The rows of stupas
A forest of stone.
ေမာင္(စြယ္စံုက်မ္း) — CC BY-SA 4.0 · LBM1948 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · LBM1948 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · LBM1948 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · LBM1948 — CC BY-SA 4.0
The Kakku Pagodas are a wide field of Buddhist stupas in Pa-O country south of Taunggyi in Shan State. More than two thousand stupas stand packed together in long rows, so from a distance the site looks like a forest of stone. Local tradition says the first stupas were built more than two thousand years ago, but most of what you see today dates from recent centuries, and people still repair the stupas and add to them. A large yearly festival is held here in spring, when villagers gather in traditional dress. You walk along narrow lanes with stupas on both sides, each topped by a small metal umbrella whose bells ring softly in the wind. Their colours range from grey stone to white and gold, they are decorated with carvings of animals and guardian figures, and a pool at the front reflects the rows of spires. Taunggyi is about 40 km away in a straight line, and Nyaungshwe about 32 km. Local rules usually require a Pa-O guide, who rides with visitors from Taunggyi. The UK Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to this area, so read the current advice before you plan.
A forest of stone.
Ringing in the wind.
Reflecting the spires.
South of Taunggyi, Shan State, Myanmar
Usually yes, arranged through an office in Taunggyi, so ask before you go.
In the morning or before sunset, when the light is warm.