fishes are present there. You can also study and also observe 180 species of birds that include uncommon species of Masked Finfoot and white-winged wood-duck.
Hponkanrazi Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located at Putao Township in Kachin State. The exact location is the north-west side of Putao. Hponkan Valley is situated nearby at the border of India-Myanmar. You can enjoy hiking in the natural environment. Snow-capped mountains are there. Exciting mammals and rare species of birds are present.
Burma Natural Beauty and Bagan
Burma which is also known as Myanmar can be explained as a jewel. The place has remained hidden for several years. But recently Burma is opening up to the world while exposing amazing natural beauty and also an incomparable cultural heritage.
Burma’s civilization is more or less 2,500 years old. This is popularly known as magical and mysterious land with glorious temple architecture. Temples are situated in the midst of a dateless and magnificent landscape. The visitors in Burma or Myanmar always experience inquisitive, hospitable and very friendly people. They are always willing to share their captivating culture.
Not less than 5,000 monuments which is a testament to Bagan are scattered over the forty two square kilometers. The location is the Irrawaddy riverbanks. Bagan is as a previous centre of Buddhist spirituality and also learning.
From 1044 to 1287, the kings of Burma dedicated their considerable resources and energy in building different temples and pagodas. On the banks of the Ayeyarwady River, hundreds of pagodas and temples are present while lots of other great palaces were crumbled away and also burnt down.
Bagan is a World Heritage Site in South East Asia. You can only compare this with Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Bagan is framed on the both sides of Ayeyarwady River. Here you cannot see any two monuments are same. These are extremely original in design and also the conception is purely unique.
Bagan has all the criteria to attract any tourist. You can ask any visitor who has saw the sun rise or sun set here and what is his experience?
These temples are empty now. These are usually destroyed by man or struck down by nature. You can see that the reverberating bells or the communities of chanting monks have moved on.
This is a real wonder that how man was able of making such a enormous city of spiritual monuments.
Burma’s civilization is more or less 2,500 years old. This is popularly known as magical and mysterious land with glorious temple architecture. Temples are situated in the midst of a dateless and magnificent landscape. The visitors in Burma or Myanmar always experience inquisitive, hospitable and very friendly people. They are always willing to share their captivating culture.
Not less than 5,000 monuments which is a testament to Bagan are scattered over the forty two square kilometers. The location is the Irrawaddy riverbanks. Bagan is as a previous centre of Buddhist spirituality and also learning.
From 1044 to 1287, the kings of Burma dedicated their considerable resources and energy in building different temples and pagodas. On the banks of the Ayeyarwady River, hundreds of pagodas and temples are present while lots of other great palaces were crumbled away and also burnt down.
Bagan is a World Heritage Site in South East Asia. You can only compare this with Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Bagan is framed on the both sides of Ayeyarwady River. Here you cannot see any two monuments are same. These are extremely original in design and also the conception is purely unique.
Bagan has all the criteria to attract any tourist. You can ask any visitor who has saw the sun rise or sun set here and what is his experience?
These temples are empty now. These are usually destroyed by man or struck down by nature. You can see that the reverberating bells or the communities of chanting monks have moved on.
This is a real wonder that how man was able of making such a enormous city of spiritual monuments.
Burma and its natural beauty
In Burma the exquisite beauty of Inle lake is really praiseworthy. The beauty of the lake is so mesmerizing that you will easily forget the stress and train of your life and can enjoy the god gifted serenity. Clear water, mountains, and unique floating garden attract your attention and make you bound to enjoy the immaculate beauty.
Cottage industries have grown beside the lake. To name some silk and cotton are important. If you visit workshops there, some beautiful process of making the art can be seen. Inle’s weavers are very celebrated for the exquisiteness and delicacy of their textiles. The intricate patterns or styles represented by the weavers are really worth commenting. Their artistic feelings are usually represented through their works.
The textiles that are used mainly for the traditional sarong or sometimes longyi actually differentiate the community. It also serves as a source of enormous local pride. Similarly, small enclaves of cheroot factories, gold-leaf making and also silversmiths can be found along the street that is raised as wooden walkways.
In all villages in Myanmar, you can find a monastery. It can be small or remote. You can find several monasteries in Inle Lake. Nga Phe Kyaung can be mentioned as one of the most noteworthy. The monastery is oblong in shape. The inhabited portion is raised on eight-foot pillars as well. Some of the young boys, who enter the monastery in a state of probation, always hope to authorize their natural ability for spiritual illumination and empathy. But Nga Phe Kyaung is also sometimes known as the Jumping Cats Monastery. This is named so because monks train cats to jump through hoops on break from their spiritual activities. It is sometimes very typical to observe that the learned monks discussing matters of Buddhist philosophy at the same time coaxing cats through a ring.
Cottage industries have grown beside the lake. To name some silk and cotton are important. If you visit workshops there, some beautiful process of making the art can be seen. Inle’s weavers are very celebrated for the exquisiteness and delicacy of their textiles. The intricate patterns or styles represented by the weavers are really worth commenting. Their artistic feelings are usually represented through their works.
The textiles that are used mainly for the traditional sarong or sometimes longyi actually differentiate the community. It also serves as a source of enormous local pride. Similarly, small enclaves of cheroot factories, gold-leaf making and also silversmiths can be found along the street that is raised as wooden walkways.
In all villages in Myanmar, you can find a monastery. It can be small or remote. You can find several monasteries in Inle Lake. Nga Phe Kyaung can be mentioned as one of the most noteworthy. The monastery is oblong in shape. The inhabited portion is raised on eight-foot pillars as well. Some of the young boys, who enter the monastery in a state of probation, always hope to authorize their natural ability for spiritual illumination and empathy. But Nga Phe Kyaung is also sometimes known as the Jumping Cats Monastery. This is named so because monks train cats to jump through hoops on break from their spiritual activities. It is sometimes very typical to observe that the learned monks discussing matters of Buddhist philosophy at the same time coaxing cats through a ring.
Beauty of Inle Lake in Burma
Burma has some excellent natural beauty. A mesmerizing feel is present everywhere if you visit Inle Lake here. The lush floating garden, pristine waters, mist-shrouded mountains will definitely grab your attention. Inle Lake is a striking description of Myanmar’s assorted natural beauty. The breathtaking views of the lake combine with the charming villages. With the timeless traditions and holy Buddhist spirituality, the Inle gives the impression of a magical world afloat. You can spend your time very gently in this enthralling place. Away from the hustle bustle of the city this place is really the ideal one to enjoy your honeymoon.
Intha people are the inhabitant of the place. They also take their name from the place which means ‘sons of the lake’. Their villages which are made of bamboo and wooden dwellings, located just in the midst of the lake. So, you can get total harmony with the nature at that place. This place is unique in a way that here flower and vegetable gardens float. Beds of water hyacinth and flotsam have been created here. The bottom of the shallow lake is secured with bamboo poles under the water. They form rich and also fertile plots for cultivating an array of crops. These include cabbage, beans, cauliflower, tomatoes, papaya and melons. These can be seen primarily in the vast open-air markets. The market operates on a five-day rotation.
In the lake area there are wide possibilities of cottages industries. Out of which the cotton and silk are the two glorious one. You can also visit the workshops to see to reason that why Inle’s weavers are really famous for the beauty and delicacy of their textiles. Inle has its own unique and also readily recognizable designs. The warm earthy tones and some complicated patterns represent and marked the richness of their artistic thoughts.
Intha people are the inhabitant of the place. They also take their name from the place which means ‘sons of the lake’. Their villages which are made of bamboo and wooden dwellings, located just in the midst of the lake. So, you can get total harmony with the nature at that place. This place is unique in a way that here flower and vegetable gardens float. Beds of water hyacinth and flotsam have been created here. The bottom of the shallow lake is secured with bamboo poles under the water. They form rich and also fertile plots for cultivating an array of crops. These include cabbage, beans, cauliflower, tomatoes, papaya and melons. These can be seen primarily in the vast open-air markets. The market operates on a five-day rotation.
In the lake area there are wide possibilities of cottages industries. Out of which the cotton and silk are the two glorious one. You can also visit the workshops to see to reason that why Inle’s weavers are really famous for the beauty and delicacy of their textiles. Inle has its own unique and also readily recognizable designs. The warm earthy tones and some complicated patterns represent and marked the richness of their artistic thoughts.
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