Inle
According to topschoolsintheusa, Inle Lake is the main center of attraction for tourists in the Shan region. The lake is located at an altitude of 1328 m above sea level, surrounded by shimmering blue mountain ranges. Here you can see boat rowers operating the oar with the help of their feet, floating vegetable gardens and orchards, a market on the water, villages on high piles, local fishing methods. Worthy of mention are the Phaundavu Pagoda and the Ngaphe Chaung Monastery on the shores of the lake. The area is famous for its traditional crafts: gold jewelry making in Ywama village, silk weaving in Inpokhon, local cigar production – charut in Nam Pan.
Mount Pope
This volcano, extinct more than 250,000 years ago, is called the “oasis of the arid valley.” A rocky mountain with steep slopes rises on the Myingan flat plateau, contrasting the greenery of its slopes with the surrounding steppe landscape. According to local beliefs, deities – Nats – live on its top, and therefore the mountain is a sacred place. Medicinal herbs and rare species of orchids grow on the fertile slopes of the mountain, irrigated by natural springs. More than 90 species of feathered fauna live in the crowns of trees. Birdwatching and horseback riding are organized in remote and picturesque corners of the mountain park. Today, the mountain has been declared a national reserve in order to preserve the unique natural environment and develop ecotourism. Among the attractions of the Mount Popa Conservation Area: a volcanic crater, an observation deck,
Kahlo
In the past, Kahlo was a high-altitude recreation center of the colonial administration. It is located in a picturesque area surrounded by pine forests. From here it is convenient to visit the villages of the Palaung, Taungyo, Danu, Pa-o hill tribes located on the slopes of the nearby mountains. Representatives of the tribes in traditional costumes can be seen at the local market.
Pindaya
A few kilometers east of Kalo, on the road from Heho, is the Pindaya cave complex with more than 1,000 Buddha statues. On the way to Pindaya, you can visit the Pa-o and Danu indigenous villages. The area is famous for handicraft production of traditional Shan umbrellas.
Culture of Myanmar
Myanmar is a country of traditional culture, and here the norms of etiquette and courtesy have the status of a cultural value. It should also be borne in mind that in their daily lives, most of its inhabitants rarely come into contact with representatives of more modernized – and more relaxed in terms of social norms – countries. In the interests of a more harmonious and comfortable stay in a new environment for you, here are some useful tips.
Shoes
When visiting a Buddhist temple or pagoda, you must remove your shoes and socks. In Myanmar, it is also considered a rule to take off your shoes at a party.
When you are sitting, your feet should touch the floor: it is considered indecent to cross your legs, put your feet on a table, chair arm, etc. An absolute taboo is to point in someone’s direction with the toe of the foot or step over a seated person. Myanmar people also try not to step on the shadow of a Buddhist monk they meet along the way as a sign of respect for his spiritual dignity.
Arms
As in most other eastern countries, in Myanmar, objects are accepted and transferred to another person only with the right hand. The most polite way is to hold the object with two palms. It is considered a sign of good manners if this movement is accompanied by a slight tilt of the head.
Nutrition
Traditionally, many Myanmarese eat with their hands at home, sitting on mats around a low table. In city restaurants, you will find a familiar interior with tables and chairs, and the waiters will definitely serve cutlery (you can eat with your hands, however, no one here will forbid you).
Clothing
During the hot season (March to June) it is recommended to wear light clothing made from cotton or other natural fabrics.
For visits to places of worship, one should dress with proper propriety. It is not customary to visit Buddhist temples and monasteries in short skirts, shorts and T-shirts (in any sleeveless outerwear) – this is considered a sign of disrespect for the feelings of believers, although you will never hear a remark addressed to you from Myanmar.
Purchases
The export of antiques and religious items from Myanmar is prohibited.
Hot hours
When visiting Bagan, try to visit the sights in the morning and in the afternoon, staying at the hotel during the daytime hours. Drink plenty of water, wear sunglasses, and wear a peaked or wide-brimmed hat. You can also purchase a traditional paper umbrella for sun protection.
What can not be done in Myanmar?
- It is forbidden to take pictures of the military,
- touch the monks
- stand with your back to the images of the Buddha,
- enter monasteries and temples in shoes (even socks are not allowed),
- touching objects with feet
- be in a public place in a state of intoxication,
- You can’t touch people’s heads.
It is also better to refrain from talking with locals about the politics of their country, not hugging or kissing in public places. But the most important thing is to communicate with the locals in a calm and friendly way. In this case, you will feel a sincere interest on their part not only to your person, but also to your country.
