The rock column
Gold domes above it.
Anagoria — CC BY 3.0 · Jakub Hałun — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jakub Hałun — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jakub Hałun — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Clay Gilliland — CC BY-SA 2.0
Mount Popa is a dormant volcano of 1,518 metres in central Myanmar, about 50 km south-east of Bagan, visible from the Ayeyarwady River from up to 60 km away in clear weather. It is a pilgrimage site, with temples to the local nat spirits. Its best-known view is a golden monastery on a sharp volcanic rock, seeming to hang above the forest. The name Popa is believed to come from the Pali and Sanskrit word for flower. The mountain is made of basalt lava flows, with a caldera 1.6 km wide open to the north-west, thought to have formed when a slope failed. The park around it holds five forest ecosystems, including dry and thorn forest, a green oasis on the dry plain. From afar it is a column of dark rock crowned with gold and white domes, ringed by green trees. A long covered stair climbs about 800 steps among monkeys and sellers. At the foot is a small town with painted houses and a street leading up. From the top the view runs out over the plain, sometimes hidden by cloud and thick mist. It is about 50 km from Bagan in a straight line, so half a day by car is enough. The stair is long and climbed barefoot, so take your time. Keep food and belongings away from the monkeys, and do not feed them. Dress modestly and choose the morning. The UK Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to this area, so read the current advice before you plan.
Gold domes above it.
About 800 steps.
From the top.
South-east of Bagan, Mandalay Region, Myanmar
Tiring but possible for most visitors, and barefoot, so take your time.
They may grab food and items, so do not feed them and keep your bag shut.