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We offer holidays to the four corners of the globe. If you want specialist advise please phone our travel team and we will be happy to help.
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- Destinations
- Asia
- Myanmar
- Yangon
- Bagan (Mandalay district)
Bagan (Mandalay district)
Bagan is quite simply one of Asia's most astounding sights, an
impossible collection of thousands of temples and monuments
scattered over a vast plain. The buildings range in condition from
ruined to resplendent, although many retain the power and majesty
their devout designers intended. Most of the structures were built
between the 10th and 12th centuries when Bagan was the capital of
the First Burmese Empire. Regrettably, many temples have suffered
under the government's ham-fisted attempts at restoration. The
temples can best be viewed via bicycle which allows for a
self-directed exploration as bike trails link all the temples.
Sunset is prime time in Bagan as locals and visitors alike head for
the highest temples to enjoy the magnificent sunsets over the
stupa-dotted plain.
Information & Facts
Address
Bagan is located 90 miles (145 km) southwest of Mandalay.
The temples are situated within the Bagan Archaeological
Zone
Admission
US$10; the ticket lasts for a week
Language
Burmese is the official language, yet English is widely
spoken and understood. Burmese's alphabet is made up of circular
and semi-circular characters. Other languages spoken are Karen,
Shan and Kachin.
Money
The official currency is the Kyat (MMK) pronounced 'Chat'. The
best currency to travel on in Myanmar is the US Dollar. The Foreign
Exchange Certificate (FEC) is a legal currency for visiting
tourists that is usable in government shops and hotels. It is no
longer a requirement to convert US$200 into FEC upon arrival in
Myanmar. One FEC is equivalent to one US Dollar. It is recommended
to use US Dollars. It is difficult to cash American Express
travellers cheques in certain cities, such as Mandalay, and even
when it is possible the commission can be as high as 10 percent. US
Dollar notes will not be accepted if they are damaged or torn in
any way, or have pen marks on them.
There is a big difference between the official and
unofficial exchange rates; street moneychangers offer
favourable rates at hotels and Scott Market. As a rough guide, the
black market rate is in the region of US$1 = MMK 1000 - a dramatic
difference when compared to the official government rate. Very few
major hotels, airlines, shops and restaurants accept credit cards
and ATM cards can rarely, if ever, be used. It is advisable to
carry cash. Banks are closed on weekends.